Warm Home Discount Scheme is extended
03/10/2014
The government have announced the expansion of a discount scheme which will allow an extra 200,000 pensioners to get help with their energy bills this winter.
The Warm Home Discount Scheme is a one off discount of £140 off energy bills, paid for by the energy companies. It is now being extended to include everyone who receives Pension Credit Guarantee for winter 2014/2015. This means more than 2 million people are now entitled to the discount.
Will you qualify?
You will now qualify for the discount if on the 12th July this year your supplier was part of the scheme and you were receiving the Guarantee Credit element of Pension Credit. Some suppliers can offer the discount to vulnerable people (eg those on a low income) but this will need to be queried with the individual energy company. If you qualify for the discount, this winter or autumn you will receive a letter advising you of whether you need to apply or not.
Steve Webb, a minister at the Department of Work and Pensions (DWP), said:
"As we approach winter, no one should have to go without heating because they can't afford to pay the bills.
“That’s why we have significantly extended the Warm Home Discount scheme – and increased its value – to give people peace of mind that they can keep their homes comfortable throughout the coldest months.”
Receipt of the £140 discount does not affect any Winter Fuel Allowance, Cold Weather Payments or other benefits that an individual or household may receive.
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