Six million households are urged to watch for £150 energy bill letters, and some face a February helpline deadline

From the Newshound archive · first published 24 October 2026.

Every billpayer on a means-tested benefit now qualifies for the Warm Home Discount after earlier restrictions were scrapped. Letters began going out on Thursday 22 October and will keep arriving until January 2027. Those told to ring the helpline must do so before 26 February 2027 or risk missing the cash. Energy minister Polly Billington said: 'Many families will be struggling with their energy bills this winter.'

Universal Credit, Pension Credit, Housing Benefit and income-related ESA all count as qualifying benefits.

Your circumstances on 23 August 2026 decide eligibility, and your name must be on the bill.

Households are warned not to click suspicious links or share bank details by text or email.