# Warm Home Discount eligibility broadened for winter 2026/27

> Energy & bills · 10 May 2026

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## Summary

More low-income households will qualify automatically for the £150 winter rebate, with the high-property-cost screen narrowed.

The government confirmed that around 2.7 million households in England and Wales will receive the £150 Warm Home Discount this coming winter, up from roughly 2.3 million last year, after eligibility rules were broadened.

The rebate is paid automatically as a credit on electricity (or, for some suppliers, gas) bills between October and March. There is no need to apply if you are in the 'core group' — eligibility is matched from DWP records.

Households on Pension Credit Guarantee Credit qualify automatically. Working-age households on a means-tested benefit (Universal Credit, income-based JSA or ESA, Income Support, or Housing Benefit) are eligible if their property has a high energy cost score, with the property-cost screen now widened.

Suppliers will write to recipients between October and December. If you think you should qualify but receive no letter by mid-December, contact your electricity supplier directly.

## Related topics

- [/bills-utilities/](https://moneyguide.org.uk/bills-utilities/)
- [/benefits-tax/](https://moneyguide.org.uk/benefits-tax/)

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Independent UK money guidance from [Money Guide](https://moneyguide.org.uk). Information only — not regulated financial advice.