Everything you need to know about the £400 energy grant
It was announced in May that all households would receive a payment towards the cost of their energy bills, but how and when will you get the money? Here’s what you need to know…
We’ve all noticed our energy bills increasing as successive hikes to the price cap have pushed the cost of heating and powering our homes sky-high. This autumn, there is some good news: the £400 Government energy rebate starts to kick in.
What do I have to do?
From October onwards, energy suppliers will start passing on the discount to customers over a period of six months. There is no need to contact your energy supplier. The money will be taken off your energy bills directly in six instalments, starting in October and ending in March 2023. If you pay your bills by direct debit you’ll see a reduction in the amount taken from your bank account each month. Smart credit and payment card customers will see the discount applied as credit as if you had made a payment. Customers with smart prepayment meters will have the money applied to their meter.
Will I still get my Winter Fuel Payment?
Yes. The Winter Fuel Payment is a benefit paid annually to help people over 65 cover additional heating costs over the winter months. If you are eligible, you will receive between £250 and £600. This year, the Government is paying an additional one-off payment of £300 to help with the rising cost of fuel owing to the energy crisis for everyone who is eligible for the Winter Fuel Payment. You’ll receive the £400 energy grant, too.
Those households that receive means-tested benefits may also be eligible for a payment of £650 to help cover living costs. This will be paid in two lump sums – you should have received the first one in July and the second one will be paid this autumn.
If someone you know is struggling to pay their bills, find help at goodhousekeeping.com/uk/financial-support