Cost of living support with the rising cost of energy bills
Energy Price Guarantee and Energy Support Scheme
The ‘Energy Price Guarantee’ announced by the Government will mean a typical UK household will now pay up to an average £2,500 a year on their energy bill for the next two years. This is automatic and applies to all households. Find out more at Gov.UK.
Energy Bill Support Scheme
As part of the Energy Bill Support Scheme, £400 is available for all households to help with rising energy bills, regardless of income or size of house.
The discount will be made automatically by your energy supplier. There is no need to apply.
Households receive the £400 in 6 instalments:
- £66 in October and November
- £67 a month from December to March 2023
These payments apply to all households in England, Scotland and Wales.
How the payment is made in Northern Ireland is still being decided.
How will I receive the support?
I pay by direct debit
If you pay by direct debit you'll get an automatic deduction on your bill.
I have a prepayment meter
If you have a “smart” prepayment meter you’ll get a monthly top-up on your account.
If you have a “non-smart” prepayment meter you’ll receive a discount voucher. This will be in the first week of each month, via text, email or in the post.
The voucher can be redeemed in person at your usual top-up point.
£650 one-off Cost of Living Payment for those on means-tested benefits
The Department of Work & Pensions will make two lump sum payments in July and later in the autumn to people on a range of benefits.
This tax-free payment will not affect any existing benefits. It applies to households who already get, or have begun a successful claim for, the following benefits by 25 May 2022:
- Universal Credit
- Income-based Jobseekers Allowance
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance
- Income Support
- Working Tax Credit
- Child Tax Credit
- Pension Credit
One-off £300 Pensioner Cost of Living Payment
Households that receive the Winter Fuel Payment will get this on top of any other support they’re entitled to. This tax-free payment won’t affect any other entitlements.
For most people this will be paid by direct debit.
£150 Disability Cost of Living Payment
A one-off, tax-free payment will be made in September to people who receive the following benefits:
- Disability Living Allowance
- Personal Independence Payment
- Attendance Allowance
- Scottish Disability Benefits
- Armed Forces Independence Payment
- Constant Attendance Allowance
- War Pension Mobility Supplement
It will be paid directly through benefits.
For more information visit Gov.UK.
An increase and extension of the Household Support Fund
The Household Support Fund, provided by local authorities, has been increased by £500 million and extended until March 2023.
The fund helps households most in need to pay for essentials such as food and utilities.
To find out more and apply, contact your local council
These one off payments won't affect your debt solution. You should use the money to help pay priority debts and bills.