Energy Schemes - Extra help for 2025/26

If you're worried about paying your energy bills or staying warm this winter, there is help available. Some of the rules have changed for winter 2025/26, so it's important you check what you can get. This page highlights some of the main payments and support that are available. 

Winter Fuel Payment (England, Wales and Northern Ireland)

The eligibility rules have changed for 2025/26 and more people will be entitled to a Winter Fuel Payment. You no longer need to be on a means-tested benefit to get a Winter Fuel Payment.

If you're over State Pension age, you'll get the payment automatically. However if your annual income is more than £35,000, you'll need to pay it back through HMRC. 

Read our Winter Fuel Payment guide for more information on eligibility and payment rates.

Pension Age Winter Heating Payment (Scotland)

This winter will be the first year of the new Pension Age Winter Heating Payment. It works in a similar way to the Winter Fuel Payment  in the rest of the UK, but the amount you get will be slightly higher. 

Read our Pension Age Winter Heating Payment guide for more information on eligibility and payment rates. 

Household Support Fund 

If you're struggling to pay for energy or water bills, food, or other essentials, you might be able to get help from your local council. The type of support you can get depends on where you live. It could be vouchers, a one-off payment, or help with specific bills. 

To find out what's available in your area, contact your local council or authority.

Other winter payments:

Warm Home Discount - If you live in England, Scotland or Wales, you'll get £150 off your energy bill. 

Cold Weather Payment - If you live in England, Wales or Northern Ireland and receive certain benefits, you’ll get a £25 payment if the temperature in your area is 0°C or below for seven days in a row.

Winter Heating Payment - If you live in Scotland and get a qualifying benefit, you’ll receive a one-off payment of £59.75 between December and February.

Child Winter Heating Payment - If you live in Scotland and have a child or young person with a disability, you'll receive a one-off payment of £255.80.