Pension Credit Week and the Warm Home Discount Scheme

Pension Credit gives people extra money to help with their living costs if they are over State Pension age and on a low income. It can also provide access to a range of other benefits such as help with housing, council tax, heating bills and for those aged 75 or over, a free TV licence. Further details about how to claim and eligibility can be found here.

As winter approaches, we know that many people will be worried about heating costs. The good news is that for those who receive the Guarantee Credit element of Pension Credit, you will also be eligible for the Warm Home Discount Scheme if you live in England, Wales or Scotland and are the named account holder with a participating electricity supplier. 

The £150 Warm Home Discount is also available to eligible low-income households and recipients of some means tested benefits. Letters will be issued to eligible and potentially eligible individuals by January 2026 with more information. A helpline is now open for enquiries (0800 030 9322) or click here to find out more.

At this time of year, please do be aware of scams. Pensioners in particular are being warned to look out for Winter Fuel Payment text message scams from fraudsters posing as government officials. Winter Fuel Payments are made automatically, and the government will never ask for bank details by text. Anyone who receives a text message inviting them to apply for a payment should not engage with it and instead forward it to 7726.