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How does the Warm Home Discount scheme work in England and Wales?

The Warm Home Discount is a £150 rebate that helps eligible households with their energy costs during the winter.

Customers in England and Wales do not need to apply for the Warm Home Discount. The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) identifies eligible households and matches them to the electricity supplier that supplied them on the qualifying date.

Who qualifies?

You may qualify for the Warm Home Discount if, on the qualifying date:

  • you or your partner received a qualifying means-tested benefit;
  • you or your partner are named on the electricity account; and
  • your electricity supplier participates in the Warm Home Discount scheme (EDF participates in the scheme).

What is the qualifying date?

The qualifying date is the date used to determine eligibility for the Warm Home Discount. For the 2026/27 scheme year, the qualifying date is 23 August 2026

When does the letter arrive?

If you're eligible for the Warm Home Discount Core Group, HM Government will write to you between October and December 2026.

The letter will confirm whether you're eligible and whether you need to take any action. The letter comes directly from HM Government and EDF does not receive a copy.

What if you don't get a letter?

If you believe you're eligible but haven't received a letter by January 2027, you can check your eligibility using the government's Warm Home Discount eligibility checker.

If you believe you qualify or need help with the result, you should contact the Warm Home Discount Helpline before it closes on 26 February 2027.

You can find further information, including eligibility guidance and Helpline details, on the government's Warm Home Discount webpages.