If you are receiving your state pension and finding it hard to make ends meet, there are some schemes in place which could save you money this winter.
Warm Home Discount
The Government Department of Work and Pensions runs a scheme alongside energy providers to give a £140 reduction in heating costs to those struggling to pay their energy bills. The money is not paid to you – it’s a one-off discount on your electricity bill, between September 2018 and March 2019.
You will receive a letter informing you of your eligibility by the end of December 2018 if you are receiving either of the following:
- The Guarantee Credit element of Pension Credit (not just the State Pension)
- The Guarantee Credit element and the Savings Credit element of Pension Credit
However, if you are on low income you may still be eligible to apply, even if you don’t fall into either of these categories.
If you think you might be eligible, you should contact your energy provider as soon as possible and follow their application process. You can check if your energy provider is taking part in the scheme here.
It’s worth remembering that you need to re-apply for the Warm Home Discount every year and you can only get one Warm Home Discount each time the scheme is run.
Wessex Water
If you and all the adults in your household receive Pension Credit, or the state pension is your only income (and Wessex Water are your provider), you may be eligible for a 20% discount.
To apply, simply complete this simple online form.
Thames Water
If your water bill is more than 3% of your yearly net income, and you also meet one of the additional criteria listed on their website, including being in receipt of Pension Credit, Thames Water can offer up to a 50% reduction in water bills.
To check the criteria and print an application form, visit the Thames Water website.
We are not financial advisers. We are not qualified to give you financial advice, only legal advice, but taking advantage of these schemes could help you, or your loved ones, over the winter months.
