Households receiving means-tested benefits have until August 23 to apply for the Warm Home Discount, a £150 credit to help with electricity or gas bills this winter. Eligible benefits include Housing Benefit, Income-related Employment and Support Allowance, Pension Credit, and Universal Credit. To qualify, the named recipient on the energy bill must be registered under one of these categories by the deadline.

This initiative comes as part of a broader effort to alleviate the rising cost of energy. Prime Minister Andy Burnham recently announced the removal of value-added tax (VAT) on domestic electricity bills starting October 1. This move is expected to save households approximately £45 annually, based on the current price cap set by the energy regulator, Ofgem.

Energy Secretary Miatta Fahnbulleh emphasized the scale of the support, noting that around six million households stand to benefit from the rebate. The Warm Home Discount scheme aims to provide targeted assistance to those most vulnerable to energy cost increases during the winter months.

Households are advised to check their eligibility and ensure their details are up to date with their energy suppliers to avoid missing out on the credit. The government continues to monitor energy prices and explore further measures to support consumers amid ongoing concerns about affordability and rising bills.