Payments, grants and discounts to help with energy bills
The Scottish Government was due to launch Pension Age Winter Heating Payment, the benefit replacing the Department of Work and Pension’s (DWP) Winter Fuel Payment in Scotland, in winter 2024.
However, as a result of the UK Government’s decision to means test Winter Fuel Payment, the Scottish Government has made the difficult decision to also means test Pension Age Winter Heating Payment.
Only people of State Pension age who get certain benefits will be eligible for Pension Age Winter Heating Payment.
Because of the timing of the announcement, the Scottish Government will not be able to deliver Pension Age Winter Heating Payment this year. Instead, DWP will pay it on behalf of the Scottish Government.
Check what help you could get with your energy bill.
Pension Age Winter Heating Payment
You could get either £200 or £300 to help towards your heating bills.
To get the payment, you need to be born before 23 September 1958.
Find out more about Pension Age Winter Heating Payment.
Warm Home Discount
You can get £150 off your electricity bill if you qualify for the Warm Home Discount scheme.
To get it you need to either:
- get the Guarantee Credit element of Pension Credit
- be on a low income and meet your energy supplier's criteria
Check if you can get the Warm Home Discount.
Winter Heating Payment
Winter Heating Payment has replaced Cold Weather Payment in Scotland. It helps people on low income benefits who might have extra heating needs.
It’s paid once a year. The payment for winter 2023 to 2024 is £58.75.
Most people do not need to apply. You’ll get this payment automatically if you qualify.
You could qualify if you get certain benefits, like:
- Pension Credit
- Income Support
- Income Based Jobseeker’s Allowance
- Income Related Employment and Support Allowance
- Universal Credit
- Support for Mortgage Interest
Check if you can get the Winter Heating Payment.
Child Winter Heating Payment
Child Winter Heating Payment used to be called Child Winter Heating Assistance. It helps disabled children, young people and their families who might have extra heating needs.
It’s paid once a year. The payment for winter 2023-2024 is £251.50.
Most people do not need to apply. You’ll get this payment automatically if you qualify.
Check if you can get the Child Winter Heating Payment.
Scottish Welfare Fund Crisis Grant
The Scottish Welfare Fund is made up of 2 different grants.
One of these is a Crisis Grant. It can help to cover heating costs in an emergency.
You can only apply through your local council. You cannot apply through the Scottish Government.
Find out more about the Scottish Welfare Fund.
Check you’re paying the right amount for your energy bills
If you think you’re paying too much for energy, contact the Money Talk Team. They can make sure you're not paying too much for gas or electricity.
The Money Talk Team service offers free money and debt advice.
The service can help you understand what you’re entitled to and ways to save money.
It can help you find out:
- what benefits and other financial support you may be entitled to
- how you can manage debt
- ways to save money on your bills
You can get more information on the Money Talk Team website or by calling 0800 028 1456. You can also visit your local Citizens Advice Scotland for in person support.
Help to make your home warmer
Get practical advice to help make your home warmer.
Funding for energy saving home improvements
Check if you get funding for energy saving improvements.
More help with energy costs
You could also get more help from these organisations:
- Advice Direct Scotland offers advice on managing your bills and getting help with your finances
- Age Scotland has guidance on energy and how to reduce your bills
- Citizens Advice Scotland can help you agree a payment plan with your supplier or help you pay off your debts through your benefits
- Energy Saving Trust Scotland helps you save energy and reduce your bills
- Fuel Bank Foundation can help you with money for your pre-payment meter
- Net Zero Scotland gives advice on how to save energy, reduce waste, travel smarter and eat greener