Yahoo News Millions of pensioners to automatically get free £150 in their bank accounts - check if you are eligible
State Pensioners are poised for a financial boost as they're set to automatically receive a complimentary £150 in their bank accounts.
The Warm Home Discount scheme, launched by the UK Government in April 2011, aims to assist those on low incomes or pensions across England, Scotland, and Wales with their energy bills during the colder months. Eligible individuals can expect the one-time £150 discount to be credited to their accounts by no later than March 2025.
British Gas customers will see the discount applied directly to their electricity account. "And if you're on Pay as you go, we'll send you a voucher you can use to top up your meter at a Post Office," the energy company has clarified.
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For those using Pay As You Go smart meters, British Gas pledges to add the discount directly to their meters and will confirm the process via email. Should there be any delays, a voucher for a Post Office top-up will be issued.
"That way you'll still get your discount as soon as possible. With a pay-as-you-go smart meter it's easier to see how much energy you use in pounds and pence and you can top up from wherever you like, whenever you like," the firm stated. "If you don't already have a smart meter, you can find out more and book an upgrade."
Comprehensive details on the qualifying benefits and eligibility criteria for the discount are available on the Government website. In England and Wales, individuals who qualify will receive confirmation from the Government, reports BirminghamLive.
The eligibility criteria for the Warm Home Discount remains the same as last year. To qualify, you must be claiming either the Guarantee Credit element of Pension Credit or another 'qualifying benefit'.
Your energy costs will be assessed by the Government based on your place of residence. To be eligible, you must be a British Gas electricity customer as of August 11, 2024, and also be receiving these benefits.
