With the cost of living having an impact on everyone’s bills, it’s important to understand what help is available and what cost of living payments you’re eligible for.
From paying energy bills to what other financial support is available we’ve created a one-stop shop to answer your questions and point in you in the right direction.
Benefits Calculator
Put more money in your pocket. Find out how much extra you could be entitled to.
Worried about energy bills?
If you’re finding it hard to keep up with energy payments or you’re worried you won’t be able to afford the energy you need this winter, you might be entitled to financial support.
Warm Home Discount
This is a one-off payment to help with the cost of energy over winter. It’s usually added as credit to your electricity bill. This winter (2022-23), it’s rising from £140 to £150.
It’s likely you’re entitled to this if you or your partner receive the Guarantee Credit part of Pension Credit.
Winter Fuel Payment
You could be entitled to an annual one-off payment of £100-£300 depending on how old you are, who you live with and any benefits you receive. This year (2022-23), eligible households will get an extra £300 top-up to help with the cost of living.
State Pension
If you’re over State Pension age – which is currently 66 years old – and receive the State Pension then you should be paid automatically. Payments are usually made between November and December.
What other financial support is available?
The Government has announced measures to help with rising energy costs.
Money off energy bills
All electricity customers will get £400 off their energy bills between October 2022 and April 2023. This is a grant, not a loan – so you don’t have to pay this money back through future bills. If you’re a pre-payment customer, you will receive a voucher or have the money applied as credit to your meter.
Council Tax rebate
Depending on the Council Tax band of property, you may be entitled to a non-repayable £150 from your council. Contact your local council for more information.
Household Support Fund
This is a payment to help those considered most in need with the rising cost of food, energy and water bills. Each local council decide their own eligibility criteria – though money should be specifically set aside for older people. Contact your council to find out more.
We are working with our partners at Citizens Advice in West Sussex and Brighton to access energy grants for people over pensionable age. The criteria for these grants are different depending on where you live so please contact the I&A team for support.
One-off payments
This year (2022-23), you may also be entitled to one or more lump-sum payments. These are:
- a £300 Pensioner Cost of Living Payment for households that receive the Winter Fuel Payment. This is a top-up to your Winter Fuel Payment in November/December.
- a £650 Cost of Living Payment for households on means-tested benefits, such as Pension Credit and Universal Credit.
- a £150 Disability Cost of Living Payment for those receiving disability benefits, such as Attendance Allowance.
None of these payments are taxable and they won’t count towards the benefit cap or affect your benefit entitlement.
Can I get support from my energy supplier?
If you’re finding it difficult to keep up with energy bills or you owe money to your energy supplier, your supplier has a duty to help. Check with your supplier to see what support you might be entitled to.
Not receiving benefits?
If you’re not currently claiming means-tested benefits, such as Pension Credit, it’s worth putting in a claim as soon as possible as you maybe entitled. To find out more speak to our advisors.
Not sure what you’re entitled to?
We can help you work out if you think you are missing out on any money. Give our friendly team of advisors a call on
Alternatively, our Benefits Calculator can help you find out what benefits you could be owed. It’s free to use and the details you provide are kept anonymous. Put more money in your pocket.
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We can help support you, please get in touch
If you need some more information about how you can save money on your bills we’ve got you covered. Contact one of our advisors for information on how to save energy, keeping warm in the winter and help with heating costs.
Call 0800 019 1310
Email info@ageukwsbh.org.uk
Information is also available on the government website here: www.gov.uk/guidance/cost-of-living-payment
Energy saving tips and other useful links
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