Energy Bills Support Scheme Alternative Funding (EBSS AF) is available for those who do not get the energy discount automatically.
We recognise that times are hard. If you are struggling to afford your energy bills or top up your prepayment meter, you might be able to claim benefits, grants and offered help by the government and energy suppliers.
Get a £400 energy discount from the government
The government is giving households £400 off their electricity bill. This is called the Energy Bills Support Scheme. You do not need to apply for this scheme and you do not have to pay it back. You will be contacted directly by your energy supplier.
You will receive £400 in 6 instalments starting from October 2022:
- £66 in October and November
- £67 in December, January, February & March
You’ll get the discount monthly, even if you pay for your energy quarterly or use a payment card. For more information see the Gov.uk website: Apply for energy bill support if you do not get it automatically – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
If you do not get the energy discount automatically
Eligible households in Great Britain can apply for £400 of support under the Government’s Energy Bills Support Scheme Alternative Funding (EBSS AF).
The government has announced that you’ll still be able to get a £400 payment if you don’t have a contract with an energy supplier, for example if you live:
- in a park home
- in a care home
- on a houseboat, mobile home or farm etc
You will still get support equivalent to £400 for your energy bills from the Energy Bills Support Scheme. The scheme is aimed at those without a direct relationship to an energy supplier, including self-funded care home residents and people living in park homes, as well as households who get their energy through a commercial contract or who are off grid.
To check eligibility and apply, please search for “Apply for energy bill support if you do not get it automatically” in the search bar on GOV.UK or search engine. Those who need additional support, or do not have internet access, can call a dedicated Government helpline on 0808 175 3287.
For further details, please see the Gov.uk website: Apply for energy bill support if you do not get it automatically – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
If you need help and support managing debt and personal budgeting, our advisors are here to help you. Book an appointment with a debt advisor on 01235 765348 or email help@vci.org.uk
