The Warm Home Discount Scheme is returning for 2024/2025. This page will answer some of the frequently asked questions that we've heard from our customers in regards to the Warm Home Discount Scheme. 

TABLE OF CONTENTS


What is the Warm Home Discount Scheme?

Warm Home Discount Scheme is a Government initiative designed to support lower income households through the winter. If your household qualifies, you will receive a one-off credit of £150 to your energy account which can be used towards your bills.


Am I eligible for the Warm Home Discount Scheme?

You can find out if you're eligible by accessing our Eligibility page.


When does the Warm Home Discount start?

The scheme runs from September 2024 through March 2025. We aim for all of eligible customers to receive their credits by the end of March 2025.


When will the Broader Group scheme open (Scotland customers only)?

Applications are now open. A tile will appear in your account home page (see picture below) for you to select to access the application form. This is for households based in Scotland only. 


I'm not a So Energy customer, can I apply for the Broader Group scheme (Scotland only)?

You will need to be a So Energy customer to apply for the Broader group scheme with us. If you’re not currently a customer you can switch your energy to us and apply for the scheme if you’re eligible. If you’re looking to switch to us please remember there are a limited number of applications each year and they are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.


When will I find out if I'm successful for Broader Group (Scotland customers only)?

We will be reviewing applications throughout the duration of the scheme and will provide email confirmation once your application has been reviewed. Please make sure to check your emails regularly, as we may need to request additional information to progress your application. You can log in to your online account at any time to see an update on the status of your application.


If I'm part of the Broader Group (Scotland customers only), when will I receive the credit?

Credits will be applied to accounts by 31st March 2025, please note that you will need to be on supply with So Energy until the credit is awarded. 


Why might I have to send supporting documents for my Broader Group application (Scotland customers only)?

Ofgem has asked us to collate proof of eligibility for the Broader Group to ensure that we are helping the right people. If you provide us with documentary evidence, it will be stored on a secure database and kept for no longer than 12 months after the scheme year ends.


What if I don't agree with your decision for the Broader Group (Scotland customers only)?

Our decision is final based on your application and supporting documents. If you need to change your application answers for any reason, please contact our Customer Services Team. If you do change your answers you may be asked to provide further supporting evidence.


How many discounts will you give for the Broader Group (Scotland only)?

The Warm Home Discount obligation is divided between suppliers according to their market share. This means that the amount of credit each supplier can award will be different and could change each year. For the Broader Group (Scotland only), applications are reviewed on a first come, first served basis and it is possible that we may run out of credits to award. 


I'm part of the Core Groups but joined So Energy after 11th August 2024. Will I still receive my £150 credit from So Energy?

If you joined So Energy after 11th August 2024 your previous supplier will still be obligated to provide you with the rebate (providing they are taking part in the scheme) even though you are no longer their customer. If your energy supplier went out of business, please contact the supplier that took over (as part of the Supplier of Last Resort Process) for more information.


I'm part of the Core Group - do I need to receive a letter to apply? I haven't received one

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) plans to send out letters to eligible customers and customers that might be eligible. Those households who they suspect might be eligible but more information is needed will need to contact the WHD Helpline as advised in the letter. However, receiving a letter is not a requirement to apply for the Core Group - if you think you are eligible you can apply on the WHD Helpline, when it opens on 14th October 2024, on 0800 030 9322, until 29th March 2025.


Can the Warm Home Discount be applied towards my gas bill?

The Warm Home Discount credit is applied by your electricity supplier, but if you also have gas with us it will go towards your overall account balance. 


Do I qualify for Warm Home Discount if I get Employment and Support Allowance (ESA - Scotland only)?

  • If you receive Income-related ESA it must include support or work-related activity component to qualify for the Warm Home Discount under the Broader Group in Scotland only.

You can get income-related ESA: 

  • If you get the severe disability premium or are entitled to it 
  • If you received or were entitled to the severe disability premium in the last month, and are still eligible for it 
  • If you're in the support group for income-related ESA, you are entitled to “enhanced disability premium” and therefore automatically qualify for the additional criteria. Additional information on Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) can be found here