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Who can get help with gas or electricity bill increases?
Help with rising energy bills is usually aimed at UK households that are struggling to afford their gas or electricity. There is no single rule that covers every scheme, because support depends on your supplier, your circumstances, and the type of assistance available at the time.
Many people on a low income, receiving certain benefits, or facing unexpected hardship may be eligible. If your energy costs have gone up and you are finding it difficult to keep up with payments, it is worth checking what support is available.
People on benefits or a low income
Some schemes are designed for households on means-tested benefits or with a low household income. This may include people receiving Universal Credit, Pension Credit, Income Support, or other qualifying support.
Eligibility can vary, so being on a benefit does not always guarantee help. However, it often improves your chances of getting extra support, a grant, or a discount on your bill.
Vulnerable households
Extra help is often available for people who are considered vulnerable. This can include older people, disabled people, people with long-term health conditions, and households with young children.
If your home needs more heating because of a medical condition, you may also be able to get additional support. Energy suppliers may ask for evidence, such as proof of benefits or medical confirmation, depending on the scheme.
Customers who are in debt or behind on payments
If you are already behind on your energy bills, you may still be eligible for help. Suppliers are expected to offer support options, such as repayment plans, payment breaks, or access to hardship funds in some cases.
Do not wait until the problem gets worse. Contacting your supplier early can make it easier to agree a manageable plan and avoid disconnection or further charges.
How to check what support you can get
The best first step is to contact your gas or electricity supplier directly. They can tell you whether you qualify for any discounts, grants, or payment support based on your account and situation.
You can also check government guidance and advice from organisations such as Citizens Advice. If you are struggling with both gas and electricity bills, ask about all available help, not just one bill or one scheme.
What to do if you do not qualify
If you do not meet the eligibility rules for one scheme, you may still be able to get help elsewhere. Some charities, local councils, and charitable trusts offer emergency support for people in fuel poverty.
You may also be able to lower your bills by changing your payment method, asking for a meter review, or checking whether you are on the right tariff. Even if you are not eligible for direct bill help, there are often other ways to reduce the pressure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Eligibility usually depends on factors such as income, benefits received, household size, disability or health needs, and whether your energy costs have recently risen. The exact rules vary by provider, local authority, or support program.
You usually apply through the organization offering the support, such as your energy supplier, local council, or a welfare assistance program. You may need to provide proof of identity, address, income, benefits, and recent bills.
Common documents include a recent gas or electricity bill, proof of address, proof of income or benefits, bank statements, and identification. Some programs may also ask for medical evidence or proof of hardship.
Yes, people receiving certain benefits often qualify, especially if they are on a low income or facing financial hardship. Being on benefits does not guarantee approval, but it can strengthen eligibility.
Yes, low-income households are often a main target group for this kind of support. Programs may use income thresholds, benefit status, or household circumstances to assess eligibility.
Pensioners may qualify if they meet income, benefit, or vulnerability criteria. Some schemes give extra priority to older adults, especially if they live alone or have high heating needs.
Yes, disabled people may qualify if their condition creates higher energy use, extra financial pressure, or a need for a warm home. Some programs also consider medical equipment or mobility needs.
Yes, families with children may qualify if their household income is low or their energy costs have increased significantly. Families with young children may sometimes be given priority in hardship support schemes.
Yes, arrears can affect eligibility because some programs prioritize households struggling with unpaid bills. However, owing money is not always required, and some support is available before debts build up.
Yes, tenants can qualify if they meet the income or hardship rules. Whether you pay the supplier directly or through rent does not usually stop you from being considered.
Yes, homeowners may qualify if they meet the support criteria. Ownership of the property does not automatically exclude you, but the program may check your household income and current financial situation.
Not always. Some help is aimed at households already in debt, while other support is designed to prevent arrears by helping with rising costs before payments are missed.
No, income is often important, but it is usually not the only factor. Programs may also consider benefits, disability, household size, medical needs, and evidence of energy hardship.
Yes, self-employed people may qualify if their current earnings are low or irregular and they meet the hardship criteria. You may need to show recent accounts, bank statements, or tax records.
Yes, students may qualify if they have low income, receive qualifying benefits, or live in a household facing financial hardship. Eligibility depends on the specific support program and residency rules.
Yes, households with medical needs may qualify because some conditions or equipment increase energy use. You may need medical evidence or confirmation of the energy-related need.
Usually, a credit score is not the main eligibility factor for hardship or bill increase help. Most schemes focus on income, benefits, household circumstances, and arrears rather than credit history.
Possibly, yes. Receiving another discount does not always prevent you from qualifying, but some programs may reduce the amount you can receive or ask whether you already get other assistance.
Eligibility is usually assessed by checking your household finances, benefits, bills, and any vulnerability factors such as disability, age, or medical needs. The provider may also review whether your energy costs have risen sharply.
If you are unsure, contact the program provider, your energy supplier, or your local council and ask for a benefits check or eligibility assessment. They can tell you what evidence to submit and whether you may qualify.
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