Quick ways to get help with your energy bills this winter

Introduction

Winter is coming, and it's no secret that energy bills are higher during the colder months. If you're worried about being able to pay your bills this winter, it's important to find out what help is available and what options you have open to you. Here are some quick tips on how to get help with your energy bills this winter:

Energy companies provide support to customers struggling to pay their bills.

Energy companies have a duty to help customers who are struggling to pay their bills. They may offer you one or more of the following:

• Payment plans - Energy companies can set up a payment plan for you so you can pay off your bill in installments. However, this can be difficult if your income or financial situation is unstable.

• Special rates - If you are struggling to make payments on time, some energy companies may offer you a special reduced rate on the electricity and gas that they provide. You’ll need to keep in contact with them regularly so they know how much money is coming into your account each month and what payment methods are available to use at that time (for example, whether cashless meters are available). This option might not be available if it would put other customers at risk because they wouldn’t get paid by their suppliers either!

You may be able to get help through the Energy Bills Support Scheme (EBSS).

You may be able to get help through the Energy Bills Support Scheme (EBSS).

You can apply for EBSS if you're on a low income and paying energy bills. You must also be paying your bill in full, so if you've missed payments in the past or have been disconnected from your energy supplier altogether, you're likely not eligible for EBSS. The scheme is paid directly to your energy company, so there's no need to worry about getting any paperwork in order before applying.

Make sure to seek out financial help from your energy company and the government if you've been impacted by the pandemic.

If you've been impacted by the pandemic and are now struggling to pay your energy bills, there are steps you can take to get help.

Firstly, it's important to know that several utilities companies across the country have announced plans to offer financial assistance for people who have lost their jobs or otherwise had their finances affected by the pandemic. If you're experiencing these issues and need help with your electric bill, contact your energy company immediately. Some providers may require proof of hardship before granting special discounts; others will simply ask for basic information about how the pandemic has impacted your life.

If your utility provider doesn't offer financial assistance but you still need help paying bills this winter—or if they're willing but unable (due to lack of funds) fulfill their promise—consider contacting local government councils directly.

Households on means tested benefits, can apply for a payment of £650 this year, paid automatically in two instalments.

The Energy Bill Assistance Scheme (EBSS) is a government scheme that helps households with their energy bills. It's administered by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), who administer other means tested benefits like Employment Support Allowance, Income Support and Jobseeker's Allowance.

You can apply for EBSS if you are on any of these benefits: Universal Credit; Pension Credit; Housing Benefit; Working Tax Credits; Child Tax Credits. You'll also need to have a household income which is lower than £16,000 per year, or £20 per week if you're single or £30 per week if you're in a couple.