Close to a million UK homes will get extra help from the Government to pay energy bills. An online application portal for a £400 payment will open today (February 27), with 900,000 households set to benefit.
Those eligible to apply for the non-repayable sum of money include people without a direct relationship to an electricity supplier, such as those living in park homes and care homes. The cash, which is sent in a one-off payment, falls under the ‘alternative funding’ route of the government’s Energy Bills Support Scheme (EBSS AF).
The route is the latest among a group of measures which are hoping to cover half of a typical household's energy bill this winter. Around £7 million has been paid so far to 97 per cent of homes across England, Scotland and Wales through monthly instalments.
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The cash is sent directly into people's bank accounts. The 'alternative funding' is also available for people who get their energy through a commercial contract or who live off-grid.
Ministers are urging all eligible homes to apply for their support as soon as possible. They have also warned households of potential scams relating to the funding.
The government will never provide any links to the application portal, or directly ask individuals to apply for the £400 support. Those that require additional help when applying for support may wish to seek assistance from a family member or trusted friend.
Minister at the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, Amanda Solloway, said: “We understand the pressure households are under which is why we’ve already stepped in to pay around half of people’s energy bills this winter, and from today, thousands more will be able to apply securely for their £400.
“Today I’m urging everyone who couldn’t get their EBSS discounts in the regular way to apply via our secure channels. If you don’t have a direct contract with an electricity supplier, it’s essential you submit your application as soon as possible. The sooner you do, the sooner help can get to you.”
Once claimants have successfully applied for their energy support, details will be shared with Local Authorities across the nation. The money will then be sent in one lump sum.
The exact date the cash will be delivered will depend on when the application is made and when the payment can be processed. Applicants will only be sent information through the online portal and should not contact their local authority directly.
A similar scheme for households who use alternative fuels as their main source of heating with be live by March 6. The Alternative Fuel Payment Fund will provide up to £200 to eligible homes.
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