People who are struggling to pay their energy bills can get up to £1,500 to go towards their gas and electricity bills as prices continue to rise.
A number of energy companies are offering hardship funds worth up to £1,500 in a bid to help customers during these challenging times. It comes as energy bills are expected to rise again this year with households already paying sky-high prices.
According to analysts at Cornwall Insight, the price cap could hit an eye-watering £3,359 in October - followed by another rise to £4,266 in January. The price cap sets a limit on the rates a supplier can charge for each unit of gas and electricity, the Mirror reports.
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The Ofgem energy price cap rose by 54% on April 1 while for those on default tariffs paying by direct debit, the price cap increased by £693 from £1,277 to £1,971.
Here's what is available at some of the leading energy providers:
British Gas
British Gas has reopened its hardship fund for non-customers with grants worth up to £1,500 for struggling households. To be eligible for help, you need to live in England, Scotland, or Wales and be in debt to your energy company (not specific to British Gas).
You must also not have more than £1,000 in savings and have received help from a money advice agency. The easiest - and the free way - to do this is through a charity. The main ones who will help you with energy bills are National Energy Action, Home Energy Scotland, and Citizens Advice.
For existing British Gas customers, there is a separate Energy Support Fund for its customers that runs all year round. Through this help, you can apply for a grant worth between £250 to £750.
You have to be in energy debt of at least £250 and not have more than £1,000 in savings. If you're accepted for a grant through either scheme, the money doesn't need to be paid back.
Scottish Power
The Scottish Power Hardship Fund offers grants worth up to £750. You could qualify if you receive Income Support, Job Seekers’ Allowance, Pension Credit or Employment and Support Allowance.
Households who have a low household income or who have special circumstances - such as experiencing an income reduction due to illness - might also be eligible.
The money is debited to your Scottish Power energy account. In order to apply for the fund, you must first contact a debt advice agency. You will then need to apply to Sigma Connected Support.
E.ON and E.ON Next
E.ON and E.ON Next customers can apply for a grant to help clear energy debts. The funds can also help replace household items such as cookers, fridges, fridge-freezers, washing machines, and gas boilers.
There isn't a specific set of criteria and it doesn't say how much you might be able to claim. However, E.ON says applications from individuals with the greatest needs will be prioritised.
You'll need to show "a willingness to pay your ongoing energy bills" and provide evidence of any benefits you are in receipt of or medical conditions. You will also need to have received advice from a debt agency.
EDF
EDF customers need to register for its priority services in order to access its emergency fund. You will need your EDF Energy electricity or gas account number to apply, as well as evidence of any benefits your household receives.
EDF will assess your circumstances to determine how much of a grant it can award you.
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