The rising cost of living and energy bills in the UK has left many households seeking government support. One such initiative is the Warm Home Discount Scheme.
In partnership with energy providers like EDF, the scheme offers financial relief to qualifying households during the colder months. But how does the scheme work in 2025, who qualifies, and when can customers expect to receive their payment? This guide will answer all those questions and more.
What Is the EDF Warm Home Discount Scheme for 2025?
The Warm Home Discount Scheme is part of the UK government’s effort to help vulnerable and low-income households manage their electricity costs during winter. For 2025, EDF is continuing its participation in the scheme by offering a one-off £150 rebate to eligible customers.
This discount is not a cash payment. Instead, it is credited directly to a customer’s electricity account. The scheme operates slightly differently depending on where the customer lives in the UK.
In England and Wales, eligible customers will usually receive the discount automatically. In Scotland, the process may require an application for those not identified under the core eligibility criteria.
Customers must have had an active electricity account with EDF on 24 August 2025 to be considered. The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is responsible for identifying eligible customers in most cases. The actual rebate is then applied to the customer’s account during the winter months, typically between October and March.
Who Is Eligible for the EDF Warm Home Discount in 2025?
Eligibility is grouped into three categories based on location and benefit status. The determination of these groups is made on the qualifying date of 24 August 2025.
Core Group 1
This group includes customers in England, Wales or Scotland who receive the Guarantee Credit element of Pension Credit. These customers are identified by the DWP and do not need to apply. They will receive a letter confirming their eligibility and the steps involved, if any.
Core Group 2
This group applies only to customers in England and Wales. Eligibility depends on receiving certain means-tested benefits and having high energy costs, as defined by government criteria. Like Core Group 1, these customers are identified by the DWP and the discount is applied automatically.
Scotland – Broader Group
In Scotland, if a customer is not eligible under Core Group 1, they may still qualify under the Broader Group. This group includes people who are:
- On a low income
- Receiving specific means-tested benefits
- Caring for a child under five or someone with a disability
- Living with certain medical conditions requiring higher energy usage
Unlike the Core Groups, these customers must apply manually each year through EDF’s application process. The number of rebates available in the Broader Group is limited, and applications are reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis.
How Can Customers Apply for the Warm Home Discount with EDF?
Customers in Core Group 1 and Core Group 2 do not need to apply. They will be contacted by letter if they are eligible. This communication usually begins in October, and customers are encouraged to keep a close eye on any mail they receive during this period.
In Scotland, where the Broader Group system is in place, customers must complete an application directly with EDF. The application typically involves submitting personal details, confirming electricity account information, and uploading proof of income or benefit status.
Steps to apply for the Broader Group in Scotland:
- Visit EDF’s official Warm Home Discount application page
- Complete the online form with accurate household and financial details
- Upload the necessary supporting documents
- Submit the form and await confirmation from EDF
The application portal usually opens in the autumn. Due to the limited number of rebates available under the Broader Group, it is advisable to apply as soon as the window opens.
When Will EDF Pay the Warm Home Discount in 2025?
EDF typically begins applying the Warm Home Discount rebates in October and completes all payments by the end of March the following year. For the 2025 scheme:
- The qualifying date is 24 August 2025
- Letters from the DWP are expected to be sent from October 2025
- All eligible rebates must be credited by March 2026
Customers do not need to take any action if they are identified under Core Group 1 or 2. They will be notified of their eligibility by post. The letter will contain any actions required, such as confirming details or correcting information.
For Scottish customers who apply manually, the approval process may take several weeks. If successful, they can expect to receive their rebate by the end of March 2026.
What Is the Difference Between Core Group 1 and Core Group 2?
These two groups are central to the Warm Home Discount Scheme and are defined as follows:
| Group | Eligibility | Applies To | Action Needed |
| Core Group 1 | Receiving Guarantee Credit of Pension Credit | England, Wales, Scotland | No – Automatic |
| Core Group 2 | On means-tested benefits with high energy costs | England and Wales only | No – Automatic |
Core Group 1 is primarily for pensioners, while Core Group 2 is broader and includes low-income households meeting additional energy cost criteria. The key distinction lies in the geographical scope, with Core Group 2 not being available in Scotland.
How Much Will Eligible Customers Receive Through the EDF Warm Home Discount?
The fixed rebate amount for 2025 is £150. This is not a cash payout but a credit applied directly to your electricity bill. The method of receiving the rebate varies depending on the type of meter in the customer’s home.
Here’s a summary of how rebates are processed based on meter type:
| Meter Type | How Rebate Is Applied |
| Credit Meter | £150 is credited to your electricity account and shown on your next bill |
| Prepayment Meter | A voucher is sent by post. This voucher can be redeemed at the Post Office |
| Smart Pay As You Go | £150 is applied directly to your smart meter. You receive a confirmation message and can view it in your EDF account |
EDF customers are encouraged to check their online accounts regularly or register for MyAccount if they haven’t already. This platform will display the rebate once it has been applied.
What Other Energy Bill Support Options Are Available in the UK in 2025?
Besides the Warm Home Discount Scheme, several other government and supplier-led initiatives are available to assist households with their energy bills.
Here’s a table comparing the major schemes:
| Support Scheme | Target Group | Payment Amount | Payment Type | Application Required |
| Warm Home Discount | Low-income or vulnerable households | £150 | Electricity bill credit | Only for Broader Group |
| Winter Fuel Payment | Households with state pension age | £100 to £300 | Direct to bank account | No – Automatic |
| Cold Weather Payment | Benefit recipients in very cold areas | £25 per cold week | Direct to bank account | No – Automatic |
| EDF Customer Support Fund | EDF customers in financial hardship | Variable support | Varies – bill credit or grants | Yes – Apply via EDF |
Customers can apply for some of these schemes directly, while others are awarded automatically based on government records. Using multiple support schemes in combination can significantly reduce winter energy expenses.
How Can Customers Check Their Eligibility for the Warm Home Discount?
The best way to check eligibility is by using the government’s official Warm Home Discount eligibility checker on the GOV.UK website. EDF customers can also log into their online accounts for updates or call customer service if they have questions about their status.
Customers should look out for the official letter from the DWP, which typically arrives in October. This letter confirms whether the individual is part of Core Group 1 or Core Group 2 and outlines any required steps to receive the payment.
Those who have not received a letter by the end of November should contact EDF or the Warm Home Discount helpline for clarification.
What Should Customers Do If They Don’t Automatically Qualify?
If a customer does not receive a letter by the end of autumn and believes they may qualify, especially those in Scotland, it is important to act quickly.
The steps include:
- Checking the EDF Warm Home Discount page for the Broader Group application link
- Completing and submitting the online application with supporting documentation
- Monitoring communication from EDF for approval or requests for additional information
In cases where a customer is not eligible under the Warm Home Discount, they may still receive support through local council energy grants, EDF’s hardship funds or other national schemes like the Winter Fuel Payment.
Conclusion
With the ongoing pressure on household budgets, the EDF Warm Home Discount Scheme continues to offer essential support for eligible UK households. Whether you’re in Core Group 1, Core Group 2, or applying through the Broader Group in Scotland, the key is to act early, check your eligibility, and be alert for communications from the DWP or EDF.
The £150 rebate may not solve the energy crisis, but it can provide meaningful relief to those who need it most. Don’t delay—review your situation, check GOV.UK, and make sure you’re ready ahead of the payment deadlines.
FAQs About EDF’s Warm Home Discount in 2025
Can customers receive the Warm Home Discount and Winter Fuel Payment together?
Yes. These are separate government initiatives, and eligible individuals can receive both.
Is the Warm Home Discount applied automatically for all EDF customers?
No. Only those in Core Group 1 and 2 are automatically enrolled. Scottish residents in the Broader Group must apply.
What should I do if I haven’t received my Warm Home Discount by March 2026?
Contact EDF’s customer service before the end of March 2026 to check your eligibility and payment status.
Does the Warm Home Discount affect my other benefits?
No. The discount does not impact any other government or local authority benefits.
Can prepayment meter customers receive the Warm Home Discount?
Yes. Prepayment customers will receive a barcoded voucher by post, redeemable at the Post Office.
Do smart meter users receive the rebate differently?
Yes. For smart Pay As You Go customers, the rebate is applied directly to the meter. Confirmation will be available in your EDF online account.
What if the energy account is not in the applicant’s name?
The account must be in the name of the person applying or receiving the benefit to qualify for the discount.
