Why does DWP restrict timescale for warm house discount?

2401

Why does the DWP restrict the timescale for non core group applicants for the warm home discount through the providers to a period of 2 months only in 0ct 15th to December. I have been refused today in an application for my son.  Surely if one qualifies then should be open anytime ??

Lisa2006

It’s only if you’re on income-based benefits like Income Surport.Who should be different for children

Pippa_Alumni

Hi @2401, welcome to the community!

I'm sorry to hear this. I wonder if the winter fuel payment would be worth looking into, if you're eligible?

If you were born on or before 5 November 1953 you could get between £100 and £300 to help you pay your heating bills. This is known as a ‘Winter Fuel Payment’.

You usually get a Winter Fuel Payment automatically if you are eligible and you get the State Pension or another social security benefit (not Housing Benefit, Council Tax Reduction, Child Benefit or Universal Credit).

If you’re eligible but do not get paid automatically, you will need to make a claim.

The deadline for claiming payments for winter 2018 to 2019 is 31 March 2019

Pippa_Alumni

Hi @2401, I've also just spotted another site recommending the Energy Saving Trust.

Insulation and heating schemes

There are a number of schemes that install insulation and heating improvements to make your home more energy efficient.

You’re likely to be eligible if your home is poorly insulated or doesn’t have a working central heating system, and if you receive any of a range of income-related benefits including Pension Credit.
Use the links below to find out more:

• The Energy Saving Advice Service – Tel 0300 123 1234 (for England, Wales and Northern Ireland), 0808 808 2282 (for Scotland)

• Wales – Nest scheme

• Scotland Energy Assistance Package – Tel 0800 512 012 for more information

2401

Pippa_Scope said:

Hi @2401, welcome to the community!

I'm sorry to hear this. I wonder if the winter fuel payment would be worth looking into, if you're eligible?

If you were born on or before 5 November 1953 you could get between £100 and £300 to help you pay your heating bills. This is known as a ‘Winter Fuel Payment’.

You usually get a Winter Fuel Payment automatically if you are eligible and you get the State Pension or another social security benefit (not Housing Benefit, Council Tax Reduction, Child Benefit or Universal Credit).

If you’re eligible but do not get paid automatically, you will need to make a claim.

The deadline for claiming payments for winter 2018 to 2019 is 31 March 2019

2401

TypeHI pippa_scope thanks for reply   My son does not qualify for winter fuel

He is entitled to warm home discount but their appears to be a tiny window for applications .   Can only think that it is deliberate    Should be own all year round your comment

carolr9978

This small window of application is for all that claim in both groups. Is only paid in the winter months hence the small window of application. The applications are taken in this period and paid out between DEC and March only. You will either receive a letter to take to post office to top up your key or the money will credit your direct debit account with provider. The insulating scheme above is only if you own your home not council and the winter fuel payment is for pensioners. Remember this year applications open September. Hope this helps x

2401

Sorry carol That fails to answer the question.   Why such a small window to apply.  I appreciate when it is paid but don't see what that has to do with applications   Many must miss this despite the government rather dubious policy that they want entitled people to apply for their benefited grants discounts etc. 2401

Pippa_Alumni

Hi @2401, I'm sorry to hear that. Unfortunately I don't think anybody here on the community will be able to tell you why this is the case or offer an alternative. 

You clearly have strong feelings about this, perhaps it's something to consider writing to your MP about? They may be best placed to advise/ offer alternative suggestions in this case, however do feel free to keep us updated and we'll advise where we can. 

poppy123456

Hi,

I'm not sure why you think it's the DWP that does this. It's got nothing to do with DWP, it's the energy suppliers that do this and it's their choice when applications close.

There's limited funding for those in the broader group and it's a first come first serve basis. The window of application varies entirely between different energy companies.

poppy123456

carolr9978 said:

The insulating scheme above is only if you own your home not council

Sorry but this is incorrect advice. You can have a grant for home insulation whether you own your home or rent it. I had my housing association rented house insulated just a couple of years ago....completely free. Certain means tested benefits automatically qualify you to receive this insulation.