Fuel Vouchers & Government Support 2026
Fuel vouchers and government support: what you can apply for in 2026
Energy bills are still stretching budgets. Standing charges mean many people feel they’re paying more, even when they’re using less.
Help is available, but it can be confusing to know what applies to you, and some schemes are automatic while others need you to take action.
LEAP can help you understand your options, check eligibility and access practical support when you need it most.
Energy is still a big talking point in 2026, and for good reason. Ofgem’s price cap is set at £1,758 a year for a typical dual-fuel household paying by Direct Debit between 1st January and 31st March 2026. Your bill will still depend on how much energy you use, but the cap provides a useful indicator for what many households are facing right now.
Below is a clear guide to the main UK support that’s currently available, through the government or through LEAP, as well as what to do if you need help urgently.
Fuel Vouchers: quick help when you can’t top up
If you’re on a prepayment meter and you’re worried about running out of credit, the first step is always to contact your supplier. Ask about emergency credit, “friendly-hours” credit or extra support credit (and make sure any repayments are set at an affordable level).
If you’ve tried that and you’re still struggling, fuel vouchers can provide short-term breathing space by helping you add credit to your meter. Through LEAP’s Financial Assistance Scheme, we may be able to provide fuel vouchers of up to £150 for eligible households on prepayment meters.
How to get support through LEAP
- Apply online (for yourself or someone else) and we’ll guide you through next steps
- Call our team for free advice: England and Wales 0800 060 7567 or Scotland 0800 029 4543
Warm Home Discount: £150 off electricity (for eligible households)
The Warm Home Discount is a £150 one-off discount on electricity bills for eligible low-income households. Many people receive it automatically through data matching (and some may be asked to provide extra information if contacted).
If you think you should be eligible but haven’t heard anything, it’s worth checking that your details with your supplier are still correct, especially the name(s) on the electricity bill.
Household Support Fund
In England, the Household Support Fund (HSF) is running to 31st March 2026. Councils can use it to support households with essentials, including energy, water and food. Support may be offered as cash, vouchers or in-kind help. What’s available (and how you access it) varies by council.
From 1 April 2026, this is being replaced by the Crisis and Resilience Fund.
If you’re not sure what your local area offers, LEAP can help you work out where to start and what to ask for.
Cold-weather help and pensioner support
Depending on your circumstances (and where you live in the UK,) you may also be eligible for seasonal help:
- Cold Weather Payment (England and Wales) - £25 for each 7-day period of very cold weather between 1st November 2025 and 31st March 2026 (paid automatically if you qualify).
- Winter Fuel Payment (England and Wales): if you were born before 22 September 1959, you could get £100 to £300 to help with heating costs for winter 2025/26. Most people receive this benefit automatically if they are eligible.
Because support can differ across the UK, it’s worth getting personalised advice if you’re unsure.
Speak to LEAP for free, practical help
LEAP can help you:
- Understand your bill and usage
- Check what support you may be entitled to
- Access emergency options if you’re at risk of going off-supply
- Build a plan to stay warm and in control this winter
Call us free in England and Wales on 0800 060 7567 or in Scotland on 0800 029 4543.
