Millions of households are set to receive £100 towards their energy costs this winter following a major announcement in the Autumn Budget 2026. But who will get the money, when will it arrive and do you need to apply?
With energy bills putting pressure on household budgets as temperatures drop, Chancellor John Healey has announced a new £100 energy payment for around 20 million households.
The support was confirmed in the Autumn Budget on 28 October 2026 and is aimed at homes in council tax bands A to D.
For Government has announced that households in council tax bands A to D will qualify for the new £100 energy payment, subject to the final scheme rules.
Unlike some existing energy support schemes, which are linked to benefits or household income, this announcement is based on council tax bands.
That means households who might not normally qualify for means-tested help could potentially receive the money.
Council tax band
Announced eligibility
A
Included
B
Included
C
Included
D
Included
E and above
Outside the announced A–D criteria
The Government still needs to clarify how the payment will work across the different council tax systems in the UK, including arrangements for Northern Ireland.
Check your council tax band now
Not sure whether you qualify? Your council tax band is printed on your annual council tax bill.
You can also check your band online using the official Government service for England and Wales.
Scottish households can check through the
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