From 1 April 2022 to 1 April 2023, the Government has introduced a temporary change to Fuel Direct to protect claimants given unprecedented energy prices. During this period, energy suppliers can no longer request new deductions or increased payments from a claimant’s benefit to pay for ongoing fuel consumption.
For claimants who pay for their ongoing fuel usage directly from their benefits, the amount they pay was not automatically increased if their bill went up in April 2022 and will not automatically increase when the price cap changes in October 2022.
If claimants use Fuel Direct and feel they are able to pay their increased bills, they should contact DWP to amend their existing arrangement.
Universal Credit claimants can use their Universal Credit Journal to make this request or call 0800 328 5644. Income Support, Jobseeker’s Allowance and Employment and Support Allowance claimants can call 0800 169 0310. For Pension Credit, claimants can call 0800 99 1234.
Anyone struggling to pay their energy bills should contact their energy supplier to discuss available options.
