1.1 Million Customers get First Energy Support Payments

The cost of living crisis continues to bite, and more than 1.1 million customers will get first energy support payments from the first week of September.

£326 will be paid automatically into eligible tax credit-only customers’ bank accounts between 2nd and 7th September 2022.

The first HMRC payments will total around £360 million.

The payment is part of a wider raft of support which includes:

• £400 discount from the Government to help with the cost of energy bills from October onwards

• £150 council tax rebate for council tax bands A-D in England

• £300 Pensioner Cost of Living Payment paid alongside Winter Fuel Payments

• £150 Disability Cost of Living Payment from 20th September for those receiving an eligible UK disability benefit.

Energy caps were predicted to keep rising into the new year however the Government has indicated there may be more help on the way from the new Prime Minister, Liz Truss.

Nadhim Zahawi, Chancellor of the Exchequer, said: “Alongside £400 off most people’s energy bills, tax cuts and the Household Support Fund, these direct payments are a very important part of our £37 billion package of help for households, which is targeted at those who need it most.”

The Cost of Living payments from the Government are part of a £37 billion package of support. Millions of low-income households receive at least £1,200 this year to help cover rising costs.

Warning on Potential Scams

The Government is offering help for households. Customers should check GOV.UK to find out what cost of living support they could be eligible for.

HMRC has delivered a warning over scams.

People don’t need to apply for this payment and they will never ask for your bank details by SMS or email.

If you’re unsure, please visit GOV.UK and search ‘phishing and scams’.

For help and advice on related matters, please contact our team today on 01728 687000.