Kuni Lingston
With energy prices still a major concern for UK households, prepayment meter customers may be eligible for a grant of up to £1,700 to help clear outstanding energy debts.
This support comes at a crucial time following the July 1st energy price cap reduction, which saw rates fall 7% to £1,720 for a typical dual-fuel household. However, despite this drop, millions still face financial pressure—especially those using prepayment meters.
The British Gas Energy Trust, through its Individuals and Families Fund, is now offering grants to eligible customers to ease this burden. Here’s a complete breakdown of who qualifies, how much support is available, and how to apply.
Why Prepayment Customers Are Struggling
According to recent data, more than 50% of prepayment energy users were in debt by the end of 2024.
Unlike customers on direct debit, prepayment users often face immediate deductions for any existing debts as soon as they top up their meter, leaving little or no energy credit to use. This can trap vulnerable households in a cycle of debt that’s tough to break.
What Is the Individuals and Families Fund?
Run by the British Gas Energy Trust, this fund is not limited to British Gas customers. It offers grants of up to £1,700 to prepayment customers who owe money to their supplier and meet specific eligibility criteria.
Who Can Apply for the £1,700 Energy Grant?
The grant is available to prepayment meter users across England, Scotland, and Wales, whether or not they are British Gas customers. However, you must meet certain eligibility criteria to apply.
Eligibility Criteria
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Income Limit | Household income less than £18,723 |
| Disability/Carer Status | Someone in household gets Disability Benefit or Carer’s Allowance |
| Household Composition | Families with 3 or more children also qualify |
| Previous Grants | You haven’t received this grant in the past 2 years |
| Debt Range | Energy debt must be between £50 and £1,700 |
| Location | Must live in England, Scotland or Wales |
| Supplier’s Support Scheme Status | Must apply to your supplier first if they have a support scheme |
| Applicable Energy Suppliers | Applies if you’ve been declined by supplier like EDF, Eon, Octopus, etc. |
| Credit Meter Customers | Not eligible |
Energy Suppliers with Their Own Support Funds
If you are a customer of one of the following energy suppliers, you must apply to their own support schemes first:
- OVO
- Boost
- Eon & Eon Next
- EDF
- Scottish Power
- Octopus Energy
- Shell Energy
- SSE
- Utilita
- Utility Warehouse
Note: If you’ve been declined by your supplier’s fund, you may apply for the Individuals and Families Fund but must provide proof of rejection.
How Much Can You Get?
The grant provides between £50 to £1,700 depending on your level of energy debt and individual circumstances. The amount granted will be directly paid to your energy supplier to reduce or clear your account arrears.
How to Apply for the Grant
Applying is straightforward and can be done online. Here’s how:
Step-by-Step Application Process:
- Visit the British Gas Energy Trust website.
- Create an account or ask a support agent (e.g., Citizens Advice) to apply on your behalf.
- Submit your application with all required documentation, including:
- Proof of energy debt
- Proof of household income
- Details of household composition
- Disability or carer benefit documentation (if applicable)
- Rejection letter (if you applied to your energy supplier first)
Applications are reviewed, and if successful, funds will be paid directly to your energy provider.
Key Information
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Grant Name | Individuals and Families Fund |
| Maximum Support Amount | Up to £1,700 |
| Eligible Customers | Prepayment meter users in England, Scotland, and Wales |
| Application Method | Online via British Gas Energy Trust website |
| Application Time | Immediate – grant is open now |
| Required Documents | Proof of debt, income, benefits, and rejection (if applicable) |
Why This Grant Matters
This support fund addresses a critical financial gap for households relying on prepayment energy meters, which are often used by lower-income families.
With many households still recovering from rising energy costs and inflation, this £1,700 boost could provide lifesaving financial relief and help families avoid disconnection or fuel poverty.
With energy prices still squeezing UK households, this £1,700 grant for prepayment energy customers could make a substantial difference.
If you’re eligible, don’t delay — apply now and reduce your energy debt burden before winter returns. A few simple steps could put you on the path to financial breathing room and a warmer, more stable home.
FAQs
Can I apply if I’ve already received energy support in the past?
You can apply only if you haven’t received a grant from the British Gas Energy Trust in the past two years.
What if I’m not a British Gas customer?
You can still apply, as long as you meet the eligibility criteria and your supplier doesn’t have its own support scheme—or you’ve been rejected by them.
How long does the application process take?
Once submitted, the application typically takes a few weeks for review, depending on demand and documentation completeness.