In the 2026 Autumn Budget, the Government announced a one-off £100 payment to help households in council tax bands A–D in England with energy costs this winter. Councils will be responsible for delivering it.

These FAQs answer the questions on distributing the £100 energy payment, based on what’s known so far.

• Who is eligible for the £100 energy payment?
  Households in council tax bands A–D in England. Eligibility is based on property band, not income.

• When will the £100 energy payment be paid?
  Councils are expected to start paying it from January 2027.

• Do people need to apply?
  Households paying council tax by Direct Debit are expected to receive the payment automatically. Councils are still confirming the process for everyone else.

• Does the payment apply in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland?
  The devolved governments will receive funding and set their own arrangements.

• Which households are most at risk of missing out?
  Households that the council holds no bank details for. This includes people who don’t pay by Direct Debit.

• How could councils pay households without bank details?
  By inviting people to provide their details securely, checking them before any money moves, and offering another route for those who can’t receive a bank transfer. Support platforms such as Access with Auriga can manage this on a council’s behalf.

• Can the £100 energy payment be paid in cash?
  This will depend on the final scheme guidance. Where scheme rules allow, support platforms such as Access with Auriga can deliver support through ATM cash withdrawals or redeemable cash vouchers.

• Is there additional support for households who need more than £100?
  A further £100 million is expected to be available to councils for targeted help with energy costs, including for some households above band D. Councils can also use support platforms like Access with Auriga to deliver additional support, such as emergency fuel vouchers, debt advice and income maximisation.

• How can Access with Auriga help my council?
  Access with Auriga is our free to use portal for delivering financial support on behalf of councils, charities and housing providers. You share your list of eligible households, and we manage delivering payments and reporting, with full oversight for your team.

For more information, read our article on how councils can deliver the £100 energy payment to every eligible household, or contact businessdevelopment@aurigaservices.co.uk