Martin Lewis has issued some important advice to people still waiting for the £200 alternative fuels energy support payment. The money is for households who are not connected to the mains gas grid and instead use different fuels to heat their home.
On a recent episode of the Martin Lewis Money Show, the financial expert explained that while the Government says it has already paid the £200 payments to those who qualify, some people are yet to receive the cash. The explanation came after he was asked a question from a viewer called Stephen, the Mirror reports.
The question, read by Martin's co-host Angellica Bell, asked: “I live in our house and use domestic heating oil for my central heating and hot water. I have not yet received the £200 from the Government that was supposed to be credited to my electricity account as part of the domestic energy health scheme, how do I get this?”
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Martin explained that most people who qualify for the payment should have now received it automatically, but those who haven't can apply. The deadline for applications is May 31.
The Money Saving Expert founder said: “We've had a lot of those who haven't had their payment yet and I actually understand why. The reason is that electricity companies don't know who's got those fuels, and the database was never going to be 100% accurate.”
The Government also doesn't have such a database, meaning some households have “fallen through the cracks” when the list of those set to receive the funds was drawn up, the Money Saving Expert website says. Anyone who thinks they should receive the money but hasn't can now apply via the Government Portal.
If you think this may be you, you should first check your bank account or energy account to see if you have already been paid the money or had it taken off your bill. People on traditional pre-payment meters should have received vouchers for the discount.
The portal was launched in the UK on Monday (Mar 6). Those without online access can call 0808 175 3287 from 8am to 6pm, Monday to Friday.
The money is for people using alternative heating fuels, as these people would not have benefited from the Government's energy price guarantee. To be able to apply for the payment, you will need to provide:
An email address
Your phone number
Your bank account details - for the payment to be made into
Proof of purchase of alternative fuels since September 2022 totalling £200
For the proof of purchase, you can upload two documents, such as a delivery note or receipt. Your application must also include:
Your address
The type of fuel purchased
Date of purchase
Name and address of fuel supplier
Total amount spent
You should then receive an email or letter within six weeks of applying, confirming whether or not you'll get the payment, the Money Saving Expert website says. If you are eligible, you should be paid the £200 by your local authority via bank transfer.
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