£200 Cost of Living Payment 2025: British Gas, Octopus, Eon, EDF and OVO customers told two-minute check could bag them £200
In 2025, energy bills remain a top concern for many households across the UK. With the cost of living continuing to put pressure on families, there is some good news — a £200 Cost of Living Payment is now available to eligible customers of major energy suppliers such as British Gas, Octopus Energy, Eon, EDF, and OVO Energy.
Customers are being urged to do a quick two-minute check to see if they qualify. This one-time payment is designed to help with energy costs, especially for lower-income or vulnerable households. Many people may not even realise they’re eligible — and missing out simply because they haven’t checked.
Here’s what you need to know about the payment, who it’s for, how to check, and how to claim it.
Why This £200 Payment Matters
Energy prices are still higher than pre-pandemic levels, and although the government has introduced caps and support schemes, many households are still struggling. The £200 payment is part of a wider cost of living support package for 2025, aimed at helping people cope with rising electricity and gas bills.
The money will be credited directly to eligible customer energy accounts or may be issued as a voucher, depending on the supplier and type of meter you have.
Who Is Eligible?
Eligibility for the £200 payment depends on a few key factors:
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You must be a customer of British Gas, Octopus, Eon, EDF, or OVO Energy
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You may be on a low income, receiving benefits such as:
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Universal Credit
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Pension Credit
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Income Support
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ESA (Employment and Support Allowance)
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JSA (Jobseeker’s Allowance)
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You might also qualify if you receive the Warm Home Discount
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Some customers with prepayment meters are also included
If you’re unsure, suppliers recommend checking your account details or using the quick eligibility tool on their websites.
Overview Table – £200 Energy Support Payment 2025
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Payment Amount | £200 (one-time support) |
| Eligible Suppliers | British Gas, Octopus, Eon, EDF, OVO |
| Who Can Apply | Low-income customers, benefit recipients |
| Application Needed? | In most cases, no – automatic or quick check |
| How It’s Paid | Credit to energy account or voucher |
| When It’s Available | Between March and August 2025 |
| Purpose | Help with high energy bills |
| Check Time | 2 minutes (online or via supplier contact) |
How To Check and Claim – It Only Takes 2 Minutes
Each energy supplier has made it easy to check if you qualify for the £200 payment:
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British Gas: Customers can log in to their online account or call customer service. There’s a dedicated page under “Help with energy bills.”
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Octopus Energy: Visit their “Support Hub” where you’ll find a simple form to confirm eligibility.
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Eon & Eon Next: A section on their website guides you through the steps. Most payments are automatic if you qualify.
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EDF: Offers an online tool where you enter basic info to check eligibility.
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OVO Energy: OVO customers can check the “Cost of Living Support” page to see if they meet the criteria.
Make sure your account information is updated — especially your benefit status — and keep an eye on messages from your supplier.
What If You’re on a Prepayment Meter?
Customers using prepayment meters — either traditional key/card or smart meters — are also included. However, you may receive the £200 as a voucher instead of a direct credit.
In that case, suppliers will either send the voucher by text, email, or post. You can redeem it at your usual top-up location (PayPoint or Post Office). It’s important not to ignore these messages.
Is This the Same As the Warm Home Discount?
No. The £200 Cost of Living Payment is separate from the Warm Home Discount, although some people may be eligible for both. While the Warm Home Discount is applied during the winter months, this payment can be received between March and August, helping families with year-round energy expenses.
What If I Don’t Get the Payment?
If you believe you’re eligible but haven’t received the payment:
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Contact your energy supplier’s customer service.
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Check your online energy account or billing section.
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Make sure you’re registered as a benefit recipient or in a vulnerable group.
In some cases, payments may be delayed or sent later based on account review dates.
FAQs
Q1: Do I need to apply for the £200 payment?
A: Most eligible customers will receive it automatically, but a quick online check is recommended.
Q2: Can I get it if I’ve already received other energy support?
A: Yes. This payment is separate from previous support schemes.
Q3: Is this only for gas bills?
A: No. It can be used for any energy usage, including gas and electricity.
Q4: What happens if I change energy suppliers?
A: You should still receive the payment if your eligibility is confirmed during the active period.
Q5: Is the £200 payment taxable?
A: No, it’s a tax-free support payment and doesn’t affect your benefit entitlements.
Final Thoughts
The £200 Cost of Living Payment 2025 is a much-needed boost for thousands of households trying to manage high energy bills. With no long forms and just a quick two-minute check, many customers can receive this support without hassle. If you’re a customer of British Gas, Octopus, Eon, EDF, or OVO, now is the time to check your eligibility and make sure you don’t miss out.