If you’re struggling to keep up with energy bills and use a prepayment meter for your gas and electricity, you might be eligible for free fuel vouchers to ease the burden.

As of March 2025, with energy costs still a pressing concern for millions across the UK, these vouchers remain a lifeline for many—especially as winter’s effects linger and the cost-of-living squeeze continues.

The energy price cap, which influences bills for those on standard tariffs, rose again in late 2024, pushing more households toward fuel poverty.

Prepayment meter users—often low-income households, are particularly vulnerable, facing higher per-unit costs compared to direct debit customers and a greater risk of running out of credit.

With spring underway in 2025, the need for support persists, and free fuel vouchers could help you avoid tough choices about heating or eating.

Related reading:

• Should I fix my energy bills?
• How much should my energy go up?
• UK Energy Security Strategy Explained
• Where does the UK get its gas from?
• Average carbon footprint per household UK

Are Fuel Vouchers Still Offered?

Yes, but availability depends on where you live and your circumstances. As of mid-March 2025, no nationwide “free voucher” program covers all households year-round, but targeted schemes like the Household Support Fund (HSF) and local council initiatives continue to provide vouchers in many areas.

The HSF, extended in past years (most recently confirmed through March 31, 2025), offers councils funds to distribute energy support—often as vouchers for prepayment meter top-ups.

Some councils, like Nottingham, planned to issue vouchers into April 2025, and if funding holds, this could stretch further. Other support, like the Warm Home Discount (£150 credit), typically wraps up by March but may resume next winter.

Eligibility Criteria

To get a fuel voucher, you’ll usually need a referral from a local organization, such as:

• Food banks
• Your local council (find yours on GOV.UK)
• Citizens Advice

Eligibility varies by region. Some councils prioritize vulnerable groups—pensioners, families with young children, or people with health conditions—while others apply means-testing, checking income and savings.

Common criteria include:

• Receiving income-related benefits (e.g., Universal Credit, Pension Credit)
• Having little to no savings
• Caring for children or having a disability
• Being of pension age

Key Requirement: You must use a prepayment meter. Vouchers aren’t available for direct debit or standard credit customers.

How Much Are Fuel Vouchers Worth?

Vouchers typically range from £30 to £49, though amounts differ by location and season. For example:

• Lancashire: £30 per voucher
• Manchester: £49 for families, £30 for single households

Winter vs. Summer: Higher amounts (e.g., £49) are common in winter, with smaller sums in spring or summer when heating needs drop.

Your exact amount depends on your council’s budget and your situation. Some areas, like those supported by the HSF, may offer one-off payments of up to £200 for energy debt or vouchers, as seen with YES Energy Solutions in 2024.

How Do You Use a Fuel Voucher?

Fuel vouchers aren’t cash—they’re non-transferable codes delivered by text, email, or post. To redeem one:

• Take the code to your local top-up point (e.g., a PayPoint or Post Office).
• Show proof of address and ID (like a passport or driving license).
• Apply the full amount to your gas or electricity meter—you can’t split it.

Vouchers usually expire within 12 weeks, so check the deadline when you receive it.

What If You Don’t Qualify?

If you’re not eligible for a voucher, other help exists: Energy Supplier Support: Contact your supplier ASAP if you’re falling behind. They can offer:

• Affordable payment plans
• Tariff switches or debt relief (e.g., British Gas Energy Trust grants)
• Enrollment in the Priority Services Register for faster future aid
• Warm Home Discount: A £150 credit for eligible low-income households (runs October to March; check with your supplier for 2025-2026).
• Charity Funds: Groups like National Energy Action or Act on Energy may provide small grants or vouchers in specific regions.

FAQs About Fuel Vouchers

Can I get a voucher in spring 2025?

Possibly, if your local council has HSF funds left or runs a crisis scheme—contact them to confirm.

Do vouchers cover both gas and electricity?

Yes, but you choose one meter to apply the full amount per voucher.

What if I miss the deadline?

Expired vouchers can’t be used—act fast!

Related Resources:

• Average carbon footprint per household UK
• Should I fix my energy bills?
• How much should my energy go up?
• UK Energy Security Strategy Explained
• Where does the UK get its gas from?

In Summary

Rising energy costs are tough, but support like fuel vouchers can make a difference for prepayment meter users in 2025.

Check your eligibility with your local council or Citizens Advice, and don’t hesitate to contact your energy supplier if you’re struggling—they’re required to help. Stay proactive, explore all options, and keep warm without breaking the bank.