Switched supplier too late for Warm Home Discount

elucidate

Hi all,

I am a recipient of the Guarantee Credit element of Pension Credit.

In September last year, I switched to Economy Energy, and because I missed the Qualifying Date of 31st July 2017 (when I was with Coop), I didn't get the Warm Home Discount this year.

At the time of switching I didn't realise that switching suppliers would impair eligibility, as I thought it was like a governmental benefit that would apply as long as a supplier is part of the scheme. Indeed, even after I left Coop they still sent me an email in November last year that I was eligible, even though I wasn't with them anymore (obviously a mistake on their part). Is there any way I could claim it now?

Second question:
Now that I'm more well-informed, do you think it'd be a good idea if I switch to a variable-rate supplier now, and change my "anniversary date" to April (so that whichever WHD supplier I change to on any year in the future, I'd definitely get the WHD, as I'd be with that supplier in both July and the following March)?

wavelets

elucidate wrote: »

Hi all,

I am a recipient of the Guarantee Credit element of Pension Credit.

In September last year, I switched to Economy Energy, and because I missed the Qualifying Date of 31st July 2017 (when I was with Coop), I didn't get the Warm Home Discount this year.

At the time of switching I didn't realise that switching suppliers would impair eligibility, as I thought it was like a governmental benefit that would apply as long as a supplier is part of the scheme. Indeed, even after I left Coop they still sent me an email in November last year that I was eligible, even though I wasn't with them anymore (obviously a mistake on their part). Is there any way I could claim it now?

Second question:
Now that I'm more well-informed, do you think it'd be a good idea if I switch to a variable-rate supplier now, and change my "anniversary date" to April (so that whichever WHD supplier I change to on any year in the future, I'd definitely get the WHD, as I'd be with that supplier in both July and the following March)?

In answer to the first question, you already know the answer to that for the reason you have stated.

In answer to the second question, I suggest you read this:
https://www.moneysavingexpert.com/utilities/you-switch-gas-electricity/