British Gas offers £2,000 to help pay energy bills

If you're feeling the pinch with your energy bills, you might be pleased to hear that British Gas is stepping in to help.

The supplier is sending out 100,000 letters to households, letting them know they could be eligible for grants of up to £2,000 to cover energy costs.

This support comes from the British Gas Energy Trust (BGET), which is open to both British Gas customers and non-customers alike.

BGET runs two funds: the energy support fund (ESF) for British Gas customers and the individual and families fund (IFF) for everyone else.

Eligibility

Many households are struggling as the average energy bill has crept up from £1,717 to £1,738 a year.

If you live in England, Wales or Scotland and are struggling with energy debts or financial hardships, you might be able to get a helping hand from British Gas:

• ESF can provide up to £2,000.
• IFF offers grants of up to £1,700.
• Applications must show you're in fuel poverty.

Any funds you receive will go directly to your account, not handed out as cash.

Additional requirements

You also need to owe a specific amount towards your energy bills, depending on your payment method and which fund you’re applying for.

You also need to have sought free debt advice to apply for the ESF.

How to apply

Applications can be made via the BGET website.

Do you need help with energy arrears?

We’ve also got a bunch of guides to help you find your feet if you’ve fallen behind on your energy bill – why not check them out?

What to do about energy arrears

Grants & benefits to help pay energy bills

Financial help from your energy supplier

What to do if your energy supplier is trying to move you to prepayment