In the Autumn Budget on 28 October 2026, the government announced a one-off £100 Household Energy Payment for properties in Council Tax bands A to D.
This payment will be paid direct into bank accounts.
We are awaiting the specific guidance to be issued from the government to enable us to announce the qualifying criteria and once received, we will update this page.
What you can do in the meantime
It is anticipated that residents who pay their Council Tax by direct debit, will receive their Household Energy Payment first and payments will begin in January 2027.
If you don't already pay Council Tax by direct debit, you can sign up below. This means we will then have your details ready for when we start making the payments.
Set up a Council Tax direct debit
You can also receive your Council Tax bill electronically. This means we will be able to contact you quicker and easier by email and you will be helping the environment too. You will need your Council Tax 8 digit account reference to hand.
Sign up to receive your Council Tax bill electronically
Help protect yourself from scams
Herefordshire Council may contact you about this payment but we will not ask for bank details over the phone, via a link in an email or via text message.
If anyone asks you to provide personal information or bank details, please treat the request with caution. If you have any doubts, contact Herefordshire Council directly before sharing any information.
Frequently asked questions
These frequently asked questions will be updated regularly when we have further updates from the government.
How do I know what band my property is?
You can find this information on your online account or on your Council Tax bill.
You can also search for your Council Tax band.
What if my property is not yet banded?
We are awaiting further guidance on this from the government.
What should I do if I think my Council Tax band is wrong?
Herefordshire Council cannot adjust your Council Tax band.
If you think your Council Tax band may be incorrect, compare it with similar properties in your area that have a similar size, layout and amount of land.
If there is a significant difference, you may be able to ask the Valuation Office Agency (VOA) to review your band.
Before making a challenge, please be aware that a review could result in your band staying the same, being reduced, or in some cases being increased.
Will I receive this payment if my property is empty or a second home?
No, this core scheme is targeted at properties that are occupied as a sole or main residence.