Winter Energy Payment

As part of the package to soften the blow of coronavirus, the government has announced a doubling of the Winter Energy Payment for 2020. This is effective as of 1 May to 1 October

Finance Minister Grant Robertson said the winter energy payment was an already established route to the back pocket of those most vulnerable to the crisis, seniors and low-income families.

"The Winter Energy Payment supports our elderly, and I make no apologies for making sure that it will be easier for our elderly to heat their homes this winter. It also reaches other low income New Zealanders," he said.

The supplement, aimed at helping keep low income earners warm, will temporarily double to $40.91 a week for a single person and $63.64 a week for couples and families.

Another great way to ensure you are making the most of the increased Winter Energy Payment, is to check your electricity provider is giving you the best rate possible, and if not to switch to one that will. Switchme, New Zealand’s biggest non-government funded energy switching site, can help you compare your current retailer to what else is available.

Just use www.switchme.co.nz free, online calculator to compare and find the best retailer rates for you to ensure you make the most of the increase payment. Contact Switchme today for more details.