The energy check has been a valuable aid for years. However, in 2025, the rules and conditions of allocation will change.
The energy check, introduced in France in 2018, is government assistance aimed at supporting low-income households in paying their energy expenses. However, in 2025, its conditions of attribution will change.
The energy check in France
In France, the energy check appeared as a replacement social rates energy. The latter is said to be intended to cover part of the costs of heating, electricity or energy renovation work to reduce energy consumption.
This system, financed by the government, is intended to be granted in depending on income and household composition. Its amount varies between 48 and 277 euros per year, calculated according to the reference tax income and the size of the household.
Unlike previous aid, the energy check is therefore intended to be sent automatically to the beneficiaries every spring. And this, without them having to request it.
The check can be used with energy suppliers (electricity, gas, fuel oil, wood). Or for finance work energy improvement, subject to using RGE (Recognized Environmental Guarantor) certified craftsmen.
In 2022, nearly six million households will benefit from this assistance. And an exceptional check was added to compensate for rising energy costs linked to international crises.
The results also show a positive impact in terms of reducing energy poverty. However, criticism exists in particular on the insufficiency of the amount in the face of the rapid increase in energy prices.
Different aid in 2025
Following the presentation of the 2025 Finance Bill (PLF) on October 10, the energy check was adjusted. And this, to better meet the needs of the 5.8 million households that it supports each year in the regulation of their energy bills.
The government therefore plans to review the conditions of allocation, for more targeted and effective aid. Facing the rising costs energy.
Eligibility will now be based on two main criteria. The number of delivery point electricity contract (PDL), a unique identifier allowing each electricity contract to be associated with a specific accommodation, thus avoiding duplication in the allocation of the energy check.
The reference tax income (RFR), which makes it possible to precisely assess the household needs based on their taxable income. And certain deductible expenses.
From 2025, only households already benefiting will continue to automatically receive the energy check. Newly eligible people will have to make an online request via a dedicated portal, with supporting documents.
A useful energy check
The documents remain unchanged: you must present the tax number, the identity document and the energy bill. Regarding the amounts, between €48 and €277, these will remain unchanged. They vary according to income and household composition.
The check can be used to pay energy bills (electricity, gas, fuels). And also finance RGE certified energy renovation work.
He could also be used for heating costs. in hostel accommodation approved. And long-term care establishments, as well as for rental charges including energy costs in social housing.
Beneficiaries opting for pre-allocation will therefore be informed between April and May of their eligibility. Former beneficiaries will receive the check automatically.
While new ones will have to request it. The amount will therefore be directly deducted from the energy bill by the supplier, without direct payment to the bank account. This system aims to better support low-income households in France.
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