The energy check returns in 2026 to help low-income households pay their energy expenses. Find out the shipping dates, eligibility conditions and what to do in the event of non-receipt.
The energy check is financial assistance intended for low-income households to help them pay their energy bills (electricity, gas, wood, fuel oil, etc.). It can also be used to pay for energy charges included in a fee for people residing in EHPADs, independent residences, or social housing. Here is everything you need to know about its use and conditions, for the 2026 mailing campaign.
When will the energy check be sent in 2026?
Energy checks will be sent to beneficiaries from 1er April 2026. A mailing schedule, classified by department, will be made available to those who receive it in paper format. If you think you are eligible but you will not receive anything in the spring, you have until December 31, 2026 to come forward and apply.
Who can benefit from the energy check?
Beneficiaries are identified automatically by cross-referencing several pieces of information:
- Your tax data (reference tax income and number of people in the household).
- The electricity delivery point number of your accommodation.
At present, the precise income scale to be eligible in 2026 has not yet been communicated by the administration.
How much is the energy check?
The amount granted varies depending on income and household composition. As with the eligibility conditions, the exact amounts planned for the year 2026 are not yet known.
Normally, you absolutely do not no action to take : if you are eligible, the check is sent to you automatically by the Services and Payment Agency. If you do not receive it although you think you are entitled to it, a simulator will be put online on 1er April to check your eligibility. Forgotten potential beneficiaries will receive an email, SMS or postal mail. You can then make a complaint on the dedicated online platform or by post, until the end of 2026.
In 2025, more than 3.8 million households had received it directly, or 2 million fewer than in previous years, before the introduction of automatic delivery. It is therefore essential to check your eligibility in the event of non-receipt.
The energy check can be used to pay several types of expenses related to your accommodation:
- Your direct energy supply bills (electricity, gas, fuel oil, etc.).
- Your energy charges included in your fee if you live in a specialized establishment (EHPAD, EHPA, independent residence, ESLD, USLD) or shelter accommodation approved by the APL.
- Your rental charges (including energy) if you live in social housing, by handing the check directly to your landlord.
To pay, you can use the classic paper format or opt for the digital version. By activating your account on the official website, the “e-check energy” service allows you to pay your bills using all or part of your balance with your suppliersprovided that they accept this means of payment.
It is important to note that energy vouchers can no longer be used to pay for energy renovation work. Only old “works checks” issued before February 15, 2025 remain valid for this type of operation, until their expiry date.
Beware of scams
Stay very vigilant regarding any messages you may receive regarding this assistance. Fraudulent emails are circulating regularly. The public service website reminds you that no administration will ever ask you for your bank details to pay you the energy check.
