Households eligible for a £150 energy rebate could receive the money quickly if they have set up direct debits to pay council tax.

It was previously announced that households across England in council tax brackets A to D would get the payment from their local authority from April this year.

The measure is part of the £9.1 billion energy bill rebate scheme announced by the government to help households cope with rising energy bills.

Councilor Shaun Davies, chairman of the Local Government Association’s resource council, said households without a direct debit would still receive the money, but it could take longer.

Indeed, the local authorities will first have to contact the customers in order to be able to make a complaint.

Mr Davies said: “This year will be more difficult than most, particularly for those on low incomes, so it is good that the government is stepping in to provide financial support to help ease these pressures.

“Setting up direct debit means councils can automatically pay the £150 energy rebate directly to your bank account.

“It is quick and easy to set up the payment of housing tax by direct debit via your municipality’s website.