{"content_id":"jhnhvxv1eo","slug":"energy-voucher-2026-application","locale":"en","schema_type":"HowTo","category":"policy_guide","category_name":"Policy Guide","title":"Energy Voucher 2026 Application: Up to 701,300 Won","summary":"To apply for the 2026 Energy Voucher, applicants must meet both the Basic Livelihood Security benefit eligibility requirements and the household member criteria. Total annual benefits range from 295,200 won to 701,300 won depending on household size, and the application deadline is December 31.","sponsorship_disclosure":null,"affiliate_disclosure":null,"commerce_disclosure":null,"author":{"name":"OnBinder Editorial Team","url":"https://onbinder.com/ko/about"},"key_points":["Check both whether you receive livelihood, medical, housing, or education benefits and whether you meet the household member criteria.","Check the total annual benefit for 2026 based on the number of household members listed on your resident registration record.","Prepare the required application documents, including identification and a recent energy bill.","Apply through Bokjiro or at an eup, myeon, or dong Administrative Welfare Center by December 31, 2026.","Choose between automatic bill deductions and the Kookmin Happiness Card, and check the amount used through the official balance inquiry service."],"content_markdown":"Households receiving basic livelihood security benefits must also meet the designated household member criteria. Total support ranges from 295,200 won for a 1-person household to 701,300 won for a household of 4 or more. Apply through Bokjiro or at an administrative welfare center by December 31, 2026. Prepare your ID and a recent utility bill.\n\nAs of September 2026\n\n## Energy Voucher Application Process\n\nBefore applying, check your eligibility, number of household members, and usage method in that order. You can apply online through Bokjiro. In-person applications are accepted at the eup, myeon, or dong administrative welfare center for your registered address.\n\n1. **Confirm that your household receives eligible benefits.** Your household must receive livelihood, medical, housing, or education benefits.\n2. **Check the household member criteria.** Your household must include a designated eligible person, such as an older adult, infant or young child, person with a disability, pregnant woman, single parent, or member of a multi-child family.\n3. **Check the number of household members.** The support amount is determined by the household size listed on the resident registration record, not by the number of individuals separately.\n4. **Choose a usage method.** Compare the accepted uses and start dates for utility bill deductions and the National Happiness Card.\n5. **Prepare the application documents.** Prepare your ID and a recent energy bill, and if applying through a representative, check the documents required to verify authorization.\n6. **Apply by the deadline.** Submit your application through Bokjiro or at an administrative welfare center by December 31, 2026.\n7. **Check the balance after applying.** Check the amount used and the remaining balance through the official Energy Voucher balance inquiry service.\n\nFor online applications, prepare a means of identity verification. It is also helpful to check the customer number on your bill in advance. Apartment residents should check whether energy charges are shown on their maintenance fee statement.\n\n## Eligibility Conditions by Category\n\nTo qualify for an Energy Voucher, a household must meet both the benefit recipient requirement and the household member criteria. Meeting only one of the two does not qualify the household. Detailed age and eligibility criteria must be checked in the 2026 notice.\n\n| Item to check | Requirement that must be met | What to check before applying |\n|---|---|---|\n| Income and benefit requirement | Household receiving livelihood, medical, housing, or education benefits | Check whether current recipient eligibility is valid |\n| Household member criteria | Older adult, infant or young child, person with a disability, pregnant woman, single parent, multi-child family, etc. | Check whether the household includes a designated eligible person |\n| Pregnant woman | Currently pregnant or within the recognized period after childbirth | Check whether pregnancy or childbirth information has been reflected |\n| Multi-child family | Recipient household with at least 2 children under age 19 | Check the children’s ages and household composition on the resident registration record |\n| Household with changed information | Household affected by a move, change in the number of household members, etc. | Check whether a new application or information update is required |\n| Household using other support | Household separately receiving winter energy support | Ask the administrative welfare center whether duplicate support is restricted |\n\nFor older adults and infants or young children, the birth date criteria specified in the notice apply. Eligibility for persons with disabilities and single parents must also be confirmed in administrative records. If your eligibility information changed recently, check whether the change has been reflected before applying.\n\n\u003e “Even if you received Energy Voucher support in the previous year, you must submit a new application to receive Energy Voucher support if your information has changed, such as due to a move or a change in the number of household members.”\n\u003e\n\u003e — Energy Voucher Application Guide\n\n## 2026 Support Amounts by Household Size\n\nThe support amount is set as an annual total based on the number of household members. It is not a monthly payment. The same amount is also not paid separately to each household member.\n\n| Number of household members on the resident registration record | 2026 annual total support |\n|---:|---:|\n| 1-person household | 295,200 won |\n| 2-person household | 407,500 won |\n| 3-person household | 532,700 won |\n| Household of 4 or more | 701,300 won |\n\nThe support amount is not deposited as cash for living expenses. Depending on the selected method, it is deducted from energy bills or used through the National Happiness Card. Check the actual available balance through the official inquiry page.\n\n## Calculation Example\n\nAssume that a 3-person household receiving housing benefits includes a pregnant woman. This household may meet both the benefit requirement and the household member criteria. If approved after review, its 2026 annual total support amount is 532,700 won.\n\nThe calculation is not based on `3 people × support amount per person`. The amount of 532,700 won for the 3-person household category applies. Even if the household includes a pregnant woman and another person who meets a characteristic criterion, the support amounts are not added together.\n\n## Application Documents and Required Items\n\nIf applying in person, first prepare your ID and a recent energy bill. You may need a bill for the energy source to which you want the deduction applied. Residents of multi-unit housing may prepare a maintenance fee statement.\n\n- Energy Voucher issuance application form\n- Applicant’s ID\n- Recent electricity, city gas, or district heating bill\n- Maintenance fee statement for multi-unit housing\n- Authorization-related documents and the representative’s ID when applying through a representative\n- Means of identity verification for online applications\n\nThe application form can be completed at an administrative welfare center. Documents required for an application through a representative may vary depending on the relationship between the applicant and the representative. Before visiting, check with the relevant center about the required documents.\n\n## Comparison of Utility Bill Deductions and the National Happiness Card\n\nA utility bill deduction subtracts the voucher amount from the bill. The National Happiness Card is used to pay for approved energy sources at participating merchants. Their usage start dates and accepted uses differ.\n\n| Category | Utility bill deduction | National Happiness Card |\n|---|---|---|\n| Usage method | Deducted from the energy bill | Approved energy costs paid by card |\n| Main uses | Electricity, city gas, district heating | Electricity, city gas, kerosene, LPG, coal briquettes, etc. |\n| Summer season | Electricity bill deduction | Check the permitted scope of summer use |\n| End of the 2026 summer season | September 30 | Check the official usage period |\n| Start of the 2026 winter season | October 1 | October 3 |\n| Suitable for | Those who want deductions applied directly to regular bills | Those who directly purchase multiple approved energy sources |\n\nThe National Happiness Card is not a general cash-equivalent card that can be used at every retailer. You must check the approved payment locations for each energy source. Also check the card issuance status before use.\n\n## Transition Schedule from September 30 to October 3\n\nSummer utility bill deductions end on September 30, 2026. Winter utility bill deductions begin on October 1. Winter use of the National Happiness Card begins on October 3.\n\n| Date | What to check |\n|---|---|\n| September 30, 2026 | End of summer electricity bill deduction use |\n| October 1, 2026 | Start of winter utility bill deduction use |\n| October 1–2, 2026 | Check whether payment is available because winter use of the National Happiness Card has not yet begun |\n| October 3, 2026 | Start of winter use of the National Happiness Card |\n| December 31, 2026 | Energy Voucher application deadline |\n\nThe winter start dates for utility bill deductions and the card differ by 2 days. If you want to purchase fuel with the card on October 1 or 2, first check whether it can be used. Households using bill deductions should also check whether the applicable energy source is correct.\n\n## Checklist for Moves and Household Member Changes\n\nIf you have moved or your household members have changed, do not rely solely on your recipient history from the previous year. Your address and customer number may have changed. If the number of household members changes, the support category may also change.\n\n- Check whether your move-in registration has been completed for your current address.\n- Check the number of household members on the resident registration record.\n- Check whether the electricity and gas customer numbers correspond to the new address.\n- Check whether the energy source selected for the utility bill deduction is supplied to your current home.\n- Ask the administrative welfare center whether a new application or change request is required.\n- Check whether it overlaps with other winter energy support.\n\nThis check helps reduce errors in which bill deductions remain linked to a previous address. If the number of household members has changed, do not assume that the existing support amount will continue to apply. Your eligibility may be reviewed again based on the updated information.\n\n## Common Mistakes\n\nThe most common misunderstanding is that all basic livelihood security recipients receive the benefit automatically. The designated household member criteria must also be met. Check the following before applying.\n\n- **Interpreting the support amount as a monthly payment:** The amounts in the table are the annual totals for 2026.\n- **Adding the amount for each household member:** The support amount is based on household-size categories, not a sum of individual amounts.\n- **Assuming that summer and winter support amounts are received separately:** The listed amount is the total support for both cooling and heating.\n- **Assuming that all winter usage starts on the same date:** Utility bill deductions begin on October 1, while the National Happiness Card begins on October 3.\n- **Relying only on the previous year’s recipient history:** A new application may be required after a move or change in household members.\n- **Assuming that the balance can be received in cash:** The voucher is used for approved energy expenses.\n\n## How to Check the Balance\n\nYou can check the balance through the official Energy Voucher balance inquiry service. Accurately enter the applicant and household information requested on the inquiry page. Immediately after applying, the amount may not appear right away depending on the processing status.\n\n1. Go to the balance inquiry menu on the official Energy Voucher website.\n2. Enter the applicant information requested on the page.\n3. Check the displayed amount used and remaining balance.\n4. If the information is correct but no results appear, ask the administrative welfare center about the processing status.\n\nDo not check only the balance; also check the usage period. The start date and accepted payment locations vary by usage method. The deduction may appear on the bill after a delay.","content_html":"\u003cp\u003eHouseholds receiving basic livelihood security benefits must also meet the designated household member criteria. Total support ranges from 295,200 won for a 1-person household to 701,300 won for a household of 4 or more. Apply through Bokjiro or at an administrative welfare center by December 31, 2026. Prepare your ID and a recent utility bill.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs of September 2026\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#energy-voucher-application-process\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"energy-voucher-application-process\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eEnergy Voucher Application Process\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBefore applying, check your eligibility, number of household members, and usage method in that order. You can apply online through Bokjiro. In-person applications are accepted at the eup, myeon, or dong administrative welfare center for your registered address.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eConfirm that your household receives eligible benefits.\u003c/strong\u003e Your household must receive livelihood, medical, housing, or education benefits.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCheck the household member criteria.\u003c/strong\u003e Your household must include a designated eligible person, such as an older adult, infant or young child, person with a disability, pregnant woman, single parent, or member of a multi-child family.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCheck the number of household members.\u003c/strong\u003e The support amount is determined by the household size listed on the resident registration record, not by the number of individuals separately.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eChoose a usage method.\u003c/strong\u003e Compare the accepted uses and start dates for utility bill deductions and the National Happiness Card.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePrepare the application documents.\u003c/strong\u003e Prepare your ID and a recent energy bill, and if applying through a representative, check the documents required to verify authorization.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eApply by the deadline.\u003c/strong\u003e Submit your application through Bokjiro or at an administrative welfare center by December 31, 2026.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCheck the balance after applying.\u003c/strong\u003e Check the amount used and the remaining balance through the official Energy Voucher balance inquiry service.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ol\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor online applications, prepare a means of identity verification. It is also helpful to check the customer number on your bill in advance. Apartment residents should check whether energy charges are shown on their maintenance fee statement.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#eligibility-conditions-by-category\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"eligibility-conditions-by-category\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eEligibility Conditions by Category\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo qualify for an Energy Voucher, a household must meet both the benefit recipient requirement and the household member criteria. Meeting only one of the two does not qualify the household. Detailed age and eligibility criteria must be checked in the 2026 notice.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"overflow-x-auto\"\u003e\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eItem to check\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eRequirement that must be met\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWhat to check before applying\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Item to check\"\u003eIncome and benefit requirement\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Requirement that must be met\"\u003eHousehold receiving livelihood, medical, housing, or education benefits\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to check before applying\"\u003eCheck whether current recipient eligibility is valid\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Item to check\"\u003eHousehold member criteria\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Requirement that must be met\"\u003eOlder adult, infant or young child, person with a disability, pregnant woman, single parent, multi-child family, etc.\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to check before applying\"\u003eCheck whether the household includes a designated eligible person\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Item to check\"\u003ePregnant woman\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Requirement that must be met\"\u003eCurrently pregnant or within the recognized period after childbirth\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to check before applying\"\u003eCheck whether pregnancy or childbirth information has been reflected\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Item to check\"\u003eMulti-child family\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Requirement that must be met\"\u003eRecipient household with at least 2 children under age 19\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to check before applying\"\u003eCheck the children’s ages and household composition on the resident registration record\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Item to check\"\u003eHousehold with changed information\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Requirement that must be met\"\u003eHousehold affected by a move, change in the number of household members, etc.\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to check before applying\"\u003eCheck whether a new application or information update is required\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Item to check\"\u003eHousehold using other support\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Requirement that must be met\"\u003eHousehold separately receiving winter energy support\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to check before applying\"\u003eAsk the administrative welfare center whether duplicate support is restricted\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor older adults and infants or young children, the birth date criteria specified in the notice apply. Eligibility for persons with disabilities and single parents must also be confirmed in administrative records. If your eligibility information changed recently, check whether the change has been reflected before applying.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cblockquote\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“Even if you received Energy Voucher support in the previous year, you must submit a new application to receive Energy Voucher support if your information has changed, such as due to a move or a change in the number of household members.”\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e— Energy Voucher Application Guide\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003c/blockquote\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#2026-support-amounts-by-household-size\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"2026-support-amounts-by-household-size\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003e2026 Support Amounts by Household Size\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe support amount is set as an annual total based on the number of household members. It is not a monthly payment. The same amount is also not paid separately to each household member.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"overflow-x-auto\"\u003e\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eNumber of household members on the resident registration record\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003e2026 annual total support\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Number of household members on the resident registration record\"\u003e1-person household\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"2026 annual total support\"\u003e295,200 won\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Number of household members on the resident registration record\"\u003e2-person household\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"2026 annual total support\"\u003e407,500 won\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Number of household members on the resident registration record\"\u003e3-person household\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"2026 annual total support\"\u003e532,700 won\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Number of household members on the resident registration record\"\u003eHousehold of 4 or more\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"2026 annual total support\"\u003e701,300 won\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe support amount is not deposited as cash for living expenses. Depending on the selected method, it is deducted from energy bills or used through the National Happiness Card. Check the actual available balance through the official inquiry page.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#calculation-example\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"calculation-example\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eCalculation Example\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAssume that a 3-person household receiving housing benefits includes a pregnant woman. This household may meet both the benefit requirement and the household member criteria. If approved after review, its 2026 annual total support amount is 532,700 won.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe calculation is not based on \u003ccode\u003e3 people × support amount per person\u003c/code\u003e. The amount of 532,700 won for the 3-person household category applies. Even if the household includes a pregnant woman and another person who meets a characteristic criterion, the support amounts are not added together.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#application-documents-and-required-items\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"application-documents-and-required-items\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eApplication Documents and Required Items\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf applying in person, first prepare your ID and a recent energy bill. You may need a bill for the energy source to which you want the deduction applied. Residents of multi-unit housing may prepare a maintenance fee statement.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEnergy Voucher issuance application form\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eApplicant’s ID\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRecent electricity, city gas, or district heating bill\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMaintenance fee statement for multi-unit housing\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAuthorization-related documents and the representative’s ID when applying through a representative\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMeans of identity verification for online applications\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe application form can be completed at an administrative welfare center. Documents required for an application through a representative may vary depending on the relationship between the applicant and the representative. Before visiting, check with the relevant center about the required documents.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#comparison-of-utility-bill-deductions-and-the-national-happiness-card\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"comparison-of-utility-bill-deductions-and-the-national-happiness-card\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eComparison of Utility Bill Deductions and the National Happiness Card\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA utility bill deduction subtracts the voucher amount from the bill. The National Happiness Card is used to pay for approved energy sources at participating merchants. Their usage start dates and accepted uses differ.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"overflow-x-auto\"\u003e\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eCategory\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eUtility bill deduction\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eNational Happiness Card\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Category\"\u003eUsage method\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Utility bill deduction\"\u003eDeducted from the energy bill\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"National Happiness Card\"\u003eApproved energy costs paid by card\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Category\"\u003eMain uses\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Utility bill deduction\"\u003eElectricity, city gas, district heating\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"National Happiness Card\"\u003eElectricity, city gas, kerosene, LPG, coal briquettes, etc.\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Category\"\u003eSummer season\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Utility bill deduction\"\u003eElectricity bill deduction\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"National Happiness Card\"\u003eCheck the permitted scope of summer use\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Category\"\u003eEnd of the 2026 summer season\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Utility bill deduction\"\u003eSeptember 30\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"National Happiness Card\"\u003eCheck the official usage period\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Category\"\u003eStart of the 2026 winter season\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Utility bill deduction\"\u003eOctober 1\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"National Happiness Card\"\u003eOctober 3\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Category\"\u003eSuitable for\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Utility bill deduction\"\u003eThose who want deductions applied directly to regular bills\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"National Happiness Card\"\u003eThose who directly purchase multiple approved energy sources\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe National Happiness Card is not a general cash-equivalent card that can be used at every retailer. You must check the approved payment locations for each energy source. Also check the card issuance status before use.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#transition-schedule-from-september-30-to-october-3\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"transition-schedule-from-september-30-to-october-3\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eTransition Schedule from September 30 to October 3\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSummer utility bill deductions end on September 30, 2026. Winter utility bill deductions begin on October 1. Winter use of the National Happiness Card begins on October 3.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"overflow-x-auto\"\u003e\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eDate\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWhat to check\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Date\"\u003eSeptember 30, 2026\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to check\"\u003eEnd of summer electricity bill deduction use\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Date\"\u003eOctober 1, 2026\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to check\"\u003eStart of winter utility bill deduction use\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Date\"\u003eOctober 1–2, 2026\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to check\"\u003eCheck whether payment is available because winter use of the National Happiness Card has not yet begun\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Date\"\u003eOctober 3, 2026\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to check\"\u003eStart of winter use of the National Happiness Card\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Date\"\u003eDecember 31, 2026\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to check\"\u003eEnergy Voucher application deadline\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe winter start dates for utility bill deductions and the card differ by 2 days. If you want to purchase fuel with the card on October 1 or 2, first check whether it can be used. Households using bill deductions should also check whether the applicable energy source is correct.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#checklist-for-moves-and-household-member-changes\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"checklist-for-moves-and-household-member-changes\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eChecklist for Moves and Household Member Changes\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you have moved or your household members have changed, do not rely solely on your recipient history from the previous year. Your address and customer number may have changed. If the number of household members changes, the support category may also change.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCheck whether your move-in registration has been completed for your current address.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCheck the number of household members on the resident registration record.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCheck whether the electricity and gas customer numbers correspond to the new address.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCheck whether the energy source selected for the utility bill deduction is supplied to your current home.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAsk the administrative welfare center whether a new application or change request is required.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCheck whether it overlaps with other winter energy support.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis check helps reduce errors in which bill deductions remain linked to a previous address. If the number of household members has changed, do not assume that the existing support amount will continue to apply. Your eligibility may be reviewed again based on the updated information.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#common-mistakes\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"common-mistakes\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eCommon Mistakes\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe most common misunderstanding is that all basic livelihood security recipients receive the benefit automatically. The designated household member criteria must also be met. Check the following before applying.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eInterpreting the support amount as a monthly payment:\u003c/strong\u003e The amounts in the table are the annual totals for 2026.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAdding the amount for each household member:\u003c/strong\u003e The support amount is based on household-size categories, not a sum of individual amounts.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAssuming that summer and winter support amounts are received separately:\u003c/strong\u003e The listed amount is the total support for both cooling and heating.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAssuming that all winter usage starts on the same date:\u003c/strong\u003e Utility bill deductions begin on October 1, while the National Happiness Card begins on October 3.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRelying only on the previous year’s recipient history:\u003c/strong\u003e A new application may be required after a move or change in household members.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAssuming that the balance can be received in cash:\u003c/strong\u003e The voucher is used for approved energy expenses.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#how-to-check-the-balance\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"how-to-check-the-balance\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eHow to Check the Balance\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou can check the balance through the official Energy Voucher balance inquiry service. Accurately enter the applicant and household information requested on the inquiry page. Immediately after applying, the amount may not appear right away depending on the processing status.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGo to the balance inquiry menu on the official Energy Voucher website.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEnter the applicant information requested on the page.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCheck the displayed amount used and remaining balance.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIf the information is correct but no results appear, ask the administrative welfare center about the processing status.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ol\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDo not check only the balance; also check the usage period. The start date and accepted payment locations vary by usage method. The deduction may appear on the bill after a delay.\u003c/p\u003e\n","tags":["Electricity rates","Everyday Finance","air conditioner","Energy Voucher","Bokjiro"],"faqs":[{"question":"When is the application deadline for the 2026 Energy Voucher?","answer":"The application deadline is December 31, 2026. You can apply online through Bokjiro or in person at the administrative welfare center in your eup, myeon, or dong of residence."},{"question":"Can all recipients of the National Basic Livelihood Security benefits apply?","answer":"No. Your household must receive livelihood, medical, housing, or education benefits and also meet the designated household member criteria, such as having an elderly person, infant or young child, person with a disability, pregnant woman, single parent, or multiple children."},{"question":"How much is the 2026 benefit for a one-person household?","answer":"The total annual benefit for a one-person household in 2026 is 295,200 won. It is not a monthly payment, nor is it a cash benefit that can be spent freely."},{"question":"How much support do households with four or more members receive?","answer":"The total annual benefit for households with four or more members in 2026 is 701,300 won. It is not calculated by adding the one-person amount for each additional household member."},{"question":"If I received it last year, do I not need to apply again in 2026?","answer":"If your information has changed, such as due to moving or a change in the number of household members, you must submit a new application. Even if there are no changes, it is safer to check with the relevant administrative welfare center whether your application will be processed automatically."},{"question":"When do the winter utility bill deduction and the National Happiness Card begin?","answer":"The 2026 winter utility bill deduction begins on October 1. Winter use of the National Happiness Card begins on October 3, so be sure to distinguish between the dates."},{"question":"Until when can the summer Energy Voucher be used?","answer":"The 2026 summer electricity bill deduction ends on September 30. After that, check the start date and eligible places of use for your selected winter usage method."},{"question":"Where can I check my Energy Voucher balance?","answer":"You can check it through the balance inquiry menu on the official Energy Voucher website. Enter the applicant and household information accurately, and if no results appear, contact the administrative welfare center to ask about the processing status."},{"question":"Can I receive it together with other winter energy support?","answer":"Restrictions on receiving duplicate benefits may apply to other winter energy vouchers or cost assistance. Inform the relevant administrative welfare center of the name of the program you are using and check whether you can receive both."}],"sources":[{"url":"https://www.bokjiro.go.kr/ssis-tbu/cms/pc/customer/notice/1309896_1141.html","title":"Bokjiro 2026 Energy Voucher Guide","type":"source"},{"url":"https://www.bokjiro.go.kr/ssis-tbu/twataa/wlfareInfo/moveTWAT52005M.do?daesang=%ED%95%9C%EB%B6%80%EB%AA%A8%C2%B7%EC%A1%B0%EC%86%90\u0026orderBy=date\u0026page=1\u0026subject=%EC%A3%BC%EA%B1%B0\u0026tabId=1","title":"Bokjiro Welfare Service Information","type":"source"},{"url":"https://www.energyv.or.kr/info/support_info.do?tab=1","title":"Energy Voucher Program and Support Guide","type":"data_point"},{"url":"https://www.energyv.or.kr/info/balance_inquiry.do","title":"Check Energy Voucher Balance","type":"source"}],"images":[{"id":1214,"url":"https://onbinder.com/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MTcyNzQsInB1ciI6ImJsb2JfaWQifX0=--66cc032bb078f5f30148a705af53a50d052f1be1/ai-51c745b8.webp","is_representative":true,"generation_method":"ai_photo","license":"ai_generated","mime_type":"image/webp","translations":{"ko":{"alt":"민원 창구에서 직원에게 서류를 건네며 상담하는 파란 목도리의 어르신","caption":"어르신이 창구에서 에너지바우처 신청 관련 서류를 직원과 함께 살펴보고 있다.","description":null},"en":{"alt":"Older woman in a blue scarf handing paperwork to a staff member at a service counter","caption":"An older woman reviews paperwork with a staff member while seeking help with an energy voucher application.","description":null},"ja":{"alt":"窓口で職員に書類を渡して相談する青いマフラーの高齢女性","caption":"高齢女性が窓口で職員とエネルギーバウチャーの申請書類を確認している。","description":null},"es":{"alt":"Mujer mayor con bufanda azul entregando documentos en un mostrador de atención","caption":"Una mujer mayor revisa documentos con una empleada para solicitar el bono de energía.","description":null},"id":{"alt":"Perempuan lansia bersyal biru menyerahkan dokumen kepada petugas di loket layanan","caption":"Seorang perempuan lansia memeriksa berkas bersama petugas untuk mengajukan bantuan voucher energi.","description":null},"pt":{"alt":"Idosa com cachecol azul entregando documentos a uma atendente no balcão","caption":"Uma idosa confere os documentos com uma atendente para solicitar o voucher de energia.","description":null},"zh-hant":{"alt":"戴藍色圍巾的年長女士在服務櫃檯向工作人員遞交文件","caption":"年長女士在櫃檯與工作人員確認能源補助券的申請文件。","description":null},"de":{"alt":"Ältere Frau mit blauem Schal reicht einer Mitarbeiterin am Serviceschalter Unterlagen","caption":"Eine ältere Frau prüft mit einer Mitarbeiterin die Unterlagen für einen Energiegutschein.","description":null}}},{"id":1215,"url":"https://onbinder.com/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MTcyODAsInB1ciI6ImJsb2JfaWQifX0=--7efbeca091cc21faa157d89986dc03fff0039762/ai-c05b875f.webp","is_representative":false,"generation_method":"ai_image","license":"ai_generated","mime_type":"image/webp","translations":{"ko":{"alt":"에너지바우처 신청 서류와 카드, 달력, 에너지 사용 그래프가 놓인 책상","caption":"난방·냉방비 지원을 위한 에너지바우처 신청 절차를 표현한 일러스트입니다.","description":null},"en":{"alt":"Desk with energy voucher forms, card, calendar, laptop charts, and home energy icons","caption":"The illustration represents the application process for heating and cooling cost support.","description":null},"ja":{"alt":"エネルギーバウチャーの申請書類、カード、カレンダー、使用量グラフが並ぶ机","caption":"冷暖房費を支援するエネルギーバウチャーの申請手続きを表しています。","description":null},"es":{"alt":"Mesa con formularios, tarjeta, calendario, gráficos e iconos de energía doméstica","caption":"La ilustración representa la solicitud de ayuda para gastos de calefacción y refrigeración.","description":null},"id":{"alt":"Meja dengan formulir, kartu, kalender, grafik laptop, dan ikon energi rumah","caption":"Ilustrasi ini menggambarkan proses pengajuan bantuan biaya pemanas dan pendingin rumah.","description":null},"pt":{"alt":"Mesa com formulários, cartão, calendário, gráficos e ícones de energia doméstica","caption":"A ilustração representa o pedido de auxílio para despesas com aquecimento e refrigeração.","description":null},"zh-hant":{"alt":"桌上擺放能源補助申請表、卡片、日曆、用量圖表與住宅能源圖示","caption":"插圖呈現申請居家暖氣與冷氣費用補助的流程。","description":null},"de":{"alt":"Tisch mit Anträgen, Karte, Kalender, Energiegrafiken und Haustechnik-Symbolen","caption":"Die Illustration zeigt den Antrag auf Unterstützung bei Heiz- und Kühlkosten.","description":null}}}],"published_at":"2026-09-11T15:25:05+09:00","updated_at":"2026-09-11T15:25:05+09:00","license":"cc_by","translation_status":"reviewed","available_locales":["ko","en","ja","es"],"data_locales":["ko","en","ja","es","id","pt","zh-hant","de"],"url":"https://onbinder.com/en/articles/energy-voucher-2026-application"}