I’m Behind With My Energy Bills
If you are falling behind with energy bills, deal with it early rather than waiting for the balance and worry to grow.
If you are falling behind with energy bills, deal with it early rather than waiting for the balance and worry to grow.
Gas and electricity arrears are normally priority debts because they concern essential household services.
Contact your supplier
Tell the supplier you are struggling and ask for an affordable repayment arrangement. Suppliers have obligations around customers in payment difficulty and may have additional support available.
Give accurate information about income and essential spending so the arrangement reflects what you can actually pay.
Check grants and discounts
Ask about supplier hardship funds and check current government support such as the Warm Home Discount where relevant.
Your council may also have crisis support for fuel costs.
What if I use prepayment?
Tell the supplier if you cannot afford to top up. Ask about emergency credit and other support.
Do not wait until you have no power or heating if you can avoid it, particularly if somebody in the household is vulnerable.
What if I have other debts too?
Do not use all available money on an unsecured creditor while energy arrears continue to grow.
Free debt advice can help you balance energy with rent, Council Tax and other priorities.
Look at the whole financial picture
If this problem is part of a wider shortage of money, list all debts and essential spending and arrange free debt advice.
The aim is an affordable plan for the household, not simply stopping the next phone call or letter.
7.40: What Are Priority and Non-Priority Debts?
7.50: Where Can I Get Free Debt Advice?
7.56: What Questions Should I Ask Before Agreeing to a Debt Solution?
Important information
This guide provides general information and is not intended to provide financial, benefits, debt, housing or legal advice. Individual circumstances can be different. Check current information from official sources and seek advice from an appropriately qualified or authorised adviser before making important financial decisions.