Falling behind on energy bills is more common than you might think, and it does not make you a bad person. There are real solutions available, from grants that clear your balance to payment plans you can actually afford. Let us help you find the right path forward.
Energy debt affects millions of households across the UK. Whether you have fallen behind on your gas and electric bills, received a large catch up bill, or are worried about a prepayment meter being installed, you are not alone. Many people find themselves struggling to pay energy bills, especially during the colder months when usage increases.
The good news is that there is more help available than most people realise. From energy debt grants and trust funds to formal debt solutions, there are options to reduce, manage, or even write off your energy debt completely. Getting advice early gives you the most choices and can prevent the situation from getting worse.
Energy companies follow a process when you miss payments. Understanding this can help you know when to act and what to expect.
Energy suppliers are regulated by Ofgem and must follow strict rules about how they treat customers in debt. They are required to offer affordable payment plans, signpost you to support, and cannot disconnect vulnerable households. If you feel your supplier is not treating you fairly, contact the Energy Ombudsman or seek free debt advice.
You may be eligible for grants that can reduce or clear your energy debt entirely. These do not need to be repaid.
A yearly discount on your electricity bill, usually applied automatically if you receive Pension Credit Guarantee Credit. Others on low income may also qualify.
Eligibility: Pension Credit recipients, low income households
An independent trust that provides grants to help people in financial hardship clear their energy debts. You do not need to be a British Gas customer to apply.
Eligibility: Anyone in financial difficulty with energy debt
A government fund distributed through local councils to help households with the cost of essentials including energy bills. Contact your local council to apply.
Eligibility: Households struggling with essential costs
Many energy suppliers operate their own hardship schemes to help customers who are struggling. These can include debt write offs, payment matching, and emergency credit.
Eligibility: Customers of the specific energy supplier in financial difficulty
Not sure which grants you qualify for? We can help you find out.
Check your optionsIf grants and payment plans are not enough, formal debt solutions can help you deal with energy arrears alongside your other debts.
Contact your energy company to arrange affordable repayments. They are required to offer fair payment plans if you are struggling.
Best for: People who can afford to pay but need more time or lower amounts
Have energy payments taken directly from your benefits before you receive them. This covers both ongoing bills and arrears.
Best for: People receiving means-tested benefits such as Universal Credit
A legally binding 60 month plan that includes energy arrears with your other debts. Remaining debt is written off at the end of the arrangement.
Best for: People with multiple debts totalling £2,500 or more who can afford regular payments
Learn moreCombine energy arrears with other debts into one affordable monthly payment managed by a debt advisor on your behalf.
Best for: People with multiple debts who want a flexible repayment plan
Learn moreNot sure which option is right for you?
Get free adviceWhether you need help with gas and electric arrears, want to find out about energy debt grants, or are looking for a longer term solution, we are here to help. Our free assessment takes just 2 minutes.
Free, confidential, no obligation
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Combine energy debt and other bills into one affordable monthly payment.
Include energy arrears in a legally binding plan that writes off remaining debt after 60 months.
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