Is prepayment energy always more expensive than paying by Direct Debit?

Not always. Historically, prepayment tariffs could be higher, but prices vary by supplier and tariff. The best way to know is to compare your current unit rates and standing charges against alternative prepayment tariffs (and, if possible, credit meter tariffs).

What’s the quickest way to lower my prepayment energy costs?

Start by checking your current unit rate and standing charge, then compare against other prepayment tariffs. If you have (or can get) a smart prepayment meter, you may be able to access additional tariff options and top up more easily. Reducing usage during peak times and improving home efficiency can also cut costs immediately.

Can I switch energy supplier if I have a prepayment meter?

In many cases, yes. You can usually switch supplier on a prepayment meter, though the process depends on your meter type and whether you have outstanding debt on the meter. If you have debt, you may still be able to switch, but the debt may need to be repaid or transferred under certain conditions.

Will I need a new meter to get a cheaper tariff?

Not necessarily. Some cheaper prepayment tariffs are available without changing your meter. However, a smart prepayment meter can sometimes unlock more tariff choices and simpler top-ups, and may help you track usage to reduce costs.

Can I change from a prepayment meter to paying by Direct Debit?

Often, yes. Suppliers may allow you to switch from prepayment to credit (Direct Debit) if certain criteria are met, such as passing a credit check and having no outstanding meter debt. If approved, you may access a wider range of tariffs. Ask your supplier what options are available for your property.

What if I have debt on my prepayment meter—can I still get a cheaper tariff?

You may still be able to reduce costs, but debt can limit switching options. Some suppliers can arrange debt repayment through your top-ups, and in certain situations debt can be transferred. It’s worth checking what repayment rate you’re on and whether it can be reviewed to keep top-ups more affordable.

How do I compare prepayment tariffs accurately?

Compare the unit rate (p/kWh) and standing charge (p/day) for both gas and electricity, and estimate annual cost using your typical usage. Also check whether prices vary by region, whether there are any exit fees, and whether discounts or support schemes apply.

What support is available if I’m struggling to top up my prepayment meter?

If you’re struggling, contact your supplier as soon as possible. They may offer emergency credit, friendly-hours credit, repayment plan reviews, or refer you to support options. You may also be eligible for government or charitable support depending on your circumstances.

How can Energy Plus help me find a cheaper prepayment tariff?

Energy Plus can help you understand your current costs, identify potential savings, and guide you through options such as switching tariff, switching supplier, or moving to a smart meter where appropriate. Visit https://www.energyplus.co.uk/ to explore support and cost-saving advice.

Can I get a cheaper energy tariff on a prepayment meter?

Q: Can I get a cheaper energy tariff on a prepayment meter?

Yes, it’s often possible to reduce your energy costs on a prepayment meter by switching to a cheaper prepayment tariff, switching supplier, or moving to a smart prepayment meter where available. Your eligibility and savings depend on your meter type, region, and current tariff. Compare options and check for any exit fees before you switch.

Yes—many UK households can reduce costs on prepay by switching supplier, moving to a smarter prepay tariff, or (where suitable) switching to credit. Compare whole-of-market deals with EnergyPlus and see what’s available for your home in minutes.

Check prepay tariffs across the market (electricity, gas or dual fuel)
See if you’re eligible to switch from prepay to credit meters
Find out how smart prepay can make topping up easier

Compare prepay deals How switching works

Home energy only. No paperwork required to start—just tell us your postcode and a few details. Availability depends on your meter and supplier rules.

Compare cheaper prepayment meter tariffs (whole-of-market)

Prepayment meter customers can often access competitive tariffs—especially if you have a smart prepayment meter or you’re able to switch to a credit meter. EnergyPlus is a UK comparison service that helps you check what’s available for your home without guesswork.

Good to know

Prepayment prices can be different from direct debit prices. The cheapest option for you depends on your meter type, your region, and your current supplier’s rules (for example, debt or meter mode).

What you’ll need (2 minutes)

Your postcode and whether you have gas, electricity, or both
Whether you top up with a key/card, app, or smart meter
Rough usage (if you know it)—we can still help if you don’t

Prefer to read first? Jump to ways to get cheaper on prepay or see how switching works.

Get prepay tariff results

Fill in the form and we’ll show options available for your address and meter type.

Postcode

Fuel type

Meter type

Phone (optional)

Check switching rules

By submitting, you agree we can use your details to provide results and contact you about your quote. You can opt out at any time.

Can you switch energy supplier on a prepayment meter?

Usually, yes

Most UK households can switch prepay tariffs. Your new supplier will normally keep you on prepay initially (or move you to smart prepay) and provide new top-up instructions.

Debt can affect switching

If you owe your current supplier, you may be blocked from switching above a certain amount, or your debt may be arranged to transfer depending on supplier rules and your circumstances.

Meter type matters

Traditional key/card meters and smart prepay meters can have different tariff availability. If you’re unsure what you have, we can still compare options.

Tip: If you’re on a prepayment meter due to past debt, ask your supplier whether you can move to credit and what checks apply. It can widen your tariff choice—but it won’t be right for everyone.

How to get a cheaper tariff when you’re on prepay

If you pay as you go, there are still practical ways to cut costs. The right route depends on whether you want to stay on prepayment or move to a monthly bill.

1) Switch to a cheaper prepay tariff

Even if you stay on prepayment, pricing and standing charges can vary by supplier and region.

Compare unit rates and standing charges (not just estimated monthly cost)
Check if dual fuel is cheaper than separate suppliers
Confirm whether the tariff is available for your meter type

2) Move from key/card to smart prepay

Smart prepayment can unlock easier top-ups and clearer usage tracking, which helps many households control spend.

Top up online, by app, or phone (depending on supplier)
Track daily usage to spot spikes and reduce waste
Some suppliers can change tariff settings remotely

3) Switch to a credit meter (where eligible)

Credit meters often come with more tariff choice, including direct debit deals—though approval depends on the supplier and your account history.

Ask about removing prepayment mode and any security deposit
Check whether any debt arrangement needs to stay in place
Consider budgeting: monthly bills can be easier for some, harder for others

4) Reduce usage without losing comfort

Switching tariff is powerful, but small changes can lower spend immediately.

Heat rooms you use most; reduce drafts; use radiator valves effectively
Wash at lower temperatures and air-dry where possible
Turn appliances fully off at the wall to cut standby use

Smart prepayment meters: what changes (and what doesn’t)

A smart prepayment meter still lets you pay as you go, but it can change how you top up and how you manage your energy. That can make it easier to stay in control and avoid unexpected outages.

Common advantages

More convenient top-ups (often online/app and at PayPoint)
Better visibility of daily/weekly usage
Fewer manual readings compared with traditional meters
Emergency credit still applies (terms vary by supplier)

Things to watch

Tariff availability can differ between smart prepay and key/card
Switching may involve a short period where you follow supplier setup steps
If you have debt on the meter, deductions may continue after switching
Not every property can have a smart meter installed immediately

If you’re not sure whether your meter is smart, look for an in-home display (IHD) and whether you can see near real-time usage. If in doubt, start the comparison form and select “Not sure”.

How switching works on a prepayment meter

Switching supplier is typically straightforward, but prepay has a few extra details. Here’s what most households can expect.

Compare available tariffs
Choose whether you want to stay on prepay or explore switching to credit (if eligible).
Submit your details
We’ll use your postcode and meter info to match tariffs available in your area.
Confirm your top-up method
Your new supplier will explain how to top up (key/card, app, PayPoint, or smart prepay instructions).
Keep your supply on
Switching should not interrupt supply. Make sure you keep enough credit while the switch completes.

Quick comparison: key/card vs smart prepay vs credit
Feature	Key/Card Prepay	Smart Prepay	Credit (Direct Debit)
How you pay	Top up with key/card	Top up via app/online/PayPoint (varies)	Monthly bill (often cheaper tariffs)
Tariff choice	Varies by supplier	Often broader than key/card	Usually broadest choice
Usage insight	Limited	Better day-to-day visibility	Depends on meter (smart gives best)
Risk of running out	Higher if you can’t top up quickly	Often lower due to remote/online top-ups	Lower (billed after use)

Common reasons prepay customers don’t see cheaper deals (and how to fix them)

Comparing the wrong meter type

Prepay tariffs can be restricted by meter mode. If you pick “credit” by mistake, quotes can look cheaper but won’t be available. Use the form and choose your actual meter type.

Standing charge confusion

A low unit rate can be offset by a higher standing charge. Always compare both—especially for low-usage households.

Debt deductions on the meter

If repayments are taken from top-ups, it can feel like your tariff is expensive. Switching may not remove deductions, but a cheaper tariff can still reduce overall cost.

Prepayment meter tariff FAQs

Is prepayment always more expensive than direct debit?

Not always. Prices vary by supplier and region. Direct debit tariffs can be cheaper and offer wider choice, but some households prefer prepay for budgeting. The best approach is to compare what’s available for your meter and address.

Can I change from prepayment to a credit meter?

In many cases, yes—but it depends on your supplier’s policy, any debt on the account, and whether a meter exchange is required. If approved, credit meters may open up more tariffs, including monthly direct debit deals.

Will switching supplier cut me off?

No—switching supplier should not interrupt your gas or electricity supply. Keep enough credit on your meter during the switch so you don’t run out, and follow any setup steps from your new supplier.

What if I don’t know my usage in kWh?

That’s common for prepay customers. You can still start a comparison with your postcode and meter type. If you can, check your top-up history or your in-home display (for smart meters) to estimate typical usage.

Does my region affect prepay prices?

Yes. Unit rates and standing charges can differ by regional distribution area. That’s why postcode-based comparison is important when looking for a cheaper prepayment meter tariff.

Can I stay on prepay but top up online?

Often yes—if you have smart prepayment (or your supplier offers online top-ups linked to your meter). If you’re on a traditional key/card meter, you may need a smart upgrade to unlock online/app top-ups.

If you’re struggling to keep your meter topped up, you may be eligible for additional support through your supplier or local schemes. It’s worth asking about hardship funds, emergency credit, and payment plans.

Why households use EnergyPlus

Whole-of-market comparison

We help you compare available home energy tariffs, including prepay options, based on your postcode and meter type.

Clear, practical guidance

We explain what’s realistic for prepayment customers—so you don’t waste time chasing deals you can’t actually get.

Support when details are messy

Not sure if your meter is smart? Unsure about usage? Start with the basics—we’ll guide you through the next best step.

Customer comment: “I didn’t realise there were different prepay tariffs in my area. The comparison made it clear what I could switch to and what would take longer.”

Customer comment: “The step-by-step guide helped me understand smart prepay and how topping up would work after switching.”

Ready to check if you can pay less on prepay?

Compare whole-of-market home energy tariffs for your prepayment meter. If a switch to smart prepay or credit could save you money, we’ll help you understand your options.

Postcode-based results for your region
Works for gas, electricity or dual fuel
Start now—no obligation to switch

Start your comparison

Compare prepay tariffs Read FAQs

If you’re unsure what meter you have, choose “Not sure” in the form and we’ll guide you.

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Updated on 7 Jan 2026