Can I get a cheaper prepayment meter tariff in the UK?
Yes — many UK households can reduce prepay energy costs by comparing the whole-of-market, checking eligibility for a smart prepay tariff, or switching to a credit meter where possible. Use EnergyPlus to compare deals for your home and see potential savings in minutes.
- Whole-of-market comparison for UK home energy (prepayment & credit)
- See tariffs available for your meter type and postcode
- Switch help and clear next steps — no jargon
Home energy only. Your available tariffs depend on your meter type, address and supplier eligibility. Prices can change; always check supplier terms before switching.
Compare cheaper prepayment meter tariffs (UK)
If you’re on a prepayment meter (key, card, token or smart prepay), the cheapest option isn’t always obvious. Some suppliers offer specific prepay tariffs, and your best savings route might be a smart prepay deal or switching to a credit meter tariff if you can.
EnergyPlus is a whole-of-market comparison service. Tell us your household details and we’ll show the tariffs you may be able to switch to at your address.
Tip: Have a recent top-up receipt or online account handy. If you know whether you have a smart prepayment meter (often topped up via app) or a traditional key/card meter, your results will be more accurate.
What you’ll get
- Tariffs available for your meter type and postcode
- Estimated costs using your usage (or typical usage if you’re unsure)
- Clear next steps if a switch requires a meter change
On a prepayment meter due to debt? Switching can be restricted. Still compare — you may be able to reduce costs via a smart prepay tariff, repayment review or support schemes. See eligibility details.
Why prepayment meter tariffs can be higher (and when they aren’t)
Prepayment energy used to cost more than paying by Direct Debit. While the gap has narrowed in recent years, some households still pay more due to tariff availability, meter type, and how/where top-ups are made.
Limited tariff choice
Not every supplier or tariff is available on traditional key/card prepay. Smart prepay can expand your options.
Standing charge & unit rates
Your costs come from the daily standing charge plus unit rates. A “cheaper” rate in one part can still be expensive overall.
Debt recovery on the meter
If you’re repaying debt through top-ups, part of each payment may go to repayments, making the meter feel more costly.
Important: “Cheaper” can mean different things — a lower unit rate, a lower standing charge, or better support for your usage pattern. Comparing with your postcode and meter type is the quickest way to see what’s actually available.
How to get a cheaper prepayment meter tariff in the UK
Below are the most reliable ways households reduce prepay costs. The best option depends on your meter, your supplier, and whether there’s any debt attached to the meter.
1) Compare whole-of-market prepay tariffs
Some suppliers price prepay differently at different addresses. A comparison shows what you can get now, without guessing.
2) Switch to smart prepayment (if eligible)
Smart prepay often gives more topping-up options (app/online) and can open access to more tariffs than a key/card meter.
3) Move to a credit meter tariff
If you can pass supplier checks, switching from prepay to credit can unlock more deals (including Direct Debit discounts).
4) Review debt repayment settings
If your meter is collecting debt, you may be able to agree a more affordable repayment rate with your supplier, reducing pressure on top-ups.
Quick win: If you top up in shops, check if app/online top-up is available on a smart meter. It’s not always cheaper, but it can prevent emergency credit fees or missed top-ups.
Step-by-step: getting a cheaper prepayment tariff
Use this checklist to avoid wasted applications and to improve your chances of a successful switch.
- Identify your meter type: key/card prepay, smart prepay, or unsure. If you have an in-home display and can top up via app, you’re likely on smart prepay.
- Check what you’re paying now: look for unit rate (p/kWh) and standing charge (p/day) on your receipt, app, or supplier account.
- Compare available tariffs for your postcode: not all suppliers can take every prepay meter type, so results must be address-specific.
- Watch for debt restrictions: if you owe money to your current supplier and it’s being collected via the meter, some switches may be blocked until it’s repaid or moved.
- Choose the right next step: switch supplier on prepay, request smart prepay, or apply to move to a credit meter tariff.
- Keep topping up during the switch: switching doesn’t usually interrupt supply, but you still need credit on the meter until the new tariff is active.
Prepayment tariff options (and what to look for)
When you compare, focus on total cost for your usage — not just the headline unit rate. The table below explains common options for UK households on prepayment meters.
| Option | Who it suits | Pros | Watch-outs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Traditional prepay (key/card) | Households who top up in shops/post office and prefer pay-as-you-go | Easy to control spending; no bills | Tariff choice can be limited; higher risk of self-disconnection if credit runs out |
| Smart prepayment | Households with smart meter coverage who want app/online top-ups | More convenient top-ups; may widen available tariffs; easier usage tracking | Not always available; still prepay pricing; emergency credit rules vary |
| Credit meter (standard / Direct Debit) | Households who can pass checks and prefer monthly payments | Often wider tariff choice; potential lower overall pricing | May require deposit/credit checks; risk of bill shock if usage isn’t tracked |
| Time-of-use (smart meter tariffs) | Homes able to shift usage (e.g. EV, appliances off-peak) | Cheaper off-peak rates can reduce total cost | Can cost more if most usage is at peak times; not always offered on prepay |
How to judge “cheapest” properly
- Compare annual cost estimates using your usage (kWh) if possible.
- Check standing charge: high standing charges can outweigh a slightly lower unit rate.
- Confirm payment method: prepay vs Direct Debit prices can differ.
- Note exit fees/contract length if you choose a fixed deal.
Eligibility: can you switch from prepayment in the UK?
In many cases you can switch supplier while staying on prepay. Switching from prepay to credit can be possible too, but depends on supplier policies and your account situation.
You can usually switch if…
- Your meter is supported by the new supplier
- You don’t have blocking debt on the meter (or it can be transferred)
- Your address and meter details match industry records
Switching can be restricted if…
- There’s outstanding debt being collected via the prepayment meter
- The meter type needs upgrading before a supplier can take it on
- You’re in the middle of resolving a billing/metering dispute
If you have debt on your prepayment meter
Debt can make switching harder, but you still have options. You may be able to:
- Ask your supplier to review the debt recovery rate (what’s taken from each top-up)
- Request support if you’re struggling to top up or at risk of self-disconnection
- Compare tariffs anyway to understand whether a smart prepay upgrade could reduce costs
If you’re in immediate difficulty, contact your supplier as soon as possible. If you’re eligible, you may also be able to access help through schemes such as the Warm Home Discount or supplier hardship funds (availability and criteria vary).
Common mistakes that keep prepay customers overpaying
Comparing without meter type
Prices and availability differ for key/card vs smart prepay. If you’re unsure, choose “not sure” and we’ll guide you.
Ignoring standing charges
A low unit rate can hide a high standing charge. Always check the estimated annual cost for your usage.
Not reviewing debt settings
If repayments are too high, you can run out of credit quickly. A review can make top-ups more manageable.
FAQs: cheaper prepayment meter tariffs
Can I switch supplier if I have a prepayment meter?
Often, yes. You’ll need a supplier that supports your meter type at your address. If there’s debt attached to the meter, switching may be restricted until it’s repaid or a supplier agrees to take it on.
Is smart prepayment cheaper than key/card prepay?
Not automatically, but smart prepay can give you access to more tariffs and makes it easier to track usage and top up. The cheapest option depends on rates available for your postcode and your household usage.
Can I change from prepayment to Direct Debit?
Possibly. Suppliers typically check payment history and may require the meter to be exchanged or reconfigured. If you’re in arrears, they may ask you to clear debt first or agree a repayment plan.
What if my energy runs out during a switch?
Switching shouldn’t cut off your supply, but you must keep your meter topped up as normal until your new tariff is live. If you’re struggling, contact your supplier to discuss emergency and friendly credit rules.
Will switching affect my benefits or Warm Home Discount?
Switching supplier doesn’t usually affect benefit entitlement, but scheme eligibility and timing can vary by supplier and year. If you’re currently receiving support, check how it transfers before you complete a switch.
What households tell us about prepay savings
Prepayment customers often assume there’s nothing they can do. In practice, savings usually come from one of three moves: switching supplier, moving to smart prepay, or moving to a credit meter tariff when eligible.
“I didn’t realise my key meter limited the deals I could get. Comparing showed a smart prepay option with clearer costs.”
“The standing charge on my old tariff was the problem. Seeing total annual cost made it obvious what to switch to.”
“I had debt on the meter and thought I was stuck. I reviewed repayments and compared options for when I’m eligible to switch.”
Trust & clarity: EnergyPlus compares whole-of-market tariffs where available for your home, showing the key cost drivers (unit rates and standing charges) so you can make an informed decision.
Ready to see if you can get a cheaper prepayment tariff?
Compare whole-of-market UK home energy deals for your meter type and postcode. If switching requires a meter change, we’ll show that clearly.
- Designed for UK households on prepayment meters
- Address-based results for more accurate availability
- Clear steps to switch or upgrade your meter
Start your comparison
It takes a couple of minutes.
If you’re in immediate financial difficulty, contact your supplier for urgent support. For switching, start with a postcode-based comparison.
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