Can I get a cheaper tariff on a prepayment meter in the UK?
Yes, it’s often possible to reduce costs on a prepay (PAYG) meter by switching supplier, moving to a cheaper prepay tariff, or changing payment method. Compare whole-of-market home energy deals with EnergyPlus and see what you could pay.
- Compare prepayment meter tariffs from multiple UK suppliers (whole-of-market comparison)
- Check if switching to Direct Debit or a smart meter could unlock cheaper rates
- See options even if you owe money (debt can often be moved to your new supplier)
Free to use. For UK homes only. Switching is subject to supplier eligibility and meter type.
Check cheaper prepayment meter tariffs (whole-of-market)
Prepayment tariffs can vary by supplier, region and meter type. EnergyPlus helps you compare available home energy options and identify whether a cheaper prepay tariff is available, or whether you may save more by changing to another payment method (where eligible).
Good to know: Many households on prepayment meters can still switch supplier. If you have existing energy debt, you may be able to move it using a Debt Assignment Protocol (subject to rules and limits).
What you’ll need
- Your postcode (tariffs are region-based)
- Whether you have electricity, gas, or both on prepay
- Your meter type (key/card prepay or smart prepay)
- Optional: rough usage or top-up amounts (helps estimate costs)
Prefer to read first? Jump to ways to get cheaper on prepay or how switching works.
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Ways to get a cheaper tariff on a prepayment meter
1) Switch to a cheaper prepay tariff
Some suppliers price their prepay tariffs more competitively than others. If you’re on an older tariff, you may be paying more than you need to for your unit rate and standing charge.
2) Move from key/card to smart prepay
A smart prepayment meter can make it easier to top up, track usage and access certain tariffs. It doesn’t guarantee lower prices, but can increase your options and reduce hassle.
3) Change payment method (if eligible)
Direct Debit tariffs are often cheaper than prepay. If your meter can be exchanged or reconfigured, you could unlock a wider range of deals and potentially lower standing charges.
4) Check single vs dual fuel pricing
Dual fuel can sometimes be cheaper, but not always. Comparing both ways (gas and electricity together vs separate) can highlight the best-value route for your home.
5) Reduce emergency credit reliance
Emergency credit can lead to additional recovery charges taken from future top-ups. Keeping a small buffer (when possible) can reduce these deductions.
6) Ask about support and safeguards
If you’re struggling, you may be eligible for payment plans, friendly credit, or extra support (for example if you’re vulnerable). These may not be “tariff” savings, but can ease cashflow.
How switching works with a prepayment meter
Switching with a prepayment meter is usually straightforward, but there are a few extra checks compared with a standard credit meter. Here’s what typically happens when you compare and switch.
- Compare: tell us your postcode, fuels and that you’re on prepay.
- Choose: pick a deal that suits your home (prepay, smart prepay, or a route to Direct Debit if available).
- Eligibility checks: supplier checks meter type and switching rules (including any debt considerations).
- Switch completes: you’ll get confirmation and a switch date. Top-ups and meter settings are updated as needed.
- Keep control: monitor usage and top-ups so you can stay on track and avoid unexpected deductions.
Will I lose supply during the switch?
In most cases, no. Switching supplier doesn’t usually interrupt your gas or electricity supply. Your meter stays in place unless a meter exchange is arranged separately.
Tip: Compare standing charges as well as unit rates
With prepay, a high standing charge can keep costs up even if you’re careful with usage. A comparison should consider both.
What affects prepayment meter prices in the UK?
If you’re asking “can I get a cheaper tariff on a prepayment meter?”, it helps to understand what actually changes your bill. A “cheaper” tariff could mean a lower unit rate, a lower standing charge, or both.
| Factor | Why it matters for prepay | What you can do |
|---|---|---|
| Region (postcode) | Network charges vary by area, which affects standing charges and unit rates. | Always compare using your exact postcode. |
| Meter type | Key/card prepay vs smart prepay may have different tariff availability. | Ask if a smart meter upgrade is available for your home. |
| Tariff structure | A slightly cheaper unit rate can be offset by a higher standing charge (and vice versa). | Compare total estimated cost, not just one figure. |
| Payment method | Direct Debit may unlock lower prices than prepay for some suppliers. | If eligible, compare both prepay and Direct Debit options. |
| Debt recovery settings | Some top-ups may be used to repay debt or emergency credit, reducing usable credit. | Check current deductions and ask for a manageable repayment rate. |
Important: Price caps and regulatory rules can affect tariff pricing. The best approach is still to compare what’s available for your meter, postcode and household situation right now.
Eligibility: can you switch with a prepayment meter (and what about debt)?
Most prepay households can switch
You can often switch even if you have a traditional key/card meter. If you have a smart prepayment meter, switching can be even smoother because readings and configuration can be updated remotely (where supported).
If you owe money to your current supplier
Energy debt doesn’t automatically stop you switching. In some cases, debt can be transferred to a new supplier using an industry process (commonly referred to as a debt assignment), subject to eligibility criteria.
- Debt rules can differ between gas and electricity.
- You may need to agree a repayment rate.
- Some suppliers may not accept a switch if debt exceeds set limits or if there are other restrictions.
When switching may be more limited
- There is significant outstanding debt that can’t be assigned.
- Your meter is in a managed arrangement (for example, certain landlord or third-party setups).
- There are safety concerns or the meter needs inspection before changes.
Not sure what meter you have?
If you top up using a key or card at a PayPoint/Payzone, it’s usually a traditional prepayment meter. Smart prepay often lets you top up via an app or online as well.
Common mistakes that keep prepay customers paying more
Comparing without your postcode
Rates vary by region, so generic numbers can be misleading. Use your actual postcode to see realistic prices.
Focusing only on the unit rate
A low unit rate with a higher standing charge can cost more overall, especially for low-usage households.
Not checking deductions on top-ups
If you’re repaying debt or emergency credit, a portion of each top-up may be taken automatically, reducing what’s left for energy.
FAQs: cheaper tariffs on prepayment meters
Are prepayment meters always more expensive than Direct Debit?
Not always, but Direct Debit tariffs are often cheaper and may have more options. The only reliable way to know is to compare what’s available for your postcode, fuels and meter type.
Can I switch supplier if I have a key or card meter?
In many cases, yes. The new supplier will confirm compatibility and any conditions. If a meter exchange is needed, they’ll tell you what to expect and whether there’s a suitable appointment available.
Can I switch if I owe money to my current energy supplier?
Sometimes. Depending on the amount and circumstances, debt may be transferable to a new supplier through industry processes, or you may need to reduce it first. It’s still worth comparing because options can vary.
Will I need to give meter readings?
Often, yes—especially if your meter isn’t smart, or if it can’t send readings automatically. Accurate readings help ensure your starting balance and charges are correct.
Does a smart meter guarantee cheaper energy?
No. A smart meter can make it easier to access certain tariffs and manage usage, but prices still depend on the supplier and the tariff itself.
How quickly can I switch from prepay?
Timescales vary by supplier, meter type and whether a meter exchange is required. If you’re staying on prepay and your meter is compatible, it may be quicker than switching payment method.
If you’d like to check deals now, go to Compare prepay tariffs.
Why households use EnergyPlus
Whole-of-market comparison
Compare options across multiple UK suppliers so you can see what’s available for your postcode and meter type.
Prepay-friendly guidance
We highlight key differences that matter for PAYG customers, including standing charges, meter compatibility and switching considerations.
Clear next steps
If a switch is possible, you’ll know what’s required (staying on prepay, moving to smart prepay, or switching to Direct Debit).
What customers say
“I’m on a prepayment meter and assumed I couldn’t switch. EnergyPlus helped me find an option with a better standing charge.”
“The comparison made it clear what I’d pay on prepay versus Direct Debit. I chose the route that worked for my budget.”
“Quick form, simple calls, and I understood the steps. No jargon.”
Trust note: Quotes and availability depend on supplier criteria, your meter type and local network region. Always check final tariff details before you switch.
Ready to see if you can pay less on prepay?
Compare whole-of-market UK home energy options and check whether a cheaper prepayment meter tariff is available for your postcode.
- Prepay and smart prepay options
- Check whether moving to Direct Debit could reduce costs
- Clear guidance if you have existing debt
Takes a couple of minutes. No obligation.
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