Can I switch energy tariff if I’m in credit (UK)?
Yes — being in credit usually won’t stop you switching. Compare whole-of-market home energy deals with EnergyPlus and switch with confidence, while keeping track of any credit you’re owed.
- Understand what happens to your credit balance when you switch supplier
- Check if exit fees, debt rules, or smart meter setup could affect switching
- Get personalised results for your home in minutes (no obligation)
Home energy only. Whole-of-market comparison. Your existing supplier should refund any credit after your final bill (timescales can vary).
Switching while in credit: what you need to know
If your energy account is in credit, you’ve typically paid more into your Direct Debit than your supplier has billed so far (often after summer, or after a meter reading catch-up). In most UK cases, you can still switch energy tariff or supplier — and your credit should be returned after your final bill is produced.
Your new supplier normally handles the switch (including the start date). Your old supplier then issues a final statement using your closing meter readings. If you’re owed money, you’ll usually receive a refund to your bank account (or another agreed method). If you have a smart meter, readings may be collected automatically, but it’s still worth checking.
Key point: Being in credit generally makes switching easier, not harder. The main things to watch are exit fees, any missing meter readings, and ensuring your refund details are up to date.
Is this about switching tariff or switching supplier?
It can be either:
- Switching tariff with the same supplier: your credit stays on the account and continues to offset future bills.
- Switching supplier: your credit doesn’t transfer; instead, the old supplier should refund it after the final bill.
Compare whole-of-market deals
Fill in the form to see tariffs available for your home and start your switch. We’ll show options across the market and highlight key tariff details.
Quick check before you switch
- Take a meter reading (or photo) around your switch date
- Confirm your bank details on your supplier account
- Check if your current tariff has an exit fee
Why switching while in credit can be a good move
You’re less likely to hit switching blocks
Suppliers may object to a switch when there’s debt. If you’re in credit, that’s typically not an issue — especially for standard credit meters and Direct Debit customers.
You can avoid rolling onto pricier rates
If your fixed tariff ends soon, you may move to a variable/default tariff. Starting your comparison early helps you line up a better deal and reduce uncertainty.
Credit can come back as a refund
If you switch supplier, your credit is normally returned after the final bill. That can help with moving costs, topping up savings, or covering the first bill with your new supplier.
What happens to my credit when I switch energy supplier?
In the UK, your account credit usually stays with your current supplier until the switch completes and the account is closed. After that, your old supplier calculates a final bill using your closing meter readings. If you’re still in credit after the final bill, they should refund the balance.
Important: Credit does not usually transfer between suppliers. If you change tariff but stay with the same supplier, your credit generally remains on your account and offsets future charges.
Credit scenarios at a glance
| Situation | What usually happens | What you should do |
|---|---|---|
| You’re in credit on Direct Debit | Switch goes ahead; credit is refunded after the final bill | Take a meter reading and keep confirmation emails |
| You’re in credit and just switching tariff (same supplier) | Credit stays on your account and carries on | Ask if your Direct Debit amount should change |
| You’re in credit but an estimated reading is used | Final bill can be wrong, delaying or reducing refund | Submit accurate readings (and keep photos) |
| Prepayment meter (credit on key/app) | Process varies; credit may be returned after meter/account reconciliation | Check supplier guidance; keep top-up receipts |
If you’re unsure whether your credit is “real” (for example, your bills have been estimated for months), it’s worth providing a fresh meter reading before you switch so your final statement is accurate.
How to switch energy when you’re in credit (step-by-step)
- Check your current tariff details: note the end date of any fixed deal and whether there’s an exit fee.
- Grab your latest bill: confirm your MPAN (electricity) / MPRN (gas) if shown and your payment method.
- Take meter readings: submit them to your supplier close to the switch date. Photos help if there’s a dispute.
- Compare whole-of-market options: use the EnergyPlus form to view tariffs for your postcode and usage profile.
- Choose a tariff and apply: your new supplier normally manages the transfer process.
- Watch for your final bill: it should show whether you’re still in credit and the refund amount.
- Confirm your refund arrives: if it doesn’t, contact your old supplier with your final statement details.
If you want the credit refunded before switching
Some suppliers may refund credit on request, especially if the account is significantly in credit. If you do this, be mindful that winter bills can quickly reduce that balance. If you’re unsure, ask your supplier whether lowering your Direct Debit is more sensible than taking a refund.
What could affect your ability to switch?
Being in credit is usually straightforward, but a few factors can influence switching speed or eligibility:
Exit fees and fixed-term contracts
Some fixed tariffs charge an exit fee if you leave before the end date. If you’re close to the end, you may be able to switch without paying — check your tariff terms.
Prepayment meters
Switching is possible, but the process can differ (and not every tariff is available). If you’re in credit on a prepay meter, keep records of top-ups and balances.
Meter type and readings
Estimated bills can distort your true balance. Accurate meter readings reduce the risk of a disputed final bill and delayed refund.
Address moves and tenancy changes
If you’re moving home, you can still switch, but timings matter. Taking move-out readings and confirming your forwarding address helps ensure any credit refund reaches you.
How long does an energy supplier take to refund credit?
Refund timing depends on how quickly the final bill is produced and whether the closing meter reading is agreed. If readings are delayed or disputed, the final balance can take longer to confirm.
Practical tip to speed things up
Submit your own meter readings close to the switch date and keep photo evidence. If your old supplier issues a final bill on estimates, ask them to re-bill using your actual readings.
Refund checklist
- Make sure your contact details and bank details are correct on the old supplier account.
- Save copies of your final bill and any emails confirming the closure of the account.
- If you’re moving, give a forwarding address and check you can still access your online account.
- If you used Direct Debit, ask whether it should be cancelled by you or the supplier once the account is closed.
Common mistakes that can delay your credit refund
Not submitting readings
If the final bill relies on estimates, the credit amount can be wrong. Submit readings and keep a photo as evidence.
Cancelling Direct Debit too early
If you stop payments before the account is finalised, it can cause admin issues. Wait for the final bill or confirm the correct timing with your supplier.
Assuming credit will transfer
When you switch supplier, credit is typically refunded by the old supplier; it doesn’t move to the new supplier automatically.
If your final bill looks wrong
Check the opening/closing readings and dates, then provide your evidence (meter photo) to request a corrected bill. A corrected final bill often resolves delayed credit refunds.
FAQs: switching energy tariffs when you’re in credit
Can my supplier stop me switching if I’m in credit?
It’s unlikely. Being in credit normally isn’t a reason to block a switch. Issues that can affect switching are more often related to debt, meter setup, or contract exit fees.
Do I lose my credit if I switch energy supplier?
You shouldn’t lose it. Your old supplier should calculate a final bill and refund any remaining credit. Keep meter readings and final statements in case you need to query the amount.
Can I switch if I’m in credit but my bills are estimated?
Yes, but your final balance could be wrong if the closing reading is estimated. Submit an up-to-date meter reading (and a photo) to help ensure you’re refunded correctly.
Should I ask for a credit refund before switching?
If you have a large credit balance, you can ask. However, some households prefer to keep credit to cover higher winter usage. If your Direct Debit seems too high, consider asking for it to be adjusted instead.
Will switching affect my warm home discount or support payments?
Eligibility and administration can vary by scheme and supplier. If you receive support, check how it will be handled during a switch and keep records of any payments or confirmations.
Is it cheaper to switch tariff or switch supplier?
It depends on what’s available in the market. Comparing whole-of-market options helps you see whether staying put on a new tariff is competitive or whether another supplier offers better value for your usage.
Want to act now? Go back to the comparison form to check tariffs for your postcode.
Why households use EnergyPlus
Whole-of-market comparison
See a wide range of home energy tariffs in one place, with key details surfaced so you can decide quickly.
Clear, UK-focused guidance
We explain switching, credit refunds, and meter readings in plain English — so you know what to expect.
Fewer surprises
We prompt you to check exit fees and submit readings to reduce delays and help ensure your final bill is accurate.
What customers tell us
"The comparison was straightforward. The reminders about meter readings helped me avoid issues with the final bill."
UK homeowner, dual fuel switch
"I was worried about losing my credit. The explanation made it clear what would happen and what to check."
UK renter, electricity tariff change
Ready to switch — and keep track of your credit?
Compare home energy tariffs across the market, then switch when you’re happy. We’ll help you take the right steps so your final bill is accurate and any credit refund is straightforward.
Tip: take and submit meter readings around your switch date to reduce the chance of an estimated final bill.
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