Energy tariffs with bill credit for switching (UK)
Compare whole-of-market energy tariffs that offer bill credit when you switch. Get matched to eligible deals in minutes, and submit your details to start your switch with EnergyPlus.
- See which suppliers offer bill credit or switching credit right now
- Compare unit rates, standing charges and tariff terms side-by-side
- Home energy only: electricity, gas, or dual fuel
- No obligation: submit the form to receive your personalised options
Bill credit availability varies by supplier, tariff and region. Credits are typically applied to your new supplier account after your switch completes and eligibility checks pass.
Find UK tariffs with switching bill credit — without missing better rates
A bill credit (sometimes called switching credit or account credit) is a one-off amount added to your new energy account when you switch. It can be appealing — but the best-value tariff isn’t always the one with the biggest credit.
EnergyPlus is a whole-of-market comparison service for home energy in the UK. We’ll help you identify tariffs that may include bill credit and compare them against overall running costs (unit rates + standing charges) so you can switch with confidence.
Tip: If two tariffs are similar, bill credit can tip the balance. But if rates are higher, the credit may be cancelled out over time. Use the form to get personalised options for your postcode and usage.
What you’ll get after submitting
- Tariffs that may offer bill credit for switching where available
- Clear comparison of unit rates, standing charges, tariff length and exit fees
- Guidance on eligibility, timings and how credits are applied
Start your comparison
Fill in your details and we’ll match you to eligible switching options, including tariffs with bill credit where available.
Important: Bill credit is usually applied after your switch completes and your account is set up. Some suppliers apply it as a lump sum; others split it across bills.
Why choose a tariff with bill credit?
When it’s genuinely available for your home and the underlying tariff is competitive, bill credit can make switching feel worthwhile immediately. Here’s where it tends to help most.
Upfront value
A credit can reduce your first few bills, which helps if you’re budgeting through winter or recovering from a high direct debit review.
Better switching momentum
If you’ve been putting off switching, bill credit can be the extra incentive — as long as the tariff still stacks up on total cost.
Useful tie-breaker
Two tariffs may be close on price. A modest credit may swing the decision without taking on extra risk like high exit fees.
Best practice: compare the whole package — credit amount, unit rate, standing charge, payment method, tariff length, exit fees and customer service track record.
What is bill credit for switching energy?
In UK home energy, bill credit is a promotional amount added to your new gas and/or electricity account after you switch. It’s not usually paid into your bank account. Instead, it shows as a credit on your energy statement and reduces what you owe.
Suppliers run these offers at different times, and they can change quickly. Some credits apply to dual fuel only, some to electricity-only, and some require a particular payment method such as Direct Debit.
Bill credit vs cashback: what’s the difference?
| Feature | Bill credit | Cashback |
|---|---|---|
| How you receive it | Applied to your energy account as a credit | Paid to you (often via bank transfer or voucher) |
| When it appears | Usually after the switch completes and account is live | Can be weeks/months after switch; varies by provider/channel |
| What to check | Eligibility, tariff type, payment method, application timing | Tracking, claims process, expiry dates, exclusions |
| Best for | Reducing energy bills directly | Receiving a separate reward (if you prefer cash) |
Good to know: Bill credit isn’t “free money” if the tariff is more expensive overall. The right comparison looks at your expected annual cost, then factors in the credit.
How to compare switching credits the right way
Bill credit offers can be structured in different ways, so a simple “£X credit” headline can be misleading. Use these checks to decide whether a bill credit tariff is actually good value for your home.
1) Compare the annual cost before the credit
Check the unit rate (p/kWh) and standing charge (p/day) for your region and meter type. A higher standing charge can wipe out a credit, especially for low usage households.
2) Apply the credit realistically
Ask: when is it applied and how is it paid? Some suppliers apply it after the first bill; others after a set number of days or successful Direct Debit collections.
3) Check exit fees and tariff length
A credit can look attractive on longer fixed tariffs with exit fees. If you may move house or want flexibility, ensure the terms fit your plans.
4) Make sure it’s compatible with your meter
Some tariffs apply only to certain meter types (including smart meters, prepayment meters, or Economy 7/Economy 10). We’ll help match your options where possible.
How switching bill credit works (typical UK process)
Exact timings vary, but this is the usual journey for home energy switches that include a bill credit. Knowing the steps helps you avoid delays and ensures the credit is applied correctly.
- Choose a tariff and apply — confirm tariff terms, credit amount and any conditions (e.g., Direct Debit or dual fuel).
- Cooling-off period — you typically have time to change your mind without penalty once you’ve agreed to switch.
- Switch completes — your supply changes to the new supplier. Take opening meter readings on the day of the switch (especially if you don’t have a smart meter reporting automatically).
- Account set up & first bill — your new supplier produces your first statement based on readings and payment plan.
- Bill credit applied — the credit appears on your account statement, sometimes immediately after the first bill, sometimes after a set period.
Where people get caught out
- Switching to a tariff that looks good because of the credit, but costs more once rates are considered
- Not meeting a condition (e.g., paying by Direct Debit, or switching both fuels)
- Not supplying readings promptly, delaying the first bill and therefore the credit
Eligibility: who can get bill credit for switching?
Eligibility rules differ by supplier and tariff. The list below covers common requirements for UK home energy customers.
Often required
- New customer to the supplier (not currently supplied by them at that address)
- Specific tariff selection (not all tariffs include credit)
- Payment by Direct Debit
- Successful completion of switch (no cancellation during cooling-off)
May apply depending on the offer
- Dual fuel only (gas + electricity together)
- Online account management
- Minimum tariff term
- Specific meter type or region
Not sure what applies to you? Use the comparison form and we’ll highlight bill credit tariffs that match your postcode and typical eligibility requirements.
Common mistakes when choosing bill credit energy tariffs
Bill credit can be helpful — but only when the tariff is right for your household. These are the most frequent pitfalls we see when people search for “energy tariffs with bill credit for switching UK”.
| Mistake | Why it matters | What to do instead |
|---|---|---|
| Comparing credits only | A higher standing charge or unit rate can outweigh the credit over the year. | Compare estimated annual cost, then subtract the credit as a final step. |
| Ignoring exit fees | If you leave early you may pay fees that cancel out the credit. | Choose a term that suits your plans and understand any fees upfront. |
| Missing conditions | Some credits require Direct Debit, online billing or dual fuel. | Check eligibility criteria and keep confirmation emails/terms. |
| Not taking meter readings | Incorrect opening readings can delay billing and any credit application. | Provide opening readings on switch day (unless smart readings are confirmed). |
FAQs: switching energy with bill credit
Do all energy suppliers offer bill credit for switching?
No. Bill credit offers are promotional and may appear and disappear. Availability can depend on your region, tariff type and whether you’re switching electricity only, gas only or dual fuel. Using a whole-of-market comparison helps you avoid missing better-value tariffs that don’t use credit as a headline incentive.
Is bill credit guaranteed once I apply?
Usually it’s conditional. Common conditions include being a new customer to that supplier, completing the switch successfully, paying by Direct Debit, and staying on the tariff for a minimum period. Always review the tariff terms before switching.
When will the credit show on my bill?
It varies by supplier and tariff. Many apply it after your account is live and your first bill is produced; some apply it after a set period or after the first successful Direct Debit. If your first bill is delayed due to missing readings, the credit may also be delayed.
Can I get bill credit if I’m on a prepayment meter?
Sometimes, but not always. Some bill credit offers are limited to credit meters with Direct Debit. If you have a prepayment meter, we can still look at suitable tariffs for your set-up and highlight any applicable incentives.
Will switching affect my supply?
No. Your gas and electricity supply stays on throughout a normal switch. The change is administrative, and the same pipes and wires deliver your energy.
Do I need my MPAN/MPRN to switch?
Not usually. In most cases, your postcode and address details are enough to start. If your situation is more complex (for example, multiple meters), the supplier may request additional details during the process.
Still unsure? Submit the switching form and we’ll help clarify bill credit terms for the tariffs available to your home.
What households like about EnergyPlus comparisons
Switching is easier when the information is clear. Here are examples of the feedback we aim to deliver with every comparison — transparent tariff details, practical guidance, and no pressure.
“I could see the standing charge and unit rate clearly, not just the headline credit. That made it much easier to choose.”
“The steps explained when the bill credit would show up. No surprises after switching.”
“Quick form, and the options were actually relevant to my postcode and meter.”
Trust and transparency: We focus on clear comparisons of costs and terms. Bill credit is highlighted where available, but never used to hide a poor-value tariff.
Ready to switch and claim bill credit where available?
Submit your details and we’ll match you to eligible UK home energy tariffs — including bill credit deals where they genuinely offer good value.
- Whole-of-market home energy comparison
- Clear tariff terms and cost breakdown
- Support on eligibility and timings
Home energy only. Offers and availability vary by supplier, region and meter type.
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