Can I switch energy supplier if I’m on prepayment in the UK?
Yes—most households can switch even with a prepayment meter. Compare whole-of-market energy deals with EnergyPlus and see if you could move to a cheaper prepay tariff, or switch to a credit meter plan where eligible.
- Compare prepayment tariffs from multiple UK suppliers in one place
- Check if debt, smart prepay, or tenancy could affect your switch
- Get clear next steps and complete your request in minutes
Home energy only. Comparison is whole-of-market where available. Switching rules can vary by supplier, meter type, and any outstanding balance.
Compare prepayment energy tariffs (whole-of-market)
If you pay-as-you-go using a prepayment meter (key, card, or smart prepay), you can often switch supplier—just like credit meter customers. The difference is that your switch may depend on things like any outstanding balance, meter type, and whether your current supplier has applied specific switching rules.
EnergyPlus helps UK households compare options across suppliers, with clear next steps based on your situation. Use the form to request your comparison and we’ll help you understand:
- Whether you can switch with a prepayment meter right now
- Whether you can move to a standard credit meter tariff (if eligible)
- What happens to your debt or credit when you switch
- How smart prepay switching differs from key/card meters
Quick answer: In most cases, yes—you can switch supplier on prepayment in the UK. The main reasons you may be delayed or refused are debt above a supplier’s limit, meter compatibility issues, or tenancy/landlord restrictions on meter changes (not supplier changes).
Get your prepayment switch options
Complete the form and we’ll match you with suitable home energy tariffs for your meter type and payment preference.
Why switching on prepayment can be worth it
Prepayment customers have historically faced fewer choices, but the market has improved. If you’re on a prepay meter, switching supplier (or tariff) could help you manage costs and avoid staying on an uncompetitive plan.
Potentially lower unit rates
Some suppliers offer competitive prepayment tariffs, especially for smart prepay meters. Comparing helps you spot better-value options.
Keep control of spend
Pay-as-you-go helps avoid bill shocks. Switching doesn’t change that—you can keep prepay while looking for a better deal.
Better customer experience
App top-ups, emergency credit options and clearer usage insights are common with smart prepayment suppliers.
Opportunity to move to credit (if eligible)
If your circumstances allow, you may be able to change meter mode and access a wider range of tariffs.
Support with debt options
If you owe money, suppliers may still accept the switch under agreed limits and repayment arrangements.
No need to stay put
Being on prepayment does not automatically lock you to your current supplier. You can usually shop around.
Tip: If you have a smart prepayment meter, switching can be smoother because the meter can often be updated remotely, and top-ups are typically managed through an app or online account.
How switching works for prepayment meters
Switching supplier means your gas and/or electricity supply moves to a new provider. Your meter stays in place in most cases. What can change is the way you top up (app vs key/card), your tariff rates, and the supplier you deal with.
Key/card prepayment meters
- You may need to collect or receive a new key/card depending on the new supplier.
- You may be asked to provide a meter serial number or a photo for verification.
- Your top-up method can change (PayPoint/Payzone, Post Office, or online where available).
Smart prepayment meters
- Switches are often completed with minimal disruption, sometimes with remote updates.
- Top-ups are usually available via app, online, phone, and retail outlets.
- Some smart meters may temporarily run in “safe mode” during parts of the switch.
What you’ll typically need
| Item | Why it matters | Where to find it |
|---|---|---|
| Postcode | Checks tariff availability and regional network. | Your address. |
| Fuel type | Determines whether you’re switching gas, electricity, or both. | Your meter setup / current supplier account. |
| Meter type | Affects eligible tariffs and the switching process. | Meter label, in-home display, or your supplier account. |
| Any debt/arrears | Some suppliers limit switching if debt is above a set amount. | Your meter display, receipts, or supplier statements. |
Important: If you have emergency credit active, some suppliers may ask you to top up or clear certain balances before the switch finalises.
Can anything stop me switching on prepayment?
Usually you can switch, but there are a few common scenarios that can delay or prevent it. Knowing these upfront helps you avoid wasted time and choose the right route.
1) Outstanding balance (debt)
Some suppliers can block a switch if the debt is above their threshold. In other cases, you may still be able to switch, especially if:
- You agree a repayment plan
- The debt is within an accepted limit
- Your new supplier supports debt transfer arrangements
2) Meter compatibility
Not every supplier supports every prepayment meter setup. Some older key/card meters may have limited tariff availability. Smart prepay is often more flexible.
3) You’re in a fixed term (rare for prepay)
Most prepayment tariffs are variable, but if you’re on a fixed deal, early exit fees may apply. We’ll help you factor this in before you proceed.
4) Tenancy/landlord considerations
As a tenant, you can generally switch supplier if you pay the bills. A landlord might restrict meter changes (e.g. prepay to credit) but not usually supplier switching. Check your tenancy agreement if unsure.
If you’re being blocked from switching: it’s often due to debt or account status flags. Use the comparison form and tell us your meter type and debt band so we can suggest realistic options.
Step-by-step: switching supplier on prepayment
Here’s what the process typically looks like for UK households. Exact steps can vary by supplier and meter type.
- Confirm your meter type (key/card or smart prepay). If you’re not sure, we can help you identify it.
- Check any outstanding balance and whether there’s emergency credit active.
- Compare whole-of-market options using EnergyPlus and choose a suitable tariff.
- Submit your switch request and keep topping up as normal until the switch completes.
- Take a meter reading where possible (some prepay meters show usage/credit rather than readings). Your supplier will confirm what’s needed.
- Receive new top-up instructions (new key/card or smart app details). Keep them safe.
- Switch completes and your new tariff rates apply. If you have debt arrangements, follow the agreed repayment method.
Typical timelines (what to expect)
| Stage | Prepay key/card | Smart prepay |
|---|---|---|
| Switch request submitted | Same day | Same day |
| Supplier checks / acceptance | A few days | A few days |
| Top-up method issued | New key/card or instructions | App/account details |
| Switch completion | Typically within a few weeks* | Typically within a few weeks* |
*Timings can vary due to meter types, data matching, debt checks, and supplier processes. We’ll guide you based on your details.
Common mistakes to avoid when switching prepayment energy
Not checking debt first
If you owe money, your switch may be delayed. Knowing the rough amount helps you pick suppliers with suitable policies.
Running too low during the switch
Keep enough credit on the meter while the switch processes. Top up as usual until you’re told the new top-up method is live.
Assuming you can change meter without permission
Switching supplier is normally fine. Changing from prepay to credit may require checks, and tenants may need landlord consent.
Not sure which applies to you? Start with the comparison form and choose “Not sure” for meter type or debt. We’ll still be able to point you in the right direction.
FAQs: switching energy supplier on prepayment (UK)
Can I switch energy supplier if I have debt on my prepayment meter?
Often, yes—but it depends on the amount owed and the suppliers involved. Some suppliers may refuse a switch above a certain debt level or require a repayment plan before accepting you.
If you’re unsure of your balance, select the closest option in the comparison form and we’ll advise what’s realistic.
Will my supply be cut off during the switch?
No—switching supplier does not mean your energy is disconnected. Keep topping up as normal until your new supplier confirms your new top-up method is active.
Can I change from prepayment to a credit meter tariff?
Possibly. Suppliers may run eligibility checks (for example, payment history or credit checks) and may require any debt to be cleared or managed. Tenants may need landlord approval to change the meter mode or meter itself.
Do I need a smart meter to switch on prepayment?
No. You can switch with a traditional key/card meter too. However, smart prepay can offer more tariff choice and easier top-ups, depending on the supplier.
I’m a tenant—can I switch energy supplier on prepayment?
If you’re responsible for paying the energy bills, you can usually switch supplier. If the landlord pays the bills, the account holder decides. Changing the meter type (prepay to credit) may require landlord consent.
What if I don’t know my current tariff or supplier?
That’s common with prepayment. Submit your postcode and meter type in the form, and share anything you do know (for example, top-up receipt branding). We’ll help you progress from there.
Looking for the fastest route? Use the Compare prepayment deals form and we’ll focus only on tariffs compatible with your meter and circumstances.
Trusted by UK households
People use EnergyPlus to make sense of energy options—especially when switching feels complicated, like with prepayment meters.
"I didn’t realise I could switch while staying on prepay. The options were explained clearly and I moved to a better tariff."
Homeowner, West Midlands
"We’re renting and thought we were stuck. EnergyPlus helped us understand what we could change and what we couldn’t."
Tenant, Greater Manchester
"The form was quick. I selected smart prepay and got straightforward next steps without the sales fluff."
Household customer, Kent
Whole-of-market approach: We compare across a broad range of UK suppliers where available, focusing on suitability for your meter type and preferences.
Clear guidance: If debt, tenancy, or meter compatibility affects your switch, we’ll highlight it early so you can choose the best next step.
Ready to switch your prepayment energy supplier?
Complete the comparison form to see prepayment-friendly options and understand any restrictions before you commit.
It only takes a couple of minutes. Home energy only.
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