Energy suppliers offering switching credit (January 2026)
Compare whole-of-market UK home energy deals and check which suppliers are offering switching credit in January 2026. Tell us a few details and we’ll match you with eligible tariffs in minutes.
- See eligible electricity, gas & dual fuel tariffs in one place
- Understand switching credit: how it’s paid, when, and the T&Cs
- Estimate total first-year cost (unit rates + standing charges + credit)
- Switch online with a simple form — no sales calls required
EnergyPlus is a comparison service for UK homes (not business). Switching credit availability and amounts vary by supplier, tariff, region and eligibility checks.
Compare switching credit offers for January 2026
Some UK energy suppliers run limited-time incentives such as switching credit (also called welcome credit, sign-up credit, bill credit or account credit). These incentives can reduce your first-year cost — but only if you meet the supplier’s eligibility rules and stay on supply for the minimum period.
EnergyPlus helps you compare whole-of-market home energy options and highlights when a tariff includes switching credit. You can then weigh up the credit against unit rates, standing charges, tariff type, and any exit fees.
Good to know for January 2026
- Switching credit deals can change quickly — we recommend checking eligibility before applying.
- Credit is typically applied after your first bill or within a set number of days, and may require Direct Debit.
- Some offers apply to new customers only, or exclude customers who’ve held an account with the supplier recently.
Check deals & switching credit eligibility
Fill in your details to see eligible tariffs, including suppliers offering switching credit in January 2026.
Why switching credit can be valuable (and when it isn’t)
Lower first-year cost
Switching credit is normally applied to your energy account, reducing what you pay overall (especially helpful if you’re building up a winter balance).
May offset slightly higher rates
A deal with credit isn’t always cheapest on unit rates. We help you compare the total cost, not just the incentive headline.
Avoid surprises
We highlight common conditions like Direct Debit requirements, minimum supply periods, and restrictions for returning customers.
Best for households that…
- plan to stay put (and keep the tariff) for the qualifying period
- pay by Direct Debit and submit meter readings on time
- want predictable budgeting and a clear first-year cost view
May not suit if you…
- might move home or switch again within a few months
- prefer prepayment meters (some offers exclude them)
- are chasing credit but ignoring higher standing charges
If you’re unsure, start with your switching credit basics and then use the form above to check eligibility for your postcode and meter type.
How switching credit works in the UK
Switching credit is usually an account credit added to your balance after you successfully switch and meet the supplier’s requirements. It’s different from cashback paid to your bank account and is typically shown on your bill or online account.
- You apply for a tariff that includes switching credit (availability depends on region, meter and eligibility).
- The switch completes (most switches complete within a few working days under the UK switching process, unless there’s an issue to resolve).
- You meet the conditions (e.g. pay by Direct Debit, keep the account active, submit readings if requested).
- Credit is applied to your account (often after first bill, or within a stated timeframe).
Switching credit vs cashback
Switching credit reduces what you owe the supplier. Cashback is paid out (usually by a third party) and can take longer. Always compare the full cost either way.
Where you’ll see it
Commonly shown as “welcome credit”, “bill credit” or “account adjustment” on your statement or supplier online dashboard.
When it can be removed
Some suppliers can reclaim or reverse credit if you cancel early or fail eligibility requirements. Check the tariff terms before switching.
What to check before choosing a “switching credit” tariff
Incentives are only useful if they genuinely reduce your costs and you can qualify. Use this checklist to compare like-for-like in January 2026.
| Item to check | Why it matters | What to look for |
|---|---|---|
| Credit amount | Headline credit can be outweighed by higher rates. | Account credit amount and whether it’s per fuel (gas/electric) or per household. |
| Payment method requirement | Some offers require Direct Debit. | Direct Debit set-up timeframe and whether payment changes void the offer. |
| New customer rules | Returning customers may be excluded. | Any “cooling-off” period (e.g. must not have held an account within X months). |
| Minimum supply period | Leaving early may mean losing the credit. | How long you must stay on supply and whether credit is clawed back. |
| Tariff type | Fixed vs variable affects price certainty. | Fixed end date, price change terms, and whether exit fees apply. |
| Meter and payment compatibility | Not all tariffs accept all meter types. | Smart meter, traditional credit meter, or prepayment eligibility in your area. |
Tip: When comparing deals, focus on the estimated annual cost for your usage and region, then subtract any switching credit. A larger credit doesn’t automatically mean a better deal.
Eligibility: who can get switching credit in January 2026?
Eligibility varies by supplier and tariff, but most switching credit offers for UK homes follow similar patterns. You’re more likely to qualify if you meet the criteria below.
Typically required
- UK residential address (home energy, not business)
- Successful switch completion (no failed switch)
- Account set up in your name and payment method approved
- Direct Debit (common requirement for incentive tariffs)
Often excluded or limited
- Existing customers of the same supplier (or recent customers)
- Prepayment meters on certain tariffs
- Addresses with complex metering arrangements (case-by-case)
- Switches cancelled during the cooling-off period
Not sure what meter type you have? Submit your postcode in the comparison form and we’ll guide you through the options available for your home.
Common mistakes when chasing switching credit
Comparing only the credit headline
Always compare unit rates and standing charges. A bigger credit can still cost more over 12 months.
Missing the minimum supply period
Some offers require you to remain on supply for a set time before credit is applied (or to avoid clawback).
Incorrect details when applying
Small mismatches (name/address) can delay the switch. Use the same details as your current supplier where possible.
Practical tip: Take a photo of your meter reading on the day you apply and again on the day your switch completes. This can help resolve billing questions later.
FAQs: switching credit in January 2026
Which energy suppliers are offering switching credit in January 2026?
Offers can change during the month and can depend on your postcode, meter type and whether you’re a new customer. Use the EnergyPlus comparison form to check which tariffs currently include switching credit for your home.
Is switching credit guaranteed?
No. Switching credit is usually conditional. Common conditions include setting up Direct Debit, remaining on supply for a minimum period, and completing the switch successfully.
How long does it take to receive switching credit?
It varies by supplier and tariff. Many apply credit after your first bill or within a set timeframe after the switch completes. Always check the tariff terms for the expected credit date.
Will switching credit affect the Energy Price Cap?
The price cap is set by Ofgem and applies to certain default tariffs. Switching credit is an incentive that reduces your account balance, not the cap level. Your actual costs depend on your tariff rates and usage.
Can I get switching credit on a smart meter tariff?
Often yes, but it depends on the supplier and tariff. Some offers are available to both smart and non-smart customers; others may have requirements. Checking by postcode is the fastest way to confirm.
Is there a penalty for switching again after I get the credit?
Potentially. If you’re on a fixed tariff, exit fees may apply. Some switching credit terms also include a minimum supply period, and leaving early could mean losing the credit or having it reclaimed.
What customers like about comparing with EnergyPlus
“Clear breakdown of the tariff costs and the credit. I could see the total for the year rather than guessing.”
Homeowner, West Midlands
“The form was quick. I checked eligibility for my postcode and found a better deal than my current variable tariff.”
Tenant, Greater Manchester
“Helpful notes on the terms — especially when the credit is paid and whether it applies to dual fuel.”
Homeowner, Kent
Trust & transparency: We focus on clear comparisons for UK homes, showing rates, standing charges, tariff type and any switching credit where available — so you can make an informed choice.
Ready to check January 2026 switching credit deals?
Submit your details once and we’ll show eligible home energy tariffs, including suppliers offering switching credit where available for your postcode and meter type.
Switching credit is subject to supplier terms, eligibility and availability. Always review tariff details before switching.
Back to Energy Suppliers