Energy tariffs with bill credit for switching in the UK
Compare whole-of-market home energy tariffs and check if you could get bill credit for switching. Tell us a few details and we’ll match you with eligible deals from leading UK suppliers.
- Whole-of-market comparison for households (not business energy)
- See tariffs that may include bill credit, where available
- No call centres required – quick form, clear options
Bill credit is supplier-specific and subject to eligibility, availability and terms. Credit is usually applied to your account after switching completes.
Compare energy tariffs that may include bill credit (UK households)
Some UK energy suppliers offer bill credit (sometimes called a switching bonus or account credit) when you move your gas and/or electricity to them. It can be a useful extra, but it’s not always the cheapest option overall – which is why comparing the whole market matters.
EnergyPlus helps you compare home energy tariffs across a wide range of suppliers so you can:
- Find deals that include bill credit where available
- Check the total cost of the tariff (unit rates + standing charge), not just the headline incentive
- Switch with confidence – we explain key terms in plain English
Tip: Bill credit is usually paid into your new supplier account (not your bank) and is typically applied after your switch is fully completed. Always check the tariff terms before proceeding.
Check eligible bill credit deals
Complete the form and we’ll match you with available UK home tariffs (including bill credit where offered).
Prefer to learn first? Jump to how bill credit works or eligibility rules.
What you’ll typically see in your results
- Tariff type (fixed, variable, tracker where available)
- Unit rates (pence per kWh) and standing charge (pence per day)
- Estimated annual cost based on typical usage bands
- Bill credit / switching incentive details where offered, including any conditions
EnergyPlus is a comparison service. Supplier availability and incentives can change quickly. If you’re on a prepayment meter, Economy 7, or have a smart meter, you may have additional tariff options – we’ll surface what’s relevant where possible.
Why switch for bill credit – and what to watch for
Lower your first bills
If a supplier offers bill credit, it’s generally applied to your new account balance. That can reduce upcoming Direct Debits or offset the first few bills, depending on how your supplier handles payments.
Extra value without changing habits
Bill credit is an incentive for switching – you don’t usually need to change how you use energy. The key is ensuring the underlying tariff rates are still competitive.
Compare the full picture
A higher standing charge or unit rate can outweigh the benefit of a one-off credit. EnergyPlus makes it easier to compare both the incentive and the estimated total cost.
Potentially available for dual fuel
Some incentives apply only if you switch both gas and electricity to the same supplier (dual fuel). We’ll highlight where credit is tied to the fuel type you switch.
Clearer terms with fixed deals
On fixed tariffs, the unit rate is set for the term, which helps you judge whether bill credit is worthwhile. Always check if there’s an exit fee and when credit is paid.
Avoid missing out
Incentives can be limited-time. If you’re already planning to switch, comparing now can help you spot deals offering bill credit while they’re available.
Important: Bill credit is not guaranteed. It depends on supplier eligibility criteria and successful completion of the switch. Always read the tariff’s key terms before you apply.
How bill credit for switching works (simple explanation)
Bill credit is typically a one-off amount applied to your new supplier account after you switch. It may appear as an “incentive” or “credit” line item. The value and timing vary by supplier and tariff.
Typical switching journey
- Compare: you check tariffs, rates, terms and any bill credit offers.
- Apply: you submit your details and choose a tariff (gas, electricity, or dual fuel).
- Switch completes: your new supplier takes over your supply. You’ll usually receive a welcome pack and Direct Debit schedule.
- Credit applied: after a set time (often after the first bill or within a stated period), the supplier adds credit to your account.
If you’re switching from one tariff to another with the same supplier, that’s usually a “tariff change” rather than a “switch” – and bill credit offers may not apply unless explicitly stated.
Bill credit vs other incentives
| Incentive type | What it usually means | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| Bill credit | A one-off credit added to your energy account balance. | When it’s applied, whether it’s per fuel or per household, and any minimum term. |
| Cashback | Money paid out (often via third party), not always from the supplier itself. | Payment method and timing, claim steps, and tracking requirements. |
| Gift card / voucher | A voucher code issued after switching (value varies). | Expiry date, eligible retailers, and whether it’s conditional on staying X months. |
| Refer-a-friend credit | Credit earned when someone joins via your referral link. | Limits per year, when it’s paid, and whether both parties qualify. |
Best practice: Treat bill credit as a bonus. Prioritise the tariff’s ongoing rates and any exit fees – that’s what affects your costs month after month.
Eligibility rules to know before choosing a bill credit tariff
You usually need to be a new customer
Many bill credit offers apply only to new customers joining the supplier (not existing customers renewing). Some suppliers also exclude customers who left recently.
Credit may depend on payment method
Some incentives are linked to paying by Direct Debit, or to paperless billing. If your preference differs, check the tariff terms carefully.
It can be per fuel, per account, or per household
Some deals show one figure for dual fuel, while others show separate values for gas and electricity. If you’re switching a single fuel, confirm how the credit is calculated.
You may need to stay for a minimum period
Some suppliers apply the credit only after the first bill, after a set number of days, or if you remain on supply for a minimum term. Exiting early could mean you lose the incentive.
Common mistakes when searching for switching credit
- Choosing a tariff based only on the credit amount, without checking unit rates and standing charges.
- Not factoring in exit fees on your current fixed deal (check your end date and any penalties).
- Assuming the credit will be paid as cash rather than applied to the energy account.
- Missing conditions such as Direct Debit, paperless billing, or dual fuel requirements.
Not sure what’s best for you? Use the comparison form and review deals side-by-side. You can prioritise tariffs with bill credit and check the estimated total cost.
How to judge whether bill credit is actually worth it
A switching credit can look appealing, but your energy costs are driven mainly by rates. Here’s a simple way to compare tariffs fairly.
| What to compare | Why it matters | Quick check |
|---|---|---|
| Unit rate (p/kWh) | This affects every unit of gas/electricity you use. Small differences add up across the year. | Compare electricity and gas rates separately, especially for dual fuel. |
| Standing charge (p/day) | You pay this daily regardless of usage. Higher standing charges can reduce the value of bill credit. | Multiply by 365 to estimate annual standing charges. |
| Bill credit amount | A one-off benefit that can offset costs, but only once and only if conditions are met. | Check when it’s applied and whether it’s per fuel or per account. |
| Exit fees and term | Fixed deals can have exit fees. If you may switch again soon, flexibility may be more valuable than credit. | Look for fee amounts and the end date of your current tariff. |
Rule of thumb
If two tariffs are similar on rates, bill credit can tip the balance. If rates differ, the cheapest annual estimate often wins even without an incentive.
Good to know
Your postcode matters. Energy prices vary by region due to network costs. Comparing using your postcode gives more accurate results for your area.
FAQs: energy tariffs with bill credit for switching
Is bill credit the same as cashback?
Not usually. Bill credit is typically added to your energy account balance with the supplier. Cashback is paid out as money (often via a third party) and may involve additional steps or waiting periods.
When do I receive the switching credit?
It depends on the supplier and tariff terms. Many suppliers apply credit after your switch completes, often after the first bill or within a stated period. Always check the tariff’s key terms for timing.
Can I get bill credit if I only switch electricity (or only gas)?
Sometimes. Some offers apply to single-fuel switches and others require dual fuel. Your results will depend on availability for your postcode and your fuel type.
Will switching disrupt my gas or electricity supply?
In normal circumstances, no. Switching supplier is an administrative change. Your supply remains on, and your meter stays the same (unless you arrange a meter exchange separately).
Can I switch if I have a smart meter?
Yes in most cases. Smart meter functionality can vary between suppliers, but it should not stop you switching. Your available tariffs may include smart-specific options depending on your setup.
Is there a catch with bill credit tariffs?
Not a “catch” as such, but there are usually conditions. Common ones include being a new customer, paying by Direct Debit, switching both fuels, or staying on supply for a minimum period. Also, a higher unit rate can outweigh the credit over time.
Do I need to contact my current supplier to switch?
Typically, no. The new supplier usually handles the switch. If you’re on a fixed deal, check any exit fees and the end date in your current account before switching.
If you’d like to compare now, go back to the comparison form. It only takes a moment and helps us show the most relevant deals for your postcode.
Trusted switching support, without the jargon
"Clear comparisons and easy to follow. I liked seeing the rates alongside the credit, so it wasn’t just a headline offer."
Homeowner, Manchester
"Quick form and I got options that actually matched my postcode. Helpful explanations of bill credit timing too."
Tenant, Bristol
"I nearly picked a bigger credit deal elsewhere, but the rates were higher. This made it obvious what would cost less over the year."
Family household, Leeds
What you can expect from EnergyPlus
- Whole-of-market comparison approach for home energy
- Transparent view of unit rates, standing charges and tariff terms
- Guidance on switching incentives like bill credit where available
Ready to see UK tariffs with switching credit?
Compare whole-of-market home energy deals and identify tariffs that may offer bill credit for switching – based on your postcode and details.
Bill credit offers vary by supplier and can change. Always review tariff terms before confirming a switch.
Quick checklist before you switch
- Current tariff end date and any exit fees
- Fuel type: electricity, gas, or dual fuel
- Whether bill credit is per account or conditional
- Direct Debit and paperless billing preferences
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