Can I switch to a cheaper prepayment tariff in the UK?
Yes — many households can switch to a cheaper prepayment meter (PPM) tariff, change supplier, or move to Direct Debit if eligible. Compare whole-of-market energy deals with EnergyPlus and see what you could save in minutes.
- Compare prepayment tariffs across UK suppliers (whole-of-market)
- See options for smart prepay, traditional key/card and Direct Debit
- Check eligibility and switching steps (including debt rules)
- Fast online form — no obligation to switch
For domestic energy customers in Great Britain. Availability depends on supplier criteria, meter type and your account status.
Compare cheaper prepayment tariffs (whole-of-market)
If you’re on a prepayment meter, the cheapest option isn’t always the one you’re currently on — even if you feel “stuck”. Depending on your meter type and account status, you may be able to:
- Switch supplier to a cheaper prepayment tariff
- Move to a smart prepay tariff (top up via app/online) if your meter supports it
- Change payment method (for example, to Direct Debit) if you meet the supplier’s criteria
- Adjust your tariff type (single rate vs Economy 7) to match your usage
Good to know: Prepayment prices and availability can differ by region and meter. We’ll use your postcode and a few details to show realistic options for your home.
What you’ll need (takes 2 minutes)
- Your postcode
- Whether you have gas, electricity or both
- Rough idea of your top-up pattern (weekly/monthly is fine)
Get your prepayment comparison
Fill in the form and we’ll show available tariff options for your home. No paperwork required to view results.
Why you might be able to get a cheaper prepayment tariff
Prepayment doesn’t automatically mean “most expensive” — but the best value depends on what’s available in your area, your meter type, and whether you can switch or change payment method. These are common ways households reduce costs:
Switch supplier
Some suppliers price prepay differently. A whole-of-market comparison can highlight lower unit rates or standing charges that suit your usage.
Move to smart prepay
With a compatible smart meter you can top up via app, see usage, and sometimes access more tariff options than traditional key/card meters.
Change tariff structure
If you’re on Economy 7 but don’t use energy overnight, or vice versa, switching to the right structure can cut your annual cost.
Check standing charge impact
For low usage homes, standing charge differences can matter as much as unit rates. Comparing both gives a truer picture.
Improve top-up habits
Avoid emergency credit charges where applicable, and keep an eye on debt recovery settings so you’re not paying more than needed each top-up.
Explore moving off prepay
Some households can move to credit meters or Direct Debit (subject to checks). This may open up additional tariffs and convenience benefits.
How switching a prepayment tariff works (UK)
Switching on prepay is often straightforward, but there are a few extra checks compared with Direct Debit customers — especially if there’s debt on the meter or the account. Here’s what typically happens once you compare and choose a tariff:
- We match deals to your details (region, fuel type, meter type where known).
- You pick a tariff based on unit rate, standing charge, contract length and features (e.g., smart top-ups).
- The new supplier confirms eligibility and checks if there’s debt that needs managing.
- Switch date is agreed (your supply shouldn’t be interrupted).
- You top up as normal, and you’ll be told if you need a new key/card, app, or meter configuration.
Important: Your energy should not go off due to switching. Any disruption is usually related to meter faults or running out of credit, not the switch itself.
Prepayment meter types and tariff options
Your options can depend on whether you have a traditional prepay meter (key/card) or a smart meter in prepayment mode. If you’re not sure, don’t worry — you can still compare, and we’ll help identify the likely route.
| Meter / tariff type | How you top up | Best for | Things to check |
|---|---|---|---|
| Traditional prepay (key/card) | Shop/PayPoint/Payzone top-ups | People who prefer cash top-ups or don’t want online accounts | Whether the new supplier supports your meter; any debt on the meter |
| Smart meter in prepay mode | App/online, phone, or shops (varies) | Those wanting easier top-ups and visibility of usage | Smart compatibility; whether the meter remains smart after switching |
| Single-rate electricity | One unit rate all day | Most households | Compare standing charge + unit rate (not just one figure) |
| Economy 7 / two-rate | Day and night rates | Homes using lots of off-peak power (storage heaters, timed hot water) | Your off-peak times and usage split; day rate can be higher |
| Moving to credit/Direct Debit | Monthly bills | Those eligible who want wider tariff choice | Supplier checks; may require a meter exchange or account review |
Tip: If you’re considering off-peak tariffs, it helps to know roughly when you use high-load appliances (washing machine, tumble dryer, immersion heater). We can still compare without exact times.
Eligibility: can you switch prepayment tariff if you have debt?
Potentially, yes — but it depends on where the debt sits and the supplier’s rules. These are common scenarios that affect switching:
Debt on the meter / account
- If debt is being collected through top-ups, the supplier may have switching limits.
- In some cases, debt can be transferred or managed as part of the switch (subject to criteria).
- Small arrears can often be cleared faster by adjusting repayment settings — ask your supplier.
Payment method changes
- Moving from prepay to credit/Direct Debit can require checks and sometimes a meter exchange.
- If you’re on prepay due to previous debt, a supplier may ask for a period of stable payments.
- Smart meters can sometimes switch between modes without replacing the meter.
Struggling to keep up? If you can’t afford to top up, contact your supplier. You may be eligible for a repayment plan review, emergency support, or other help depending on circumstances.
Common mistakes that keep prepay customers overpaying
Comparing without standing charges
A low unit rate can look great until the standing charge is higher. Always compare the full picture.
Staying on the wrong meter/tariff
Economy 7 can cost more if most usage is during the day. Match the tariff to your lifestyle.
Not checking smart prepay options
Smart prepay can make top-ups easier and can unlock different plans depending on supplier availability.
Ignoring debt recovery settings
If deductions per top-up are too high, you may hit emergency credit more often. Ask your supplier to review.
Assuming you can’t switch
Rules vary by supplier and situation. A whole-of-market check is the quickest way to see what’s available.
Not reviewing annually
Your needs change. Reviewing once a year can keep costs under control, especially after moving home or changing occupancy.
FAQs: switching to a cheaper prepayment tariff
Will I lose supply if I switch prepayment?
Switching supplier shouldn’t interrupt your gas or electricity supply. You’ll normally keep topping up as usual until the switch completes, then follow the new supplier’s instructions (new key/card or app details).
Can I switch if I have a key meter or card meter?
Often, yes. Some suppliers support certain meter types more than others. If a supplier requires a different setup, they may arrange a change or offer smart prepay where suitable.
Is prepayment always more expensive than Direct Debit?
Not always. Pricing varies, and the best option depends on your usage and what’s available in your region. If you can move to Direct Debit, you may see more deals, but it’s still worth comparing both routes.
How do I know if I’m on the cheapest prepay tariff for my area?
The quickest way is to compare using your postcode. Prices can vary by distribution region and meter type, so a national “average” isn’t a reliable guide for your household.
Can I switch from prepayment to a normal credit meter?
Sometimes. Suppliers may require checks and, in some cases, a meter exchange. If you have a smart meter, it may be possible to change mode without replacing the meter, subject to the supplier.
What details affect my prepayment tariff options?
Your postcode (region), whether you have gas/electric or dual fuel, meter type, and whether you’re on single-rate or Economy 7 can all affect availability and pricing.
If your question isn’t covered, use the comparison form and we’ll help you understand your available options.
Why households use EnergyPlus
When you’re on a prepayment meter, clarity matters. We focus on showing realistic options and explaining what affects eligibility so you can decide with confidence.
Whole-of-market comparison
We compare across UK suppliers and tariffs available for domestic customers.
Prepay-specific guidance
Clear information on meter types, debt considerations and what happens during a switch.
No-pressure process
See your options first. If a switch isn’t right for you now, you’ll still leave with a clearer plan.
What people say
“I didn’t realise I could change supplier on prepay. The comparison made it clear which tariffs were actually available for my postcode.”
Domestic customer, England
“Helpful explanation of smart prepay versus key meter. I switched and top up on my phone now which is much easier.”
Domestic customer, Scotland
Ready to check if you can switch to a cheaper prepayment tariff?
Compare whole-of-market prepay options for your postcode and see whether switching supplier, moving to smart prepay, or changing tariff type could reduce your bills.
- 2-minute form
- No obligation to switch
- Domestic energy only
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