Can I switch energy supplier while in debit (UK)?
Yes, in most cases you can switch even if your energy account is in debit. Use EnergyPlus to compare whole-of-market home energy deals and start a switch in minutes—then we’ll help you understand what happens to your balance.
- Switch with a debit balance (including Direct Debit underpayments) in many situations
- See what your current supplier may do: final bill, refund, or payment request
- Compare tariffs across the market and move without the hassle
- Free comparison—no obligation to switch
Home energy only. Switching is subject to eligibility and supplier checks. Your current supplier will issue a final bill and may request payment of any outstanding balance.
Compare energy deals and switch—without guessing what happens to your debit
If your account is in debit (for example, your Direct Debit hasn’t covered higher winter usage), you can often still move supplier. The key is knowing how your current supplier will close your account: they’ll take a final meter reading, produce a final bill, and then either request payment of any amount owed or refund you if you’re in credit.
If you have a debt repayment plan or a prepayment meter with debt, switching may still be possible—but the rules are different. Jump to Reasons you might be blocked and FAQs.
What you’ll need (takes 2 minutes)
- Postcode and address
- Who you currently supply with (if you know it)
- Payment preference (Direct Debit / on receipt of bill)
- Optional: recent bill details to improve accuracy
So, can you switch supplier if you owe money?
In the UK, being “in debit” doesn’t automatically stop you switching energy supplier. Many households go into debit across winter because usage rises faster than fixed monthly payments. In that situation, your supplier will typically allow the switch to proceed and then settle up using a final bill.
Most common scenario: Direct Debit underpayment
If you pay by monthly Direct Debit and you’re behind, you can usually still switch. Your old supplier will take an opening/closing meter read, produce a final bill, then ask you to pay any remaining balance (or refund you if you’ve overpaid).
Higher-risk scenario: debt, arrears or PAYG debt
If your balance is classed as debt in arrears (missed bills, repayment plans, or prepayment meter debt), your current supplier can object to the switch in some cases. You may still have options—see reasons you might be blocked and what to do next.
If you’re not sure whether your debit is just seasonal underpayment or a formal debt, check your latest statement for wording like “arrears”, “debt repayment”, or “default”, or contact your supplier for clarity before you switch.
What happens to your debit balance when you switch?
Switching doesn’t wipe your balance. Your old supplier closes the account and calculates what you owe (or what they owe you). Here’s how it normally works for home energy in the UK.
| Situation | What usually happens | What you should do |
|---|---|---|
| Debit due to seasonal usage (e.g., winter) | Switch often proceeds; old supplier issues a final bill and requests payment for the outstanding amount. | Submit accurate meter readings and keep funds available for the final bill. |
| Debit because Direct Debit is set too low | Old supplier may adjust your final payment or ask for a one-off payment after the final bill. | Consider increasing your payment temporarily or paying a lump sum to reduce the final bill. |
| Account in arrears (missed bills / debt collection) | Your current supplier may object to the switch in certain circumstances, depending on meter type and rules. | Speak to your supplier, set up an affordable repayment plan, and keep evidence of payments. |
| Credit balance (you’ve overpaid) | Old supplier issues a final bill and refunds the remaining credit. | Don’t cancel your Direct Debit too early; wait until the final bill is settled. |
Tip: Avoid cancelling your existing Direct Debit before the final bill is issued. If a refund is due, suppliers often pay it back to the same bank details they have on file, and you’ll still need a way to settle any debit quickly.
Reasons a switch can be blocked when you’re in debt
A simple debit balance isn’t always a problem. A switch is more likely to be stopped if your supplier treats it as debt in arrears, or where prepayment rules apply. Common reasons include:
Outstanding debt on a prepayment meter
If you have a PAYG/prepayment meter and you owe money, the debt may be collected through top-ups. Some switches are restricted depending on the level of debt and the type of meter.
Debt repayment plan or missed payments
If you’ve missed repayments or bills, your supplier may raise an objection. Getting your plan back on track can help you switch later.
Meter or account details don’t match
Incorrect address details, wrong MPAN/MPRN, or a recent move can delay or stop a switch until the records are corrected.
If your switch is blocked, what next?
- Ask your current supplier why the switch was objected to and what needs to happen to remove the objection.
- Request a copy of your latest statement and confirm whether the balance is classed as arrears or just seasonal debit.
- Set up (or restart) an affordable repayment plan if needed, and keep confirmation in writing.
- When you’re ready, return to compare deals and start a new switch.
How to switch energy supplier while in debit: step-by-step
Follow these steps to reduce delays and avoid surprises on your final bill.
- Check your balance type. Is it a seasonal debit (common) or debt in arrears? If you’re unsure, check your online account or call your supplier.
- Take meter readings (or confirm smart meter status). Accurate readings help prevent estimated bills and disputes.
- Compare whole-of-market options. Use EnergyPlus to view tariffs based on your postcode and preferences.
- Start the switch. Your new supplier will normally handle the transfer process and contact your current supplier.
- Wait for your final bill. Your old supplier will confirm the final balance. If you’re in debit, they’ll ask you to pay (often by card, bank transfer, or Direct Debit).
- Settle the balance promptly. Paying your final bill avoids late fees, collections activity, or future credit issues with energy accounts.
Best practice: Keep a photo of your meter reading (with date/time if possible). If the final bill looks wrong, you’ll have evidence to support a correction.
Why switching while in debit can still be a smart move
If your current tariff is poor value, waiting until you’re back in credit may cost you more overall. Switching can help you stabilise monthly costs and avoid future underpayments.
Potentially lower unit rates
A better tariff can reduce what you pay for each kWh, helping you recover from a debit position faster over time.
More predictable monthly budgeting
Choosing a tariff and payment option that fits your household can reduce the chance of building up a large winter deficit again.
A clean reset with accurate readings
Switching is a good trigger to submit accurate readings so you’re billed correctly going forward—especially if you’ve had estimates.
Want to see what’s available for your home? Go to Compare & switch.
Common mistakes to avoid when switching in debit
Cancelling your Direct Debit too early
Keep it active until your final bill is produced and paid (or your refund is received). Cancelling early can create missed payments and delays.
Not providing meter readings
Estimated readings can inflate your final bill. Provide your own reading when requested, and keep a dated photo.
Ignoring a final bill because you’ve switched
You still owe what you used up to the switch date. Leaving a balance unpaid can lead to collections activity.
Confusing “in debit” with “in arrears”
Being in debit on a running balance isn’t the same as missing bills. If your account is in arrears, deal with it proactively before attempting to switch.
FAQs: switching energy supplier while in debit
Will my old supplier chase me for the money after I switch?
If your final bill shows you owe money, yes—your old supplier can request payment after you’ve switched. Switching doesn’t remove the debt; it just closes the account and finalises the balance.
Can I switch if I’m in debt and have a prepayment meter?
Sometimes. If there’s debt on the meter, switching can be restricted depending on the circumstances and meter setup. If you’re on prepayment and unsure, complete the form above and we’ll guide you on the likely route.
Should I pay off the debit before switching?
Not always necessary. If the debit is manageable and you’re not in arrears, switching can still go ahead and the balance is settled on the final bill. If you’re worried about a large final payment, paying some off first can help.
Will switching affect my credit score?
Switching itself doesn’t usually impact your credit score. However, missing payments on your final bill or allowing arrears to escalate could have consequences. If you’re struggling, contact your supplier early.
How long does it take to switch?
Timeframes vary by supplier and meter type, but many switches complete within a few weeks. Your new supplier will confirm dates and next steps.
Do I need to contact my current supplier to switch?
Usually not—your new supplier typically handles the switch. You may need to speak to your current supplier if there’s an objection, a disputed balance, or incorrect account details.
Need help right now?
If you’re in debit and want to know your options, use the comparison form. We’ll help you compare whole-of-market deals and explain what to expect from your final bill.
Trust & reassurance
Whole-of-market comparison
See a broad view of available home energy tariffs so you can make a confident choice.
UK-focused guidance
Clear explanations of debit balances, final bills and common switching blockers—without jargon.
Quick, no-pressure process
Start with a simple form fill to check options. You stay in control of whether you switch.
“I was worried I couldn’t switch because I was in debit. The explanation of the final bill and meter readings made it simple.”
— Home energy customer, UK
“The form was quick and the options were clear. I switched and settled the old balance with the final bill.”
— Home energy customer, UK
Ready to switch—even if you’re in debit?
Compare whole-of-market home energy deals with EnergyPlus and start your switch. We’ll help you understand what happens to your balance and what to do if a switch is objected to.
You won’t lose supply during a switch. Final bills are issued by your current supplier using agreed meter readings.
Quick checklist before you submit
- Have your postcode ready
- Know whether you’re Direct Debit, billed, or prepay
- If possible, take a meter reading today
Back to Guides & FAQs