Can I switch energy supplier while in debit in the UK?
Yes, many UK households can still switch even if their account is in debit. Use EnergyPlus to compare whole-of-market tariffs and check what applies to your balance, meter type and payment method.
- See if your debit will transfer to your new supplier (or if you’ll need to clear it first)
- Compare gas & electricity deals across the market in minutes
- Switch online with support for credit, direct debit, and prepayment meters
Home energy only. Switching is subject to supplier checks and your circumstances. We’ll explain how debit balances are handled.
Compare energy tariffs even if you’re in debit
Being in debit doesn’t automatically stop you switching energy supplier in the UK. What matters is why you’re in debit, how much you owe, your meter type (credit or prepayment), and whether your supplier has raised a debt objection.
EnergyPlus is a whole-of-market comparison service for home energy. Use the form to request a comparison and we’ll help you understand whether your debit is likely to transfer, need settling, or can be managed through an agreed repayment plan.
Good to know: A debit balance can happen for normal reasons (winter usage, estimated readings, price changes). That’s different from arrears where payments have been missed.
When you can usually switch
- Direct Debit customers with a manageable debit (often seasonal) and no missed payments
- Credit meter customers who can agree repayment terms or clear the balance
- Smart meter households where readings are accurate and closing bills are simpler
Debit vs arrears: what suppliers look at when you switch
In everyday terms, “in debit” can mean your account balance is negative because your usage has outpaced payments (common after winter). Suppliers mainly focus on whether the balance is a normal seasonal debit, or if it’s arrears caused by missed payments.
Seasonal debit
Often builds up in colder months when heating is on. Many households pay this down over spring/summer.
Missed payments (arrears)
If payments have been missed, suppliers may raise a debt objection or require a repayment plan first.
Billing issues
Estimated reads, faulty meters, or delayed bills can create a debit. Accurate readings can help resolve it before switching.
Tip: Take meter readings (or check your smart meter app) before you start a switch. It reduces the risk of a disputed closing bill.
Why switching while in debit can still make sense
If you’re paying more than you need to, staying put may mean your debit grows faster. A better tariff can reduce ongoing costs and help you regain control. The key is switching without creating surprise bills.
Potentially lower unit rates
Lower p/kWh rates can reduce your monthly spend and slow further debt build-up.
More suitable payment options
Some tariffs may suit your budget better, such as different Direct Debit profiles or flexible billing.
Clearer billing
Switching with accurate reads and a smart meter can help keep billing aligned with real usage.
What happens to my debit balance when I switch?
In most cases, your old supplier will produce a final bill using your opening/closing meter readings. If your account is in debit, you’ll usually need to pay the old supplier for the outstanding amount. Depending on your situation, a supplier may also block the switch by raising a formal debt objection.
| Situation | What commonly happens | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Debit from normal usage (e.g. winter) | Switch often proceeds; debit remains payable to old supplier via final bill. | Take accurate readings, check Direct Debit, and budget for final bill. |
| Missed payments or agreed debt plan | Old supplier may object to switching until debt is reduced/managed. | Ask for the reason in writing and propose a repayment plan. |
| Prepayment meter debt | Debt may be set to recover via top-ups; switching options can be more limited. | Check whether debt assignment applies and how recovery would work. |
| Disputed bill / estimated readings | Switch can be delayed if there’s an unresolved dispute or incorrect reads. | Submit readings, ask for recalculation, and keep records of dates and photos. |
Planning point: If you’re in debit, avoid cancelling your Direct Debit too early. It can slow down final billing or leave you with a larger one-off payment.
Does my meter type change whether I can switch?
Yes. Switching rules can feel different depending on whether you have a credit meter, smart meter, or prepayment meter. The debit itself is only one factor—suppliers also consider how debt is collected and whether the account is in arrears.
Credit & Direct Debit meters
- Switching is often straightforward if payments are up to date
- Final bill settles the balance with your old supplier
- Accurate reads reduce billing disputes
Prepayment meters
- If there’s debt, some switches may be blocked or limited
- Debt can sometimes be collected via top-ups
- Tariff availability may be narrower than credit meters
Not sure what you have? Your bill/app usually states your meter type. If you share your postcode via the form, we can guide you on what to check next before switching.
How to switch supplier when your account is in debit (step-by-step)
- Check your balance and payment status. Look for missed payments vs a seasonal debit. If you’re unsure, ask your supplier for an up-to-date statement.
- Take meter readings (and photos if possible). Do this before starting the switch and again on the switch date, especially if you’ve had estimated bills.
- Compare tariffs on a whole-of-market basis. Focus on unit rates, standing charges, and any exit fees (if you’re on a fixed deal).
- Start the switch. Your new supplier manages the process—there’s normally no interruption to supply.
- Watch for the final bill. Your old supplier sends a closing statement. If you’re in debit, pay it or agree a repayment plan.
- Confirm the new Direct Debit. Make sure the new amount is affordable and reflects your usage—avoid underpaying and falling into deeper debit.
Timing: Switching often completes in a few weeks depending on the suppliers involved. If you’re worried about debt objections, it’s best to clarify your balance early.
Common mistakes that can delay a switch (and how to avoid them)
Cancelling the Direct Debit too soon
This can prevent your old supplier from collecting a final payment smoothly and may increase the risk of arrears. Keep it active until the final bill is settled.
Not submitting readings
Estimated closing reads can inflate your final bill. Submit readings (and keep proof) to reduce disputes.
Ignoring repayment options
If your balance is difficult to pay in one go, ask about a plan. This can be easier than stopping the switch entirely.
Mixing up addresses and meter details
If you’ve recently moved, make sure the account and meter serial number match your property to avoid delays.
FAQs: switching energy supplier while in debit
Can my supplier stop me switching because I owe money?
Sometimes. If your supplier raises a debt objection (typically linked to missed payments/arrears or certain prepayment debt scenarios), the switch can be blocked until the issue is resolved. If you believe the balance is wrong, provide readings and request a corrected bill.
Will my debit balance move to the new supplier?
Usually, you repay the old supplier after you receive the final bill. In some prepayment situations, debt recovery arrangements can affect switching options. If you’re unsure, use the comparison form and we’ll explain what commonly applies to your meter type.
Can I switch if I’m on a fixed tariff and in debit?
Often yes, but check whether your plan has exit fees and whether any debt objection may apply. If the debit is seasonal and your payments are up to date, switching is commonly possible, but you’ll still need to settle the closing balance with your old supplier.
Should I clear my debit before switching?
If you can afford it, clearing or reducing the balance can make the process smoother. But it’s not always required. What matters is getting accurate readings, understanding your final bill, and ensuring your ongoing payments match real usage.
Will my energy be cut off if I switch while in debit?
No—switching supplier doesn’t mean your energy supply is turned off. The network stays the same. The main risk is financial (a final bill or debt objection), not a loss of supply.
What if my debit is caused by estimated bills?
Submit a current reading and request an updated statement. If you have a smart meter, ensure it’s communicating. Keeping photos and dates helps if you need to challenge the closing bill later.
What UK households say about switching with EnergyPlus
A debit balance can feel stressful—clear information helps. Here are examples of feedback we hear from home energy customers using a comparison approach to make confident decisions.
“I thought being in debit meant I couldn’t switch. The guidance on final bills and meter readings made it straightforward.”
“The comparison highlighted a cheaper tariff, and I kept my Direct Debit running until the final bill came through. No surprises.”
“Helpful explanation of what ‘debit’ really means versus arrears. I could plan for the closing balance.”
Ready to see if you can switch while in debit?
Complete the form to compare whole-of-market home energy deals with EnergyPlus. We’ll help you understand how your debit balance is likely to be handled and what to do next.
- Whole-of-market comparison
- Guidance for credit and prepayment meters
- Clear steps to avoid final-bill surprises
EnergyPlus is a comparison service for UK homes. Switching availability depends on your account status and supplier checks.
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