Can I switch energy supplier if I’m in debt in the UK?

Yes, you may be able to switch energy supplier even if you owe money. Whether you can switch depends on factors such as how much you owe, whether you have a prepayment meter, and any debt repayment arrangements in place. If you’re unsure, compare options and check eligibility before applying to switch.

What is the debt limit for switching energy supplier?

In many cases, you can switch if your outstanding debt is within the industry switching thresholds (these can differ for gas and electricity and may change over time). If your debt is above the threshold, you may still be able to switch by agreeing a repayment plan or using a prepayment solution that includes debt recovery.

Can I switch if I have a prepayment meter and debt?

Often, yes. If you have a prepayment meter (PAYG) and energy debt, you may still be able to switch, particularly if the debt is attached to the meter and can be collected through a debt repayment rate. Some suppliers can support switching with a prepayment meter while continuing repayment.

Will switching energy supplier clear my debt?

No. Switching supplier does not erase what you owe. Your existing supplier can still pursue the outstanding balance, and you’ll usually need to repay it via your old supplier, a debt collection process, or a repayment plan. Always confirm your closing balance and keep records of payments and meter readings.

What happens to my debt when I switch supplier?

Your old supplier will produce a final bill using your opening/closing meter readings. Any remaining balance is still payable to them. If you’re on a prepayment meter with debt recovery, the debt may remain linked to the meter depending on the set-up, meaning repayments can continue after switching.

Can my supplier block me from switching because I owe money?

Your supplier may object to the switch in certain circumstances (for example, if your debt is above the permitted switching threshold or there’s an active dispute). If you believe you’re being unfairly blocked, ask your supplier for the reason in writing and consider raising a complaint.

Can I switch if I’m disputing my energy bill?

You may be able to, but disputes can complicate switching. It’s usually best to raise the dispute formally with your current supplier and keep evidence (meter readings, bills, communications). If the dispute remains unresolved, you can follow the supplier’s complaints process and escalate if needed.

How can I switch energy supplier while in debt?

To switch while in debt: (1) check your latest balance and whether you have a prepayment meter, (2) take up-to-date meter readings, (3) ask your current supplier if a switch objection applies and what amount would need to be repaid, (4) consider agreeing a repayment plan, and (5) apply to switch with your chosen supplier.

Will my credit score be affected if I switch with energy debt?

Switching itself doesn’t usually affect your credit score, but missed payments, defaults, or debt collection action may. If you’re struggling, consider contacting your supplier early to agree an affordable repayment plan and ask about support options.

Where can I compare options and switch?

You can explore options and start your switch on Energy Plus. If you have debt, it helps to have your latest balance and meter details ready so you can confirm eligibility and choose the best plan for your household. Visit: https://www.energyplus.co.uk/

Can I switch energy supplier while in debt in the UK?

In many cases, yes — but the rules depend on how much you owe, whether you’re on a prepayment meter, and if there’s an active debt repayment plan. Use EnergyPlus to compare whole-of-market home energy deals and see what’s realistically possible for your situation.

Check if your debt level allows a switch under Ofgem rules
Understand what happens with prepayment meters and debt recovery
See options if your current supplier blocks the switch
Compare tariffs you may be eligible for — whole of market

Check if I can switch (free) See the UK switching rules

EnergyPlus is a comparison service (whole-of-market). Switching is subject to eligibility and supplier checks. If you’re struggling to pay, you may also be able to access support from your current supplier.

Check whether you can switch supplier while in debt

Energy debt doesn’t automatically stop you switching. In the UK, whether your switch goes through usually comes down to:

How much you owe (and whether it’s in dispute)
Meter type (credit meter vs prepayment)
Debt repayment arrangements (and whether you’ve kept to them)
Whether your supplier can legally object under the switching rules

Good to know: If you’re repaying and up to date, you may still be able to switch — and in some cases your debt can be managed separately (or transferred in specific scenarios, such as prepayment debt assignment).

What you’ll need to compare

Postcode (to identify your region and available tariffs)
Whether you pay by direct debit, cash/cheque, or prepayment
Approximate usage or current monthly spend (if you know it)
Any debt amount (rough estimate is fine)

Compare energy & request help switching

Fill in the form and we’ll help you check eligibility and compare whole-of-market options.

If you’re worried about disconnection: contact your current supplier urgently. Suppliers must consider payment plans and support options if you’re struggling to pay.

Why people switch even when they owe money

Reduce ongoing costs

If you’re on an expensive tariff, switching (where allowed) can lower future bills and make repayment more manageable.

Move away from poor service

Billing issues, incorrect readings, or unresolved complaints can push customers to look for a more reliable supplier.

Get clarity on repayment

Understanding the switching rules helps you avoid failed switches and agree an affordable plan with your current supplier.

UK rules: when can a supplier stop you switching due to debt?

Energy suppliers can sometimes object to a switch if you owe them money. These rules differ depending on whether you have a credit meter (you pay after using energy) or a prepayment meter (you pay before you use it).

Important: The exact thresholds and processes can change. If you’re unsure, submit the form above and we’ll help you understand what’s possible based on your meter type and circumstances.

Typical outcomes by situation

Your situation	Can the supplier object?	What usually helps
Credit meter with outstanding balance	Possibly, depending on the amount owed and status of the debt	Agree a repayment plan, pay down the balance, or resolve any billing dispute
Prepayment meter with debt being collected	Often, but there may be routes such as debt assignment in some cases	Check eligibility for debt assignment; keep up with top-ups/repayment settings
Debt in dispute (you’ve raised a formal complaint)	Switching may still be blocked until the dispute is resolved	Provide meter readings/evidence; ask for a deadlock letter if unresolved
You’re behind on an agreed repayment plan	More likely to object	Contact supplier to renegotiate; ask for an affordable plan based on your income

What “objecting to a switch” means

If your current supplier objects, the new supplier typically can’t complete the transfer. You won’t be left without energy — you’ll remain with your existing supplier — but it can be frustrating and time-consuming.

The fastest way forward is usually to resolve the reason for objection (e.g., agree a plan, reduce the balance, or clear up billing issues) and then retry.

Prepayment meters: switching supplier when you owe money

If you have a prepayment meter and it’s set to recover debt through your top-ups, switching works differently. Some customers may be able to switch using a process known as Debt Assignment, where eligible debt is transferred to the new supplier.

How debt recovery usually shows up

A portion of each top-up goes towards your outstanding balance
Your meter displays a debt amount or recovery rate
You may have friendly credit/emergency credit depending on meter type

What to check before you try to switch

Whether your meter is smart prepay or traditional key/card
The current debt balance and weekly recovery amount
Whether you’re up to date with top-ups and any agreed arrangements

Tip: If you’re not sure what meter you have, your bill (or in-home display, if you have smart) usually indicates it. You can also ask your supplier directly.

If you can’t switch right now: practical options that usually work

If a supplier objects to your switch, it doesn’t mean you’re stuck forever. The best next step depends on why the objection happened.

Confirm the reason for the block
Ask your current supplier whether the objection is for debt, a disputed balance, or a meter/administration issue.
Agree (or renegotiate) an affordable repayment plan
If you can’t pay in full, ask for a plan based on what you can realistically afford. Keep a record of dates, names, and amounts.
Get the billing right
Provide up-to-date meter readings and check the balance is accurate. If you think it’s wrong, raise a formal complaint.
Explore prepayment debt assignment (where relevant)
If you’re on prepayment and debt is being recovered, ask whether you’re eligible to transfer the debt to a new supplier.
Compare again and reattempt the switch
Once the objection reason is resolved, switching is usually straightforward.

Need help? If you submit the comparison form, we’ll help you understand the likely switching route based on your meter type and postcode.

Common mistakes that cause failed switches (and how to avoid them)

Switching with an unclear balance

Estimated bills and missing readings can inflate balances. Send a reading and ask for an updated statement before switching.

Ignoring prepayment debt settings

If your meter is recovering debt, the switch can be more complex. Ask about debt assignment and eligibility first.

Not keeping to a repayment plan

Missed payments often trigger objections. If you’re struggling, contact the supplier early and renegotiate rather than falling behind.

FAQs: switching energy supplier with debt (UK)

Can my supplier refuse to let me switch if I owe money?

They may be able to object to the transfer in certain circumstances. It commonly depends on the amount owed, whether you have a credit or prepayment meter, and whether the balance is disputed or you’re behind on agreed payments.

What happens to my energy debt if I do manage to switch?

In many cases, you still owe the old supplier and must continue paying it. For some prepayment customers, eligible debt can sometimes be transferred to the new supplier via a debt assignment process.

Can I switch if I’m on a repayment plan?

Potentially. If you’re keeping to the plan and the supplier doesn’t have grounds to object, a switch may still go ahead. If you’re behind, it’s more likely to be blocked until you agree a revised arrangement.

Will switching affect my credit score?

Switching itself doesn’t usually affect your credit score. However, missed payments, defaults, or debt collection activity may be recorded depending on the supplier and situation.

What if I’m in fuel poverty or vulnerable?

Tell your supplier if you’re struggling, especially if there are health or vulnerability factors in your household. Suppliers should consider support options, including affordable repayment arrangements and advice on reducing consumption.

How long does switching take in the UK?

When a switch is successful, it’s typically completed within a few working days. If there’s an objection or data issue (like address/meter details), it can take longer.

If you want us to look at your switching route, start here: compare & check eligibility.

Why households use EnergyPlus

Whole-of-market comparison

We compare across the market to help you find tariffs that suit your home, payment method, and preferences.

UK-focused guidance

Clear explanations of switching rules, prepayment considerations, and what to do when a switch is blocked.

Support from start to switch

If you leave your details, we can help you understand your likely eligibility before you waste time on failed switches.

“I thought I couldn’t switch because of arrears. EnergyPlus explained what I needed to do first and helped me compare options.”

— Home energy customer, UK

“The guidance on prepayment debt was the clearest I’d seen. I understood my next steps straight away.”

— Prepayment customer, UK

Ready to see if you can switch — even with energy debt?

Submit your details and we’ll help you check eligibility and compare whole-of-market home energy options for your postcode.

No obligation
Whole-of-market comparison
UK-focused support for credit and prepayment meters

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Updated on 3 Feb 2026