Energy tariff deals with bill credit for switching (UK)
Compare whole-of-market home energy tariffs that may include switching bill credit. Check eligibility, see estimated costs, and submit one quick form to explore deals for your postcode.
- Whole-of-market comparison for UK households (gas, electricity, or dual fuel)
- Identify tariffs that offer bill credit, account credit or cashback-style incentives
- See contract length, unit rates and standing charges side-by-side
- Switch with confidence: keep your supply on during the changeover
Bill credit offers vary by supplier, tariff and eligibility. We’ll always show the underlying tariff costs (unit rates and standing charges) so you can compare fairly.
Find switching deals that may include bill credit
Some UK energy suppliers run promotions that add credit to your energy account when you switch. These offers can be useful, but the best value usually comes from the total cost of the tariff (unit rate + standing charge) over the full contract term.
EnergyPlus compares whole-of-market home energy tariffs and highlights where an offer includes bill credit or an equivalent incentive. Submit the form and we’ll use your details to explore suitable deals for your location.
What you’ll get
- Estimated annual cost and monthly equivalents where available
- Visibility of bill credit / switching incentive terms (when offered)
- Tariff type, contract length, exit fees (if applicable)
- Guidance on timing your switch, Direct Debit set-up, and first bill
What is bill credit for switching?
A bill credit (sometimes described as account credit or a switching bonus) is an incentive where a supplier adds money to your energy account after you switch and meet the promotion rules. Instead of cash paid to your bank, it typically appears as a credit on your energy balance and reduces what you owe on future bills.
Not every tariff includes bill credit, and the biggest credit is not always the best deal. When comparing tariffs, the key is to weigh the incentive against the full tariff cost over the contract period.
Why consider switching deals with bill credit?
Immediate boost to your balance
If you pay by Direct Debit, account credit can reduce the amount you owe and help smooth higher-usage months (typically winter).
Useful when tariffs are close
When two tariffs have similar rates, a switching credit can make the difference—so long as the underlying tariff remains competitive.
Transparent comparison
A whole-of-market comparison helps you see the credit alongside unit rates, standing charges, contract length and any exit fees.
Can offset set-up timing
Some people switch just before higher seasonal usage. A credit applied after supply start can reduce early bills.
Often available on dual fuel
Suppliers sometimes reserve the best incentives for customers switching both gas and electricity together.
No disruption to supply
Switching supplier doesn’t mean switching off. Your energy keeps flowing while the change is processed.
How switching bill credit typically works
- You choose a tariff that includes a credit offer (where available).
- The supplier processes the switch—you’ll usually get a supply start date.
- You set up payment (often Direct Debit) and provide opening meter readings if requested.
- The credit is applied after certain conditions are met—commonly after supply starts, after your first bill, or after a set number of days.
- Your bill is reduced because the credit appears as a positive balance on your account.
Common terms to look for
- New customers only (or not available if you’ve been with the supplier recently).
- Payment method requirements (often Direct Debit; sometimes eBilling).
- Minimum supply period (credit might be removed if you leave early).
- One credit per household (address-based eligibility is common).
- Time-limited promotions (offer can change quickly).
How to compare bill-credit energy deals properly
A £50 or £100 switching credit can look compelling, but it’s only part of the picture. A tariff with higher unit rates may cost more overall, even after the credit. Use a “total cost” mindset:
| What to check | Why it matters | Quick tip |
|---|---|---|
| Unit rate (p/kWh) | This is what you pay for each unit of gas/electricity used. Small differences add up over a year. | Compare using your typical usage if you know it (kWh), not just monthly Direct Debit. |
| Standing charge (p/day) | A daily charge regardless of usage. It can outweigh a switching credit over time. | Lower usage homes should pay extra attention to standing charges. |
| Contract length | Longer fixes can be stable, but you’ll want to understand exit fees and market changes. | A large credit tied to a long fix can be less flexible. |
| Exit fees (if fixed) | Leaving early may cost you, which can cancel out the value of a switching credit. | If you might move soon, consider flexibility. |
| Credit conditions | Credit may apply after the first bill, after X days, or only if you keep Direct Debit active. | Check when it’s applied and whether it’s removed if you switch again. |
Rule of thumb: treat bill credit as a bonus, not the reason to switch. If the tariff is still cheaper (or similar) once you account for rates and charges, then the credit is genuine extra value.
Eligibility: who can get switching bill credit?
Eligibility depends on the supplier and the exact tariff. Most bill credit offers are designed for domestic customers switching their home supply and may come with specific criteria.
Often eligible
- Households switching supplier (gas, electricity, or dual fuel)
- New customers to the supplier (based on address or account history)
- Customers happy to pay by Direct Debit and manage bills online
- Homes with standard meters or smart meters (depends on supplier policy)
May have restrictions
- Customers currently on certain legacy or special tariffs
- Homes with complex metering (some multi-rate / restricted meters)
- People who have switched to the same supplier recently
- Accounts with outstanding debt (supplier-specific)
Not sure? Submit the form above and we’ll focus on tariffs that match your household and region. If a bill-credit offer has special conditions, we’ll highlight what to check.
Common mistakes when chasing switching credit
Ignoring standing charges
A higher daily standing charge can erase the value of bill credit over the contract term, especially for low-usage homes.
Not checking when credit is applied
Some offers apply after the first bill or after a set period. If you expect immediate credit, you could be disappointed.
Switching again too soon
You might lose the credit if you leave before minimum terms. Also watch for exit fees on fixed tariffs.
Comparing on Direct Debit only
Monthly payments can be adjusted. Focus on the annual cost estimate and your projected usage (kWh) where possible.
Forgetting regional pricing
Energy rates vary by region. A deal in one area can be less competitive elsewhere—your postcode matters.
Not taking meter type into account
If you have Economy 7 or another multi-rate setup, check that the tariff structure fits your usage pattern.
FAQs: bill credit energy tariffs in the UK
Is bill credit the same as cashback?
Not always. Bill credit is typically applied to your energy account balance, reducing future bills. Cashback can be paid to your bank or as a voucher depending on the promotion. Some suppliers use the terms interchangeably, so it’s important to check the offer wording and when it’s applied.
When will the credit show on my account?
It depends on the supplier and tariff. Common trigger points include after your supply starts, after your first bill is issued, or after a set number of days. If timing matters to you, prioritise deals that apply the credit earlier and have clear terms.
Can I switch if I’m in credit with my current supplier?
Yes. If you’re in credit, your current supplier should refund the balance after your final bill is produced. Keep your final meter readings and ensure your contact details are correct to avoid delays.
Will switching affect my smart meter?
In many cases, smart meters continue to work after you switch, but functionality can vary by supplier and meter type. If you rely on smart features (like in-home display readings), it’s worth confirming support when choosing a tariff.
Is it better to choose a fixed or variable tariff to get switching credit?
Both can have incentives. A fixed tariff can provide price stability but may include exit fees. A variable tariff is usually more flexible but can change in price. The best choice depends on your priorities: stability, flexibility, or the overall total cost even after the credit.
Do I need my current supplier details to get started?
A postcode is a strong starting point for availability and regional pricing. If you have your recent bill, having your tariff name and usage can improve accuracy, but you can still begin without it.
Will my energy be cut off when I switch?
No. Switching supplier is an administrative change. Your gas and electricity supply continues uninterrupted.
What households like about comparing with EnergyPlus
“I wanted a switching bonus but didn’t want to overpay on rates. The comparison made it clear what I’d pay over the year.”
— Homeowner, West Midlands
“The postcode-based results were helpful. I didn’t realise pricing differed by region until I compared properly.”
— Tenant, Greater Manchester
“Straightforward form and clear next steps. I understood when the credit would apply and what I’d actually pay.”
— Family household, Kent
Trust check: Always review tariff terms before you switch, including how bill credit is awarded, any minimum supply period, and whether exit fees apply.
Ready to compare bill-credit energy deals?
Submit a quick enquiry and we’ll help you compare whole-of-market UK home energy tariffs, highlighting where switching credit may be available—without losing sight of the real cost.
Domestic customers only. Credit offers are subject to supplier terms and may change. If you’re unsure about your meter type or tariff, we’ll help you understand what to check.
Quick checklist before you switch
- Have your postcode ready (regional rates vary)
- Check if you’re on a fixed tariff with exit fees
- Know your rough usage (if available on a bill)
- Confirm when the switching credit is applied
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