Fixed energy tariff ending March 2026? When to switch and what to check
If your fixed deal ends in March 2026, you don’t have to wait. You can usually switch before it ends (but exit fees and timing matter). This guide explains the smartest windows to switch, what happens at the end of a fix, and how to compare safely for your meter type and payment method.
- Know the key dates: exit-fee-free window, supplier “end of fix” notice, and the switch lead time
- See two realistic cost scenarios with clear assumptions and caveats
- Compare options for Direct Debit vs prepayment, and smart vs traditional meters
EnergyPlus is a whole-of-market comparison service for UK homes. Prices and availability vary by region, meter type, payment method and credit checks where applicable.
Fast answer: should you switch before March 2026?
Often, yes — but only when the numbers work after any exit fees and with the right meter/payment assumptions. If your fix ends in March 2026, you can typically switch earlier, and many suppliers stop charging exit fees in the last part of the contract (check your terms).
Key takeaways (UK)
- Check exit fees first — they can make an early switch poor value.
- Don’t assume the “Standard Variable Tariff” is cheapest. It’s the default when a fix ends, but not always the best deal.
- Switching usually completes in ~5 working days for domestic customers (you won’t be cut off).
- Your price depends on region and meter type (single-rate, Economy 7, smart, prepayment).
A simple rule of thumb
Switch early if the estimated annual cost difference (new deal vs current deal/SVT) is greater than:
- Exit fees (if any), plus
- Any lost benefits (e.g., bundled rewards), plus
- The value of flexibility you give up (a longer fix may be harder to leave).
Quick check: Find your contract end date and any exit fee in your online account, app, latest bill, or welcome email. If you can’t find it, ask your supplier for your “tariff end date” and “termination fee”.
Compare tariffs now (and keep your March 2026 date in mind)
If your fix ends in March 2026, comparing now helps you understand what you’d pay if you:
- switch immediately (and possibly pay an exit fee),
- wait until the exit-fee-free window (if your tariff has one), or
- do nothing and move onto your supplier’s standard variable tariff (SVT).
What you’ll need (2 minutes):
- Postcode (tariffs vary by region)
- Rough usage (or choose “I don’t know” and we’ll use typical estimates)
- Your meter type: single-rate, Economy 7, smart meter, or prepayment
Get a whole-of-market quote
Switching timeline for a March 2026 end date
1) Check your tariff terms
Look for your end date, any exit fees, and whether fees reduce to £0 in the final part of your fix. Terms vary by supplier and tariff.
2) Compare tariffs (now and later)
Run a comparison now, then set a reminder to re-check closer to the end of your fix. Prices can change.
3) Apply to switch
Most domestic switches complete in around 5 working days. You keep supply throughout.
4) Final meter reading & first bill
You may be asked for a meter reading (even with a smart meter). Keep it for your records to avoid billing disputes.
If you do nothing: when your fixed tariff ends, you’ll normally be moved to your supplier’s standard variable tariff (SVT). You can usually switch away from the SVT at any time without exit fees, but your prices may be higher than a suitable fixed or discounted variable deal.
Two realistic scenarios (with numbers)
These examples show how to think about switching early vs waiting. They’re illustrative estimates and won’t match every tariff or household.
Scenario A: medium-use dual fuel, exit fees make “switch now” poor value
- Assumptions
- Direct Debit; single-rate electricity; typical medium usage; tariff end date: March 2026; exit fee: £150 (electric) + £150 (gas) = £300.
- Price comparison (estimated)
- Switching today would reduce costs by about £20/month vs staying on the current fix until March 2026.
- What the maths suggests
- Break-even: £300 ÷ £20 ˜ 15 months. If March 2026 is closer than that, switching now is unlikely to pay back the fee.
Better approach: plan to compare again when exit fees drop to £0 (if your tariff has that), or when you’re within a few weeks of your end date.
Scenario B: low exit fees + big SVT jump makes switching early sensible
- Assumptions
- Direct Debit; dual fuel; exit fee total £60; your fix ends March 2026; you expect to roll onto SVT if you do nothing.
- Price comparison (estimated)
- A suitable fixed deal today is estimated at £35/month less than the SVT you’d otherwise pay after your fix ends.
- What the maths suggests
- Break-even: £60 ÷ £35 ˜ 2 months. If you’re within a few months of moving to SVT (or already on it), switching can be worthwhile.
Reality check: the “right” tariff depends on your meter type (e.g., Economy 7) and whether you can pay by Direct Debit. Always compare using your actual details.
Note: We’ve used monthly differences to show the logic clearly. Your actual savings (if any) depend on tariff unit rates/standing charges, usage, region and any fees.
What to choose: fixed vs variable vs waiting (March 2026)
Use this comparison to narrow down which route suits you, then run a quote with your postcode, payment method and meter type.
| Option | Best for | Watch-outs | When it makes sense |
|---|---|---|---|
| Switch to a new fixed tariff now | You want price certainty and the numbers beat your current deal/SVT even after fees. | Exit fees; longer fixes can be harder to leave; check if rates apply to your exact meter type. | You’re near the end of your fix, fees are low/£0, or SVT would be meaningfully higher. |
| Wait, then switch in the best window | Your current fix is still competitive, or exit fees would outweigh savings today. | Prices could rise; you might roll onto SVT if you forget; availability can change. | Your exit fees are high until close to March 2026 and you’re happy to monitor. |
| Move onto SVT (do nothing) | You need flexibility and don’t want a new commitment right now. | SVT can be more expensive; prices can change; budgeting becomes harder. | Short-term stopgap while you gather info or resolve meter/tenancy issues. |
| Specialist tariffs (e.g., Economy 7, EV, tracker) | Your household has specific usage patterns (night heating, EV charging, solar/export). | Can be risky if usage shifts; time-of-use rates need careful checking; not always available for prepayment. | You understand your consumption profile and can benefit from off-peak pricing. |
Decision checklist (use this before you switch)
- Tariff end date: is it definitely March 2026?
- Exit fees: how much for gas and electricity separately?
- Meter type: single-rate vs Economy 7 vs prepayment vs smart.
- Payment method: Direct Debit, on receipt of bill, or prepayment.
- Standing charge: compare this as well as unit rates.
- Customer service needs: app, call centre hours, billing frequency.
Who switching early tends to suit
- People within a few months of their end date, especially if exit fees are low/£0.
- Households facing a large jump when moving to SVT.
- Anyone who values budget certainty and prefers a fix.
Who it may not suit (yet)
- High exit fees that would take many months to recoup.
- Unclear meter set-up (e.g., Economy 7 but mostly day usage) until you confirm usage.
- Tenants with very short remaining tenancy (you can switch, but admin may not be worth it).
Costs, exclusions and common pitfalls (UK-specific)
Exit fees and contract terms
Some fixed tariffs charge exit fees if you leave before the end date. Fees can apply per fuel and may change depending on how close you are to March 2026. Always check your own tariff information.
Direct Debit vs prepayment
Not every tariff is available for every payment method. If you’re on a prepayment meter, options can be more limited and prices can differ. Compare using your real set-up.
Economy 7 and time-of-use
If you have Economy 7, your night/day split matters. A tariff that looks cheap on average can cost more if most of your usage is at the higher day rate.
Standing charges
Standing charges vary by region and tariff. A low unit rate can be offset by a higher standing charge — especially for low-use households.
Moving home or changing tenancy
If you move, your existing tariff usually won’t follow you automatically. If you expect to move before March 2026, prioritise flexibility and check the supplier’s moving-home process.
Debt, blocked switches and disputes
In some circumstances (e.g., certain debts on prepayment, or an active dispute), switching can be delayed. If you’re unsure, get advice and resolve billing issues first.
Good habit: take and keep a dated photo of your meter reading on switch day (even with a smart meter). It helps if final bills are wrong.
FAQs
Can I switch before my fixed tariff ends in March 2026?
Usually yes, but you may pay an exit fee if your tariff includes one. Check your tariff terms (often shown in your online account, bill, or tariff information label).
What happens if I do nothing when my fix ends?
You’ll normally move to your supplier’s standard variable tariff (SVT). You can typically switch away from an SVT at any time without exit fees, but prices can be higher and can change.
How long does switching take in the UK?
For most domestic switches, it’s typically completed in around 5 working days. You won’t lose supply during the switch.
Will switching affect my smart meter?
In most cases, your supply continues normally. Smart functionality can vary by meter and supplier, but many smart meters work across suppliers. If you rely on in-home display readings, confirm how your new supplier supports your meter.
I’m on Economy 7 — can I switch like-for-like?
Yes, but you must compare Economy 7 tariffs specifically. The cheapest deal depends on your day/night usage split, and peak/off-peak times can vary by region and meter configuration.
Can renters switch energy supplier if their tariff ends March 2026?
Usually yes if you pay the energy bills. You don’t need the landlord’s permission in most situations, but check your tenancy agreement for any metering restrictions and make sure you’ll be at the property long enough for switching to be worthwhile.
Do I need my MPAN/MPRN to switch?
Not usually. Your postcode and address are often enough. If there’s an address mismatch or a meter query, your new supplier may ask for your MPAN (electricity) or MPRN (gas), found on your bill.
Should I fix again, or go variable, if my fix ends March 2026?
It depends on your priorities. Fixing can help budgeting and protect against price changes for the term, but may come with exit fees. Variable deals can offer flexibility but can change. Compare total estimated annual cost and read the tariff terms.
Trust, methodology and sources
Page details
- Written by: EnergyPlus Editorial Team
- Reviewed by: Energy Specialist
- Last updated: February 2026
How we assess “should I switch now?”
We focus on what changes the outcome most for UK households with fixed tariffs ending in March 2026:
- Exit fees: whether they apply, how much, and whether they fall to £0 near the end of the fix.
- Regional pricing: standing charges and unit rates vary by distribution region and supplier.
- Meter and payment compatibility: single-rate vs Economy 7 vs prepayment vs smart; Direct Debit vs other payment methods.
- Total cost comparison: we look at estimated annual cost (unit rate + standing charge) rather than unit rate alone.
- Practical switching constraints: moving home, billing disputes, and cases where switching may be delayed.
Limitations: This guide can’t quote live prices for your exact home because tariffs change and depend on your postcode, meter type, payment method and usage. Use our quote form for personalised results and always confirm tariff terms (including exit fees) before switching.
Sources (UK)
- Ofgem (energy regulator) — consumer guidance, switching rules and market updates
- Citizens Advice: Energy — help with bills, switching, complaints and disputes
- GOV.UK — general consumer and household guidance (including support schemes where relevant)
Ready to check your best option before March 2026?
Compare whole-of-market home energy tariffs by postcode. We’ll show options that match your meter type and payment method, with clear notes on key terms.
Back to Guides & FAQs