What to do if you’re struggling with energy bills and debts
*PLEASE BE AWARE THIS IS AN OLDER POST AND THERE MAY BE A MORE UP TO DATE POST, OR UPDATED INFORMATION AVAILABLE ON https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/ *
With energy bills skyrocketing and the cost of living rising, we understand that many people may be worrying about their energy bills, and we want to make sure you have access to the right advice to help you deal with your situation and be aware of what support is out there.
What support is available if I’m struggling to pay my bills?
Warm Homes Discount Scheme
This scheme allows you to potentially get £140 off your electric bill over the winter months. It comes in the form of a one-off discount on your bill between October and March. To be eligible for the scheme you must either receive the Guarantee Credit element of Pension Credit, or you’re on a low income and meet your supplier’s criteria.
Winter Fuel Payment
The Winter Fuel Payment is a one-off payment to help you with your heating bills over the winter. You could get between £100 and £300 and you’re eligible if you were born on or before 26 September 1955. You will receive the payment automatically if you get the State Pension, or another social security benefit that isn’t housing benefit, council tax reduction, child benefit or universal credit. If you don’t receive any of these, you may need to make a claim.
Find out how much you could get here.
Cold Weather Payments
Similar to the Winter Fuel Payment, this is an automatic one-off payment to help cover extra heating costs when it’s very cold. There is no age restriction on this, but you have to be receiving:
Pension Credit
Income Support
Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance
Income-related Employment and Support Allowance
Universal Credit
Support for Mortgage Interest
Check your receiving the correct income that you’re entitled to
You can maximise your income by checking you’re receiving the right wage with the National Minimum Wage calculator, where you can also check if your employer owes you any money.
You should also check that any deductions made from your wage, like tax, national insurance, student loan repayments, or pension contributions, are correct. You can find information about how much should be deducted on the government website.
You may be able to claim benefits that you didn’t know you could. Use a benefits calculator to find out if you’re entitled to anything and how you can apply.
What help is available to help me pay off energy debts?
If you’re in debt with your energy supplier, it’s really important you reach out for help as soon as possible. The sooner you take control of your debts, the easier it will be to help your situation.
You should speak to your supplier and agree to a payment plan so you can pay back your debts in affordable instalments. If you get offered a payment plan you can’t afford or you think you’re being charged too much, try and negotiate a better deal.
The Fuel Direct Scheme allows you to pay off energy debts directly from your benefits. You should contact your JobCentre to see if you’re eligible.
Some energy companies offer grants, or you can access grants through charitable trusts like The British Gas Energy Trust. You could also get local energy grants. Find out if you’re eligible on the Simple Energy Advice website.
Changes you can make to save money on your bills
Sometimes, it’s the small things that can make a big difference to your energy bill. Did you know that turning your heating down by just 1° can save you around £85 a year? You can also save around £45 a year by remembering to switch off your appliances from stand-by, or turning them off at the plug when not using them.
You should aim to fill up things like your washing machine and dishwasher until full before running a cycle, and try to limit your shower time. One minute less in the shower can save you up to £5 a year off your bill per person! You can also invest in a water efficient shower head.
Find more quick energy saving tips here!
If you need help or advice about an energy issue, get in touch with our team today - call us free on 0808 2787 801, or complete the contact form on our website to speak to one of our advisers.
