Advice on what to do if you can't afford your gas and electricity bills has been set out by Citizens Advice.
Those who are struggling to pay their energy bills should get in touch with their supplier to learn more about the ways they can pay the money they owe.
As reported by Hull Live, suppliers must work with you to negotiate a solution that is acceptable for both parties.
READ MORE — Glasgow weather: Snow and sleet predicted on Friday by BBC and Met Office
If you don't reach out and try to come to an agreement with your supplier, they may threaten to cut you off.
People who are unable to afford the full amount of their bill should tell their supplier that they would like to pay the money in instalments.
This way, you can pay smaller and more affordable amounts over a longer period.
These payment plans will include the money previously owed as well as the cost of the energy you are currently using.
Your supplier must take into account:
- how much you can afford to pay - give them details about your income and outgoings, debts and personal circumstances
- how much energy you’ll use in future - they’ll estimate this based on your past usage, but give them regular meter readings to make this more accurate
Additionally, you may be able to pay the money owed direct from your benefits through the Fuel Direct Scheme.
A specified sum will automatically be subtracted from your benefits to cover the money owed, as well as an additional amount to cover your current energy use.
It can be more convenient than having a prepayment meter fitted (which your supplier might try to do if you can’t agree a payment plan) and you won’t risk running out of gas or electricity.
To be eligible, you must be getting one of the following benefits:
- Income-Based Jobseeker’s Allowance
- Income Support
- income-related Employment and Support Allowance
- Pension Credit
- Universal Credit (but only if you’re not working)
Get in touch with your local Jobcentre and inform them that you would like to set up Fuel Direct.
They will then contact your supplier and let them know that you wish to pay off the money that you owe through the Fuel Direct Scheme — and your supplier must agree to this.
Your supplier will set up the repayments and let you know how much you will be paying.
If you are unable to negotiate a payment plan with your supplier, or if you break the terms of a plan previously agreed upon, they may try and force you to get a prepayment meter installed.
In certain circumstances, they may even threaten to disconnect you.
There are a number of energy companies who offer grants and schemes that are open to anyone - you don't have to be a customer.
You might be able to get a grant from a charitable trust to help pay off your debts. Let's Talk has more information on available grants and how to apply.
If you’re disabled, elderly or you get benefits, check whether you can get other help paying your energy bills.
If you can’t come to an agreement with your supplier about repaying your debt, or you’re not happy with the option they’ve given you, contact the Citizens Advice consumer helpline for advice.
