Help with household bills
Payment plans
If you’re worried about paying your bills, contact your supplier as early as possible. Ofgem’s rules mean that your supplier must work with you to agree on a payment plan that you can afford.
Priority Services Register
Energy providers have a Priority Service Register which is a list of customers who may need extra advice and help, including when there’s an interruption to your gas, electricity or water supply.
Winter Fuel Payments
If you are over 65 you may be eligible for the Winter Fuel Payment
Cold Weather Payments
If you’re in receipt of certain benefits you may be eligible for Cold Weather Payments
Supplier support schemes
Many utility companies offer a support scheme if you’re on a low income and struggling with energy costs. If you are not sure who to contact, the Ofgem website has a useful page to help.
Manage deductions from your benefits to pay debts and bills
If you’re in receipt of benefits, you can arrange for some of your bills, such as rent or water, to be paid directly out of your benefits payment. Take a look at the Government’s website for more details.
Scam Alert
Some scammers are pretending to be from energy companies or government departments. They can contact you in many ways including by text message, email, social media, by phone or in person.
If you think something might be a scam don't give out any personal information or bank details.
Get advice on scams from the Citizens Advice website.