What happens if I don’t pay my energy bills?

This will vary depending on your supplier. If you miss a payment, your supplier will contact you asking you to pay and let them know if something is wrong.

If you don't pay back any missed payments, your supplier may take further action.

This could eventually result in any of the following:

• You are contacted by a debt collection agency (like Ophelos).
• Your credit file will be negatively affected.
• Your supplier could have a prepayment meter fitted in your home
• Your supplier could cut off your supply.
• Your supplier could take you to court.

Stepchange explains the various steps of the debt collection process here.
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Struggling to pay your bills?

Not paying your bills can cause problems for you in the future. It's highly recommended to keep paying your bills if you can.

There is help available if you're worried about being able to cover your bills and your basic necessities. You can find more information from Citizens Advice here.

Citizens Advice can help you with:

• Different ways to pay for your energy which may make things easier for you.
• Links to grants and schemes to help you pay for your energy bills.
• Further support if you are struggling with living costs.
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In debt with your supplier and struggling to make repayments?

You should try to keep on top of your monthly usage to stop the debt from increasing, even if you can’t afford to make payments towards your debt.

You should also contact your supplier as soon as you can to let them know you are finding it difficult to make repayments. It is important to let them know if you are worried so they are aware of your situation, and can recommend how to manage going forward.
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If you can’t afford your energy bills at all

It is important to get in touch with your supplier (or Ophelos) as soon as possible if you are struggling to pay.

You should also get in touch if you have decided to seek further help. This is so they are aware of your situation and will know why you haven’t paid or been able to engage.
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When you get in touch, your supplier may do the following:

• Discuss your circumstances in more detail and suggest a solution to suit you
• Give you some space to allow you to explore your options
• Refer you to organisations who can offer you help
• Place a hold on any debt collection activity to give you time to find support

Your supplier should also deal with someone who is working on your behalf if you find it difficult to contact them yourself. They will need your explicit permission to do so