You're not alone, and you have rights. Contact your supplier as soon as you can: it must work with you on a payment plan you can afford. Free, confidential debt advice is available today.
Checked 7 October 2026Written by the MyBillChecker team
What to do first
Tell your supplier you're struggling. Ask for a repayment plan based on what you can afford.
Join its Priority Services Register if you're older, disabled, ill or have young children.
Ask about hardship funds and grants. Many suppliers run them.
Get free debt advice from Citizens Advice, StepChange or National Debtline. They're free and won't judge you.
Check your bill too
If your debt built up from estimated bills or old charges, part of it may not be owed. Our checker can spot this. [Update: Ofgem has proposed a Debt Relief Scheme for some households with energy-crisis debts; check whether it's open.]
Frequently asked questions
Can they cut me off?
Disconnection for debt is rare and heavily restricted. Talk to your supplier and an adviser straight away.
Will switching help?
Fix the debt first. Some suppliers can block a switch while you owe money.
