I am having problems paying my electricity
bill - what can you advise?
Firstly, be reassured that electricity supply
companies will only disconnect your supply
as a last resort.
If you are having problems with payments you
should:
- Contact your supplier, explain the problem
and try to come to some arrangement. In
general they will try to be helpful and
understanding. Tell the company if you are
on benefit, have young children, if you
are elderly, sick or disabled.
- Ask about budget schemes that spread
payments weekly or monthly over the year.
- If you are a local authority tenant ask
if you can pay your bill with your rent.
- Contact the Benefits Agency if you are
on Income Support or Income-Based Jobseeker's
Allowance to arrange a deduction from your
benefit.
- Ask your supplier about having a pre-payment
meter installed.
- Get energy advice. If you need advice
on reducing your fuel bills call freephone
0800 7838441
If you have a dispute with
your electricity supplier contact:
Energywatch on 0845
906 0708 or visit their website
www.energywatch.org.uk
If you think
the problem is part of an overall debt problem
seek advice from one of the following:
Payplan - The Free Debt Advice Agency
Freephone 0800 917 7823
Email: help@payplan.com
Web: www.payplan.com
Citizens Advice Bureaux - www.nacab.org.uk
National Debtline - 0808 808 4000
Money Advice Association
- www.moneyadviceassociation.org.uk
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