fbpx
The Debt Advice Service
  • Energy prices

    Debt and Rising Energy Bills – Not a Good Mix

    The ongoing crisis of the rise in the rising cost of living is affecting millions. There’s no getting away from it.

    What seemed to start off as huge rises in the price of petrol, has now spread to almost every area of our daily lives, with household bills only predicted to go one way.

    There has been acknowledgement from the Government, with the announcement of a £150 Council Tax rebate for all Direct Debit customers in properties with an A to D banding, but for many, that simply won’t be enough to make a difference.

    Energy bills are soaring, and the increase to the energy price cap means that the average UK household will spend almost £700 more on energy this coming year*. For some, it will be a lot more.

    If you’re already struggling with debt, this will be pretty worrying news.

    Help is available though; you just have to know where to look.

    So, what should you do and where should you go if you’re struggling to balance rising energy bills with your existing debt problems?

    You may be able to take advantage of certain benefits, grants and other forms of help, which may be available from the Government or the energy suppliers themselves.

    These include:

    Warm Home Discount Scheme

    If you are currently getting the ‘guarantee credit’ part of Pension Credit, or you are on a low income, you could be entitled to £140 off your electricity bill, or a £140 voucher for your prepayment meter.

    Full details are available at:

    https://www.gov.uk/the-warm-home-discount-scheme

    Winter Fuel Payment

    This is an annual one-off payment aimed to help you pay for heating during the colder winter months. If you were born on or before the 26th September 1955, you’re eligible for this payment.

    Full details are available at:

    https://www.gov.uk/winter-fuel-payment

    Cold Weather Payments

    These payments help you pay for the extra cost of heating your home when the weather gets particularly cold. Whenever the temperature reaches a specific point for a set period of time, you’ll be eligible for a payment as long as you already get Pension Credit, Income Support, Income Based Jobseeker’s Allowance, Income Related Employment and Support Allowance or Universal Credit.

    Full details are available at:

    https://www.gov.uk/cold-weather-payment

    Grants to Help Pay Off Energy Debts

    If you’re already in debt to your energy supplier, there may be an option to get a grant to help pay this debt off.

    Customer grants are available from British Gas Energy Trust, Scottish Power Hardship Fund, Ovo Energy Fund, E.ON Energy Fund, E.ON Next Energy Fund, EDF Energy Customer Support Fund, Bulb Energy Fund.

    Whilst customers of these energy suppliers can apply for support from the company itself, there may also be the possibility to get a grant from British Gas Energy Trust, even if you are not a British Gas customer. Full details of your financial situation will be needed, and the process can be quite lengthy, but it could be a lifeline.

    Extra Help from Your Supplier

    If you are vulnerable, disabled, sick or of state pension age, you may be able to get additional support from your supplier to help with things like reading your energy meter, moving your meter free of charge, and even getting your energy bills sent or copied to someone else, such as a carer or family member.

    Although it can be stressful and worrying to see the rise in the cost of energy, especially if you’re already in debt, it’s important to remember that there are options out there which may provide some vital help for vulnerable people

    https://www.moneysavingexpert.com/news/2022/02/energy-bills-set-to-rocket-for-millions-as-ofgem-confirms-new-pr/

    Share This Post With Friend

    Comments

    Lucy R.
    Lucy R.14-11-2020
    Read More
    “Always there at the end of the phone if I have any concerns, they’ve really put my mind at ease. Can’t rate them enough. Finally on the road to being debt free. Thank you guys!”
    George
    George18-06-2020
    Read More
    “I feel so much better about my debts and life has now started to get put back into perspective, so thank you very much for everything you have done!”
    Judi
    Judi15-01-2021
    Read More
    “The entire experience was carried out online and via telephone calls….it was as clear as day. I wish I was bold enough years ago. I can’t recommend you enough.”
    Ty
    Ty17-01-2021
    Read More
    “An absolutely excellent service. The representatives on the phone were more than polite and friendly, they made me feel so comfortable making a decision.”
    Amanda
    Amanda20-01-2021
    Read More
    “I can’t recommend enough, they are so understanding, non-judgmental and helpful. Finally had a good night’s sleep and can see a light at the end of the tunnel.”
    Loretta
    Loretta01-03-2021
    Read More
    “Very professional and helpful. Lifted a weight from my shoulders. Thank you.”

    Recent Posts

    Categories

    The Debt Advice Service

    We will not charge you a fee for providing you with information to help you decide on an appropriate debt solution. However, if you subsequently enter into debt solution process we may receive payment from the provider for information that we have given to you in advance and/or for assisting you in gathering necessary documentation to begin your chosen solution. Any such fees will be explained in detail by the provider before commencing your chosen debt solution.

    Contact us today | Get on track to a debt-free life

    No one should have to deal with financial troubles alone. Whether you’re looking to resolve your financial struggle once and for all or just want to ease the burden by talking things through, we can offer you information and assistance on how best to proceed. Get in touch today to take the first step towards a better financial future. See if you qualify.