1 Money Helper. The best way to pay bills.
From gas payments to electricity bills, paying utility bills in the UK can generally be done with relative ease. This guide explores different payment methods and more.
This article includes tips, suggestions and general information. We recommend that you always do your own research and consider getting independent tax, financial and legal advice before making any important decision.
Wondering how to pay electricity bills in the UK? Paying for UK gas and electric bills can be done in several ways. Let's explore them in more detail.
A common way to manage bill payments, direct debit refers to an automated payment method wherein a fixed amount is deducted regularly from a customer's bank account.
Using direct debits to pay bills can help ensure payments are made on time and avoid late payment penalties. In the UK, customers can choose to have their bills debited from their accounts on a monthly or quarterly basis.1
How can an electricity bill be paid online in the UK? Often offered directly through the utility provider’s website, choosing to pay online can be a convenient method for gas and electricity bill payments. Here are some potential benefits:
Keep in mind that when paying online, individuals must remember to pay their bills, rather than the payment being automated.
Paying upon receiving a bill means making a payment each time a new bill arrives, typically by cash, cheque, or card. Each gas and electricity bill in the UK normally contains detailed instructions to complete a bank transfer, write a cheque, or pay via a credit or debit card.
More than four million households in the UK still use prepayment meters.2 Also known as "pay-as-you-go" meters, prepayment meters generally require consumers to pay for their energy usage in advance. They can allow individuals to monitor their gas and electricity usage directly.
These physical meters can be installed inside a home and may need to be topped up regularly, with tokens, a key, or a smart card. These top-ups can be purchased at a range of venues, including post offices, newsagents, corner shops, and supermarkets.
Utility payments may also be made via bank transfers or standing orders. This can be done online through a bank's website or mobile app or in person at a bank branch.
It’s possible to pay utility bills using a credit card online or physically at a post office, bank, or store.
Not paying an electricity or gas bill on time may result in late fees. Repeated failure to pay may impact an individual’s credit score,3 or in extreme cases, the gas or electricity supply could be disconnected.
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