Do you find paying your energy bill confusing? It does not have to be. There are simple ways to send money to your energy supplier. You just have to choose the one that is convenient for you. Good customer support will guide you if you are unsure.
A payment method is simply the way you send money for a service. For energy bills, there are several options. Some are automatic. Some you do yourself. All can be quick and safe if you follow the right steps.
Direct Debit (DD)
Direct Debit is the easiest and most common method. Your energy supplier takes the money from your bank account every month. This happens on an agreed date. You do not need to remember payment deadlines.
Many suppliers give discounts when you pay by Direct Debit. You also pay the same amount each month. This makes it easier to plan your budget. If your energy use changes, your supplier will adjust the payment.
Direct Debit is best if you want bills paid on time without thinking about them.
BACS Transfer
BACS means Bankers’ Automated Clearing Services. It is a bank-to-bank transfer. You send money from your account to your energy supplier’s account.
This method is preferred for one-off or occasional payments. A BACS payment usually takes one or two working days. You can send it using online banking, by phone, or at your bank branch.
Always use the correct account number and payment reference from your supplier. This makes sure the payment reaches your account. If you switch energy supply, update your payment details straight away.
Debit or Credit Card
Paying with a card is often simple and convenient. Payments can be made online, via phone, or through your supplier’s application.
Card payments are often processed on the same day, which is ideal for paying urgent or last-minute bills. Since payments are made directly, there are no restrictions on when payments can be made.
Customer support can assist with any issues, and many suppliers allow customer card details to be stored for faster payments in the future.
(You cannot miss paying energy bills on time because it is more than just a missed payment. See how!)
Which Should You Choose?
- Use Direct Debit if you want automated payments, simple automatic payments, and effortless financial planning.
- Use BACS Transfer if you want to have more control over payment scheduling.
- Use Debit or Credit Card if you need to make a payment immediately.
Always confirm whether your energy supplier provides payment type discounts. When switching energy suppliers, consider reviewing payment terms with the new supplier. Your payment process for bills should be effortless, transparent, and not cause any stress.
