How to switch energy suppliers in seven simple steps

Want to switch to a cheaper energy supplier but think it might be too much of a fuss? It should actually be quite straightforward if you follow a few simple steps.

:: Check whether moving will incur a fee for cancelling your current deal. Exit fees are commonplace for fixed rate tariffs but all suppliers should allow you to leave up to 49 days ahead of the end date without incurring a penalty.

:: Make sure you have a few key bits of information to hand: your postcode, your current gas and electricity supplier and the name of your tariff. The latter can be found on your latest bill or by contacting your supplier.

:: Find out how much you spend (or use in kilowatt hours – kWh) on gas and electricity. This can be found on recent bills or the annual energy statement sent to you by your supplier. Even if you cannot find this you can still compare and switch deals using estimated energy figures.

:: Speak to your current supplier and ask them for the cheapest tariff available, if you are not already on it. This is a helpful benchmark for comparing with other suppliers.

:: Search comparison websites. These are now legally obliged to show all tariffs available in the market unless customers actively choose to view a smaller number.

:: Choose your new supplier. Make sure you have your bank details to hand if you decide to switch and pay by direct debit.

:: Your new supplier will organise the switch. You will need to submit meter readings to them when requested, and settle outstanding bills with your old company. The process takes around 21 days, however, most suppliers wait until the end of the 14-day ‘cooling off’ period to start the switching process.

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