Introduction
Are you struggling with your prepayment meter and unsure of your options? This guide is here to help you understand your rights and the support available to you. From switching to a credit meter to accessing assistance with topping up, we cover everything you need to know to manage your energy needs effectively. If you need further help, Contend’s highly trained AI legal experts are ready to provide guidance and support, ensuring you can resolve any legal issues with ease. Remember, Contend is the Easiest Legal Help in the UK, and you’re not alone in navigating these challenges.
If you’re having trouble accessing or topping up your prepayment meter, don’t worry—your energy supplier is there to help you find a solution. They may be able to move your meter to a more accessible location or even switch you to a smart meter that allows for easier payment options.
When Paying After Use is the Better Option
There are certain situations where being on a prepayment meter might not be the best choice for you. This includes:
- Being 75 years old or older and living alone
- Having children under 2 years old at home
- Living with a disability or a long-term health condition
- Struggling to afford top-ups while caring for children aged 2 to 5
If any of these apply to you, it might be safer and more practical to switch to paying for your energy after you use it. Your supplier should help you transition to a credit payment system, which allows you to pay for energy after consumption. If you have a smart meter, this change can often be done remotely. If you don’t, your supplier can replace your prepayment meter with a smart one set to credit mode.
Can’t Reach Your Prepayment Meter?
If you’re unable to access your prepayment meter—perhaps it’s too high up, in a locked cupboard, or located outside—make sure to inform your supplier. They should assist you in moving the meter to a more accessible location. While moving the meter may incur a fee, if you’re on the Priority Services Register, the move should be free of charge.
You can apply for the Priority Services Register if you’re:
- Of State Pension age
- Disabled or have a long-term health issue
- Considered vulnerable by your energy network, which could include factors like language barriers or having young children
To see if you qualify for the Priority Services Register, check with your energy supplier.
Difficulty Topping Up Your Meter?
If you’re struggling to get to a store to top up your prepayment meter, let your supplier know. They may offer alternative methods to add credit, such as:
- Topping up via text message
- Switching you to a smart meter that allows online top-ups
- Moving you to a credit meter for monthly or quarterly billing
Using Cash to Top Up Your Smart Meter
If you have a smart meter in prepayment mode and need to add credit using cash, inform your supplier. They should provide you with a way to top up at local shops, possibly through a barcode or reference number. You can add credit at places like Post Offices, Payzone locations, or any shop displaying the PayPoint logo.
To find your nearest Post Office or Payzone, visit the Payzone website. For PayPoint locations, check out the PayPoint website.
Need Help with Your Meter?
If you’re unsure how to operate your meter, need a new key or card, or if your meter is outdated and requires replacement, don’t hesitate to contact your supplier for assistance.
What to Do If You’re Not Satisfied
If you feel your supplier hasn’t addressed your concerns adequately, you have the right to file a complaint. For additional support, you can try Contend’s legal expert chat. Their highly trained AI legal experts will work with you to provide guidance and help you understand and resolve your legal problems.
Remember, you’re not alone in navigating these challenges, and there are resources available to help you manage your energy needs effectively. Contend is the Easiest Legal Help in the UK.
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