What to do if you’ve fallen behind on your gas bill
If you’re late paying a gas bill, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, especially when money’s already tight. But whether it’s a one-off late payment or you’ve built up gas bill arrears over time, you do have options. From short-term fixes to longer-term support, this guide covers what to do next, what help is available, and how to stop things from getting worse.
What happens if you’re late paying your gas bill?
Missing an energy bill payment doesn’t immediately mean disconnection or legal trouble, but it’s important to act quickly.
Typically, your supplier will:
- Send you a reminder after the missed due date
- Follow up with a demand for payment or offer of a repayment plan
- Apply late fees or interest if the bill remains unpaid
- Possibly register a default or take further recovery action.
If you don’t respond or engage with them, your gas account could be passed to a debt collection agency, or – in rare cases – lead to prepayment meters being fitted under warrant.
So even if your situation feels difficult to explain or embarrassing to talk about, getting in touch with your energy supplier early is one of the best steps you can take.
Short-term steps to take if you’re behind on your gas bill
If you’ve already missed a payment or know you can’t afford the next one, try these actions first:
- Speak to your energy supplier
Let them know what’s happened. Many suppliers have dedicated support teams for customers in financial difficulty. They may be able to pause action, set up a repayment plan or reduce your payments temporarily.
- Ask about hardship funds or grants
Some energy companies offer grants to help clear arrears. Each supplier has their own eligibility criteria, but if you’re struggling, it’s always worth asking. Examples include:
- British Gas Energy Support Fund
- Ovo Energy Fund
- E.ON Energy Fund
- Scottish Power Hardship Fund.
If your supplier doesn’t offer a grant, you may still be able to apply to independent schemes like the British Gas Energy Trust, even if you’re not a British Gas customer.
- Check if you’re entitled to other help
Depending on your situation, you may qualify for additional support such as:
- Warm Home Discount – a one-off £150 discount on your energy bill if you’re on a low income
- Cold Weather Payment – paid automatically in periods of freezing temperatures if you receive certain benefits
- Household Support Fund – a council-run scheme that can help with utility costs and emergencies
Longer-term support if gas bill arrears are building
If you’re regularly falling behind and building up gas bill arrears, it might be a sign of wider money problems. In that case, it’s worth looking at longer-term strategies to reduce energy costs and deal with other debts.
- Create a realistic budget
Understanding your income and essential outgoings can help you prioritise the most important payments. Rent, energy and council tax should be at the top of your list. If you’re not sure where to start, contact MoneyHelper for free, impartial advice.
- Look at reducing usage
Small energy-saving changes can build up to noticeable savings over time. Examples include:
- Turning appliances off at the wall
- Washing clothes at lower temperatures
- Using energy-efficient light bulbs
- Draft-proofing windows and doors
Your energy supplier may also offer free or subsidised home improvements, such as insulation or boiler servicing, through schemes like the Energy Company Obligation (ECO).
- Explore debt support option
If you’ve already cut back but your bills still aren’t affordable, it might be time to look into a formal debt solution. At MoneyPlus, we offer confidential, non-judgmental advice to help you manage your finances.
Depending on your situation, you might benefit from a Debt Management Plan (DMP), which allows you to make reduced payments to creditors based on what you can afford – including your utility debts.
Or, if your situation is more complex, an Individual Voluntary Arrangement (IVA)
could provide a structured way to deal with multiple debts, potentially writing off a portion after a set period.
Can energy suppliers cut off your gas?
In most cases, energy companies will try to work with you before considering disconnection. But if no agreement is reached and your debt continues to grow, they can apply to fit a prepayment meter – sometimes under warrant.
Disconnection of gas supply is rare and usually a last resort. Suppliers must follow strict rules and cannot disconnect you during winter if you’re:
- Of pensionable age and live alone
- Disabled
- Chronically ill
- Living with someone who is vulnerable
If you feel you’re being treated unfairly, speak to an energy adviser or your local Citizens Advice. You can also make a complaint directly to the supplier, and escalate it to the Energy Ombudsman if needed.
What not to do if you’re late on your gas bill
When facing gas bill arrears, it can be tempting to ignore letters or avoid calls, especially if you’re already juggling other debts. But this can make the situation worse.
If you feel overwhelmed or are scared to open letters, try starting with just one and take things step by step – you don’t have to face everything at once.
Where to get free advice and further support
If you’re struggling with an energy bill late payment, you’re not alone. Support is available, and it’s okay to ask for help.
You can:
- Contact your supplier for tailored support
- Apply for grants or funds directly
- Check your local council’s emergency help scheme
- Speak to a regulated debt adviser like MoneyPlus
- Visit MoneyHelper for free, impartial advice
Don’t wait – help is available
Being late on a gas bill can feel stressful, but you’re not out of options. Whether you’re looking for a short-term fix or need longer-term support to deal with arrears and other debts, there is help out there.
MoneyPlus has over 25 years of experience supporting people through difficult financial times. Our team of expert advisers can help you build a plan that works for your budget, so you can start to take control again. Contact us today.
