Overdue utility bills
If you're having trouble paying utility bills, such as gas and electricity, it's important to address the problem.
What to do if you can't pay a utility bill
List your creditors
Make a list of everyone you owe money to. These are your creditors.
Decide which debts to pay off first
Put your list in order of importance so you know which creditors to pay first.
Some bills are more important to pay than others because they're priority debts. Utility bills are priority debts - this means the consequences of not paying may be serious.
Sort out your budget
Work out your personal weekly or monthly budget. Note down details of your income and your outgoings. See what you can afford to pay your creditors and decide how much you'll pay to each.
Get in touch with your utility suppliers
Contact each utility company whose bill you haven't paid. Explain your situation and offer to pay an amount you can afford.
All fuel suppliers (electricity and gas) follow a code of practice that means they won't cut off your supply if you agree a payment plan with them and then keep to it.
You'll need to check each code of practice, but they should take into account your ability to pay - complain to the Utility Regulator if they don't. See 'If you've problems dealing with your fuel supplier' for more information.
A plan could include:
- paying by weekly or monthly instalments
- using a pre-payment meter
With a pre-payment meter, you use a smart card, key or token (or, sometimes, coins) to pay for your gas or electricity as you use it. You recharge your card or key at PayPoint outlets like newsagents and Post Offices.
If you have a meter installed, remember you'll only get a supply when it's topped up.
Third Party Payment scheme
You may be able to join the Third Party Payment scheme if you are getting:
- New Style Employment and Support Allowance
- New Style Jobseeker’s Allowance
- Universal Credit
- Pension Credit
- State Pension
You must also owe money to the following organisations:
- Northern Ireland Housing Executive
- Northern Ireland Electricity
- Land and Property Services
- Housing Associations
This scheme will take money from your benefit payment covering your current rent, rates or use of electricity and pay a sum towards your arrears.
If you wish to join the Third Party Payment scheme you should contact the organisation you owe the money to and ask for them to make an application to the Department for Communities.
Other benefits
If you're struggling to pay your utility bills but you're not claiming benefits, it's worth checking to see if you qualify for any.
To make sure you’re getting all the benefits, services and supports you’re entitled to you should contact:
If you've problems dealing with your fuel supplier
If you're having trouble sorting out difficulties with your fuel supplier you can contact the Utility Regulator or the Consumer Council for Northern Ireland.
Help and advice
If you're having debt problems, always get expert help and advice.