High energy costs can put real pressure on household budgets, especially if you’re already managing higher everyday expenses.

But don’t worry, there are practical steps you can take to help ease the pressure.

Whether you’re struggling to keep up with payments or simply want to reduce your monthly costs, these ten actions could help.

1. Don’t Ignore The Problem

If you’re finding it difficult to pay your energy bills, it’s important to act as soon as possible. Ignoring bills or letters from your supplier won’t make the situation go away and could lead to debt building up.

Contact your energy supplier as early as you can. They have a duty to support you if you’re struggling. They may be able to offer a payment plan, review your account or discuss other forms of support such as hardship funds or grants.

2. Check If You’re Paying The Right Amount

Many households pay by Direct Debit, but it’s worth checking that your monthly payments accurately reflect your energy use.

If you’ve been overpaying, you may be able to reduce your monthly payments or receive a refund. If you’re underpaying, adjusting your payments now could help avoid a larger bill later.

Submitting regular meter readings, or checking your smart meter is sending readings correctly, will also help ensure your bills are accurate.

3. See If You’re Eligible For Financial Support

This could include help through your energy supplier, government schemes or charitable organisations.

It only takes a few minutes to fill in your details on our Grants Search, which could identify grants, benefits or other financial assistance available to you, depending on your circumstances.

4. Speak to a Trained Money and Energy Advisor

Money and energy advisors can help you understand your options, explain your bills and identify ways to reduce your costs.

Support is free, and they may also be able to help you access grants, benefits or debt advice if you’re struggling financially. Visit our money and energy advice page to find a list of our funded partners offering this support.

5. Reduce Energy Use Where You Can

Small changes around the home can add up over time. For example, you could:

  • Turn appliances off instead of leaving them on standby
  • Wash clothes at lower temperatures where possible
  • Only boil the water you need in the kettle
  • Switch off lights in empty rooms

These simple habits may help reduce the amount of energy you use. For more tips, read how you could reduce your energy use over summer or in the cooler months.

6. Check Your Tariff

Take a look at the tariff you’re currently on and compare it with other options available from your supplier or elsewhere in the market.

If you find a cheaper deal, switching could save money. Before changing, make sure you understand any exit fees, fixed-term conditions or other charges that might apply. Read our blog about tariffs and switching.

7. Review Your Household Budget

Reviewing your income and spending can help you identify areas where you could make savings or free up money for essential bills.

Even small changes can make a difference when combined with other support. If budgeting feels overwhelming, you could use our online calculator tool or speak to a free debt or money advisor who can help you create a realistic plan.

8. Find Out If You Qualify For The Priority Services Register

If you’re older, disabled, have a long-term health condition or meet other eligibility criteria, you may be able to join your energy network’s Priority Services Register.

The register provides additional support, such as priority assistance during power cuts and communications in accessible formats. While it won’t reduce your bills, it can provide valuable extra help.

9. Check You’re Claiming All the Benefits You’re Entitled To

If your circumstances have changed, or you have never checked before, it’s worth finding out if you qualify for benefits or other financial assistance.

Even a small increase in your income could help make energy bills more affordable, and in some cases may also open the door to additional support schemes or grants.

If you’re unsure what you might be entitled to, a free benefits check from an independent advice organisation, or using our Benefits calculator, can help you understand what’s available.

10. Get Support With Other Bills

Many households are unaware that they may be able to reduce their essential household bills through discounted tariffs offered by water, phone and broadband providers.

These reduced-cost options, often known as social tariffs, are designed to help people on lower incomes or certain benefits access vital services at a more affordable price. Unlike promotional deals, social tariffs provide the same service at a lower cost for those who may otherwise struggle to keep up with payments. Read our blog to get help with water, phone and broadband bills.