Energy firms including British Gas, Bulb and E.On confirm prepayment tariffs for April

PREPAYMENT meter customers will have to pay more for energy from April as suppliers including British Gas and Bulb hike prices.

Energy firms have revealed how much they will charge from next month – we explain how the price rise will impact you.

GettyThe cost of energy is going up next month for prepayment meter customers[/caption]

The energy price cap will go up on April 1, meaning suppliers can charge more for gas and electricity.

Households who pay for their energy in advance using a prepayment meter are facing higher costs than direct debit customers.

Average bills will go up by £708 a year from £1,309 to £2,017 due to soaring wholesale costs.

Meanwhile, direct debit customers will pay an extra £693 a year as the price cap rises to £1,971.

The actual amount you’ll be charged depends on how much energy you use.

Prepayment meter customers are often on lower incomes or have previously fallen behind on their bills.

Martin Lewis previously told prepayment meter customers they could delay the price hike by topping up by as much as they could afford before April 1.

However, E.On has since backtracked, saying it will charge customers the newer rate for energy used after April 1, even if it was bought before that date.

Check with your supplier before bulk buying energy, as otherwise you could be left out of pocket.

How much will your energy company charge from April 1?

Your supplier should have contacted you to tell you how your bills will change from April 1.

Most of them will charge the maximum amount possible under the price cap.

These firms have announced their rates so far:

British Gas: £2,017Octopus: £1,967E.on: £2,017EDF: £2,017Ovo: £2,015Scottish Power: £2,017Shell Energy: £2,017

How can I get help with energy bills?

Your first step, if you’re struggling, should be to contact your energy supplier.

They may be able to change your payment plan or check if you’re eligible for their hardship fund.

For example, British Gas and Octopus have both set up funds to help customers who are struggling with their bills.

You should also check that you’re getting all the benefits you’re entitled to.

Use an online benefits calculator to make sure you’re not missing out on any extra cash.

Similarly, you can search for grants that can help you pay for gas and electricity bills.

There are government schemes available to help households pay for energy costs.

You might be eligible for the winter fuel allowance or cold weather payment if you already get other benefits.

Finally, one of the best ways of saving money is to make your home more energy efficient.

Check whether you can reduce your energy use with a simple trick such as putting foil behind your radiator.