E.ON Next Exit Fees & How to Switch Energy Suppliers

Changing energy suppliers can help lower your energy bills. But exit fees and contract terms can make the process more complicated.

Does E.ON Next Charge Exit Fees?

Exit fees apply when customers leave a fixed-term energy tariff before the end date of their contract. These fees help energy suppliers manage costs from long-term deals. In contrast, customers with a standard variable tariff usually pay no exit fees and can switch at any time.

Understanding E.ON Next’s exit fee policy is essential before you switch your energy provider. The exit fees vary based on the tariff you choose.

E.ON Next Exit Fees by Tariff Type

Understanding Fixed Tariff Exit Fees

• What is a Fixed Tariff?
  A fixed energy tariff means the cost for a unit of energy (in pence per kWh) stays the same for a set time, like 12 or 24 months. This helps you avoid paying more when energy prices go up. But you might have to pay exit fees if you change before the end of that time.
• How Are Exit Fees Charged?
  Exit fees apply for each fuel (electricity and gas). If you have a dual fuel contract, you may pay £100 in total (£50 for electricity and £50 for gas) if you switch before the end of the contract.

Can You Avoid Fixed Tariff Exit Fees?

• Switch During the Last 49 Days – Energy companies can’t charge exit fees if you switch in the last six weeks of your contract.
• Pick a No-Fee Tariff – Some fixed rates allow you to switch without fees, but they might come with higher standing charges.
• Wait for Your End Date – If you are close to your contract end date, it might be wiser to wait before you switch.

Hot Tip: If you want to switch early, see how much you might save with a new contract. Compare that with the cost of the exit fee. This will help you decide if switching now is a good idea.

Standard Variable Tariff Exit Fees (Next Flex)

E.ON Next’s Next Flex standard variable tariff is not like fixed energy tariffs. It does not have any exit fees. This allows you to leave whenever you want without having to pay a fee.

• You can switch suppliers anytime you want, and it won’t cost you anything.
• Your energy prices vary based on the energy market and the Ofgem price cap.
• There is no long-term commitment, so you can be flexible if energy prices fall or if you find a better deal.

Good to Know: Standard variable tariffs are good for people who want flexible energy options or believe that energy prices could decrease. But, they may be more expensive during peak times.

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How to Switch from E.ON Next to Another Supplier

Switching to a new energy supplier is simple. You only need to take the right steps. This will help you avoid surprise charges.

Step-by-Step Switching Process

• Compare Energy Tariffs – Use a comparison site to find the best option based on how you use energy.
• Check Your Exit Fees – Log in to yourWhy Switching is a Good IdeaWhy Switching is a Good Idea
• Choose a New Supplier – Sign up for aWhy Switching is a Good IdeaWhy Switching is a Good Ideaeeds.
• Let Your New Supplier Handle the Switch – They will contact your current supplier to manage it.
• Submit a Final Meter Reading – Send in your electricity meter and gas meter readings to ensure correct billing.
• Receive Your Final Bill – E.ON Next will send you a final bill for any amount you owe.

Hot Tip: If you use direct debit, you should check your bank account. This will help you make sure your payments are current.

How Long Does It Take to Switch?

The switching process usually requires 5 working days. But, it might take longer if:

• Your last supplier has a problem due to an unpaid balance.
• You are changing from a prepayment meter to a credit meter.
• Your meter type requires certain plans, such as getting a smart meter installed.

Good to Know: E.ON Next plays by the rules for changing energy suppliers made by Ofgem. This makes it simple for you.

Avoiding Exit Fees When Switching

Changing energy suppliers can give you better energy rates. But exit fees might add extra costs if you’re not careful. Here are some smart ways to avoid these fees when switching from E.ON Next.

1. Switch in the Final 49 Days

Why This Works: Ofgem rules state that energy suppliers cannot charge exit fees if you make a switch in the last 49 days of your contract.

How to Check Your Contract End Date:

• Log in to your E.ON Next online account.
• Check your most recent energy bill in the “Contract Details” section.
• Contact E.ON Next customer service for confirmation.
• Best Strategy: Set a reminder for when you are 49 days away from your contract end date. This will help you start comparing new energy tariffs.

Hot Tip: If you are in this period, you can leave without a penalty. This is true even if your contract is not finished yet.

2. Choose a No-Fee Tariff

Why This Works:Some energy companies offer flexible fixed rates or standard variable rates. These options do not charge exit fees.

Best No-Fee Tariff Options:

• Standard Variable Tariff (Next Flex) – You don’t have a fixed contract. This means you can switch anytime without paying any fees.
• Time of Use Tariffs (e.g., Next Drive Tariff) – These plans might offer lower rates during off-peak hours. They also have fewer limits on switching.
• Fixed Plans with No Exit Fees – Some fixed energy tariffs allow you to switch without penalties. However, they might come with higher base charges.

Good to Know: Standard variable tariffs might not always offer the best rates, so look closely before making a change.

3. Wait for a Better Deal

Why This Works:If you are on a fixed tariff with high exit fees, switching your plan nowmay not be the best idea.

How to Decide If Waiting Is Better:

• Check how much you could save by changing, and compare it to any fees for leaving.
• Keep an eye on the changes in Ofgem’s energy price cap. Waiting for a lower price cap might give you better options.
• If energy prices drop a lot, your current supplier might have better offers as your contract gets near its end date.

Hot Tip: Selecting a new energy supplier that offers bill credits or cashback for switching can help cover a part or all of your exit fees.

4. Check If Your New Supplier Will Cover Exit Fees

Why This Works: Some energy suppliers may cover the exit fees when you switch to them.

How to Find Out:

• Speak with your new supplier before you decide to make a change.
• Look for offers that provide switching incentives, such as cashback or credits.

Good to Know: Not every energy company provides this. So, always look into it before you agree to a new contract.

5. Switch from a Prepayment Meter to a Credit Meter

Why This Works: A prepayment meter can lead to higher energy costs and limit your options for rates.

How to Switch to a Credit Meter:

• Talk to your new supplier about getting a smart meter installation.
• Some suppliers offer free credit meter upgrades. This allows you to switch suppliers without big exit fees.

Hot Tip: If your current supplier will not offer a free update, it may be a good idea to look for a new provider. A new provider can give you more flexibility.

What Happens to My Smart Meter When I Switch?

• If You Have a Second-Generation (SMETS2) Smart Meter – It will keep working just like before with your new energy supplier.
• If You Have an Older SMETS1 Smart Meter – Some of these meters may stop using smart mode. You might need to take manual meter readings instead.
• If You Need a New Smart Meter – Your new supplier could give you a free smart meter installation.

Good to Know: Smart meters can help you see how much energy you use. This helps you compare different tariffs easily.

Key Considerations Before Leaving E.ON Next

• Direct Debit Payments – Ensure your payment method is set up properly.
• Prepayment Customers – If you are switching from a prepayment meter, check if your new supplier can work with your meter type.
• Renewable Electricity – If you want to keep your renewable electricity plan, find out if your new supplier has this option.
• Time of Use Tariffs – Consider if your new contract has a time of use tariff, like the Next Drive Tariff, to help you save on off-peak energy costs.

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How to Switch and Save on Energy Bills

Switching from your current energy supplier to a better deal can help reduce your energy bills. It also allows you to find cheaper electricity tariffs. If you are looking for renewable energy options, good customer service, or a lower single rate tariff, comparing suppliers can help you find the best deal.

Steps to Switch Energy Suppliers and Save

• Compare Energy Tariffs – Use Free Price Compare to find the best deals. You can get a cheaper electricity supplier based on usage.
• Check Your Contract Terms – If you have a fixed tariff, be careful. Switching before the end of your contract may include an exit fee.
• Look for Renewable Energy Tariffs – Some suppliers offer heat pump-friendly tariffs or green energy plans. These can lower your carbon footprint.
• Contact Your New Supplier – Once you pick a plan, your new electricity supplier will manage the switch from your old supplier.
• Provide Your Meter Readings – To simplify the switch, give your final meter reading. This helps your previous supplier send an accurate final bill.
• Confirm the Switch Date – The change usually takes about 5 working days. Your electricity supply will stay active during this time.

Why Switching is a Good Idea

• Lower Energy Bills – Switching to a better tariff can cut your energy costs, especially if you’re on a standard variable tariff.
• Better Service & Support – Some energy specialists offer better customer service, making it easier to manage your bills and contact information.
• Flexible Payment Options – Some suppliers offer Direct Debit discounts, helping you save in the long run.
• Access to New Tariffs – If you’re planning to install a heat pump, certain tariffs provide cheaper rates tailored for renewable heating systems.

Good to Know: Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline (0808 223 1133) offers independent guidance on switching suppliers and finding the best deal.

FAQs About E.ON Next Exit Fees & Switching

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