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How to understand your energy bill

We've put together this bill based on a number of energy bills from different suppliers, but please remember that your bill might not look like this one. We have included all the elements you'd expect to find on your own energy bill, and explained what those elements are. For a more technical explanation of any of the terms used here, please refer to our energy bill jargon buster.

1. Any contact details you need to get in touch with your energy supplier will be provided.

2. You'll usually find your customer reference number or account number on the front of your bill. This is your unique identifier should you need to contact your supplier.

3. This is the date your bill was issued.

4. The bill period shows you the dates that your energy bill relates to.

5. This is the date and amount of the last payment you made to your energy supplier.

6. This is the total cost of the energy you've used in this period before VAT is added.

7. VAT at a standard level of 5% (and not the usual 15%) will be added to your bill here.

8. This is the final total of your bill and is the amount you need to pay your energy supplier.

9. Any additional information that your supplier wishes to show you will often appear on the front of the bill.

10. Your electricity supply number will appear in this box format - however it will often appear very small so you might need to look for it carefully.

11. This is your meter point reference number, which you will need if you choose to switch your gas plan. This is sometimes referred to as an MPRN. It will usually be between 6 and 10 digits long.

12. Your current plan name will often be shown on your bill - but if it isn't displayed, you may need to contact your supplier to find out what it is.

13. A detailed breakdown of your energy usage is provided, including the kilowatt hours (kWh) used, the cost per kilowatt hour and your latest meter readings. You can also find out here if your meter readings are estimated or actual and the dates your readings were taken or estimated.

14. You'll be given a contact number to call if you have any specific requirements such as large print or braille bills.

15. A payment slip will be provided if you wish to pay your bill at the bank or by post.

For further information about what any of these terms mean, check our energy bills jargon guide for full details.

And now that you can find your way around an energy bill, come and compare energy plans to see if you could save up to £425.

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