Energy bills can be expensive, but there are a few things pensioners can do to keep the costs as low as possible. Learn how you can find some of the best gas and electricity prices for pensioners.
As you enter your retirement years, your lifestyle and energy-consumption patterns are likely to change. You may be spending more time at home and may be living off a fixed income, such as superannuation or a pension.
Facing bill shock if you’re on a fixed income isn’t pleasant, which is why it may be worth shopping around for a better deal. Looking for some of the cheapest gas and electricity prices for pensioners may help save money to spend on other things, too.
Most states across Australia offer numerous energy deals and rebates, which can keep you from spending hundreds on your energy bills. Find out how you can secure one of the best energy deals for over 60s.
How to search for suitable gas and electricity plans for seniors
To begin with, try analysing your energy consumption habits. You can check your previous energy bills to find out how much power you're using and compare it to other households of the same size in your area. To do this, you can use the Australian Government’s Energy Made Easy tool. This wizard will help you compare offers from all energy retailers operating in your location to help you find an affordable deal.
Next, you can consider switching your supplier. As suggested earlier, you might not be consuming the same amount of energy now compared to a few years ago. So, it may be better to switch to a supplier who is offering cheap energy deals for pensioners. The market is booming, and new energy companies are offering great rates. If you’re overpaying, parting ways with your existing supplier may help you save.
Another way to decrease your gas and electricity bills is by opting for a rebate for pensioners. In every state or territory in Australia, you're very likely to find some energy rebate. The specific documentation and eligibility criteria vary from state to state. However, if you hold a valid concession or Senior;s Health Card, you can apply to get a discount on your energy bill.
How senior citizens can apply for a gas and electricity rebate
The state you live in will determine the energy rebate you may be eligible for. For instance, according to the NSW Government, with the Senior Energy Rebate, you can receive around $200 to cover the cost of electricity per year.
Similarly, Queensland pensioners can get $340.85 per year for electricity and $74.92 per year for gas. So, if you are a Queenslander, check the exact criteria and learn more about electricity and gas rebates here.
In South Australia, you can receive up to $231.41 towards your energy bill. According to the Government of South Australia, you will need your Centrelink customer reference number (CRN) or DVA file number and your most recent electricity bill to apply for an energy rebate.
The Victorian Government offers ten different concessions to its residents to help pay their energy bills. A few of these include Annual Electricity Concession, Winter Gas Concession, and Non-mains Energy Concession. The amount differs depending on the type of discount.
So, you can either visit the service centre in your state or go to their official website to get a complete overview of applying for energy concessions for senior citizens.
