I can’t pay my energy bill in France. Can they cut me off?

The short answer

A cut-off is the last step, not the first. There are rules on notice and protection, and help if your income is low.

📜 The rules in France

Protection against cut-off

After an unpaid bill (14 days to pay) you get a letter giving 15 more days (30 with chèque énergie or FSL aid), then a second letter; supply can be reduced or cut 20 days later. No cut-offs 1 November–31 March for your main home.

Official source: energie-info.fr · Checked 2026-09-27

Help if money is tight

An annual voucher (about €48–277) for households below €11,000 reference tax income per consumption unit, usable for any energy bill. Sent in April; some households must apply at chequeenergie.gouv.fr. Helpline 0 805 204 805.

Chèque énergie 🔗 chequeenergie.gouv.fr

Official source: energie-info.fr · Checked 2026-09-27

🪜 Step by step

Act before the deadlineContact the supplier as soon as you know you cannot pay and ask for a payment plan. Put it in writing.
Check the protection rulesSee below what notice the supplier must give and when a cut-off is not allowed in France.
Ask for supportCheck the support scheme below and contact free debt or energy advice.
Answer every letterKeep copies. If a cut-off is announced wrongly, complain straight away to the supplier and the dispute body.

📇 Who to contact

Chèque énergieDiscount or support scheme for energy costsIf you have a low income or receive benefits🔗 chequeenergie.gouv.fr

France Rénov'Free advice on energy costs and saving energyWhen bills are too high or you are behind on payments🔗 france-renov.gouv.fr

Médiateur national de l'énergieSettles disputes with energy companiesWhen the company has not solved your complaint📞 0 800 112 212 🔗 www.energie-mediateur.fr

Commission de régulation de l'énergie (CRE)Supervises energy companies and explains your rightsFor information, and to report a company that breaks the rules🔗 www.cre.fr

❓ Questions

Can they cut me off without warning?

No, written notice is required. The exact period for France is on this page.

Is there winter protection?

Some countries have it. The rules for France are shown on this page.

Does a payment plan stop a cut-off?

A payment plan you keep to generally prevents a cut-off. Get it confirmed in writing.

📎 Sources

Checked: 2026-09-27

🧭 Is this still correct?

We check this information carefully, but phone numbers, websites and rules change — and sometimes we get something wrong. Spotted a mistake or a change? Let us know below.

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💸 I can’t pay my energy bill in France. Can they cut me off?