I can’t pay my energy bill in Bulgaria. 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 Bulgaria

Protection against cut-off

If you do not pay invoiced amounts, your supplier has the right to have your electricity supply suspended. Supply is restored only after you pay the overdue amounts plus the cost of disconnection and reconnection, at the approved price list. If you cannot pay, contact your supplier early.

Official source: dker.bg · Checked 2026-09-27

Help if money is tight

There is no social electricity tariff, but low-income households can get a heating allowance: €64.39 a month from 1 November 2026 to 31 March 2027. Apply to your local Social Assistance Directorate by 31 October 2026.

Целева помощ за отопление 🔗 asp.government.bg

Official source: asp.government.bg · 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 Bulgaria.
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

Целева помощ за отоплениеDiscount or support scheme for energy costsIf you have a low income or receive benefits🔗 asp.government.bg/bg/deynosti/sotsialno-podpomagane/otpuskane-na-celeva-pomosh-za-otoplenie-za-otoplitelen-sezon-2026-2027-g

Омбудсман на Република БългарияSettles disputes with energy companiesWhen the company has not solved your complaint📞 02/81-06-955 🔗 www.ombudsman.bg

Комисия за енергийно и водно регулиране (КЕВР)Supervises energy companies and explains your rightsFor information, and to report a company that breaks the rules📞 (+3592) 988 24 98🔗 www.dker.bg

❓ Questions

Can they cut me off without warning?

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

Is there winter protection?

Some countries have it. The rules for Bulgaria 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 Bulgaria. Can they cut me off?