

How to get your money back using the Origin Energy refund policy
We’ll help you request a refund from Origin Energy, follow up if needed, and make sure it’s taken seriously.
Origin Energy refund policy – how to claim your money back
Can you get a refund from Origin Energy? Check eligibility first
Origin Energy offers refunds when your account is in credit (meaning you've overpaid or built up a positive balance). This can happen due to bill overpayment, solar feed-in credits, or final account closures. You're eligible whether your account is open or closed. Common eligible scenarios include:
- Overpayments or billing errors: Duplicate payments, wrong account transfers, or system errors.
- Solar feed-in credits: Especially in summer, solar customers may accumulate significant credits which can be refunded on request.
- Security deposits: Returned upon account closure or after good payment history, sometimes with interest.
- Plan or usage adjustments: If a re-read or plan change reveals overcharging, you'll be refunded the difference.
- GSL payments: Automatic bill credits if Origin missed service level commitments (e.g. delays in connections).
Refunds won’t apply if your account isn’t in credit, or if you’re requesting a refund for a high bill without a valid billing error. Government concessions are applied as credits, not cash refunds, unless they tip your account into credit. Unlike some competitors, Origin does not forfeit solar credits at closure, you retain access to those funds.
How to get a refund from Origin Energy
To request a refund:
- Check your balance: Log in to My Account or the Origin app to confirm your credit.
- Use self-service tools: For active accounts, click “Request a refund or transfer credit” in Billing & Payments.
- For closed accounts: Use the Credit Refunds Form on Origin’s website. Submit your old account details and refund destination.
- For LPG, broadband, or complex cases: Call 13 24 61 or use live chat to speak with Origin directly.
- Provide or confirm payment details: EFT is standard. Refunds may go to your original card or to a bank account you nominate.
- Track and document: You’ll usually receive email confirmation. Save it. Refunds often show as “Refund issued via EFT” in your account.
Partial refunds are available if you only want some of your credit returned. You can also transfer the credit to another Origin account if you have more than one.
Origin Energy’s refund timeframe - how long it takes
Refunds typically take 5–7 business days once approved. Specific timeframes:
- EFT or credit/debit card: 5–7 business days.
- BPAY refunds: 8–10 business days.
- Centrepay refunds (via cheque): 11–15 business days.
Factors that may slow things down:
- Large refund amounts may require extra checks.
- Closed or expired cards can cause delays.
- Public holidays/weekends can affect processing timelines.
- Manual review may be triggered for unusual situations.
Customers often report faster-than-promised turnarounds, especially with online self-service tools. If your refund takes longer than 2–3 weeks (especially for closed accounts), contact Origin directly.
Origin Energy’s refund methods - how you'll get your money back
Origin processes refunds in the following ways:
- EFT (Bank Transfer): Default and most common method. It's secure and fast.
- Credit/debit card: If originally paid by card, refunds are issued back to that card.
- BPAY reversal: Refunds sent to your bank via BPAY are slightly slower.
- Cheque: For Centrepay or some manual payments.
- Credit transfer: You can move credit between Origin accounts instead of taking cash.
- Partial refunds: You can choose to refund only part of your credit.
Origin does not issue in-person or cash refunds. Always confirm your refund method during the request process to avoid delays.
Common refund issues with Origin Energy
- Not requesting the refund: Credits often sit on accounts until requested.
- Wrong contact or payment details: Outdated info can cause missed refunds.
- Closed account refunds: May be delayed if Origin can’t reach you. Keep your contact info up to date.
- Large refunds: May need additional approval or processing time.
- Payment plan adjustments: If you're on a direct debit plan, Origin might suggest recalculating your future payments.
- Bank rejections: Mistyped account numbers or expired cards can bounce refunds.
- Unawareness of auto-refund options: Some solar customers don’t realise they can set up auto-refunds. It's worth asking Origin.
If an issue isn’t resolved, customers can escalate to the Energy Ombudsman in their state.
Real Origin Energy Complaints Submitted Through Ajust
Real Origin Energy refund cases – what worked for other customers
Fast solar refund: A QLD customer got $250 back within 2 business days after using the online self-service.
Smooth cheque refund: A VIC customer closed their account and received a $75 cheque within 10 days.
Big credit delay resolved: A $1000+ refund was delayed until the customer threatened Ombudsman escalation. It was processed immediately after.
How Origin Energy Refund Policy Compares to Competitors
- Origin vs AGL & EnergyAustralia: All three require customers to request refunds; no automatic cash-outs unless you set them up.
- Auto payout options: Origin allows registration for automated refunds (especially for solar), unlike Alinta or Sumo, which may forfeit solar credits.
- Speed: Origin’s online tools are efficient. Some smaller providers require manual requests or have slower service.
- Transparency: Origin doesn’t delay or withhold credits and has no known upsell tactics during refund calls.
- Ombudsman compliance: Origin follows Australian energy refund regulations like all major retailers.
Bottom line: Origin ranks favourably compared to most competitors, especially in refund access, flexibility, and ease of use.
Official Origin Energy Refund Resources & Links
- Refund or transfer a credit – Origin Help
- Credit Refunds Form – Closed Accounts
- Solar credit refund form – For solar customers
- Customer service: 13 24 61 (Mon–Fri)
- Live chat support – Origin website
- Energy Ombudsman (by state):
Origin Energy Refund FAQs
Can I get a refund from Origin Energy if I’ve overpaid or have solar credits?
Yes, Origin Energy issues refunds when your account is in credit. This includes overpayments, solar feed-in credits, billing errors, and account closures. To check if you’re eligible, log in to My Account or the Origin app. You can request a refund online or by phone-faster if your details are current. Partial refunds and credit transfers between Origin accounts are also available.
How do I request a refund from Origin Energy?
Log into your Origin account and use the “Request a refund or transfer credit” option under Billing & Payments. If your account is closed, complete the Credit Refunds Form on their website. For LPG or broadband cases, or if you need help, call 13 24 61 or use live chat. Ensure your payment details are up to date to avoid delays and confirm the refund method you prefer.
How long does it take to get a refund from Origin Energy?
Origin refunds typically take 5–7 business days, depending on your payment method. EFT and card refunds are fastest, while BPAY and Centrepay refunds may take up to 15 days. Delays can occur for large refunds, expired cards, or if manual review is needed. If it’s been over 2–3 weeks, contact Origin support for follow-up.
What are common issues with Origin Energy refunds and how can I avoid them?
The most common issues are not requesting the refund, outdated contact details, and delays for closed accounts or large amounts. Always keep your info up to date, double-check bank details, and ask about auto-refund options if you’re a solar customer. If you still face problems, escalate through the Energy Ombudsman in your state.
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