Council tax, broadband, water, energy and phone bills – they’re all going to be more expensive from April. But one money expert says there are five ways to beat rising costs
Millions of households across the UK are set to be hit with yet another wave of bill increases this April, with hikes expected across council tax, broadband, water, energy, and phone bills.
Almost three quarters (73%) of people are worried about affording their essential bills this spring, while 42% say they’ve already cut back on essentials like heating and food to save money, according to a new survey by Ocean Finance.
And more than a quarter (26%) of people said they’ve avoided checking their bank balance because they’re so stressed about upcoming price rises and it’s not just energy bills people are worried about.
Fiona Peake, Consumer Money Expert at Ocean Finance, says while costs are increasing, there are ways to beat the price rises. “April is shaping up to be an expensive month, with Brits forking out even more to keep the lights on and the WiFi running,” she says. “These bill increases will come as another financial gut punch to households already stretched to their limits.
“April’s price hikes will be a nasty shock, but there are still ways to take control. Checking for discounts and schemes,
switching providers, and reviewing your energy usage could leave you with extra cash at the end of the month. If you’re struggling to manage rising bills, seek free debt advice from organisations like Citizens Advice or StepChange.”
But the good news is there are five ways you can keep costs down according to Fiona:
1. Slash your broadband and mobile bills with a quick call
“Many people have never haggled with their broadband or mobile provider, but those who do saved an average of £120 a year. Simply calling your provider and asking for a better deal can work wonders, especially if you mention cheaper offers from competitors. If you’re out of contract, you have the most power – switching providers could save you even more. And if you’re on benefits, look for social tariffs as some start from just £10 per month.”
2. Claim council tax discounts you might not know about
“It’s worth checking if you’re eligible for council tax reductions. Discounts include 25% off for single-person households, band reductions for people with disabilities, and Council Tax Support schemes for low-income households.”
3. Water bill trick
“If your water bill is set to rise, installing a water meter could save you money, especially if you live alone or have more bedrooms than people in your home. You can also apply for free water-saving devices, like shower timers and tap aerators, from your provider. Many water companies also offer social tariffs and hardship schemes for low-income households. The WaterSure scheme, for example, caps bills for households on benefits with high water usage.”
4. Cut your energy costs with small changes
“Leaving appliances on standby overnight can add up to £100 a year to your bills. Switching everything off at the socket (except essentials like your fridge) can be a quick and easy way to save. Another simple fix is lowering your boiler’s flow temperature to 60°C. It won’t impact the warmth of your home, but it could save you another £100 a year.”
5. Cancel the ‘forgotten’ subscriptions draining your bank account
“It’s easy to forget to cancel a subscription. Whether it’s streaming services, unused gym memberships, or app subscriptions, reviewing your Direct Debits could free up extra cash. If you’re unsure whether to cancel, pause it for a month first – if you don’t miss it, you don’t need it!”
Which bills are rising in April?
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Car Tax: Car owners will pay £195 per year in road tax, an increase of £5 a year. Electric vehicles will also no longer be tax exempt, paying £10 in the first year before moving to the standard rate.
