With the upcoming rise in various household bills, many are feeling the financial strain of “awful April.” While some costs, like council tax hikes or increased stamp duty, are unavoidable, there are strategies to help alleviate the pressure of other bills such as energy, water, or broadband.
One approach to consider is shopping around for better deals. By reaching out to your current provider and mentioning your intent to switch, you may be able to negotiate a more cost-effective plan. According to Alice Haine from Evelyn Partners, haggling for better rates is always worth a try, especially with insurance, energy, and broadband bills. Research shows that switching providers when out of contract can lead to significant savings on bills like broadband, pay TV, and mobile services.
Another way to tackle rising bills is by cutting back on usage. Simple changes like taking shorter showers, fitting water-saving showerheads, or getting a water meter installed can help reduce water and energy costs. Utilizing smart meters for electricity and gas, as recommended by the Energy Saving Trust, can provide insights into what is driving up energy expenses. Lowering heating costs can be achieved through measures like draught-proofing, adjusting thermostats, and using hot water bottles and electric blankets instead of cranking up the heat.
For those struggling to meet their financial obligations, seeking help is a vital step. Richard Lane from StepChange Debt Charity suggests creating a detailed budget to grasp your financial situation fully. Additionally, exploring available support options, such as social or hardship tariffs from water companies, can provide much-needed relief. Government schemes like the Warm Home Discount and reductions in council tax can assist those with high energy costs or low incomes. Checking eligibility for benefits or extra assistance through organizations like MoneyHelper, Policy in Practice, Entitledto, and Turn2us can also help boost income and alleviate financial burdens
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