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Awful April: The best ways to brace for bill increases

This month UK households are bracing for a series of significant bill increases, a phenomenon that has been dubbed “Awful April.” 

These rising costs span various essential services, utilities and taxes, including energy, water, council tax, and telecommunications. 

While there is nothing we can do to prevent these hikes, we want to ensure that you understand these changes and begin to adopt strategic measures to help mitigate their financial impact.​

Energy Bills

This is the big one. Effective April 1, Ofgem’s energy price cap rises yet again, this time by 6.4%. This hike will increase the typical annual energy bill from £1,738 to £1,849 – an additional £111 per year.

What can you do?:

Water Bills

Along with energy, water charges are set to surge by an average of 26%, adding approximately £123 to annual household expenses. This is the most substantial increase since the industry’s privatisation in 1989. ​

What can you do?:

Council Tax

Local authorities are raising council tax bills. Most households in England will face the maximum increase of 4.99%, with some areas experiencing hikes up to 9.99%. The average Band D property will see an increase of £109, bringing the annual bill to £2,280. This will push a lot of people into a new level of financial precariousness – especially single parents. 

What can you do?:

Telecommunications

Broadband and mobile phone providers are implementing mid-contract price increases, often linked to inflation rates plus an additional percentage. 

What can you do?:

TV Licence

The annual TV licence fee increases by £5, reaching £174.50. 

What can you do?:

Other Increases

Are you missing out on benefits?

By proactively addressing these impending increases and implementing cost-saving measures, UK households can better navigate the financial challenges posed by “Awful April.”

You should also think about whether there are any financial boosts you may be entitled to.

For example, two million eligible people are currently missing out on claiming Marriage Tax Allowance. If you or your spouse earn under the tax threshold of £12,570 you can transfer 10% of your tax-free allowance to your partner. (This benefit applies only to married couples so if you’re co-habiting or in civil partnerships, unfortunately you’ll miss out).

Claim your Marriage Tax Rebate now

The same goes for Pension Credit – a benefit for those over the state pension age that is worth, on average, £75 per week or £3,900 per year. It’s estimated that around 2.2 million pensioner households are eligible for this income boost – yet almost one million have not claimed it!

Read more about Pension Credit 

To stay informed about other benefits you could take advantage of sign up for our Newsletter!

 

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