Household bills have been on the rise in recent years. In fact, with the cost of living crisis rumbling on, for many, the increasing cost of energy, water and council tax bills are exacerbating the burden of debt more than any other expense.
This raises an important question – what are the easiest ways to save money on your household bills? Whether you’re struggling with a large amount of debt, considering a debt management solution to help get you get your finances back under control, or are simply looking for ways to make your monthly household budget stretch further, read on for our top tips.
How to reduce your water bill
With the cost of water bills in England and Wales rising to an annual average of £473, it’s understandable that many are looking for ways to save.
Unlike gas and electricity companies, you can’t choose who supplies your water, so you’re unable to make a switch. However, we’ve got some tips on how you could save money on your water bills.
Consider a water meter
Switching to a water meter is free and could help you to save, as it charges you based on actual usage rather than estimated consumption tied to your home’s size.
You can check to see if your home already has a water meter by looking at your water bill. Homes built in England and Wales after 1990 are equipped with one and many others have since made the switch.
To see if a water meter could help you save, you’ll just need to enter some information into the Consumer Council for Water calculator. You’ll need to have your water and sewage company details to hand, including information around your typical water usage and current charges.
How does a smart meter save you money?
- No more estimated bills: Automatic readings ensure your energy supplier has the latest details on your consumption so that you’re billed accurately.
- Real-time information: Smart meters feature an in-home display that presents your household’s energy consumption in pounds, pence and kWh hours, almost in real-time.
It’s important to remember that once you’ve had a smart meter installed, you wouldn’t be able to switch back to a traditional meter.
What to do if you’re struggling to pay your water bills
If you’re on a low income and are a resident of England or Wales, you might qualify for a reduced rate on your water bill, known as a social tariff. To learn more about how to apply for this, check out the Consumer Council for Water’s website.
For those who live in Scotland, Turn2Us could help you find out whether you’re eligible for help from charitable grants.
Council tax discounts
With the recent council tax increase of up to 10%, you may be wondering whether you’re eligible for a council tax discount.
For some, you could receive a discount between 25% to 100%, potentially saving you hundreds or even thousands each year.
Why might you get help with your council tax? It can depend on a few things including:
- Your age
- Your income, including any benefits you receive
- Your savings
- Who you live with
- How much council tax you pay
Additional support might be available if you’re receiving disability or carer’s benefits. For those on the Guarantee Credit part of Pension Credit, you may be able to have your council tax covered entirely. If you’re not eligible for this but have a low income and savings under £16,000, you could still qualify for some support.
How to apply for council tax discount
If you think you may qualify to get a council tax discount, applying for it is usually a straightforward task. All you need to do is contact your local council’s tax department. They’ll provide you with the necessary forms or point you in the direction of an online application.
Common reasons for discounts include being the sole occupant of your property, receiving certain state benefits such as Universal Credit, or having a diagnosed disability. With this in mind, you will typically be asked to provide evidence to support your claim, such as benefit statements or medical certificates. Once submitted, the council will assess your application and inform you of any approved discounts.
Remember – council tax support schemes vary by locality, so what you’re entitled to depends on your council. To find out if you can get a council tax reduction, visit Gov.uk for more information.
How to reduce your energy bill
As of Monday 1 April, the Price Cap decreased by 12%, bringing the average UK energy bill for a dual fuel household in England, Scotland and Wales to £1,690. Despite this reduction, energy bills remain significantly high for many, causing financial strain. If eligible, the below Government assistance options can help you save.
Warm Home Discount
Though the Warm Home Discount Scheme is currently closed, it will reopen in October 2024. This scheme offers a one-time £150 discount on energy bills for those who qualify. Eligible individuals will receive the discount directly on their bill, rather than as a cash payment.
Eligibility typically grants you the discount automatically. However, low-income residents in Scotland need to contact their energy supplier to apply.
Winter Fuel Payment
For those who have reached State Pension age and are finding it hard to cover energy expenses, the Winter Fuel Payment could offer some relief. This payment, which ranges from £100 to £300, is typically issued automatically starting in November each year.
Household Support Fund
If you’re on a low income and need assistance with installing energy-saving measures or insulation, your local council’s Household Support Fund may be an option.
Other potential support could include:
- Essentials for maintaining warmth and cleanliness
- Household appliances like fridges, freezers and ovens
- Assistance with broadband or phone bills
- Food vouchers during school breaks
For residents of Scotland, more information is available on the Scottish Welfare Fund through the Scottish Government’s website. In Wales, the Discretionary Assistance Fund details are on the Welsh Government’s site and in Northern Ireland, updates on the Social Fund can be found at nidirect.
For those who are struggling to pay their bills, see our Energy Bills Debt article for more help.
