Five household bills rising in April - secret tips to beat price hikes

Rising bills will increase cost of living pressures for million of households

A number of the main household bills will be going up in April, bringing more financial pain for millions of households.

Energy, council tax, water, phone and broadband payments will all be rising next month to heighten cost of living pressures.

Almost three quarters (73%) of Brits 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.

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Around a quarter (26%) say they’ve avoided checking their bank balance due to stresses over rising costs.

But finance experts say there are things households can do to try to ease the pain of rising payments.

Fiona Peake, consumer money expert at Ocean Finance, says there are ways to beat the price rises, the Mirror reports.

She said: “April is shaping up to be an expensive month, with Brits forking out even more to keep the lights on and the WiFi running.

"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."

Fiona offered the following advice to save cash.

1. Cut 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. Check for any council tax discounts you might be able to claim

“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. Trick to save on water bills

“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. Simple changes to cut energy costs

“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 60C.

"It won’t impact the warmth of your home, but it could save you another £100 a year.”

5. Get rid of subscriptions you don't use

“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!”