What to do if you're struggling with your monthly bills

Many households are still being affected by the high cost of living, with several people worrying about how they can make ends meet each month. Unfortunately, the cost of bills including, water, council tax, and energy are still rising.

Energy bills

Energy bills are still very high, and for most people costs increased a further 1% at the beginning of the year, meaning lots of people have resorted to not having the heating on despite the cold weather.

If you are struggling to pay, get in contact with your provider who may offer the following to help:

• Review your payment plan
• Offer a payment reduction
• Arrange an affordable debt repayment plan
• Give you more time to pay
• Access to energy supplier hardship funds

Remember, they will decide what help to offer on a case-by-case basis.

Council tax

It is important to contact your council as soon as possible if you are struggling to keep up with your council tax payments. They may suggest the following:

• Spread the payments over 12 months instead of 10 months which will reduce the monthly cost
• Offer a Council Tax Reduction if you are on a low income or benefits
• Give you a reduced council tax bill - this could be if you live on your own

Water

The majority of households in England, Scotland, and Wales will see water bills rise this year. This is to fund investments in infrastructure and to meet environmental requirements. By speaking with your provider and telling them you are struggling with payments, they could:

• Check to see if you're eligible for financial help
• Let you know about different payment options
• Discuss whether you would benefit from a water meter. Having a water meter means you only pay for what you use, whereas without a water meter, you will receive an estimated bill based on your usage the previous year

Phone, internet, or TV

If you aren't able to make the payments to pay your phone, internet, or television bill, you may be able to get a cheaper deal or support from your provider.

• Discounts
  • If you are on benefits, you may be eligible for a discount on your internet, mobile, or telephone, this is called a 'social tariff.' You will just need to check you are on the right benefits for the social tariff and are the account holder
  • You can get a free TV licence if you are 75+ years old, or you or your partner get Pension Credit
  • You can get a discounted TV licence if you live in a care home or sheltered accommodation, or are registered blind
• Check you can leave before the end of your contract
• Arrange a payment plan to spread the cost over 12 months for your TV licence
• Check if you actually need a TV licence - this is only needed to watch or record live TV and use BBC iPlayer

If you are struggling, don't suffer in silence. You won't be the only one so it is important to contact your providers who may be able to offer help and support. Be sure to also ask your providers if any action you take will affect your credit status.