Millions of mobile and broadband users have the opportunity to avoid upcoming price hikes in April by taking proactive steps now. According to Uswitch, approximately 8 million broadband subscribers and 14 million mobile customers who are currently out of contract could save money by exploring other options.
Failing to review your bills and seek better deals or negotiate with your current provider could lead to unnecessary cost increases. Notably, major service providers like O2, Virgin, Three, and Vodafone are planning to increase their charges starting today.
In a positive development for consumers, mobile and broadband companies are now required to disclose any mid-contract price rises in clear monetary terms rather than linking them to inflation. By acting promptly, people could collectively save £633, as stated by Ernest Doku, a telecoms expert at Uswitch.
Switching providers could lead to significant savings, with broadband customers potentially saving an average of £329 and mobile users saving around £304 by switching to SIM-only contracts. The current market offers highly competitive deals, particularly in broadband, due to intense competition among providers.
If you are out of contract, chances are you are overpaying for your mobile and broadband services. Before comparing prices elsewhere, assess your current usage to avoid paying for unnecessary allowances. Utilize comparison websites such as Uswitch, Compare the Market, Confused.com, or MoneySupermarket to find the most cost-effective deals.
After comparing prices online, consider switching to a new provider if a better deal is found, or attempt to negotiate with your current provider for a lower rate. Politeness is key when haggling for better terms. If your current provider cannot match a cheaper offer, consider switching and explore cashback opportunities from various websites.
If you receive benefits, check if you qualify for a discounted social tariff, with options starting at £12 per month for broadband and £10 for mobile services. Eligibility criteria vary among suppliers, including Universal Credit, Pension Credit, Employment and Support Allowance, Jobseeker’s Allowance, Income Support, Personal Independence Payment, and Attendance Allowance.
Research by Broadband Genie indicates that around 5.3 million UK households are eligible for the cheaper tariff, yet nearly 4.8 million are not taking advantage of it. Verify with your broadband or mobile provider to see if you qualify for their social tariff.