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Our Expert Money Saving Tips for 2024

Money saving tips 2024

Our Finance Tips for 2024

In 2024, as living costs continue to rise, it’s crucial to examine our money saving habits thoroughly.

For most bill payers, this includes your phone bills, broadband, energy efficiency, and subscriptions.

Aside from obvious money saving strategies, such as budgeting, we’ve highlighted a few less common hacks to help you save money.

Let’s explore some strategies to optimise money saving for each category:

Phone Expenses

With mobile phone ownership exceeding 90% and landline usage declining, it’s time to reassess our phone bills. Here are some tips to consider:

  • Check your contract status to see if you’re overpaying.
  • Explore options like switching providers or negotiating better deals.
  • Consider social tariffs for cheaper broadband if eligible.
  • Opt for SIM-only plans, especially if you own a handset.
  • If you still rely on your landline, bundle your services to save up to 34%.

Broadband Bills

A more complex tip which involves initial costs before money saving is transitioning to fibre broadband.

Overall, it offers better value in the long run, providing faster speeds when most needed.

This is especially true if you experience losses due to poor broadband. This includes not being able to work remotely, or having a smart home security hub that frequently drops out or disconnects.

To read more please visit our previous blog post.

Other ways to optimise your broadband expenses include:

  • Negotiating your broadband deal strategically, especially when your contract is ending or during promotional periods.
  • Research competitor offers and use them as leverage during negotiations.
  • Clearly express dissatisfaction with your current package and your willingness to switch providers if necessary. This can sometimes lead to compensatory money.
  • Highlight your loyalty as a long-term customer to inquire about loyalty discounts.
  • Utilize online tools and forums for additional support and guidance.

Energy Efficiency

Improving energy efficiency not only lowers utility bills but also reduces environmental impact. Here are some energy-saving tips:

  • Invest in energy-efficient appliances like LED light bulbs and smart thermostats.
  • Ensure proper home insulation to prevent heat loss.
  • Optimise heating and cooling by adjusting thermostat settings and installing programmable thermostats.
  • Adopt energy-saving habits in your daily life. This includes turning off lights and electronics when not in use.
  • Use your washing line or clothes maiden instead of a tumble drier.
  • Explore renewable energy sources like solar panels or wind turbines.

Subscriptions

Managing subscriptions efficiently can lead to significant savings. Here are some of our helpful tips:

  • Regularly review your subscriptions to assess their value.
  • Bundle services for discounts.
  • Negotiate better deals with subscription providers.
  • Take advantage of free trials to test services before committing.
  • Share subscription accounts with family or friends to split costs.
  • Opt for annual payments for additional discounts.
  • Keep track of renewal dates and use discounts or coupons to save money.
  • Downgrade plans if you’re not fully utilising higher-tier subscriptions.
  • Explore free or lower-cost alternatives to paid subscriptions.

By implementing these strategies, you can better manage your budget and achieve long-term financial stability in 2024 and beyond.

Which Expenses are Going up in 2024?

Unfortunately, annual inflation is common – and 2024 will be no exception.

We’ve covered the main household costs due to soar this year and advised on how to counteract them.

Council Tax

Council tax, a major monthly expense, typically increases in April.

While Scotland enjoys a freeze until April 2025, the rest of the UK awaits news.

Councils in England can hike taxes up to 5% annually, potentially adding £103 to the average bill.

Despite calls for fairer collection methods, missed payments can still lead to consequences.

Explore options like payment rescheduling, hardship relief, tax reduction, or challenging your property’s valuation.

TV Licence Fee

TV licence fees are set to rise to £169.50 in April, a £10.50 increase.

This is below the expected inflation-linked rise, offering some relief.

Renewing before April can lock in the current price.

Additionally, individuals over 75 receiving Pension Credit are eligible for a free licence.

Energy Bills

Energy bills may surge by up to 5% in January due to rising energy price caps.

Mitigate costs by ensuring accurate meter readings, questioning changes, and adopting energy-saving habits.

Mobile and Broadband

Mid-contract price hikes are common in mobile and broadband contracts, with some providers planning increases of over 8% in 2024.

Explore switching to a provider without mid-contract rises or negotiate with your current provider for a better deal.

Insurance Premiums

Home and car insurance premiums have soared, with the average quoted price rising significantly.

Shop around for better deals, consider annual policies, and compare ratings to find the best insurance options.

Mortgages

Mortgage rates have increased, driven by a freeze in the base rate.

Consider switching deals if nearing the end of a fixed term, or, seek advice from a mortgage broker to navigate your options effectively.

We recommend staying in the loop by checking out local money saving sites and news outlets.

Your suppliers also have a duty to inform you about any upcoming price hikes.

Cut your Household Bills With Switch Experts

Ready to find a new fast and affordable broadband provider?

In just a few clicks, we can help you see how much you could be saving on your broadband bills.

Simply search your postcode and browse our latest available deals.

 

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Your Broadband Cancellation Explained

Broadband Cancellation Explained

How to Cancel Your Broadband

Broadband cancellation can seem daunting.

However, when you’re informed, you’ll soon realise that there’s nothing to fear!

Gone are the days of intense over-the-phone haggling, chasing emails, or sifting through contracts.

Our experts know just how seamless the broadband cancellation process can be.

In this detailed guide, we’ll walk you through the essential steps and considerations to make.

Are You at the End of Your Contract?

If you’re approaching the end of your broadband contract, you’re in the perfect position! Several weeks before your end-date, you will be notified by your supplier, who will let you know what your options are for next steps (this will either be through email or phone calls.)

Your supplier may offer you alternative deals on the same network – especially if they value loyalty! However, if you’ve got your eye on a competitor, stay resilient to their offers, and insist on broadband cancellation.

Whether you pick a new deal with the same supplier, or switch brands entirely, it’s crucial that you don’t stay put! Letting your deal auto-renew could cost you anywhere up to between 9% – 60% more per year.

Are You Mid-Contract?

Mid-contract broadband cancellations are known to be a bit trickier – and regrettably more costly!

Your first step is to review all your contract terms in detail. Take note of the contract length, cancellation fees, and notice period required by your provider. You should also carefully consider other obligations, such as your notice period and cancellation fees.

Unfortunately, it’s more common than not that you will face early exit fees. However, you can ensure that these costs are as low as possible by promptly returning any equipment (such as a router) to your supplier. Follow any instructions listed in your contract and this will help you to avoid extra charges.

Once you’re armed with this information, contact your supplier, and clearly express your intention to cancel.

It’s also crucial that you document the entire broadband cancellation process, including any emails/written requests and reference numbers. This documentation is highly valuable, should any discrepancies occur.

Is it Possible to Cancel Mid-Contract Without Fees?

Escaping a broadband contract without facing fees can be tricky, but it’s not impossible.

Here are a few examples of scenarios in which your broadband cancellation would be free:

  • Negotiate your way out: If you’re dissatisfied with your current package, try haggling with your provider. They may offer you a better deal or increased speeds to keep you. Check out our Broadband Haggling Guide for expert tips on slashing your bills.

 

  • Changes in terms: If your provider alters the terms of your contract, like significant price hikes, you might have grounds to leave without penalties. While annual price increases are common, significant changes beyond what’s stated in your agreement could give you an out.

 

  • Service faults: If your provider fails to deliver the promised minimum speeds, you have rights under Ofcom’s Code of Practice. Log a fault with your provider, and if they can’t resolve it within a reasonable timeframe, typically 30 days, you can exit the contract penalty-free.

 

  • Cooling-off period: Don’t forget about the cooling-off period! If you’re still within the first 14 days of your contract, you can cancel for any reason without facing penalties.

Our expert advisors can speak to you in-depth to help you understand your specific situation and your rights.

Ready to Switch and Save Today?

Broadband cancellation requires careful planning if you want to avoid extra fees or hassle.

Timing and contractual terms are everything. Whatever your situation, our experts are dedicated to helping advise and guide you every step of the way.

Stuck in a subpar contract? We can speak to your supplier and see if you’re entitled to leave.

If your exit fees are too high, we can help you make a switching plan for the near future.

Ready to switch today?

Don’t wait any longer – start browsing the latest offers here and see how much you could save.

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Your Guide to Mid-Contract Broadband Price Hikes

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Locked in and paying more?

Mid-contract broadband price hikes can leave you scratching your head and clutching your wallet.

Regrettably, they’re becoming more prevalent across internet suppliers.

We’ve got you covered, from the fine print behind price hikes to practical tips to help you dodge them.

Our experts are eager to break down the puzzles around mid-contract broadband pricing rises so that you can stay on top of digital connectivity, whilst keeping control of your budget.

When did Broadband Prices Increase?

You may have noticed that your monthly broadband price has quietly increased since April.

If you haven’t already, it’s a good idea to check your most current bill as soon as you can.

This latest price hike is the result of a significant increase in inflation that began in 2023.

As a result, a sizeable portion of internet subscribers have seen an unexpected increase in their monthly charges of up to 15%—a huge price increase that coincides with an ongoing cost of living crisis.

Even if you’ve agreed to a fixed monthly rate throughout your contract period, price rises are becoming regrettably common nationwide.

According to a recent Which? survey, customers could face an uplift of over £100 per year as a result of recent mid-contract broadband price hikes – and this will affect millions of people.

What are Mid-Contract Broadband Price Hikes?

Mid-contract broadband price rises are the act of increasing your current monthly price, whilst you are still in the middle of your contract.

Typically occurring annually, these adjustments are linked to the Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation rate, which is published each January.

This amalgamation often results in an annual price increase of approximately 4-5%, regardless of the initial rate you agreed upon when entering your contract.

Price rises are imposed to help suppliers offset the mounting costs associated with running a business and providing their internet service.

However, the anomaly in 2023 emerged due to an unusually high CPI rate of 10.5% recorded in January.

As a result, the ensuing broadband contract price adjustments for 2023 exceeded the norm and left a lot of us reeling – with some prices rising by a shocking 14.4% this year!

Can I Switch Deals if my Bill Goes up?

You might be thinking “Well, surely I can just switch deals to avoid any mid-contract broadband price hikes?”

It’s unfortunately not always that simple.

This depends on the contract you signed up for with your existing supplier.

When you take out a new broadband deal, you agree to accept the terms and conditions put in place by your supplier.

These days, most T&Cs tend to mention that their prices will increase mid-contract, in line with inflation.

This might be tucked away within the fine print of your contract, or maybe your supplier will be more upfront about it.

Either way, we always recommend re-reading your contract in detail – even if it feels like a chore!

If your contract does not include any mention of accepting mid-contract price rises, you’ll be given a 30-day window to switch deals for free.

If it does mention price rises, you could face an exit fee.

You’ll find information about your exit fees within your T&Cs – as it’s likely to be another condition you’ve already agreed to.

What Are Exit Fees?

Exit fees are charges that you might face for leaving your current broadband deal before your contract period is up.

In some cases, you may have to pay for the remaining months left of your contract, but this varies depending on your supplier.

This is something our experts can investigate in depth for you.

Do any Suppliers Offer a Guaranteed Fixed Price?

Some internet suppliers do guarantee you a fixed ‘price for life’ – you just have to know where to look!

We’ve made it easy to search all the latest broadband deals from a range of suppliers in your area.

If you’re approaching the end of your contract when you find out about a price hike, the time couldn’t be better to switch and save!

One of our trusted suppliers, Neatley, offers every customer a fixed and affordable ‘price for life’ guarantee.

Find out more or get in touch directly on 0330 341 1954 today.

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Debunking 5 Common Broadband Switching Myths

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5 Myths we Need to Debunk

Switching broadband deals isn’t the burden you think it is.

As technology evolves, so does your need for quality internet.

A lot of us couldn’t bear the thought of going without Wi-Fi for a day – but this doesn’t mean you should be afraid of switching suppliers.

Once the initial contract period ends, many of us find ourselves suddenly paying over the odds for subpar internet.

Fast speeds and lower prices could be a switch away, but there are a few misconceptions putting people off.

Our experts have explained the truth about switching broadband deals.

Why are people staying put with their current broadband deal?

According to a recent Which survey, almost 50% of respondents said they’ve never switched broadband deals.

Many consumers have the same excuses for staying put – but they’re not necessarily true.

Some customers stick with their supplier out of a misguided sense of loyalty or fear the switching process is simply not worth it, for various reasons (and they’re usually inaccurate!).

As a result, we’re seeing thousands of people missing out on potential savings and better broadband every year.

In this blog post, we aim to set the record straight and help empower you to switch your broadband deal today.

What’s more, you’ll discover that switching can be a great way to save on upgrade on other deals too, like your mobile plan.

The top 5 Switching Myths we Hear

Don’t believe the rumours!

We’ve explained the top 5 most common myths below.

Myth 1: Switching is Too Complicated and Time-Consuming

One of the most common myths about switching broadband is that it’s an incredibly complicated and time-consuming process.

We know this isn’t the case.

With the help of Switch Experts, the sign-up process has never been easier.

We take care of the switch from your current provider (if you have one), liaise with your new supplier and keep you updated along every step of the way right up until your activation.

Additionally, many providers offer to handle the cancellation of your current service, making the transition seamless. With the right guidance and support, switching can be completed in a matter of days, ensuring minimal disruption to your connectivity.

Myth 2: Switching Will Result in Downtime and Disruptions

This is another prevalent myth – and we understand why it sounds off-putting! Nowadays, switching your broadband doesn’t cause any major downtime or disruptions. If your new supplier is using the same network (like Openreach), as your existing supplier, you’ll be up and running on your new deal in a day.

This is also the case if you’re switching from a fibre deal to another fibre deal, with no landline phone involved. It’s when you switch from an ADSL deal to fibre (getting rid of your landline) that it can get a bit more complicated.

If a visit from an engineer is required, you’ll be given plenty of notice before arranging a visit – and you’ll still be up and running within two weeks.

Our experts will guide you through this and explore if your new supplier offers a temporary solution to keep you connected throughout the switch, such as mobile broadband.

Myth 3: I Will Lose My Email Address and Contacts

If your email address is associated with your current provider, we know it could seem daunting to switch. Some internet providers will let you keep your existing email address and account, but the majority do not.

This is something our experts can advise you on, however, we do strongly recommend creating a new email account with a free service.

Many of the large email providers, such as Gmail and Outlook, even have advanced technology to seamlessly fetch and import your old emails and addresses into your new account. Whilst you may have to spend a bit of time on email forwarding and editing your accounts and subscriptions, you won’t be tied down again in the future.

Myth 4: Switching Providers is Expensive

We know for a fact this myth isn’t true – and you can likely attest to this!

Many providers offer enticing deals and incentives to attract new customers, including zero installation fees or free equipment.

Do you remember signing up for a new deal because it guaranteed low prices for a set period? Once this period ends, you’ll be auto enrolled to a standard broadband plan and could end up paying more for a service that isn’t worth it.

With the help of our experts, you could save up to nearly £200 per year on your broadband bills – just by switching your deal.

Myth 5: All Providers Offer the Same Service, So There’s No Point in Switching

Every provider offers different plans, speeds, and features tailored to various consumer needs.

If you’ve been on a long term broadband plan, for example 18 months or longer, it’s highly likely that your area has received infrastructure upgrades by now. You could be sitting on an affordable fibre deal instead of being tied to a landline and ADSL bundle!

It’s also important to consider if you’re truly happy with the service you’ve received from your current supplier. We only work with reputable and trusted brands to ensure we can offer the right deals for everyone.

Perhaps you think customer support could have been better, or you’d like to explore different products or add-ons (like a mobile 4G broadband router.) We think it’s essential that the service you receive is worth every penny you pay.

Are There any Downsides to Switching?

We believe the switching process only becomes difficult when you go into the world of broadband deals alone.

Manually trawling through separate sites and getting multiple quotes becomes a confusing chore, when in our opinion, it simply doesn’t have to be.

Our deal checker tool is free, easy, and only shows deals that are tailored to you.

We don’t charge a penny and aim to get you switched, sorted and saving money as soon as possible.

Ready to switch and save?

With Switch Experts, it’s never been easier to save money and time.

In a world where costs are increasing left right and centre, we understand that every penny counts.

If you’ve gone over your contract end date, now is the perfect time to switch and start saving money straight away.

We personalise our deals to your internet needs and explore a range of plans from different internet providers, with no hidden fees whatsoever for using our deal checker.

Get started today and find your new broadband plan.

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Always check your broadband end date

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Broadband contract ending soon? Lucky you

Receiving that end date notification means you’ve got a chance to save more money.

What’s more – it doesn’t take half as much time or effort as you might think either.

Given how the cost-of-living crisis has affected us all, it’s never been more crucial to compare and switch.

We see a lot of customers being pleasantly surprised at how much they could save on their broadband.

Despite this, it’s often overlooked – and for reasons that surprise us.

Did you know you could save nearly £200 a year by switching your ISP?

What about auto-renewal?

Unfortunately, loyalty doesn’t help you save money!

Although it became law in 2020 for energy suppliers for notify customers when their end date is due, this doesn’t mean you don’t have to act on it.

In most cases, you’ll continue your current plan – but not necessarily for the same price.

Say you chose your current 12/18/24 month contract because of its low monthly price, this will only be for a limited time.

Despite Ofcom making it law to notify customers, a lot of people are still facing an unpleasant surprise when their fixed term ends.

Why don’t more people switch?

We see a lot of customers reluctant to switch, either out of misguided loyalty or because switching seems like a lot of hassle.

According to a recent Which survey, 43% of people say they stay put because they’re happy with the service. This is fair enough, but is it worth paying more for? Fibre is more widespread and affordable than ever before, so you might find a new supplier makes you even happier!

37% are afraid they’ll lose their current email address. These days, losing your email is unlikely – but it’s quick and easy to set up a separate one.

32% say they fear the whole process is “too much hassle”.

We’re here to compare and switch for you, so you get to enjoy a seamless change over.

A bit of bargain hunting pays off – especially when you do it with our experts.

Switching is easier than you think

A lot of broadband networks now share the same infrastructure, making a switch over quick and easy. It’s highly unlikely that you’ll be left without an internet connection during your switch, even if you’re upgrading from ADSL to fibre.

Generally, you’ll never be waiting longer than 2 weeks for the transition to be complete – and this for the most complex switches.

Saving doesn’t mean downgrading!

More properties are eligible for fibre than ever before. In fact, 95% of properties can now access superfast Wi-Fi – but a lot of homeowners don’t know this!

If it’s been a while since you last changed deals, you’ll be surprised at how many suppliers have upgraded their service. Because fibre is readily available, prices are competitive – making it all the more crucial to compare.

Find the best deal today

Once you’ve given us your postcode, we scour the web to find every available deal in your area.

We handpick deals from a range of suppliers (including bundles and 4G routers).

Plus, you’ve got our friendly, impartial advisors to help guide you through the process too!

Search for your new broadband deal in a few clicks.

With the help of our experts and our free tool, you can also find your next mobile deal with us too.

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