Last updated: May 06, 2024

How to save money on bills

Noemie Williams DipPFS
Mortgage & Protection Adviser DipPFS at Mortgages for Doctors

How to save money on bills

We understand that many people will be keen to seize opportunities to trim their regular expenses, especially given the current economic climate, and the time of year. While there's no magic wand to instantly lower your monthly outgoings, dedicating some time and effort can reveal numerous ways to potentially reduce your bills.

Certainly, one effective approach is to curtail your usage across various services like gas and electricity. However, beyond that, there are additional strategies that, with a bit of effort, could contribute to decreasing your bills and maintaining financial stability.

Let's explore some relatively quick and practical wins that might aid in bringing down those expenses and keeping your budget in check.

  1. Review your monthly subscriptions: In the age of streaming services and subscription boxes, it's easy to accumulate monthly subscriptions that may go unnoticed. Regularly review your subscriptions and eliminate those that no longer add significant value to your life.
  2. Negotiate your bills: Don't be afraid to negotiate with your service providers. Whether it's your internet, or insurance provider, a simple call to discuss your options can lead to potential discounts or better rates. Loyalty is often rewarded in the form of special promotions.
  3. Optimise your energy usage: Lowering your energy bills not only helps the environment, but also contributes to significant cost savings. Consider investing in energy-efficient appliances, switch to LED bulbs, and be mindful of unnecessary energy consumption. Small changes can make a big difference.
  4. Refinance your mortgage: It's crucial to routinely assess your mortgage deal and ensure it stays competitive and aligns with your evolving financial situation. This is especially pertinent if you currently hold a tracker or fixed-rate mortgage that's nearing its end, and your lender proposes transitioning you to their standard variable rate, which could be expensive. Opting for a remortgage provides you with the flexibility to shift your existing mortgage to either a different arrangement with the same lender, or to an entirely new deal with a different lender. This is something of course we can help with.
  5. Bundle your insurance policies: Many insurance providers offer discounts when you bundle multiple policies, such as car and home insurance. Explore bundling options to potentially lower your insurance premiums.
  6. Shop around for services: Regularly shop around for essential services such as internet and insurance. The market is competitive, and new customer promotions are often more favourable than existing customer rates. Don't hesitate to explore alternative providers.
  7. Automate savings: Set up automated transfers to a savings account immediately after receiving your salary payment. Treating your savings like a non-negotiable bill ensures that you prioritise saving before discretionary spending.
  8. Audit your food shop: Grocery bills can be a significant portion of monthly expenses. Plan meals, create shopping lists, and explore cost-effective options. Consider buying generic brands and taking advantage of multi-buy offers.
  9. Implement water-saving practices: Simple changes in water usage, such as fixing leaks, installing low-flow fixtures, and being mindful of water consumption, can contribute to lower water bills.
  10. Consider refinancing high-interest debt: If you have high-interest debt, such as credit card balances, consider refinancing with a lower-interest option. This can result in reduced monthly payments and substantial interest savings over time.

In summary, saving money on bills is not just a one-time effort; it's a continuous journey toward financial empowerment. By incorporating these strategies into your financial routine, you'll not only enjoy immediate savings but also cultivate a mindset of conscious spending and resourcefulness. Remember, every pound saved is a step closer to achieving your financial goals and securing a more stable future.

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