Millions of mobile and broadband users have the opportunity to avoid upcoming price increases in April by taking proactive steps now. According to Uswitch, approximately eight million broadband customers and 14 million mobile customers are currently not under contract and could save money by exploring other options instead of allowing their bills to increase unnoticed. This situation is exacerbated by major providers like O2, Virgin, Three, and Vodafone planning to raise prices.
Mobile and broadband companies are now required to disclose any mid-contract price rises in clear monetary terms rather than linking them to inflation. Ernest Doku, a telecoms expert at Uswitch, mentioned potential savings of up to £633 for those who take action promptly. Switching providers could save broadband users an average of £329, while mobile customers could save an average of £304 by switching to SIM-only contracts.
To avoid overpaying for mobile and broadband services, consumers are advised to assess their current usage patterns before seeking better deals elsewhere. Comparison websites like Uswitch, Compare the Market, Confused.com, and MoneySupermarket can help identify the most cost-effective options. If a cheaper deal is found, customers can consider negotiating with their existing provider before making a switch. Politeness and the willingness to explore options can often lead to better deals.
For those on benefits, there may be social tariffs available, starting from £12 per month for broadband and £10 for mobile services. Eligibility for these tariffs varies among suppliers, with benefits like Universal Credit, Pension Credit, Employment and Support Allowance, Jobseeker’s Allowance, Income Support, Personal Independence Payment, and Attendance Allowance potentially qualifying individuals. Research by Broadband Genie revealed that approximately 5.3 million households are eligible for these tariffs, yet many are not currently taking advantage of them. Customers are encouraged to check with their providers to see if they qualify for social tariffs.
