“tune In” To Keep Household Bills Down
Saturday 18 October 2008
We all pay attention when it comes to the cost of our groceries, fuel, electricity and gas, but how do we fare when it comes to our mobile, landline, TV and Internet costs? Here are the Consumer Council’s top tips for keeping in touch at the lowest possible price:
Choose the right mobile
Check your monthly bills to see where you’re spending the most money. If it’s on texts, photo messages, calls to other networks or international calls make sure your contract gives you the best deal on the things that you use most. Shop around, compare offers and switch if you find a better deal - you can take your old phone number with you. For more information on choosing the right mobile visit: http://www.ofcom.org.uk/consumeradvice/mobile/
Pay as you go?
If you only make the odd phone call or tend to send texts instead, a Pay as You Go (PAYG) mobile may save you money. You can pick one up from as little as £30 and you decide how much money you top it up with. If you have a contract mobile but tend to use more than your allocated monthly minutes or texts, a
PAYG mobile may help you keep track of what you’re using and save you money.
Combine the costs and save
Some companies offer good deals if you combine your television, telephone and Internet access together. This can help you budget as you only get one bill instead of three. For more information visit:www.simplifydigital.co.uk/Broadband/Northern-Irelandor www.broadbandchoices.co.uk
BT Basic
BT recently launched “BT Basic” specifically for customers on Income Support, Income-based Job Seekers Allowance or Guaranteed Pensions Credit. For more information or an application form, call free on 0800 800 864 or visit: www.bt.com/btbasic.
The Consumer Council’s website is full of handy tips to help you save money - visit www.consumercouncil.org.uk and click on the Money Saving Tips icon or call us on 028 9067 2488.
