With the new financial year beginning in April, UK households face a wave of bill increases. Council tax is set to rise by up to 4.99% for most councils, with some proposing even higher increases. North Somerset and Shropshire have suggested 8.99% rises, while Worcester is proposing 8.98%. In Scotland, where no cap exists, average rises are expected to be higher, and in Wales increases range from 3.75% to 5.5%. Northern Ireland's domestic rates system sees rises between 1.96% and 4.5%.
Energy bills, however, offer some relief. The Ofgem price cap will drop by £117 for typical households on standard variable tariffs, bringing annual costs down to £1,641. Government policy changes also remove certain environmental charges from all bills. Despite this, geopolitical tensions in the Middle East are expected to push wholesale gas prices higher, with forecasts suggesting the price cap could rise by around 10% in July, taking typical bills to approximately £1,801.
Broadband customers face mid-contract price rises in April, with the scale depending on the provider and contract date. Those out of contract can switch without penalty, and experts recommend comparing deals to avoid paying a premium. Which? offers a comparison service to help consumers find better options.
