Customers of telecommunications giants BT and EE who are currently out of contract are being warned about impending monthly bill increases that could add significant costs over the coming year. According to financial guidance from Money Saving Expert, the website founded by consumer champion Martin Lewis, these customers have a crucial window of opportunity to act.
Understanding the March Price Increases
From March 1st, BT and EE customers who are not within a fixed-term contract face monthly bill rises of up to £4. This seemingly modest increase accumulates to a substantial £48 over the course of a full year, particularly impacting those who originally signed up for services approximately two years ago.
The price adjustments will affect a wide range of services including broadband, landline, mobile, and television packages. The exact amount each household or individual will pay depends on their specific service combination and usage patterns.
Who Will Be Affected?
The increases specifically target customers who have not switched providers or upgraded their packages since April 10, 2024. This creates two distinct groups facing different circumstances and options.
For those out of contract, the situation offers more flexibility. Money Saving Expert confirms that these customers can leave their current provider at any time without incurring early termination penalties. This freedom presents a valuable opportunity to either negotiate improved terms with BT or EE directly or to switch entirely to alternative providers offering more competitive rates.
Contractual Considerations and Timelines
Customers who remain within their initial contract period face a different scenario. Their price increases will take effect from March 31st, and because these adjustments were outlined in their original service agreements, they cannot exit penalty-free before their contract concludes.
Financial experts strongly advise these customers to immediately note their contract end date and begin researching better deals that will become available once they are free to switch. Proactive planning can prevent automatic rollover onto more expensive standard tariffs.
Immediate Action for Mobile Customers
Mobile service users may have particular advantage. In many cases, mobile customers can secure better deals immediately without waiting for their broadband or landline contracts to conclude, allowing them to address portions of their overall telecommunications costs separately and promptly.
Expert Recommendations to Protect Your Finances
The same fundamental principle applies across all affected services: a quick check of your current tariff and contract status can prevent unnecessary financial outlay. Money Saving Expert emphasises that even small monthly increases become significant when multiplied across twelve months, potentially leaving households paying substantially more than anticipated.
Financial advisors consistently recommend that all BT and EE customers review their arrangements without delay. The ability to switch suppliers or secure better deals represents an important financial safeguard that many consumers overlook until it is too late.
Consequently, taking immediate action is paramount. By making the most of every available opportunity to secure favourable terms, customers can effectively safeguard their money before potentially becoming locked into more expensive contractual arrangements through inaction.
