Practical, tested ways to lower household bills: energy, broadband and mobile, insurance, council tax, water, subscriptions and debt, with the rules that help you switch.
Most households can cut regular bills without giving anything up, simply by not paying "loyalty" prices and checking a few rules that work in your favour. These ten steps are ordered roughly by how much they tend to save for the effort involved. Prices and deals change constantly, so compare at the time you switch.
1. Check your broadband and mobile contracts
When a fixed contract ends, prices often rise. Ofcom rules require providers to send an end-of-contract notification telling you the best deals available. Use it to haggle or switch. For mobile, if you own your handset outright after the contract, a SIM-only deal is often much cheaper. If you receive Universal Credit, Pension Credit or certain other benefits, ask about social tariffs.
2. Review your energy tariff and usage
Check whether fixed deals are cheaper than the price cap tariff for your usage; sometimes they are, sometimes not. Read meters regularly or use a smart meter so bills are accurate. Simple efficiency steps help: lower the boiler flow temperature on a combi boiler (follow the manufacturer's guidance), draught-proof doors and windows, and use timers. Check whether you qualify for the Warm Home Discount.
3. Never auto-renew insurance
Since January 2022, FCA rules mean home and car insurers cannot charge renewing customers more than they would charge a new customer for the same policy through the same channel. That helps, but shopping around can still save money, because other insurers may be cheaper. Compare on cover and excess, not just price.
4. Cut unused subscriptions
Go through two months of bank and card statements and list every recurring payment: streaming, apps, gyms, software, magazines. Cancel those you rarely use, rotate streaming services rather than keeping them all, and check app-store subscriptions on your phone.
5. Check your council tax
If you live alone as an adult, you should get a 25% single person discount. Check if any disregards or Council Tax Reduction apply, and that your property is in the right band.
6. Look at your water bill
If you live alone or in a larger property with few occupants, a water meter may lower your bill. In England and Wales you can usually ask for one free, and often switch back within a set period if it does not save money. Most water companies also offer help schemes for low incomes.
7. Tackle expensive debt
Interest is a bill too. A 0% balance transfer card, if you qualify, can cut credit card interest while you pay it off, but watch the transfer fee and the end date. Pay more than the minimum where you can. If debts feel unmanageable, get free help from StepChange, Citizens Advice or National Debtline.
8. Switch your bank account if it doesn't suit you
The Current Account Switch Service moves your payments and direct debits for you within seven working days, and guarantees to cover any charges if something goes wrong. Some banks offer switching incentives. Avoid accounts with monthly fees you don't benefit from, and arrange a cheaper way to borrow than an overdraft if you rely on one.
9. Cut food waste and plan meals
Planning meals around what you have, checking cupboards before shopping and using loyalty scheme prices can make a real difference to the grocery bill. Supermarket own brands are often similar quality.
10. Claim what you are entitled to
Run a GOV.UK-listed benefits calculator, check Marriage Allowance if you are in a couple, and make sure you claim tax relief on work expenses you are entitled to, such as uniform cleaning or professional fees.
How do you switch without stress?
- Note every contract's end date in a calendar.
- A month before, compare deals and ask your current provider to match.
- Check exit fees before switching mid-contract.
- Keep confirmation emails and final bills.
Frequently asked questions
Is it worth paying for a switching service?
Comparison sites are free, as is the Current Account Switch Service. Be wary of paying anyone to switch for you.
Sources and further reading
- Ofcom: Getting a better deal
- Ofgem: Energy price cap
- Current Account Switch Service
- GOV.UK: Benefits calculators
Facts checked on 20 October 2026. Spotted an error? Tell us and we will correct it.