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Finance
Mortgages, pensions, loans, shares, savings |
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Utility Bills
Utility Bills
I nearly fainted when we received our gas and electric bills. I simply couldn’t believe that we’d used so much. As it turned out we hadn’t. Our gas bill had been estimated to be twice the amount that we had actually used! So make sure that you always read your meter!
We’ve been warned
The energy watchdog Ofgem has been urging customers to switch from EDF and Scottish Power. These suppliers had failed to cut their charges, potentially costing customers up to £140 extra a year. This came in the same week it was revealed that British Gas had received a whopping 21,000 complaints this year alone. This is just for the gas!
Who’s best?
It’s difficult to know who the best utility supplier is as they’re all claiming to have cut costs. If you go on to http://www.uswitch.com/ you may be able to find a better deal.
What does it mean for us?
Unfortunately, digging deeper into our pockets. You can claim tax relief on your bills if you work from home. If you run your business from premises you are of course paying for two lots of utilities (home and work). You can of course still claim relief, so check with your accountant. It may soon be a case of sitting in the dark wearing three layers of clothes!
Tips
•Always make sure to read your meter and give the supplier your reading.
•Perhaps speak to your supplier directly and see if you can change packages.
•Unplug mobile phone chargers and switch off lights/sockets not in use.
•Only boil the water that you need.
•Speak to an accountant about claiming tax relief.
Fiona Seymour-Jesse
SJ Copy
Useful Links
Uswitch.Com – save some money!
http://www.uswitch.com/
Gas and Electricity Regulator
http://www.ofgem.gov.uk/Pages/OfgemHome.aspx
Direct Gov guide to tax
http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/MoneyTaxAndBenefits/index.htm
Articles
British Gas cuts prices
http://www.fool.co.uk/news/money-saving-tips/household-bills/2007/04/26/british-gas-cuts-prices-again.aspx?source=ioowftxt0010011
The finance pages of Business in Berkshire are for general guidance only and advice should always be sought before acting on any of the suggestions made
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