How to lower your water bill by £100s if you’re on Universal Credit or benefits
FAMILIES on Universal Credit or other benefits could reduce their water bill by hundreds of pounds on average if they're struggling.
You may be eligible for help through the WaterSure scheme, which puts a cap on bills for low income customers regardless of how much water they’re using.
The Consumer Council for Water (CCW) estimates that bills are reduced by £270 on average through the scheme.
But the amount you could save does vary in reality from as little as £10 to as much as £400 a year.
It comes as the average price of water bills looks set to reduce from £410 to £408, a saving of £2, although there are variations between suppliers.
What is the WaterSure scheme?
The WaterSure scheme allows low-income and struggling households to have their bill capped without impacting how much water they use.
In Wales, you need to contact .
Adjusted payment plans: It might be worth asking your water company if they can adjust your payment plan if your income has suddenly dropped.
It could mean you'll pay less for a set period of time until you get your finances in order again.
Payment holidays: If you can't pay your bill at all, you may want to consider getting a payment holiday.
It means you don't need to pay the bill now, but you'll still be liable to pay it in future so keep in mind your balance will grow over time.
How long your payment break will last depends on your provider and individual circumstances.
Contact your supplier to discuss your options.
Payment matching: If you're already in arrears, ask your supplier if they offer a payment matching scheme.
These schemes can reduce debt if customers stick to a payment plan by the company matching what you can afford to pay.
For example, both Thames Water and United Utilities will match any money you pay towards your water debt, pound for pound.
You'll usually need to pay your current water bill, as well as making an affordable payment towards your debt each month.
As part of our Fix Your Finances series, we explain how to save £2,530 in a day by cutting bills and giving your bills a makeover.
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