counter easy hit Thousands of Scots households face £400 bill increase from next month – Wanto Ever

Thousands of Scots households face £400 bill increase from next month

THOUSANDS of Scots households are bracing for a £400 hike in their annual bills next month.

Scots will soon feel the crunch as council tax, broadband, mobile phone, energy, and water bill increases hit all at once.

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Scots are set to feel the crunch as council tax, broadband, energy, and water bills increase[/caption]

These hikes will strip around £390 a year from the average household’s outgoings.

And that’s before other increases, like road tax, leaving motorists facing an even bigger blow.

But rises in minimum wage and benefits could ease the pressure for some.

From next month, energy bills are set to climb as the energy price cap rises by 6.4 per cent, adding £100 a year to the average household bill.

Council tax is also on the up across Scotland, with the exact rise depending on your council and the 1991 valuation of your home.

Band D properties will see an average increase of £135, though some households will face hikes under £80, while others could be hit with hikes of over £200.

Water bills, which are linked to council tax, are also going up.

Band D homes will pay £54 more a year, while Band A properties will pass the £400 mark for the first time, with some bills topping £1,200 annually.

Experts are warning that spiralling costs will leave many Scots facing “impossible choices” over essentials.

Debt charities are calling for social tariffs to lighten the load on bills, as well as extra support for struggling households hit by rising council tax.


Myles Fitt from Citizens Advice Scotland said: “Every day our advisers across Scotland help people who are really struggling just to get by.

“For years now, incomes have been stagnating or falling while prices keep rising. So many households are unable to keep up, and people are having to make impossible choices about food, energy and housing or face going into debt.

“We need to see more targeted help for those that need it most such as a social tariff on bills like energy, improved social security support, and help with council tax bills.”

John Baird, head of debt at charity Advice Direct Scotland, said: “Many Scots are feeling the pinch as the cost of living continues to rise. Hikes in council tax, water, energy and broadband bills will not be welcome news for many.

“There will be an increase on the financial strain on many families. These increases are particularly challenging for those already struggling to make ends meet. The added burden can feel overwhelming.

“It can be difficult for many to manage their budgets and cover essential expenses. In these challenging times, it’s important to remember that you’re not alone. We’re here to help you navigate financial pressures with practical support and advice.

“We have teams of experts here to help you find ways to reduce bills or access financial assistance. Remember, it’s okay to ask for help. We’re here to support Scots every step of the way, ensuring people have the tools and resources necessary to cope with these challenging times.

“The message is clear: do no suffer in silence, reach out. Together, we can find solutions and make it through these tough times.”

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