Price increases are no April Fool

31st March 2025

Starting 1st April several price increases will take effect across the UK, impacting households and businesses. Here are some key changes:

Energy Bills: The energy price cap will rise by 6.4%, increasing the average annual bill to £1,849 for households on standard variable tariffs.

Water Bills: Water bills are set to increase by an average of £123 annually, representing a 26% hike.

Council Tax: Many local councils are raising council tax rates.

Broadband and Mobile Bills: Inflation-linked contracts will lead to higher costs for broadband and mobile services, with some customers facing increases of up to £42 annually.

Stamps: The cost of postage stamps will rise, affecting both first-class and second-class rates.

TV Licenses: The cost of a TV license will increase by £5, bringing the annual fee to £174.50.

Income Tax: Any increase in salaries or pensions will drag more people into paying tax and higher rates due to no increase in personal allowances that used to rise with inflation each year but are now frozen.

Shop Prices: Will increase due to higher employers National Insurance and VAT changes, Additionally the new minimum wage and new rules on zero hours contracts.

Passport Fees: Passport application fees are also set to rise, with standard online applications increasing by £6 for adults.

Some alcohol increases start in April due to changes from the chancellor last October.