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As we continue to rely more and more on state-of-the-art technology, utility expenses continue to increase, especially during the unexpected crisis of the coronavirus pandemic. More than 80 million people are finding it extremely difficult to pay their bills during the current recession triggered by the pandemic.
Falling behind on the utility bills can have some really bad consequences, ranging from small fines to major power cuts and even a negative impact on your credit; hence, it is essential that you find your way around the struggle and look for ways to overcome your rising utility bill debt.
Start by Reducing Your Utility Intake
While this may be a hard step to take due to heavy reliance on utility, you have to start somewhere. The best way to reduce your utility bill is to stop overusing the power and water sources in your house.
Opt for choosing the right lights, swap your light bulbs for energy-efficient sources like LED lighting, use a power strip to reduce your plug load, and eliminate vampire power; if you are unfamiliar with the term, vampire power is power being used up by idle electronics, such as your devices charging overnight.
Similarly, get to fixing all the leaky faucets you have been delaying, stop doing laundry with piping hot water, switch off the tap while applying soap, and replace your showerhead to not only reduce your water usage but to streamline utility intake.
Agree to a Mutual Economic Payment Plan with Your Utility Supplier
Let’s face it! No matter how much we try to reduce our utility intake, we just can not compromise on certain amenities; hence, making it imperative to draft an economic payment plan with your utility supplier.
Luckily, the majority of the utility suppliers are customer-oriented, finding ways to help you struggle a little less whenever you communicate your problems with them. Tell your supplier that you wish to opt for a more reasonable plan which allows flexible payment options. They might suggest different alternatives by taking into account how much you can afford to pay, how much you’re willing to pay, and how much you are planning on consuming in the future.
Still Unsatisfied? Seek Extra Financial Help
If your utility bills are still weighing your wallet down, it is time that you seek some extra financial help.
Do not worry, you are not alone! Millions of people have been struggling with expensive utility bills, which is why governments around the world have introduced grants and schemes for different energy and water utility companies, which are open to everyone. All you have to do is ask.
The chances are that your utility company is able to offer you grants through a charitable trust which will help keep your power going while also assisting you in clearing your utility debts. Reach out to your respective utility company and aim to negotiate financial help and grant plans with them.
Getting Professional Help for Long-Term Solutions
While all the previous steps are going to definitely help you overcome your utility bill payment challenges, getting professional help is one long-term solution that warrants nothing but solid assistance for years to come.
By professional help, we do not mean hiring different firms, going through endless paperwork, and paying a hefty amount for consultation; we simply mean looking for a breakthrough company. The energy analyst from electricitymonster.com.au says you should compare various utility companies and their prices across your region, helping you choose an efficient utility company that fits you best. The majority of the time, people do not bother checking up on plans provided by different utility companies and instead opt for sticking to any retailer, regardless of how expensive they might be. There are sites that help you break just that stigma. After all, utility comparison should not have to be all that complicated.
So, if you are looking for a long-term solution to all your utility bill struggles, it is best you look into seeking such customized professional help. You are just one call away from helping yourself choose a good utility provider with affordable plans.
Switch to a Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program
Unlike aiming for extra financial help, switching to a low-income home energy assistance program is a long-term solution. If you are currently struggling with expensive utility bills and are foreseeing challenges in the future just as much, you can switch to LIHEAP.
This specific program is drafted solely for the purpose of aiding low-income households in paying their utility bills by minimizing their energy consumption. Get your household registered to qualify for the LIHEAP benefits.
