With another potential bump in the energy price cap, many could struggle to pay their bills this winter.
Martin Lewis tweeted just hours ago that based on Ofgem's new methodology, the energy price cap could be set to rise by 81 percent in October, taking the typical annual bill to £3,582. This is according to a prediction by industry watchdog Cornwall Insight.
With the news coming out many consumers may worry about paying for their bills in the coming months. For some it may not be possible to pay bills - however there are others who are refusing to pay their suppliers in protest.
The Don’t Pay UK group is demanding a reduction of bills and looks to make a stand by having thousands cancel their direct debits and tariffs. The group claim that they have already gathered support from 80,000 Brits who are prepared to skip out on their bills.
Tony, a volunteer with Don't Pay, told BBC Radio 4 : "the sums don't add up any more", and added: "I am quite frightened what's going to happen this winter."
Tony said he's never not paid a bill before and that it is risky, but it could be a bigger risk to do nothing at all.
While the cost of living squeeze is incredibly tough, charities have been urging people to pay their bills if they can - and to get support if they can not. They warn that refusing to pay bills could lead to more issues down the road, as there is no legal precedent to do so despite the large number of people taking part in the Don’t Pay UK movement.
Charity group Citizens Advice urges people to contact their supplier or get advice from a third party including its own advisers. They warn on their website that additional interest can be added to any unpaid debt that a person owes.
Another group warns that energy companies can obtain a court warrant to enter people’s homes and fit a prepayment card meter, also known as a 'pay-as-you-go' meter.
Debt charity Stepchange has warned about skipping bills, with Richard Lane, director of external affairs, telling the Guardian : "Any arrears will be added to the meter and a set amount will be deducted each week. This means you must pay the arrears at a set weekly amount or lose the supply."
He adds that your supplier can also cut off your energy supply, although this is incredibly rare.
If you think that you will struggle to pay energy bills, you should contact your supplier or Citizens Advice.
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