Direct debits offer energy bill savings, Bacs notes

Paying gas and electricity bills by direct debit can offer up to £435 annually in savings, according to Bacs.

The industry body has issued the reminder to households against a backdrop of rising energy costs.

Money can also be saved by paying broadband and landline bills by direct debit, notes Bacs Head of Marketing Mike Hutchinson.

He added: "Saving money is just one of the many benefits [of] paying by direct debit; it also helps spread the cost of many regular household bills, saves time and allows customers to take greater control of their finances.

"Perhaps most importantly, direct debit ensures that payments are made on time, every time."

Customers have also been warned about energy suppliers mis-selling gas and electricity contracts, claiming that they are offering a cheaper deal.

Ofgem has launched an investigation into whether four suppliers in particular are taking action to prevent mis-selling.

Posted by Martin Ellis