Additional bills

[KenAdams]

DH and I were discussing how much our bills will increase during lockdown. Gas, electricity, water, printer ink and paper, the list goes on. Obviously salaries won't increase and although we aren't commuting, we both had short commutes anyway so we're not saving a packet there.

Luckily we can afford this, but it got me thinking about families who can't and who must be struggling.

Do you think the government will realise this and offer to help people in need with their increased costs? My guess is no but I think this should at least be recognised.

Working tax credits have gone up for families who get them, so that's something. Mine have increased by £15 a week.

Universal credit increased more than the inflation due to corona.

I am getting £26 extra a month from my employer, which is tax relief due to currently working from home:-

www.gov.uk/tax-relief-for-employees/working-at-home

But for as many people that are spending extra, there's at least as many that are saving, often huge amounts due to no commute, no childcare, no bought lunches, coffees etc.

As others have said, there's extra help for low income families, plus many people will see their mortgage decrease due to interest rate drops.

As for bills, at least it's summer, so gas won't go up much, water won't go up that much, a small increase in toilet flushing on top of normal use plus showers, washing, cooking as normal?

If you're spending significant amounts on paper and ink, you should probably ask your employer for reimbursement, paper especially costs almost nothing - I bought 500 sheets for less than £3 in Asda and it will last for years.