But if we’re on certain benefits, we could qualify for cheaper broadband, TV and mobile

Many of us will see our broadband, TV and mobile bills going up by nearly 10 per cent at the end of March.

Firms tend to raise the price of their contracts in spring. 

The rise is usually the January rate of inflation – this year between four and five per cent – plus a bit more.

This year, firms have said the rise will be 8.8 per cent.

The rise could affect us even if we’re on a fixed-price contract. That’s because often, it’s in the small print that our provider can raise prices mid-contract.

If that’s the case, we probably won’t be able to get out of our contract without paying an exit fee.

Rises come into effect on 31 March or 1 April depending on who our provider is. If we’re affected we’ll see the rise in our next bill after those dates.

Remember though, that if we’re on certain benefits we should be eligible for something called a social tariff.

These can come in at between £10 and £20 a month, saving us hundreds of pounds a year.

And if our provider doesn’t currently offer one, they may let us leave our contract early without having to pay. It’s always worth asking.

If we can get on to a social tariff, mid-contract price hikes will no longer apply to us.