SHOP AROUND FOR UTILITY PROVIDERS

WHETHER it is home insurance, car insurance, energy provider or broadband – loyalty gets you nowhere. Shopping around each year is quick, simple and can save you a lot of money.

The Mail on Sunday has campaigned long and hard to stop insurers ripping off loyal customers by not offering them the best deals. But until insurers have a change of heart, you are going to have to do the legwork.

Comparison websites such as uSwitch can help you find the best deals. You can save even more if you pay your premiums upfront rather than taking the monthly direct debit option. Fairer Finance’s Daley estimates that those who have not shopped around recently could save a four-figure sum this year by switching all key household bills.