Confused.com
BILLS, BILLS, BILLS
Brits fork out more than #18,500 a year on bills, a study revealed yesterday (weds).
The average household parts with #1,541.91 on utility bills, rent or mortgage payments and food each month.
That's a total of #18,502.86 a year -- or #962,148.72 -- between the ages of 18 and 70.
But the study revealed the cost of living has risen by #642.12 in the past 12 months, from #17,860.74 last year.
Mobile phone spending, car insurance and rent or mortgage costs have seen the biggest increase over the past year, while the amount we spend in utilities and the internet has gone down.
A spokesman for www.Confused.com, which carried out the study, said; ''Times have been tough for a few years and people are really noticing the difference in their bank balances.
''With many people still feeling the effects of the recession, paying the bills is yet another money worry.
''And unfortunately, essentials such as food and rent or mortgage payments have gone up and up over the past 12 months.
''Things may only become harder as the new Government gets to grips with the country's financial situation and are forced to raise taxes or cut benefits.
''So it's going to be more important than ever to do your research and make sure you are getting the best possible deal on all of your bills.''
The study of 3,000 people revealed that Brits are now forking out an average of #528.37 a month - #6,340.44 a year - for their rent or mortgage, an increase of #158.16 since 2009.
But car insurance has seen the biggest jump over the past 12 months, going up #369.60 to an average of #1,460.04.
The food bill has also increased by #34.28 to #3,758.52 per year, while the amount Brits are spending on sky or cable subscription is up by #19.32 to #244.08 a year.
Council tax is now seeing Brits pay out #1,225.68 a year, while home and contents insurance accounts for an annual #247.44.
Another #2,802.84 is paid off credit cards or loans each year and the TV license costs a further #145.50.
And while the cost of mobile phone bills has risen by #113.04 to #420.24 a year, the amount being spent on a home telephone is down by #35.88 to just #283.80.
But bills for gas, electric and water are also down #22.32 on last year to #1,145.16, while the internet costs have dropped #15.36 to #188.64 a year.
Car tax sees an annual spend of #96.60 and life insurance adds another #143.88 to the yearly spend.
A spokesman for www.Confused.com added: ''Rising car insurance premiums are significant.
''The Confused.com & EMB price index which uses data from 13 million real quotes saw in the first quarter of this year alone a rise of 4.3 per cent.''
''Brits should shop around. The best deals are often online and using a price comparison site will ensure households are able to compare offers quickly and easily.''
