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Use at least a couple of comparison websites to get your research started. You should then contact the companies near the top of the best-buy tables directly to see what other deals may be available before making any decisions.
‘Think about your lifestyle and needs, don’t just go online and take the first cheap quote as it could cost you more in the long run,’ says Graeme Trudgill from the British Insurance Brokers Association.
Be as accurate as possible about your usage for the best comparison. For instance, input kilowatt hours for electricity rather than the cost of your last bill. For phones, think when you make your calls, whether you ring mobiles or call abroad a lot.
It’s no good comparing company tariffs when price rise announcements are hitting the headlines. Wait until the big boys have raised their prices and the rest of the market has followed, then do it. Before switching, it’s also worth checking when the company you’re about to move to last raised its prices.
If you have a poor credit rating, think carefully before applying for loans, credit cards, etc, that you are unlikely to be accepted for. Failed applications appear on credit files and may be taken into account by other firms.
Where to compare...
Channel 4's Compare and Apply resource
Loans, mortgages, credit cards, insurance and utilities - an all-round source. In association with Moneywise.
www.uswitch.com
For comparing prices across a range of areas including gas, electricity, credit cards and broadband.
www.energywatch.org.uk
If a website bears the Energywatch logo it means all featured suppliers comply with set criteria.
www.greenelectricity.org
Offers good comparisons of green tariffs.
www.moneyfacts.co.uk
Has comparison tables, which are used by the financial industry and national press.
www.moneysupermarket.com
Does the homework for you on a range of products.
www.insurancewide.com
www.confused.com
For insurance deals.
www.moneysavingexpert.com
A good starting point, whatever you are trying to save money on.
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