According to the Minister for Environment, Phil Hogan, the water charges due to be billed to Irish householders, are still set to be introduced from first of January 2014.  That is the official date agreed with the Troika by the government of the day back in 2010.

This is also the first day that the Local Property Tax bill will be due for a full years charge.  That is a great way to ring in the new year and is sure to dampen the celebrations normally associated with that time of year. 

If we are to pay for our water supply, how then will they treat the billing when householders have to suffer restrictions on their supply.  Are we still expected to pay for the service even though we may not be receiving a full and proper water supply.  An article in the Irish Times on 3rd April highlights the ongoing water cuts in Dublin City since 28th March 2013.  The restrictions are for approximately 10 to 12 hours each evening and have been causing problems for both householders and businesses alike.

Rather than panic when the bills arrive shortly after the 1st of January 2014, start now to save for your water charges and property tax bills.  We have 9 months to start saving towards these bills and although we have no idea how much the water charge bill will be, it is worth setting aside something towards it.  Let’s take a figure of say, €300.  From today, set aside €33 per month and you will have €297 towards your water bill at 1st January 2014.

Now is the time to set up a household budget If you have not already done so.  BillsManager.com is an easy to use budget planning tool which also helps you to manage your bills ongoing.  Register your account and BillsManager will guide you through the set up of your budget.  Monthly updates will only take 15 minutes and keeps you on track of your bills and your money.