Image by Flickr user roberthuffstutter

Not only have water and electric rates been getting more expensive in the Charleston area, but cable, too.

And while I'll agree that cable TV isn't exactly a necessity of life, I do see how a rise in rate makes life financially harder. And the folks at Charleston County Human Services Commission say that's just what they've seen: More people having a hard time paying their bills.

The Post and Courier talked with the agency and got the inside scoop from the agency tasked with distributing federal money to those that have fallen behind; read it here.

With things set to only get more expensive, if you do have some cash to spare it may well be wise to look into making your home more efficient.