By Nicola Paul on Friday, November 27th 2009, 13:25

There’s not much time left to take advantage of the lower VAT rate that shoppers have been enjoying since December 2008.

VAT is currently 15%, but is set to rise back up to 17.5% on 1st January 2010, meaning that consumers will again be paying more for their shopping.

A BBC survey has found that many are looking to make purchases now to make the most of the cheaper rate, and as always online shopping is a popular way to make the most of these savings.

So get surfing and pick up some Christmas presents and party wear now – this time next year you’ll be paying more for your sparkles, so get investing asap.