On 2 Jan 2013, season ticket fares rise by an average of 4.2%. Yet season tickets are charged at the price on the day you buy them, even if the ticket term extends into the higher charging period.

So buy before 2 January and you still pay the 2012 rate. Your ticket (or the renewal date) must start on 1 January or earlier to benefit from the cheaper price.

That means those whose ticket expires in early January may be better off buying a new ticket on 1 January at the lower price, even if it means paying twice for a short period. On 2 Jan 2013, season ticket fares rise by an average of 4.2%. Yet season tickets are charged at the price on the day you buy them, even if the ticket term extends into the higher charging period. So buy before 2 January and you still pay the 2012 rate. Your ticket (or the renewal date) must start on 1 January or earlier to benefit from the cheaper price. That means those whose ticket expires in early January may be better off buying a new ticket on 1 January at the lower price, even if it means paying twice for a short period. Do the maths to find out if it's worth it. To see how much you'll pay, go to National Rail'sSeason Ticket Calculator and search for a season ticket to start on 1 January, then click 'back' and search for a ticket starting from 2 January.> Do the maths to find out if it's worth it. To see how much you'll pay, go to National Rail's Season Ticket Calculator and search for a season ticket to start on 1 January, then click 'back' and search for a ticket starting from 2 January.