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News & Views

Update: Wed, 26/11/2008 - 12:52

The latest breaking news and what it means for your finances.

New rules have been introduced to stop phone companies from switching consumers from other providers without their permission – a trick known as slamming. Moneywise explains what your rights are and how you can stay safe. Read more

Calling time on dodgy second-hand car dealers

Update: Thu, 18/03/2010 - 11:56

The consumer watchdog has promised a crackdown on used car dealers after its investigations found consumers could lose out £580 million a year through illegal clocking. Read more

Long-term unemployment worsens

Update: Wed, 17/03/2010 - 10:29

The number of people out of work has fallen, but there has been a increase in the number of people unemployed for more than a year. Read more

Investors warned over 'suckers list' scam

Update: Wed, 17/03/2010 - 09:24

The Financial Services Authority and City of London Police have found a second boiler room 'suckers list', which contains the personal details of 1,000 investors. Read more

Petrol prices to peak ahead of Easter

Update: Wed, 17/03/2010 - 09:08

Petrol prices are set to peak at £1.20 a litre - ahead of the busy Easter bank holiday weekend. Read more

Beware April's price changes

Update: Tue, 16/03/2010 - 13:06

Spring is in the air as April approaches - but beware the price changes coming with it. Read more

Don't make this mistake if you're heading to Europe

Update: Mon, 15/03/2010 - 16:26

Without a European Health Insurance Card, the cost of medical treatment while abroad could spiral out of control and may end up costing thousands of pounds. Read more

Credit card rip-off banned

Update: Mon, 15/03/2010 - 10:25

Credit card companies are to be banned from using customers’ payments to clear balances attracting the least amount of interest before more expensive debt under new measures unveiled today. Read more

Best cash ISAs for transfers

Update: Fri, 12/03/2010 - 16:40

Want to transfer your existing ISA savings but don't know which provider will accept your money? Moneywise looks at the top accounts accepting transfers. Read more

British Airways strike to go ahead

Update: Fri, 12/03/2010 - 12:18

British Airways staff plan to strike for three days from the 20 March and for four days from 27 March, with further action potentially coming after Easter. Read more

Grow Your Money

Update: Thu, 29/11/2007 - 16:46

Rachel Lacey

Rachel is group personal finance editor for Moneywise

Likes: Helplines manned by people rather than computers

Dislikes: Small print

Top Tip: Never accept your first offer - shop around and negotiate

More about Rachel Lacey

Hannah Ricci

More about Hannah Ricci

Jeff Salway

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Everyday Money

Update: Wed, 26/11/2008 - 11:50

The latest advice to help you stay on top of your finances – every day.

20 ways to save £20

By The Moneywise team Update: Wed, 03/03/2010 - 12:54

Every little bit helps – so Moneywise has come up with 20 top ways you can make counting the pennies add up to a considerable saving. Read more

The truth about your energy costs

By Hannah Ricci Update: Wed, 03/03/2010 - 12:56

Do you know why your gas and electricity bills are so high? Hannah Ricci reveals the true cost of appliances and shows how to slash your bill. Read more

12 comments

The truth about comparison websites

By Nathalie Bonney Update: Thu, 14/01/2010 - 16:31

Comparison sites are a godsend for consumers trying to find a competitive product in a crowded market, but there are caveats, explains Nathalie Bonney. Read more

5 comments

How phone apps can save you money

By Rebecca Atkinson Update: Tue, 09/02/2010 - 16:14

To celebrate the launch of the Moneywise iPhone app, Rebecca Atkinson looks at five ways downloading apps onto your smart phone can save you money. Read more

1 comment

Top 10 complaints - and how to resolve them

By Hannah Ricci Update: Wed, 20/01/2010 - 16:08

Complaints against financial providers have risen steadily during the recession. Hannah Ricci looks at our top 10 complaints and shows how best to go about getting a resolution. Read more

Are pre-paid cards the way forward?

By Rebecca Atkinson Update: Mon, 15/03/2010 - 15:33

Pre-paid cards are more than just a good way to budget - they also offer a way to escape some booking and oversea fees. But is this payment method the way forward - and what deals are on offer? Read more

How can I set up a trust?

Update: Mon, 16/11/2009 - 17:24

A Moneywise reader wants to put some money in a trust for their nephew until he turns 21. IFA Philip Pearson explain how to set up a trust and some of the issues to bear in mind. Read more

The 10 most common scams - and how to avoid them

By Nathalie Bonney Update: Tue, 17/11/2009 - 08:46

As fraudsters get more sophisticated and the recession renders us more vulnerable to their wiles, we need to be on our guard. Nathalie Bonney reveals the 10 most common scams and how to avoid them. Read more

Safeguard your home during the crunch

Update: Fri, 13/11/2009 - 10:28

Moneywise readers, the Bromleys, want to safeguard their interest in their home during a period of unsettled income. Stuart Millar, an independent financial adviser, gives them a Money Makeover. Read more

Make money from your hobby

By Hannah Ricci Update: Fri, 13/11/2009 - 10:15

Do you have a pastime you could make serious money from? Hannah Ricci provides great tips to help you market and profit from your skills. Read more

Is pet insurance worth it?

By Johanna Gornitzki Update: Mon, 02/11/2009 - 15:57

Taking out pet insurance could be the solution for animal lovers who are keen to avoid the expense of medical treatment. But is it this type of cover worth the cost? Read more

Is the British banking crisis really over?

By Sam Barrett Update: Mon, 19/10/2009 - 14:33

As we continue to feel the fallout of the financial crisis, Sam Barrett surveys the banking landscape and asks what the future has in store. Read more

How to make a successful car insurance claim

Update: Fri, 23/10/2009 - 11:14

With car insurance premiums on the up, it's important you make sure you know exactly how to make a successful claim should something go wrong. Read Moneywise's top tips. Read more

10 myths about credit reports

By Rebecca Atkinson Update: Tue, 13/10/2009 - 09:44

Can the previous tenants of your house 'ruin' your credit rating? Will just one missed payment harm your chances of getting credit? Moneywise looks at the 10 most common credit report myths. Read more

Make your cash last until pay day

By Nathalie Bonney Update: Thu, 08/10/2009 - 14:25

Veering from living in penury the week before you're paid to splurging on luxuries the day after is bad news all round. Nathalie Bonney shows how you can stay in the black all month. Read more

The art of insuring a classic car

By Rebecca Atkinson Update: Wed, 07/10/2009 - 08:47

Insuring a classic or vintage car isn't as black and white as insuring a more standard vehicle. Rebecca Atkinson finds out what's involved and explains what restrictions to watch out for. Read more

15 ways to save money

By Nathalie Bonney Update: Mon, 21/12/2009 - 13:39

Jump on the swapping bandwagon and give your bank balance a boost. Nathalie Bonney shows how you can save yourself a mint. Read more

Cut the cost of your commute

By Nathalie Bonney Update: Thu, 17/12/2009 - 17:46

The cost of getting to work each day may seem like a necessary cost, but that doesn't mean you can't reduce the expense. Nathalie Bonney explains how. Read more

Escape from the 9 to 5

Update: Thu, 28/01/2010 - 13:03

Have you decided to change  your working patterns to suit your life? Rob Griffin  examines the pros and cons of flexible working, and explains what your rights are. Read more

How to ensure your cover pays out

By Emma Lunn Update: Fri, 11/09/2009 - 13:11

If you contract a serious illness, you don't need money problems too - critical illness cover can give peace of mind. Emma Lunn explains how to ensure your policy will pay out when you need it most. Read more

Guard against life's booby traps

By Ruth Emery Update: Wed, 09/09/2009 - 15:34

Too few people cover themselves against redundancy, illness or death while others buy inappropriate products. Ruth Emery explains how to find good-value policies and make sure you're properly protected. Read more

Turn the downturn to your advantage

By Sam Barrett Update: Fri, 04/09/2009 - 12:25

There’s nothing like a  downturn to get us counting the pennies. Sam Barrett provides strategies to for you to banish the gloom from your finances and become a recession winner. Read more

Should you pay for debt advice?

Update: Thu, 03/09/2009 - 11:10

Charities offer free debt advice, but the credit crunch means there might well be a waiting list. Is it then worth paying for help to manage your debt? Read more

Should you move location for better education?

By Sarah Coles Update: Tue, 25/08/2009 - 07:44

Parents will go to almost any lengths to get their child into their choice of schools - including moving house. But is moving really the answer or would you be better going private, ask Sarah Coles. Read more

Five ways to beat online fraud

Update: Mon, 16/11/2009 - 09:34

Students have a higher risk of falling victim to online fraud because they are most likely to dismiss the dangers. Find out how students - and everyone else - can stay safe online. Read more

Cheap train tickets - how to find them

By Rebecca Atkinson Update: Wed, 03/03/2010 - 13:00

Travelling by train can cost a small fortune - meaning it's often cheaper to drive. But by following Moneywise's top tips you could easily cut the cost. Read more

How have house prices held up in your area?

By Rebecca Atkinson Update: Thu, 18/02/2010 - 14:24

We all know that house prices have fallen dramatically, but how has your area held up? Moneywise looks at the latest house price statistics for February 2010. Read more

Five ways to benefit from low inflation

Update: Tue, 16/02/2010 - 10:11

Inflation is on the up - find out five ways you can benefit from the low rate of inflation before it's too late. Read more

Wise up to supermarket tricks

By Rebecca Atkinson Update: Wed, 29/07/2009 - 13:05

Supermarkets are skilled in using cunning tricks to get you to spend more. Rebecca Atkinson guides you round the aisles explaining how you can beat them at their own game. Read more

Beat the postcode lottery

By Rebecca Atkinson Update: Thu, 18/02/2010 - 15:36

Postcodes, which turn 50 this year, are increasingly affecting insurance premiums and pension income. So, what does your postcode say about you and what can you do to beat the lottery? Read more

Have you been cloned?

By Harriet Meyer Update: Wed, 13/01/2010 - 16:26

ID theft is on the rise, but there are lots of simple things you can do to stop the thieves. Harriet Meyer has 10 top tips to help you beat the fraudsters. Read more

Should you help your kids onto the ladder?

By Rebecca Atkinson Update: Tue, 21/07/2009 - 11:41

More first-time buyers are turning to the Bank of Mum and Dad to help them get onto the ladder. But what should parents bear in mind before digging deep? Read more

Can my life insurer put up my premiums?

Update: Tue, 21/07/2009 - 07:52

A Moneywise reader wants to know why his life and critical illness insurance premiums have increased by 69%. IFA Francis Klonowski looks at whether this is highway robbery. Read more

The danger of applying for credit

By Rebecca Atkinson Update: Fri, 03/07/2009 - 12:36

Increasing numbers of people are having their applications for credit rejected, which is damaging their credit ratings. Rebecca Atkinson explains what you can do to improve your credit score. Read more

How to invest in your kids’ future

By Rob Griffin Update: Mon, 06/07/2009 - 15:41

Saving a small amount on a regular basis for your child or grandchild will pay off  handsomely, especially if  you use a child trust fund,  explains Rob Griffin. Read more

Will falling inflation leave you out of pocket?

By Rebecca Atkinson Update: Tue, 14/07/2009 - 10:35

The cost of living in the UK is at its lowest level since records began in 1948. Sounds like a good thing? Read on, because experts say there will be deflationary losers, as well as winners. Read more

Redundancy: what state help is available?

By Sarah Coles Update: Mon, 06/07/2009 - 16:17

With unemployment set to hit three million this year, more of us may find ourselves relying on the state for our income. So, as Sarah Coles shows, it pays to know where to turn when you need help. Read more

Customer Service Awards 2009 - the winners

Update: Tue, 05/01/2010 - 10:41

The results are in from Moneywise’s Customer Service Awards – find out the UK’s most trusted providers as voted by you. Read more

10 rip-off products you should ditch

By Nathalie Bonney Update: Tue, 14/07/2009 - 10:25

Are you burning money by paying for products or services you don’t need?  Nathalie Bonney names and shames the deals you should ditch today. Read more

Cut the cost of your energy bills

By Nathalie Bonney Update: Thu, 25/06/2009 - 10:40

Following steep price hikes last year, 2009 has seen the cost of energy come down. Nathalie Bonney explains how you can make the most of falling costs now. Read more

Make the most of falling costs

By Rebecca Atkinson Update: Tue, 23/06/2009 - 11:54

Many households have seen their disposable income increase over the past year, thanks to low interest rates and cheaper household bills. But don't look a gift horse in the mouth - make sure you use these savings wisely, says Rebecca Atkinson. Read more

Save money by dropping a brand

By Nathalie Bonney Update: Wed, 16/12/2009 - 12:53

How much can you save if you opt for the cheaper brands in your weekly shop?  Nathalie Bonney challenges her parents to ‘drop a brand’. Read more

Cut the cost of home insurance

By Rebecca Atkinson Update: Wed, 10/06/2009 - 10:51

One in four people have ditched their home insurance in order to save money, leaving them at risk from theft or damage from fire or flooding. But there are other ways you can save on home insurance and remain protected. Read more

Find a solicitor

Update: Tue, 09/06/2009 - 09:08

From buying a house to writing a will or dealing with inheritance tax, use the free Moneywise Find a Solicitor search tool to find professional legal advice in your area. Read more

Get a good deal on a second-hand car

By Laura Howard Update: Wed, 17/03/2010 - 16:32

As new car sales collapse, the second-hand market is taking up the slack. But before you buy an old motor, do your  research, says Laura Howard. Read more

Are packaged bank accounts a gimmick?

By Sarah Coles Update: Fri, 05/06/2009 - 15:50

Banks are increasingly pushing out packaged current accounts offering exciting incentives to customers. But are they really worth it, asks Sarah Coles? Read more

The best ways to borrow

By Emma Lunn Update: Fri, 05/06/2009 - 15:51

If you need to borrow for one reason or another, take the sensible approach and steer clear of high interest charges. Emma Lunn shows you how. Read more

10 ways to cut your insurance costs

By Nathalie Bonney Update: Tue, 12/05/2009 - 11:44

Don’t ditch your cover because you’re feeling the pinch. As Nathalie Bonney shows, there are far better ways of saving money on your insurance without sacrificing your level of cover. Read more

Save thousands by planning ahead

By Sam Barrett Update: Thu, 17/12/2009 - 12:01

Life is full of surprises, but while you can’t predict what will happen, you can be financially prepared. Sam Barrett shows how you can plan ahead Read more

How new mums can avoid discrimination at work

By Sarah Coles Update: Thu, 28/01/2010 - 12:59

Despite equality legislation, pregnant women and new mums still find themselves victims of discrimination at work. Sarah Coles reports. Read more

Ensure your kids are financially independent

By Emma Lunn Update: Tue, 28/04/2009 - 10:23

As today's 'bank of mum and dad' starts to feel the strain, Emma Lunn suggests ways you can teach your children to cope on their own. Read more

Free yourself from debt

By Sam Barrett Update: Thu, 28/05/2009 - 14:35

It may feel like a distant hope, but you can break out of your debt prison.  Sam Barrett  reveals the route to a debt-free future. Read more

Country castle in Caerphilly, Wales, United Kingdom

Great British breaks

By Nathalie Bonney Update: Thu, 30/04/2009 - 15:32

More of us are staying in the UK for our holidays in these cash-strapped times. Nathalie Bonney surveys what’s on offer in our sceptred isle. Read more

Never get ripped off again

By Liam Tarry Update: Thu, 17/09/2009 - 15:44

Shoddy goods and services can leave you tearing your hair out, yet far too many of us just put up and shut up. Liam Tarry shows how you can make a stand against getting ripped off. Read more

Burglar-proof your home

By Johanna Gornitzki Update: Tue, 31/03/2009 - 12:08

Make sure you home is properly covered or you could risk losing out to burglars. Johanna Gornitzki offers her top insurance tips. Read more

Moneywise budget planner

Update: Wed, 08/04/2009 - 13:19

Moneywise has launched an interactive budget planner that helps you stay on top of your finances and make savings every month. Read more

Are energy companies treating customers fairly?

By Liam Tarry Update: Mon, 23/03/2009 - 12:09

Although the major energy companies have all unveiled price cuts in 2009, critics say they don't go far enough. So, are suppliers treating customers fairly or could they do more to help customers? Read more

What rights do agency workers have?

By Rebecca Atkinson Update: Wed, 13/05/2009 - 15:31

It's important to understand what your rights are as a worker, especially in recessionary times. Rebecca Atkinson looks at the rights of agency workers. Read more

What to do if you lose your job

By Nathalie Bonney Update: Tue, 28/04/2009 - 16:40

Job insecurity is a big concern for many people in the current climate. Nathalie Bonney explains what you need to know and do if you lose your job. Read more

Survival guide for small businesses

Update: Mon, 16/03/2009 - 15:47

Things are looking tough for small business owners. Rob Griffin offers advice on how to ensure your business survives the recession Read more

The best current accounts for the over 50s

By Nathalie Bonney Update: Tue, 03/03/2009 - 13:39

Do you feel like it’s been impossible to find a good current account as you get older? Nathalie Bonney shows how you can still find a competitive deal. Read more

Pick’n’mix your own healthcare

By Sarah Coles Update: Mon, 23/02/2009 - 10:23

The government will now allow you to buy top-up treatment while you are still using the NHS. Sarah Coles examines whether this is really as good as it sounds. Read more

Fight for your money

By Liam Tarry Update: Wed, 08/04/2009 - 13:58

Everyone’s heard stories of banks and insurance companies taking our money and then failing to deliver. Liam Tarry shows how you can boost your finances by fighting back. Read more

Is unemployment cover worth it?

Update: Wed, 18/03/2009 - 15:14

Unemployment cover could help soften the blow of losing your job by giving you much-needed income while you search for another. Rob Griffin reviews the policies on offer and asks if they're worth it. Read more

A lesson in old-fashioned home economics

By Nathalie Bonney Update: Wed, 08/04/2009 - 13:35

Re-thinking the way you shop and cook can cut down your waste and save you a fortune. Nathalie Bonney dusts down the tricks and tips from granny’s kitchen. Read more

Will the bail-out help your finances?

By Rebecca Atkinson Update: Tue, 20/01/2009 - 08:59

The government has introduced a package of measures designed to get banks lending to you again. But what impact will the second bail-out have on your finances, as a borrower, saver, Northern Rock or RBS customer? Read more

The true cost of being British

By Sarah Coles Mon, 12/01/2009 - 14:10

The spiralling cost of living is hitting us all, but are we suffering more than people in other countries? Sarah Coles investigates how hard we really have it in the UK. Read more

The ultimate money makeover plan

By Sam Barrett Update: Tue, 21/07/2009 - 11:14

Is your credit card balance bursting at the seams or your bank account looking seriously out of shape? Take the initiative, and give your finances a new look. Sam Barrett explains how. Read more

Start a money diary

By Johanna Gornitzki Update: Tue, 29/12/2009 - 15:29

Keeping track of your day-to-day spending is the best way to save money without changing your lifestyle too dramatically. Download our free Money Diary and start saving. Read more

Turn redundancy to your advantage

Update: Wed, 18/03/2009 - 17:27

Losing your job can be a terrible shock but it could also be a golden opportunity. Rob Griffin talks to some people who claim redundancy was the best thing that ever happened to them Read more

How healthy is your bank?

By Sarah Coles Update: Mon, 30/03/2009 - 11:56

As savers worry over the security of bank deposits, Sarah Coles highlights the factors you need to be aware of to assess the health of the banks holding your cash. Read more

RBS bailout: what does it mean for you?

By Liam Tarry Update: Mon, 01/12/2008 - 10:38

The government has taken a majority stake in RBS after existing shareholders snubbed a £15 billion share issue. Liam Tarry investigates what this bailout means for you. Read more

The white lies that could cost you dearly

By Sam Barrett Update: Wed, 04/02/2009 - 11:42

Insurance fraud now costs the industry around £1.6 billion a year. Sam Barrett asks what constitutes a fraudulent claim and finds out how insurers are cracking down. Read more

Take control of your finances

By Sarah Coles Mon, 10/11/2008 - 12:52

Putting off those nagging financial chores can be a costly mistake. As money worries mount, Sarah Coles reveals how a financial review can save you money now and in the future. Read more

What does the interest rate cut mean for you?

By Rebecca Atkinson Update: Thu, 05/02/2009 - 13:15

The Bank of England base rate now stands at 1%, its lowest level for over 300 years. But how will lower rates impact your finances? Read more

Are your savings protected?

By Rebecca Atkinson Update: Fri, 24/07/2009 - 11:29

The government has increased the amount of savers' money that is protected should a bank go bust. It says the move will increase consumer confidence in the UK banking system - but do we have a reason to worry? Read more

How low could interest rates go?

By Rebecca Atkinson Update: Tue, 06/01/2009 - 11:40

The Federal Reserve has cut interest rates to nearly zero in the US, and economistsbelieve the Bank of England could do the same. Rebecca Atkinson asks how low could interest rates really go, and finds out what that means for you. Read more

Should we really challenge bank charges?

By Joanne Christie Update: Wed, 29/10/2008 - 09:34

Britain is one of the few countries where banking is still free. But the legal battle over banks charges is putting free banking at risk. Aussie Joanne Christie says we should be careful what we wish for. Read more

Save money: winterproof your home

By Johanna Gornitzki Update: Wed, 04/02/2009 - 12:15

Ensuring that your dwelling can withstand the cold and rain could make all the difference now the nights are drawing in. Johanna Gornitzki explains how to cut the cost of heating your home without catching a chill this winter. Read more

Get a free Money Makeover

By Nathalie Bonney Update: Fri, 12/12/2008 - 16:48

Has the ongoing credt crunch played havoc with your finances? Are you juggling savings with paying off debt, or concerned that your pension plan needs a review? Apply for a free Money Makeover from Moneywise now. Read more

Are building societies safer than banks?

By Rebecca Atkinson Update: Thu, 27/11/2008 - 15:00

As savers increasingly look for the safest home for their cash, some experts are recommending building societies over banks. Rebecca Atkinson asks: are mutuals really safer than banks? Read more

Beat the prices at the pumps

By Nathalie Bonney Update: Wed, 08/04/2009 - 14:05

The cost of fuel is punching a big hole in household budgets. Nathalie Bonney shows what you can do to keep your petrol spending down. Read more

Are high energy bills here to stay?

By Rebecca Atkinson Update: Tue, 28/10/2008 - 16:07

We are now seeing the second round of energy price hikes, suggesting a long, hard winter lies ahead. But could bills increase even further? Read more

Today's best savings rates

By Rebecca Atkinson Update: Wed, 17/03/2010 - 11:20

Make saving one of your priorities in 2010. Rebecca Atkinson reviews all the best savings accounts on the market. Read more

What next for Icelandic-bank savers?

By Rebecca Atkinson Update: Tue, 28/10/2008 - 15:57

The news that three Icelandic-owned savings banks have been shut has caused many savers sleepless nights. Although the government has guaranteed 100% of British money, not all savers will have to claim. Rebecca Atkinson explains what will happen to Icelandic-bank savers. Read more

Top 10 lessons in personal finance

By Johanna Gornitzki Update: Wed, 04/02/2009 - 11:26

When it comes to managing our money and avoiding costly mistakes, we could all do with a bit of revision. Johanna Gornitzki takes us back to the classroom and shows how to get your finances back on track. Read more

Will you benefit from an HBOS and Lloyds TSB merger?

By Rebecca Atkinson Update: Fri, 05/12/2008 - 10:05

The banking sector has been rocked by the news that Lloyds TSB is to buy mortgage giant HBOS. Rebecca Atkinson discusses what the merger means for customers, shareholders and the banking sector. Read more

What does the Nationwide merger mean for you?

By Rebecca Atkinson Mon, 08/09/2008 - 11:04

Nationwide has announced it is to merge with two of its smaller rivals, The Cheshire and The Derbyshire. Rebecca Atkinson takes a closer look at the deal and asks what it means for members. Read more

3 comments

Moneywise awards: best current accounts for 2008

By Sam Barrett Update: Mon, 01/09/2008 - 16:47

With so many different current accounts available, you may feel spoiled for choice. But not all current accounts are equal, and finding the deal for your needs can be tricky. To help you out, Sam Barrett reveals Moneywise's best buys for 2008. Read more

How you can cut the cost of childcare

By Sarah Coles Update: Wed, 08/04/2009 - 14:18

As childcare becomes more expensive, Sarah Coles shows how, with a little flexibility, parents can reduce the cost without compromising the quality of care. Read more