Everyday Money

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

You've got the grades: how do you fancy £25k of debt?

Update: Fri, 20/08/2010 - 09:50

A level results have been announced, but for many would-be students there’s little to cheer about. Faith Glasgow reports. Read more

How to cut the cost of train fares

Update: Fri, 20/08/2010 - 11:16

Train fares look set to rise by up to 8% next year if the government orders spending cuts in the Department for Transport. Cathy Adams shows you how to keep costs down. Read more

How to find your teenager a student account

Update: Mon, 16/08/2010 - 12:30

The average student faces debt of £21,198 at the end of three years studying. Finding the right current account for your son or daughter is one way to minimise the damage. Read more

Help your child avoid student debt

By Nathalie Bonney Update: Mon, 16/08/2010 - 10:51

When your child sets off for university, a big worry is the debt trap that awaits them. But a little financial education before they go could help allay your fears, writes Nathalie Bonney. Read more

10 holiday sites you can't afford to ignore

By Emma Lunn Update: Fri, 13/08/2010 - 16:12

If you’re thinking of heading off for some end-of-summer sun, or even staying at home to avoid the threat of airport strikes, there are numerous money-saving websites you should check out first. Here are 10 of the best. Read more

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Can a green home pay?

By Laura Howard Update: Wed, 01/09/2010 - 12:31

Making major energy-efficient changes to your home in the hope of recouping the costs by saving money is not a foolproof plan. But minor measures can ease your conscience and protect your purse, says Laura Howard. Read more

Celebrity money secrets - Paul Lawrie

Update: Fri, 13/08/2010 - 14:59

Scottish golfer and former Open champion Paul Lawrie shares his financial secrets and reveals his top money-saving tips. Read more

Can you get rid of debt for good?

By Mike Thomas Update: Fri, 13/08/2010 - 14:46

With the number of home repossessions dropping slightly, Moneywise Debtwizard explains how mortgage lenders still recover their losses many years later, just when you think it's all over. Read more

Can I use my holiday home to thwart the taxman?

Update: Thu, 12/08/2010 - 14:45

One of our experts advises a reader on the capital gains tax liability of his first and second homes and finds whether he can avoid it. Read more

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Five travel money scams to avoid

Update: Tue, 10/08/2010 - 11:27

We all know getting our holiday money sorted as early as possible is a good idea. But if you find yourself having to do some last-minute currency conversion, be sure to avoid these scams. Read more

Switch current account and make money

Update: Fri, 06/08/2010 - 12:28

Few of us are pro-active when it comes to choosing a current account, but as the banks shift towards paid-for accounts, it could be worth your while to switch. Rebecca Atkinson looks at how you can make money doing so. Read more

The government policy devaluing your pension

By Sam Barrett Update: Tue, 03/08/2010 - 12:09

A new way of calculating pension increases will potentially cause more pain to retirees. Sam Barrett shows who will be most affected. Read more

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Banks slammed for extortionate foreign transaction fees

Update: Tue, 03/08/2010 - 09:21

Banks are hitting holidaymakers with an ‘extortionate’ charge of almost 5% for withdrawing money abroad by using a confusing double-fee policy on debit cards. Rebecca Rutt reports. Read more

How to find the best home for your savings

Update: Tue, 10/08/2010 - 11:16

With many banks and building societies not informing savers of changes to interest rates, it's important to keep an eye on your account and hunt out better deals when necessary, says Nathalie Bonney. Read more

Avoid this bike hire rip-off

Update: Tue, 27/07/2010 - 13:01

With days to go until Barclays' cycle hire scheme launches in London, Cathy Adams breaks down how much it will cost and warns against returning your bike late. Read more

Why flexible working doesn't work

By Sarah Coles Update: Fri, 23/07/2010 - 12:51

On paper, flexible working looks ideal for those struggling to juggle their work and personal responsibilities. However, as Sarah Coles finds, the idea isn't as straightforward as it seems. Read more

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How to keep eyecare costs down

By Nathalie Bonney Update: Tue, 10/08/2010 - 11:24

Eyesight is priceless, but it's amazing how many of us neglect it because of the cost. Read Nathalie Bonney's guide to the cheaper ways you can buy specs or contact lenses and find out whether they're worth it. Read more

How to make your kids moneywise

Update: Tue, 13/07/2010 - 13:18

Teaching your children to be responsible with money is one of the most vital lessons you can give. Esther Armstrong rounds up eight top tips to get you started. Read more

Five ways to avoid the latest scams

Update: Mon, 12/07/2010 - 16:37

Consumers are losing more than £3.5 billion to fraudsters each year, the National Fraud Authority has announced. Esther Armstrong reports. Read more

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Inflation squeezes ordinary Britons' pockets

Update: Tue, 06/07/2010 - 16:31

A single person now needs a minimum yearly income of £14,400 (before tax) to afford an acceptable standard of living, says the Joseph Rowntree Foundation (JRF). Read more

Are your friends' weddings costing you a fortune?

By Sarah Coles Update: Mon, 05/07/2010 - 16:17

Celebrating your friends' special day should be fun, but if you've had to fork out a small fortune for the occasion, you might be more concerned about the financial hangover you're facing. Sarah Coles looks at how you can keep costs down. Read more

20 ways to escape debt for good

By Nathalie Bonney Update: Tue, 27/07/2010 - 10:48

With someone going bankrupt every minute in the UK, debt is a problem many of us know all too well. But there are ways out of the trap, as Nathalie Bonney shows. Read more

Get the most from your packaged account

By Nathalie Bonney Update: Mon, 28/06/2010 - 17:57

With fee-paying accounts now the norm rather than the exception, Nathalie Bonney asks whether the benefits are worth paying for and how you can make sure you get the best deal. Read more

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Top 10 dining deals

By Esther Armstrong Update: Tue, 29/06/2010 - 11:40

Dining out needn't break the bank and with a little research and preparation you can keep costs down. Moneywise rounds up the top 10 deals available this week. Read more

Be prepared

Update: Fri, 25/06/2010 - 10:27

You never know what life’s going to throw at you so it’s essential to have some financial protection in place. Read more

Borrow wisely

Update: Thu, 24/06/2010 - 18:17

Although borrowing can lead to mounting debt and misery, credit - used in the right way - can be very useful. Read more

Don't save if you have debts

Update: Thu, 24/06/2010 - 17:49

If you're trying to save while continuing to clear your debts, you could be doing more harm than good. Read more

Remember loyalty doesn't pay

Update: Thu, 24/06/2010 - 17:32

Staying with the same financial services provider is likely to leave you worse off, as many of them save the best deals for new customers. Read more

Should you make an insurance claim?

By Esther Shaw Update: Fri, 11/06/2010 - 11:17

When it comes to claiming on your car insurance, it's important to assess the financial impact it can have on your premium, says Esther Shaw. Read more

Cut the cost of your car insurance

By Esther Shaw Update: Fri, 11/06/2010 - 11:31

Motor insurance is becoming more expensive, so don't let insurers cash in on your inertia – we show you how to get the best deal. Read more

The pros and cons of currency cards

By Rebecca Atkinson Update: Mon, 09/08/2010 - 10:44

It costs to use your plastic abroad and taking cash is risky. Pre-paid currency cards offer an alternative way to pay. Rebecca Atkinson looks at the advantages and disadvantages of this payment method. Read more

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World Cup deals and steals

By Nathalie Bonney Update: Fri, 28/05/2010 - 15:34

The count down has begun in earnest, with the World Cup less than two weeks away. So whether you're going to South Africa, or you're an armchair supporter, watch out for these deals and steals. Read more

5 ways to cut the cost of watching sport

By Esther Armstrong Update: Fri, 28/05/2010 - 15:05

Supporting your team doesn't have to lead to financial relegation: follow these tips and make sure you're a winner. Read more

Protect yourself from unfair dismissal

Update: Mon, 24/05/2010 - 17:34

If an employer ends your employment abruptly, either the reason you were dismissed, or the process that was used could amount to an unfair dismissal. Our expert advises a reader on their rights. Read more

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The hidden cost of trendy ringtones

By Sarah Coles Update: Mon, 24/05/2010 - 16:59

The downloading of favourite songs and ringtones is very popular amongst young people today. However, as Sarah Coles discovers, it's important to read the small print to avoid unwanted fees or charges. Read more

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Cut your tax bill in one day

By Sam Barrett Update: Wed, 21/07/2010 - 13:06

With taxes on the rise, the last thing you'll want to do is pay more than you need. Sam Barrett explains how to shave pounds off your bill in one day. Read more

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20 ways to save £20

Update: Wed, 07/07/2010 - 17:04

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

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The truth about your energy costs

By Hannah Ricci Update: Tue, 29/06/2010 - 15:53

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

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The truth about comparison websites

By Nathalie Bonney Update: Thu, 14/01/2010 - 17:31

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

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How phone apps can save you money

Update: Tue, 09/02/2010 - 17:14

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

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Top 10 complaints - and how to resolve them

By Hannah Ricci Update: Wed, 20/01/2010 - 17:08

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?

Update: Mon, 15/03/2010 - 16:33

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 - 18:24

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 - 09:46

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 - 11:28

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 - 11:15

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 - 16:57

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 - 15:33

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 - 12:14

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

Update: Tue, 13/10/2009 - 10:44

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 - 15:25

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

Update: Wed, 07/10/2009 - 09:47

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 swap and save

By Nathalie Bonney Update: Fri, 20/08/2010 - 16:05

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

How to cut the cost of your commute

By Nathalie Bonney Update: Mon, 05/07/2010 - 09:21

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

Escape from the 9 to 5

Update: Thu, 28/01/2010 - 14:03

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 - 14:11

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: Mon, 23/08/2010 - 11:29

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 - 13:25

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 - 12:10

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 - 08:44

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

How to beat online fraud

Update: Mon, 14/06/2010 - 12:33

The speed and convenience of managing money matters online are hugely welcome, but don't dismiss the dangers of online fraud. Here are five ways to protect yourself. Read more

Cheap train tickets - how to find them

Update: Mon, 05/07/2010 - 11:14

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?

Update: Thu, 18/02/2010 - 15:24

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 - 11:11

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

Update: Wed, 29/07/2009 - 14:05

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

Update: Thu, 18/02/2010 - 16:36

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

10 ways to protect your ID

By Harriet Meyer Update: Mon, 14/06/2010 - 12:36

Many people are unaware of ID theft until it's too late, but there are lots of simple things you can do to stop the thieves. Here are 10 top tips to help you beat the fraudsters. Read more

Should you help your kids onto the ladder?

Update: Tue, 21/07/2009 - 12:41

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 - 08:52

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

Update: Fri, 03/07/2009 - 13:36

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 - 16:41

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?

Update: Tue, 14/07/2009 - 11:35

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 - 17:17

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 - 11:41

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: Fri, 06/08/2010 - 17:02

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 - 11:40

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

Update: Tue, 23/06/2009 - 12:54

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 - 13:53

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

Update: Wed, 10/06/2009 - 11:51

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 - 10:08

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 - 17:32

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 - 16:50

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 - 16:51

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, 15/06/2010 - 12:28

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 - 13:01

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 - 13:59

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 - 11:23

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 - 15:35

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 - 16:32

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 - 16:44

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 - 13:08

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 - 14:19

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 - 13:09

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?

Update: Wed, 13/05/2009 - 16:31

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 - 17:40

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 - 16:47

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 - 14:39

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 - 11:23

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 - 14:58

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 - 16:14

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 - 14:35

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?

Update: Tue, 20/01/2009 - 09:59

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 - 15:10

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 - 12:14

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 - 16:29

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 - 18:27

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 - 12:56

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 - 11:38

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 - 12:42

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 - 13:52

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?

Update: Thu, 05/02/2009 - 14:15

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?

Update: Fri, 24/07/2009 - 12:29

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?

Update: Tue, 06/01/2009 - 12:40

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 - 10:34

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 - 13:15

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, 02/07/2010 - 11:57

Have you been through a life-changing circumstance? Are you wondering the best way to invest a windfall, pay for your divorce, or provide your new child with a stable financial future? Apply for a free Money Makeover from Moneywise now. Read more

Are building societies safer than banks?

Update: Thu, 27/11/2008 - 16:00

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 - 15:05

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?

Update: Tue, 28/10/2008 - 17:07

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

Best savings rates

By Esther Armstrong Update: Thu, 02/09/2010 - 16:46

Whether it's for a rainy day or for a one-off big purchase, it's crucial to make your savings work hard for you. Esther Armstrong reveals the best savings accounts on the market. Read more

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What next for Icelandic-bank savers?

Update: Tue, 28/10/2008 - 16:57

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 - 12:26

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?

Update: Fri, 05/12/2008 - 11:05

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?

Mon, 08/09/2008 - 12:04

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

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Moneywise awards: best current accounts for 2008

By Sam Barrett Update: Mon, 01/09/2008 - 17:47

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 - 15:18

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