320 2012-02-06 0 Sainsbury's Travel Money holds 24-hour rate sale <p> <p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-size:10.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif"">Sainsbury's Travel Money holds 24-hour rate sale</span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:10.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif""> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:10.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif"">Perfect timing for anyone planning a half term holiday, Sainsbury's Travel Money is holding its second 24-hour rate <strong><span style="font-family:"Arial","sans-serif"; font-weight:normal">sale*</span></strong> for customers tomorrow (Tuesday 7<sup>th</sup> February). The sale runs from Tuesday at 9.30am until 9.30am on Wednesday 8<sup>th</sup> February and is available on all foreign currencies that we offer.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:10.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif""> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:10.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif"">Holidaymakers taking advantage of the sale (available online via <a title="http://www.sainsburysfinance.co.uk/" href="http://www.sainsburysfinance.co.uk/"><span style="color:windowtext"><span title="http://www.sainsburysfinance.co.uk/">www.sainsburysfinance.co.uk</span></span></a>) will benefit from even more competitive rates.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:10.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif""> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:10.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif"">Customers buying currency online can choose to collect in-store at one of our 121 travel money bureaux in Sainsbury's stores across the UK (see <a title="http://www.sainsburysfinance.co.uk/" href="http://www.sainsburysfinance.co.uk/"><span style="color:windowtext"><span title="http://www.sainsburysfinance.co.uk/">www.sainsburysfinance.co.uk</span></span></a> for details on your nearest bureaux) or <strong><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";font-weight:normal">next day delivery to home is available*.</span></strong></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:10.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif""> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:10.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif"">*For full terms and conditions, visit <a title="http://www.sainsburysfinance.co.uk/" href="http://www.sainsburysfinance.co.uk/"><span style="color:windowtext"><span title="http://www.sainsburysfinance.co.uk/">www.sainsburysfinance.co.uk</span></span></a> </span></p> </p> 438001569 438001569 Loans 319 2012-01-11 0 When does life insurance make sense? <p> <p class="MsoNormal">For many of us, our homes are the most important possession we have – not just in terms of their value, but also for both the literal and symbolic protection they offer us and our families. And it can often make sense to protect the investment of time, money and love we make in our homes with a life insurance policy or critical illness cover to protect against losing the roof over our family’s head if the worst should h<a name="_GoBack"></a>appen.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">However, according to<a href="http://www.thisismoney.co.uk/money/mortgageshome/article-2057143/Nearly-half-people-mortgage-life-insurance.html"> research</a> by Sainsbury’s Life Insurance, many people in the UK seem to be neglecting this. The study found that four out of ten mortgage holders have no <a href="http://www.sainsburysbank.co.uk/insuring/ins_lifeinsurance_zone.shtml"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal">life insurance</b> protection</a> for their policy. For those aged 35-44 – the group that is the most likely to have dependants – a third did not have insurance.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">All this could mean that seven million people do not have a policy in force, the company says, a figure that could lead to some £245 billion in unpaid mortgages.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal">Reasons to cover up</i></p> <p class="MsoNormal">With family budgets being squeezed hard, some are prioritising other bills and choosing not to pay for insurance. Alternatively, they may simply feel that it is not essential. However, it can be potentially dangerous not to ensure that debt is taken care of if something happens to those who provide for the family.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none; text-autospace:none" class="MsoNormal">If you have dependants, then you are likely to want to know that they can carry on living at a reasonable standard if you were not around – and therefore life cover could be a particular concern for those with children.</p> <p style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none; text-autospace:none" class="MsoNormal">Another spur to taking out cover can be when you become a parent. Clearly, being able to provide for a young family precisely when they are at their most vulnerable is a huge incentive.</p> <p style="" class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none; text-autospace:none" class="MsoNormal">But even grown-up children tend to rely on their parents for longer these days, with some living at home well into their twenties. Likewise, with people tending to live longer, you may find that you become responsible for elderly parents at exactly the same time that your own children have grown up, but are still largely dependent upon you – for example, when they are at university.</p> <p style="" class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">But even if you have no dependants, you may find that having a life insurance policy in place can be a good idea. While couples or even single people may feel that they can get away without cover, they could leave a partner or other family member with the responsibility of keeping up the payments on an inherited mortgaged property.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">While naturally enough we may not want to think about a time when we won't be around, having the right life insurance cover<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"> </b>in place can at least help make sure that those left behind are protected financially. Remember that being up-front about any conditions you may have is of crucial importance when applying for cover such as life insurance, as your situation will be fully examined by an underwriter, and the information and your circumstances used to produce your quote. By not disclosing health conditions you know about, you may invalidate your policy.</p> <p style="margin-top:5.0pt;margin-right:0cm;margin-bottom:5.0pt; margin-left:0cm;text-autospace:ideograph-numeric" class="MsoNormal"><i><span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language:EN-US">Issued by Sainsbury’s Finance</span></i></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><em><span style="font-size:9.0pt;line-height:115%; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif";mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;color:black; mso-bidi-font-style:italic">Sainsbury’s Finance is a trading name of Sainsbury’s Bank plc.</span></em><span style="font-size:9.0pt;line-height:115%;mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;color:black"> <em><span style="font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">All information correct at time of publication, but may be subject to change. Any views or opinions expressed in this article</span></em> <em><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">are the responsibility of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of any part of the Sainsbury’s Group</span></em> <em><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">of companies. </span></em></span></p> </p> 438001570 438001570 Insurance 316 2012-01-04 0 New Year's financial guide <p> <p class="MsoNormal">As 2012 starts and the UK economy keeps on suffering from the effects of the ongoing Eurozone crisis (as well as our own problems), it's no great surprise to hear warnings from the OECD and the IPPR about falling back into recession.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">What normally matters most to us as individuals is how our own situation will be affected - and what we can do to improve the health of our finances. All the more reason to review your finances at the start of this New Year…</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <h3>Budget: taking stock</h3> <p class="MsoNormal">First of all, take stock. How much money do you have coming in every month? How much are you spending? What's it going on?</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Understanding where you stand financially is an essential part of bringing some more order to your finances, so it's well worth taking the time to sit down with a <a href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Financial-Detox/Downloads/Budget-Planner">budget planner</a> to help you make sure you've not forgotten any of your income or expenditure.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <h3>Debts: dealing with the past</h3> <p class="MsoNormal">The New Year's traditionally seen as a time for new beginnings, but life doesn't 'reset' on 1<sup>st</sup> January! If you've borrowed any significant amount of money, paying it back is likely to play a major part in the financial decisions you make this year.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">If you're on top of what you owe but finding it awkward to keep up with multiple payments every month, have you <a href="http://www.thinkmoney.com/debt/debt-consolidation/">considered a debt consolidation loan</a>? You could use it to pay off all your debts at once, so you're left with just the consolidation loan to repay. If you're thinking of doing this, make sure you arrange monthly repayments that aren't too low (or you'll pay more interest than necessary, since it'll take you longer) or too high (or you might not be able to make them every month).</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">If you're <i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal">not</i> on top of what you owe, this is something that needs to be addressed. If you've realised you can't afford your monthly payments, what <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal">can</i> you afford? Can you realistically expect to repay what you owe in a reasonable time? Your lenders might accept a new agreement called a debt management plan, in which they'd agree to lower monthly payments to help you make sure you can repay the money. Paying it back more slowly can cost more in the long run (again, due to interest) and can affect your credit rating - but if you can't afford your original payments, this could still be the best approach to take.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <h3>Saving: preparing for the future</h3> <p class="MsoNormal">Whether you're looking to buy something big, preparing for retirement, or keen to stay out of debt in the future, saving is a great way to prepare for the life ahead of you - not just 2012, but the rest of your life.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Of course, your financial situation might be very different this time next year, so it makes sense to figure out what you can afford to save <i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal">this</i> year.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">So, once you know where you stand with your monthly finances, ask yourself whether (and how) you want to save this year. Some people find it helps to stick to a regular saving commitment, while others are happier putting aside whatever they can afford each month. Others simply can't afford it - it's great to save for the future, but if the money's not available, saving it won't be an option.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Having said that, there are ways of <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal">making</i> money available. If you're looking for ways to cut back on your spending and make your money go further, these <a href="http://www.thinkmoney.com/money-guides/money-saving-tips-and-information.asp">money-saving tips</a> might be useful.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> </p> 438001572 438001572 Banking & Saving 315 2011-12-05 0 Travel Smartly with International Debit Cards <p>Those who travel frequently for work or pleasure need to have easy and secure access to their <a href="http://www.hsbc.ae/1/2/personal/banking/current-accounts"><span><font color="#0000ff">bank account</font></span></a>. It’s important not to carry large amounts of cash, particularly when travelling alone. In large cities with high crime rates, travellers may prefer not to carry cash at all. Chip cards provide the flexibility to pay for transport, shopping or dining without the insecurity of having to carry cash.<br /> <br /> Banks can provide international debit cards that are accepted globally, both at ATMs and by vendors, and so travellers can take their <a href="http://www.hsbc.ae/1/2/"><font color="#0000ff">banks in Dubai</font></a> to North America, Australia and around the world. In most cases, this means simply looking for the VISA or logo related to the bank in question. When travellers withdraw cash from their debit cards in other countries, transactions are directed to their bank accounts.<br /> <br /> One benefit of an international debit card is that if it’s lost or stolen, it can be reported to the traveller’s bank and cancelled immediately. The bank can also arrange a replacement card so that there’s no need to be stranded in a foreign country without access to funds. If a card is misplaced, it’s also important to report it lost or stolen as soon as possible. This can usually be done telephonically or via email to the bank’s emergency helpline. Banks advise that travellers retain their transaction slips in order to cross check with their bank statement on returning home.<br /> <br /> Debit cards are protected by pin numbers that are easy to remember but difficult for others to guess. This PIN verifies a traveller’s identity at ATMs and retail outlets and completes the transaction, thus it’s important to memorise this number without writing it down, and not to tell others over the phone or on the Internet. <br /> <br /> By using magnetic strips or chip cards, travellers can have safe, convenient, international access to their bank accounts without troubling to carry the cash.</p> 438001572 438001572 Banking & Saving 312 2011-11-25 0 Government's 'Green Deal' could hit 10 million UK households <p><a href="http://www.knaufinsulation.co.uk/">Knauf Insulation</a>, a leading provider of insulation products for the residential and commercial property sector has hit out at the Government’s latest proposals for the ‘Green Deal’.</p> <p> </p> <p>The proposed changes to the subsidy of home insulation to cut winter fuel payments will adversely affect over 10 million households in the UK that have yet to insulate their walls and lofts.</p> <p> </p> <p>The Government subsidy that once existed for this practice will be removed from autumn 2012 and replaced with a loan effectively charged at commercial rates.</p> <p> </p> <p>As homeowners are unlikely to take up this far less attractive offer, it will severely affect home insulation nationwide, preventing households from lowering their fuel bills and the UK from hitting its carbon reduction commitments.</p> <p> </p> <p>Although subsidies remain for the ‘fuel poor’, those households struggling to pay their rising fuel costs will be adversely affected.</p> <p> </p> <p>The Green Deal initiative needs to be revised to ensure a sensible, effective transition over the next five years from current green energy subsidies if the majority of hardworking UK households are to benefit.</p> <p> </p> <p>A revised Green Deal should also include financial incentives for households that insulate their lofts and cavities, such as a rebate on council tax or stamp duty.</p> <p> </p> <p>Steven Heath, external affairs director, <a href="http://www.knaufinsulation.co.uk/">Knauf Insulation</a>, said: “There are aspects of this consultation that need to be considered carefully over the long-term before it is implemented; for example, millions of hard-working households will lose existing subsidies for insulating their home and will have to borrow the costs of insulation at commercial rates instead. This could adversely affect take-up of The Green Deal, along with the reduction of winter fuel bills and the UK’s carbon emissions.</p> 438001569 438001569 Loans 310 2011-08-08 0 Air Miles Credit Card Flying Clubs <p>The air miles credit card is an extremely popular type of rewards credit card. They give users the ability to earn <a href="http://uk.virginmoney.com/virgin/vaa-amex/">air miles</a> for all the purchases they make on their credit card, which can then be redeemed against a whole range of rewards. These rewards can include flight upgrades, complimentary companion tickets, combined air miles and money tickets, and even entire flights funded by your credit card air miles.<br /> <br /> If you have an air miles credit card then it is extremely likely that you will need to join a flying club. This will be a flying club that is associated with your air miles credit card provider, who will give you all the details you need to know when you are initially accepted onto the credit card. This article aims to give you a breakdown of what an air miles credit card flying club actually is, as well as how they work and the benefits that you can get from them.<br /> <br /> Essentially, an air miles credit card flying club is a form of loyalty club that allows you to build up air miles for everything you spend on your card. This can typically be expected to include all the purchases made on your card and, depending on your credit card provider, you can also often earn extra miles for certain purchases (such as purchases from companies that have a partnership with your credit card provider). It is also the flying club that gives you access to the great <a href="http://uk.virginmoney.com/virgin/vaa-amex/earning-miles.jsp">air miles credit card</a> rewards that have helped to make these cards so popular. They will typically work in association with a range of other organisations to bring you the best possible deals and rewards available.<br /> <br /> When it comes to joining the air miles credit card flying club, this is something that you will normally specify you want to do when you make your credit card application. If you are in any doubt, check out the advice offered by your credit card provider to make sure you have joined the relevant club. In order to earn air miles on everything you spend you will need to have a valid membership with the relevant flying club, so it is important that you make sure all of this is in place before you start spending on your card, or else you run the risk of your air miles not being added to your account.<br /> <br /> Generally, the <a href="http://uk.virginmoney.com/virgin/vaa-amex/using-miles.jsp">airmiles</a> you earn will automatically be added to your flying club account each month and you will be able to see how many you have earned every month by looking at your statement: your statement should specify how many air miles you’ve picked up that month and you should easily be able to access your flying club account to make sure that they have been credited to you.<br /> <br /> Once you have earned a decent amount of air miles, you will be able to think about spending them. Typically, you will need at least a couple of thousand air miles before you will be able to redeem them against any rewards, but it is worth checking with your air miles credit card flying club to see what is available and how many miles all the different rewards are worth. This can often help you to decide whether you would like to redeem your air miles now, or whether it might be worth your while waiting until you have built up a larger number of air miles that could be exchanged for a more significant reward.<br /> <br /> If you decide that you would like to redeem the miles you have earned through your air miles credit card, you will be able to look at the different options on offer to see which would be best for you. The rewards on offer are likely to differ slightly depending on the air miles credit card you have chosen, so it is definitely worth having a look at your options. For instance, as well as flight-based rewards, you might also be able to redeem your air miles against spa days and other benefits depending on your flying club provider.<br /> <br /> Another thing to consider with your flying club is whether they offer any additional rewards that you could take advantage of. For instance, some air miles credit card flying clubs will offer benefits such as a free seat upgrade or companion ticket in exchange for spending a certain amount of money on your card. Redeeming these offers might not even affect your air miles, so it is definitely worth looking into this.<br /> <br /> Your air miles flying club should have a good support system in place, so if you ever have any questions about your card and air miles, simply get in touch with them and they should be able to help you out.</p> 438001568 438001568 Credit Cards 309 2011-08-04 0 Is the market right for a loan? <p>As the economy remains a rollercoaster our country can’t get off, it’s hard to know where to turn when we need to borrow money. Should we look into getting a credit card, or would we be better off getting a loan? Finding the solution that will do minimal damage to your finances is a difficult and often confusing process, which is made all the more difficult as many websites expect you to give up your personal information before they let you in on the secret of their ‘unbeatable’ rates. Before agreeing to any loan, you need to know that you are getting the most for your money; and that you’re working with a company you can trust.<br /> <br /> With six million families now described as ’financially vulnerable’ by the <a href="http://www.cccs.co.uk/">Consumer Credit Counselling Service</a>, the need for a loan is increasingly accepted as a normal part of life. For loans under £1,000 though, a credit card might be a better option. Many credit cards now accept new customers at zero per cent interest in their first year and, provided you make your repayment in time, this could end up saving you a lot of money.<br /> <br /> It is important to remember that taking out a loan will not reduce your credit card debt. The borrowing rate on the cheapest cards will, in general, be cheaper than <a href="http://www.comparethemarket.com/loans/">loans</a>, and credit card balance transfer deals have a special rate which is usually set much lower than the cheapest loans. Don’t assume that going to the bank for a loan is the only way you can get yourself out of trouble; sometimes there are much cheaper, and much more sensible, options which will suit your needs more effectively.<br /> <br /> The competition between banks for loans in the UK is more aggressive than it used to be. Where rates used to sit comfortably at 15 per cent, they can often sink to seven per cent to ensure that they will pique your interest and convince you to stay. Some might argue that there is, in fact, no better time to look for a loan than right now, as banks fight to undercut eachother and secure your custom. The sensible thing to do is to take advantage of that competition and make the most of it for yourself.<br /> <br /> The most important thing to do is to investigate all of your options thoroughly. Surprisingly, an unsecured loan is much safer for you than a secured loan. Secured loans are safe for the provider, but not for you; meaning they could increase your payment rate at any time, or even claim ownership of your home (or another of your assets to which you have secured your loan) the moment you fall behind payment. Most high street banks provide unsecured loans, which are much more flexible and will give you a fixed rate so that you know exactly what you’re paying for.<br /> <br /> Make sure you aren’t taken in by any gimmicks, such as a longer repayment rate or even a repayment holiday. The longer you take to repay your loan, the greater the interest bill, so it is sensible to pay your loan off as quickly as possible. Many banks do charge you for paying off your loan early, too, so make sure you choose a plan which allows for overpayments.<br /> <br /> Use the Internet to your advantage; all of the information you can find out by making a trip to your bank is readily available online, as well as many plans which could end up costing you less money. Be thorough in your research, and clear in your agreement before signing anything.<br /> <br /> Provided you play the banks at their own game and educate yourself on the cheapest ways to borrow, this can absolutely be the right market for a loan.</p> 438001569 438001569 Loans 308 2011-08-02 0 T-Mobile launches new You Fix tariff to help parents control mobile phone bills <p> </p> <div style="line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 150%">Teenagers across the UK are talking their parents out of over £150 million a year on their mobile phone bills, according to a study out today by T-Mobile. The figure was revealed after T-Mobile commissioned a nationwide study of over 4,000 parents and teenagers to look into UK household mobile phone expenditure. In response to the findings, T-Mobile today announces it’s launching a unique new mobile plan, You Fix, which combines the value of its pay monthly plans with the flexibility and spend control of pay as you go.</span></div> <div style="line-height: 150%"> </div> <div style="line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 150%">The study revealed that of the nine in 10 (92 per cent) respondents aged 11-20 with a mobile phone, the vast majority of their parents (72 per cent) are paying the bill at an average of £15 per month. When questioned one third (33 per cent) of the parents questioned revealed that their children are spending more than the agreed monthly amount on their mobile phone bills.  </span></div> <div style="line-height: 150%"> </div> <div style="line-height: 150%"> </div> <div style="line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size: 11pt; color: black; line-height: 150%">T-Mobile’s study reveals that nearly one quarter (23 per cent) of 11 – 20 year olds questioned now has a smartphone. </span><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 150%">The handsets can cost up to £300 on pay as you go contracts but are widely available for free on pay monthly contracts. <span style="color: black">It has led to a shift of more than 10 per cent (in the last 12 months) in the numbers of parents signing up to pay monthly contracts as they look to take advantage of the lower priced handsets. </span></span></div> <div style="line-height: 150%"> </div> <div style="line-height: 150%"> </div> <div style="line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 150%">You Fix, T-Mobile’s new tariff allows parents to choose from the very latest handsets including Android and Blackberry’s for free or for a small payment upfront. In the only plan of its kind available in the UK, customers will then get a set allowance of minutes, texts and a Flexible Booster for a fixed monthly amount, on a short 12 month plan. </span></div> <div style="line-height: 150%"> </div> <div style="line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 150%">For any more minutes or texts required, customers can then simply top–up as they would on pay as you go - meaning parents get the peace of  mind that their teenager can always stay in touch, but they’ll never pay more than they are expecting at the end of the month. </span></div> <div style="line-height: 150%"> </div> <div style="line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 150%">Customers sign up to a 12 month plan at a fixed monthly price. They can choose one of three different prices:  </span></div> <div style="line-height: 150%"> </div> <p> <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" border="0" style="border-collapse: collapse"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="142" style="border-right: windowtext 1pt solid; padding-right: 5.4pt; border-top: windowtext 1pt solid; padding-left: 5.4pt; padding-bottom: 0cm; border-left: windowtext 1pt solid; width: 106.5pt; padding-top: 0cm; border-bottom: windowtext 1pt solid; background-color: transparent"> <div style="line-height: 150%"><b><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 150%">Monthly cost</span></b></div> </td> <td valign="top" width="142" style="border-right: windowtext 1pt solid; padding-right: 5.4pt; border-top: windowtext 1pt solid; padding-left: 5.4pt; padding-bottom: 0cm; border-left: #f0f0f0; width: 106.5pt; padding-top: 0cm; border-bottom: windowtext 1pt solid; background-color: transparent"> <div style="line-height: 150%" align="center"><b><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 150%">£15.50</span></b></div> </td> <td valign="top" width="142" style="border-right: windowtext 1pt solid; padding-right: 5.4pt; border-top: windowtext 1pt solid; padding-left: 5.4pt; padding-bottom: 0cm; border-left: #f0f0f0; width: 106.55pt; padding-top: 0cm; border-bottom: windowtext 1pt solid; background-color: transparent"> <div style="line-height: 150%" align="center"><b><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 150%">£20.50</span></b></div> </td> <td valign="top" width="142" style="border-right: windowtext 1pt solid; padding-right: 5.4pt; border-top: windowtext 1pt solid; padding-left: 5.4pt; padding-bottom: 0cm; border-left: #f0f0f0; width: 106.55pt; padding-top: 0cm; border-bottom: windowtext 1pt solid; background-color: transparent"> <div style="line-height: 150%" align="center"><b><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 150%">£26</span></b></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td valign="top" width="142" style="border-right: windowtext 1pt solid; padding-right: 5.4pt; border-top: #f0f0f0; padding-left: 5.4pt; padding-bottom: 0cm; border-left: windowtext 1pt solid; width: 106.5pt; padding-top: 0cm; border-bottom: windowtext 1pt solid; background-color: transparent"> <div style="line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 150%">Minutes</span></div> </td> <td valign="top" width="142" style="border-right: windowtext 1pt solid; padding-right: 5.4pt; border-top: #f0f0f0; padding-left: 5.4pt; padding-bottom: 0cm; border-left: #f0f0f0; width: 106.5pt; padding-top: 0cm; border-bottom: windowtext 1pt solid; background-color: transparent"> <div style="line-height: 150%" align="center"><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 150%">75</span></div> </td> <td valign="top" width="142" style="border-right: windowtext 1pt solid; padding-right: 5.4pt; border-top: #f0f0f0; padding-left: 5.4pt; padding-bottom: 0cm; border-left: #f0f0f0; width: 106.55pt; padding-top: 0cm; border-bottom: windowtext 1pt solid; background-color: transparent"> <div style="line-height: 150%" align="center"><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 150%">100</span></div> </td> <td valign="top" width="142" style="border-right: windowtext 1pt solid; padding-right: 5.4pt; border-top: #f0f0f0; padding-left: 5.4pt; padding-bottom: 0cm; border-left: #f0f0f0; width: 106.55pt; padding-top: 0cm; border-bottom: windowtext 1pt solid; background-color: transparent"> <div style="line-height: 150%" align="center"><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 150%">300</span></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td valign="top" width="142" style="border-right: windowtext 1pt solid; padding-right: 5.4pt; border-top: #f0f0f0; padding-left: 5.4pt; padding-bottom: 0cm; border-left: windowtext 1pt solid; width: 106.5pt; padding-top: 0cm; border-bottom: windowtext 1pt solid; background-color: transparent"> <div style="line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 150%">Texts</span></div> </td> <td valign="top" width="142" style="border-right: windowtext 1pt solid; padding-right: 5.4pt; border-top: #f0f0f0; padding-left: 5.4pt; padding-bottom: 0cm; border-left: #f0f0f0; width: 106.5pt; padding-top: 0cm; border-bottom: windowtext 1pt solid; background-color: transparent"> <div style="line-height: 150%" align="center"><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 150%">75</span></div> </td> <td valign="top" width="142" style="border-right: windowtext 1pt solid; padding-right: 5.4pt; border-top: #f0f0f0; padding-left: 5.4pt; padding-bottom: 0cm; border-left: #f0f0f0; width: 106.55pt; padding-top: 0cm; border-bottom: windowtext 1pt solid; background-color: transparent"> <div style="line-height: 150%" align="center"><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 150%">100</span></div> </td> <td valign="top" width="142" style="border-right: windowtext 1pt solid; padding-right: 5.4pt; border-top: #f0f0f0; padding-left: 5.4pt; padding-bottom: 0cm; border-left: #f0f0f0; width: 106.55pt; padding-top: 0cm; border-bottom: windowtext 1pt solid; background-color: transparent"> <div style="line-height: 150%" align="center"><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 150%">300</span></div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </p> <div style="line-height: 150%"> </div> <div style="line-height: 150%"> </div> <div style="line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 150%">Example phones available on the plan include the Samsung Galaxy Gio for £85 and £15.50 per month (arriving soon), the BlackBerry 8520 for £60 at £20.50 per month, and the HTC Wildfire S for £70 and £26 per month.</span></div> <div style="line-height: 150%"> </div> <div style="line-height: 150%"> </div> <div style="line-height: 150%"><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 150%">For more information visit: <a title="http://www.t-mobile.co.uk/youfix" href="http://www.t-mobile.co.uk/youfix"><font color="#0000ff">www.t-mobile.co.uk/youfix</font></a> </span></div> 438001572 438001572 Banking & Saving 307 2011-07-27 0 British Insurance issues tips for new landlords <p> </p> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt">As demand for privately rented properties continues to grow and rental costs reach record highs, an increasing number of people are becoming first-time landlords to generate extra income. Landlord insurance provider British Insurance offers 10 tips to help landlords protect themselves, their tenants and maximise their investment.</div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt"><b>1. Be Prepared - </b>Before potential tenants view the property, have it cleaned and finish simple DIY jobs. Will the let be furnished or not? Wider insurance cover is needed if ‘contents’ are provided.</div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt"><b>2. Safety First - </b>Comply with fire, gas, electric, appliance and furniture regulations and install fire and carbon monoxide alarms. Regular checks must be undertaken and records kept, if not, tenants could be at risk and the landlord insurance may be invalidated.</div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt"><b>3. Letting Agent or DIY - </b>Letting agents are great for landlords who do not have time to manage the process, however, they will take between 8-15% of the rental income profit. In return they source tenants, check references and provide a daily contact point should there be any problems. Compare agents to see who offers the best deal.</div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt"><b>4. Finding Tenants - </b>Those not using a letting agent will have to source tenants’ references (preferably from a previous landlord), follow-up to ensure they’re genuine and carry out credit checks to verify the tenants’ identity and their ability to pay rent. Landlords using letting agents should get involved with tenant interviews – it’s important to be comfortable with the person moving in.</div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt"><b>5. Legal Rights – </b>Both sides have rights and it’s vital to be aware of them. For example, landlords must give at least 24 hours notice if intending to enter the tenant’s home, there should be clear guidelines on whose responsibility it is to upkeep the property and clear procedures relating to tenant eviction. Use a letting agent or solicitor to help with Tenancy Agreements or download templates from various landlord associations.</div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt"><b>6. Deposits - </b>To protect against any tenant damage, it’s common to insist on a deposit of between four and six weeks rent. Since April 2007, all tenants’ deposits must be registered with an approved Tenancy Deposit Protection (TDP) scheme. If a deposit isn’t protected when required, tenants can instigate court proceedings and three times as much may have to be paid.</div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt"><b>7. Inventory - </b>A detailed and accurate inventory is crucial, particularly if letting a furnished property as it proves how the property looked and what was provided the day the tenant moved in. It should be clear and easy to understand and contain photos of some of the property’s items. Once both sides sign it, it’s a useful reference tool in the event of a dispute.</div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt"><b>8. Landlord Insurance - </b>Most standard house insurance policies won’t provide the level of cover landlords need. As well as building and contents, a good landlord policy should cover;professionals, students and DSS tenants, loss of rent, unoccupied periods, alternative accommodation, tracing and accessing leaks, accidental damage, legal expenses and liabilities, plus rent protection.<span>   </span></div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt"><b>9. Eviction - </b>The majority of Tenancy Agreements come to a natural and amicable end, but if problems do occur, landlords must supply ‘good proof’ for eviction, such as non-payment of rent for more than eight weeks or breaking the terms of the Tenancy Agreement.<span>   Eviction proceedings start with the serving of a Section 8 Notice, which gives the tenant 14 days to respond. If there’s still no resolution, apply to the Court for a Possession Order. </span></div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt"><b>10. Vacant Periods – </b>If a property’s left vacant, give the impression it’s lived in. Collect the post regularly, open and close blinds or curtains and use a lighting timer. If there’s a driveway and it’s possible, park a car there. Ensure the landlord policy covers vacant periods.</div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt">Nel Mooy, Managing Director British Insurance, comments: “Our tips will hopefully be a good starting point for new landlords. Despite recent rental trends not everything is on the increase - our premiums have reduced by an average of 26% and those letting to students alone can take advantage of a 33% price cut. This is good news for parents who responded to a recent survey* stating they would consider purchasing a student buy-to-let property to fund their children’s university education.”</div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt">British Insurance extended its product range earlier this year, widening its offering beyond its reputable Payment Protection products. Alongside PPI and landlord cover, the firm has policies for people with overseas and UK holiday/second homes and unoccupied properties.</div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt">To found out more about landlord insurance and to view other products in its portfolio visit <a href="http://www.britishinsurance.com/"><span style="color: purple">www.britishinsurance.com</span></a></div> 438001571 438001571 Mortgages 306 2011-07-04 0 British Insurance fears overseas holiday home owners ‘alone’ in an emergency <p> </p> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt">Owners of holiday homes abroad could be left in a panic this summer unless they have access to 24/7 interpreters to help them out in an emergency.<span>   European and UK holiday home insurance provider, British Insurance, offers such a service, but fears it’s the only one.</span></div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt">The firm randomly picked 10 European holiday home insurance firms * to see whether they provided interpreters to support their customers in a crisis abroad and found that none did. Whilst in some cases, customers had access to bilingual claims staff; they would not have been able to contact their insurer for translation assistance.</div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt">Call logs from British Insurance’s ‘Pass the Phone’ interpretation service show European holiday home owners not only want help at the time of a claim, but require the services of linguists to deal with everyday matters such as speaking to utility firms and builders.</div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt">Translator requests include; contacting electricity provider to organise a date for meter reading, speaking to police following a car accident, talking to a local builder to discuss paint and guttering problems with a recently-purchased property, asking the maid to give local contractors a key so they can work on the house and contacting a locksmith following an airport robbery. </div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt">On the claims side, interpreters are regularly called upon to assist with burst water pipes and leaks (sourcing builders and plumbers) and break-ins (contacting locksmiths, replacement glass firms and police liaison). Those with homes in Spain account for the majority of calls and at times, there are requests for three-way conversations between owner, interpreter and overseas contact.</div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt">During its research, British Insurance also found its public liability limit was higher than some providers - £5m as opposed to £2m - and that emergency travel, automatically included within its policy, is classed as an ‘optional extra’ by other providers, which could result in additional costs.</div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt">Managing Director Nel Mooy comments: “The basis of insurance is to give help when and where it’s needed most and our call logs evidence that it’s not just at the time of a claim when overseas holiday home owners require interpretation support.</div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt">“Things we take for granted in the UK, such as contacting utility companies, local tradesmen and the police, are much harder when you’re not fluent in that country’s language and our call logs confirm the demand for linguists to help in these situations. I fear many people facing an emergency will not get the support they need.”</div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt">British Insurance’s holiday home policy provides; building and contents cover up to £500,000 and £60,000 respectively, emergency travel assistance (helping owners get to their property quickly in an emergency), public liability (taking into account French, Spanish and Portuguese requirements) and unoccupied and rental cover.</div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt">‘Pass the Phone’ is an interpretation service with multi-lingual advisers. As well as instant interpretation, they offer assistance following an emergency or crime, help with lost passports, credit cards and money, liaise with utility companies and locate local tradesmen and professional services. </div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt">Owners with properties in Spain, France, Portugal, Italy, Greece, Southern Cyprus and Bulgaria have access to interpreters, those in the UK and the Republic of Ireland can call a 24/7 emergency helpline.</div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt">British Insurance extended its product range earlier this year, widening its offering beyond its reputable Payment Protection products. Alongside PPI and cover for people with overseas and UK holiday/second homes, the firm has policies for unoccupied properties and landlords.</div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt">To view the product range visit <a href="http://www.britishinsurance.com/"><span style="color: purple">www.britishinsurance.com</span></a></div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt">Ends</div> 438001570 438001570 Insurance 305 2011-05-26 0 Credit card usage in the UK <p> </p> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt">The ease and speed of shopping online <a href="http://www.sainsburysbank.co.uk/credit_cards/cca_creditcard_zone.shtml"><font color="#0000ff">using credit cards</font></a> has transformed the way we buy everything from books and gadgets to flights, hotel stays and tickets for gigs, shows and sports events. Research by Sainsbury’s Finance has revealed that 25.4 million adults in the UK now regularly buy goods online.</div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt">Payments by credit card contribute to a collective online shopping spree of around £6.4billion each month. The most popular online purchases are DVDs and music, followed by books, fashion items and holidays. According to this research by Sainsbury’s Finance, there’s a gender divide: men are more likely to buy music, gadgets and electronic items, whilst women account for the majority of fashion and book purchases.</div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt">The most enthusiastic online shoppers are aged 35-44 years old, the research suggests; this age-group typically spends an average of £215 each month. Consumers aged 45-54 spend a monthly average of £207, above the British average of £192. However, whilst two-thirds of people spend less than £100 a month on their cards, Sainsbury’s Finance estimates that there are 1.2million credit card-holders who spend more than £1000 a month online, significantly increasing the average for the country as a whole.</div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt">Yet lest you think that these must be female shopaholics, clicking to collect cupboards full of shoes, the statistics published by Sainsbury’s Finance say otherwise: men actually spend more online, averaging £220 a month. Female shoppers notch up a more modest £160 a month in online purchases – and Sainsbury’s Finance research has also revealed that 23% of women do not have a credit card at all.</div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt">The research suggests that shoppers in the South East spend the most online, splashing out an average £236 a month. Residents of the Midlands spend £212, northerners £178 and those in Wales and the South West £150 a month. In Scotland people spend just £116 a month on average when shopping online by credit card according to this survey by Sainsbury’s Finance.</div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt">Visit <a title="http://www.sainsburysbank.co.uk/shoppingonline" href="http://www.sainsburysbank.co.uk/shoppingonline"><font color="#0000ff">http://www.sainsburysbank.co.uk/shoppingonline</font></a> to see an illustration with the findings.</div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt">However, wherever you live, and whatever you buy online, ensure that you are rewarded for choosing to pay by credit card.</div> 438001568 438001568 Credit Cards 304 2011-05-06 0 An Introduction to Life Insurance for Mortgage Protection <p> </p> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt">Along with general family protection, one of the most common reasons for taking out life insurance is to protect a mortgage loan. This type of cover would payout a lump-sum amount to repay the loan upon death.</div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt"><b>Why is this type of cover important?</b></div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt">Taking out <a href="http://www.drewberrymortgageinsurance.co.uk/mortgage-life-insurance/"><b><font color="#0000ff">life insurance for mortgage</font></b></a> protection purposes isn’t right for everyone but if you contribute significantly to the monthly mortgage repayments and have a partner or family to protect it is an important policy to consider.</div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt">An important question to ask is what would happen to your home if you were to pass away? If life insurance is not in place and the mortgage payments couldn’t be met in your absence then the mortgage lender would look to <a href="http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/HomeAndCommunity/BuyingAndSellingYourHome/Mortgagesandrepossessions/index.htm"><b><font color="#0000ff">repossess your home</font></b></a> in order to recuperate the loan amount outstanding.</div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt">This may not be a problem if you are single with no family but if you have others who rely on your income and would be unable to meet the repayments in your absence then the need for life insurance clearly arises. This is why mortgage life cover is particularly popular with couples taking out a joint mortgage loan together.</div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt"><b>How does the plan work?</b></div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt">Mortgage life insurance is designed to payout a lump-sum amount that is sufficient enough to repay your loan should you die within the policy term, thus leaving the house debt free for your partner/family. There are two types of life insurance available and which type is right for you will usually depend on what type of mortgage you have.</div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt">If you have a repayment mortgage loan (where both debt and interest are paid each month) then a decreasing term life insurance plan is usually most appropriate. With this policy the level of cover would decline over the life of your mortgage to broadly mirror the amount outstanding on your loan.</div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt">If you have an interest-only mortgage (where only interest is being paid each month) then a level term life insurance plan is usually most appropriate. With this policy the level of cover remains fixed over the life of your mortgage to cover a fixed amount of debt outstanding.</div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt"><a href="http://www.drewberrymortgageinsurance.co.uk/"><b><font color="#0000ff">Drewberry Mortgage Insurance</font></b></a> are one intermediary who provide a range of online guides detailing exactly how each type of plan works and what factors are important to consider when setting up cover.</div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt"><b>What are the key options to consider?</b></div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt">The most basic options are the amount of cover you would like and how long you would like the policy to run. For strict mortgage protection purposes it usually makes sense to set the amount of cover equal to the amount of debt you have outstanding on the loan and the term length equal to the amount of time your mortgage has left to run.</div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt">A very important option to consider is whether to include critical illness cover on your plan. Including this option means that your life insurance policy could also payout if you were to suffer a serious illness or injury, such as a heart attack or cancer. Thus, if you were to suffer a critical illness you could repay the loan and focus on your recovery without the worry of having to meet mortgage repayments each month.</div> 438001570 438001570 Insurance 303 2011-05-04 0 The Money Shop signposts debt advice to unsuccessful Payday Loan applicants <p> </p> <div>Borrowers who have their Payday Loan application turned down by Payday Loan provider The Money Shop are to be given information on where they can receive free and independent debt advice.</div> <div> </div> <div>It will display free debt advice brochures from money education charity Credit Action in its 360 branches across the UK from May.</div> <div> </div> <div>As one of the most responsible, fair and transparent short-term lenders in the UK, The Money Shop sought the partnership with Credit Action as it realised some borrowers who have their loan application rejected may be in need of debt advice. It only lends to those with regular income and carefully analyses their existing borrowing before offering a loan.</div> <div> </div> <div>It is hoped these jargon-free brochures will help those who do not secure a loan to access free and independent help and receive practical advice on all aspects of understanding and managing money.   </div> <div> </div> <div>Andrew Bryan, Marketing Director at The Money Shop, said of the initiative: “As a responsible, industry-leading provider, we understand those borrowers who have failed to meet our lending criteria may have debt worries. We provide a valued service to those who need short-term cash to help them with a sudden, unforeseen bill, but do not lend to those with serious debt problems. We hope this is one way to help these borrowers back on to their feet and hope other lenders will keep this in mind also.”</div> <div> </div> <div>Keith Tondeur OBE, Founder and President of Credit Action said: “We are pleased that The Money Shop is taking steps to help customers who have had their application turned down, and who may need money management help or debt advice. In these difficult economic times we think this approach is much needed.”</div> <div> </div> <div>The Money Shop’s customers are all in employment with an average salary of £22,000 and borrow £250 on average over a one-month period.</div> <div> </div> <div>The Money Shop is a founding member of the Consumer Finance Association, which works with members of the short-term lending industry to prevent their customers amassing long-term debt. It is also fully regulated by the Office of Fair Trading.</div> <div> </div> 438001573 438001573 Refused Credit 301 2011-04-13 0 Lebara Money Prepaid offers a safe and simple way to send money abroad <p> </p> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt">Lebara, the company well known for its low-cost international mobile call service is once again helping communities stay connected wherever they are in the world with the launch of Lebara Money and a two card prepaid offering.</div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt"><a href="http://www.lebara-money.co.uk/"><font color="#0000ff">The Lebara Prepaid MasterCard</font></a> offers customers a two card facility which enables the sender to transfer money to the friend or family member who is then able to make purchases or withdraw cash anywhere in the world where they see the MasterCard Acceptance Mark.</div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt">This product is likely to prove a big hit with the diverse communities within the UK, and will be particularly useful for those without a credit history or bank account, a barrier that excludes many from applying for traditional high street bank debit or credit cards.</div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt">Sending money overseas can be a costly and cumbersome exercise if you don’t have access to a bank account, so the Lebara Prepaid MasterCard will fill a gap in the market and allow people to send money to a family member in a safe, convenient and cost effective manner.</div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt">The application process is very straightforward and can be completed online in just a few minutes and the cards are then delivered to the customer within 10 days.</div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt">It is important that payment mechanisms are made available to all, and innovations such as the new <a href="http://www.lebara-money.co.uk/"><font color="#0000ff">Lebara Prepaid card</font></a> will ensure that even people unable to open a UK bank account are given the tools and opportunity to be able to manage their finances in an efficient and affordable manner.</div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt">Because the card is 100% prepaid, there is no danger of getting into debt or incurring excessive penalties associated with unauthorised borrowing on mainstream financial products.</div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt">The initial cost to purchase the two linked cards is £14.90 and until 30th June 2011 Lebara is running a promotion where the cardholder can make 2 free international cash withdrawals per month.</div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt">With the card being accepted at over 30 million outlets worldwide and currency transactions converted at competitive exchange rates, there is likely to be great demand for this product.</div> 438001573 438001573 Refused Credit 300 2011-04-07 0 Up in smoke! Millions of ‘quiet quitters’ could be paying too much for life insurance <p> </p> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; line-height: 115%"><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%">Giving up smoking is a fantastic achievement - so once you’ve succeeded you tell everyone, right?</span></div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; line-height: 115%"><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%">Well, not necessarily. New analysis from <a href="http://www.sainsburysbank.co.uk/insuring/ins_lifecover_life_skip.shtml"><font color="#0000ff">Sainsbury's Life Insurance</font></a> suggests that millions of UK policy holders have successfully quit without considering what this means for their life insurance policy - and are missing out on the full financial benefits because of it.</span></div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; line-height: 115%"><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%">The analysis suggests that some 6.5 million UK life insurance policy holders may have given up smoking more than 12 months ago, and not used nicotine replacement products in the last year.</span></div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; line-height: 115%"><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%">People in this group could be eligible to be classed as 'non-smokers' for their life insurance. And yet some 51% of them - 3.3 million people - could find themselves missing out on lower premiums simply because they haven’t informed their insurer that they've kicked the habit. Of course, premiums are affected by factors other than smoking, and therefore not all individuals with existing policies will benefit from switching.</span></div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; line-height: 115%"><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%">"A huge number of people have quit smoking over the past few years and the </span><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%">health benefits of not smoking are now very well-known, but the financial gains are often underestimated,” commented </span><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%">Lucy Hunter, Sainsbury's Life Insurance Manager.</span></div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; line-height: 115%"><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%">"</span><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%">Apart from the obvious savings you can make from not buying cigarettes, your life insurance premium could decrease as you are demonstrating that you've made efforts towards living a healthier lifestyle,</span><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%">" she added.</span></div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; line-height: 115%"><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%">The analysis suggests that these 'quiet quitters' could between them be paying £316 million more in premiums than they need to each year.</span></div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; line-height: 115%"><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%">With the market's average smoker's annual premium costing £209.76, compared to £113.88 for a non-smoker, Sainsbury's Life Insurance warns that ex-smokers could each be missing out to the tune of £95.88 on average – a 46% saving on their annual premium.</span></div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; line-height: 115%"><b><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%">Added incentive?</span></b></div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; line-height: 115%"><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%">Of course, this means there are savings for potentially millions of policy holders who have already kicked the habit. However, the news could also come as extra motivation for the huge numbers of smokers who are currently attempting to quit.</span></div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; line-height: 115%"><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%">The research showed that as many as 1.1 million UK adults – around 2% of the adult population - made giving up smoking a New Year's resolution for 2011, with another 2.3 million intending to quit later in the year.</span></div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; line-height: 115%"><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%">"If you gave up smoking more than 12 months ago and haven't used any nicotine replacement products in that time, you could qualify as a non-smoker," advises Lucy Hunter. "Therefore, now is the time to notify your life insurance provider, or if you don't have a policy, it's a good time to shop around for one, and make sure you declare how long you have given up smoking for when you're applying for a policy - whether it's your first ever policy or if you're simply switching providers."</span></div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; line-height: 115%"><span style="font-size: 9pt; color: red; line-height: 115%">This information does not constitute financial or other professional advice. You should consult your professional adviser if you require financial advice Customers must ensure the plan is suitable for their needs.</span></div> 438001570 438001570 Insurance 299 2011-03-31 0 Take care when purchasing London Olympics tickets <p> </p> <div align="center"> </div> <div style="text-align: left">Tickets for the London Olympics finally went on sale on March 15<sup>th</sup>, the first big sprint of the Games began with 6.6 million tickets available this month for an initial six week period until April 26<sup>th</sup>, with prices ranging from £20 up to (ahem) £2,012 for the best opening ceremony seats.</div> <div> </div> <div>With such a short window of opportunity in which to buy tickets, and with such a huge demand anticipated for even the lower-profile events, it is no surprise that fraudsters are targeting people who will be hunting for tickets they weren’t able to get first time around – making it ever more important for the consumer to get some kind of identity theft protection.</div> <div> </div> <div>Police expect dozens of bogus websites to spring up, targeting buyers desperate for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see the world’s best biggest sporting event. As a result, <i>Operation Podium</i> has been set up by the Metropolitan Police to combat fraud and organised crime around the Olympic Games <span>on the lookout for fraudulent and touting websites.</span></div> <div> </div> <div>Unlicensed reselling of Olympic tickets is illegal, unlike other sporting events and concerts – which means that officers are potentially able to arrest touts. The London 2012 organising committee is working closely with police to develop a legitimate way for people to resell and swap tickets without resorting to touts – already a <span>team of detectives specialising in organised crime and ticket fraud have made 36 arrests<span style="color: #666666">.</span></span></div> <div> </div> <div style="line-height: 14.4pt"> <div> </div>  </div> <div><b>Tips for buying Olympics tickets</b></div> <div> </div> <div><span style="color: #282828">1. In Britain, genuine Olympics tickets will be available only through the London 2012 website </span><span style="color: #282828">plus through authorised short break packages and corporate tickets with Thomas Cook, Jet Set Travel and Prestige Travel.</span></div> <div> </div> <div>2.. The application process for tickets will be open for six weeks from March 15 until just before midnight on April 26, after which the tickets will be allocated by ballot.</div> <div> </div> <div style="background: white">3. Payments can be made only with Visa cards (debit, credit and prepaid), cash and cheques .</div> <div style="background: white"> </div> <div>4. Once your application is processed you cannot cancel, change or return the tickets you are allocated. However you will have the opportunity to resell your tickets at face value through the official London 2012 resale programme early next year. This will be the only authorised way to buy tickets from people offering their tickets for resale.</div> <div> </div> <div>5. When buying tickets online, try to make sure that you’re buying from an approved site in order to protect yourself from the risk of identity theft as well as the more likely risk of buying a fake ticket. Never give credit card or personal information to an unknown site.</div> <div> </div> <div>If you’re unlucky enough to fall for a fraudster, CreditExpert has a dedicated Victims of Fraud team to help give you identity theft protection. <u>It’s free to see your Experian credit report</u> with a 30-day trial of CreditExpert</div> <div> </div> <div>Check your credit report regularly. It’s such a good protection against ID fraud that it’s recommended by the Home Office. <span>Always respond to alerts from your bank, card company or Experian CreditExpert and check your accounts immediately for any suspicious activity.</span></div> <div> </div> <div><br clear="all" /> <hr size="1" width="33%" align="left" /> <div id="ftn1"> <div> <div><span style="font-size: 9pt"><a title="http://www.identitytheft.org.uk/keep-your-personal-info-secure.asp" href="http://www.identitytheft.org.uk/keep-your-personal-info-secure.asp"></a></span></div>  </div> </div> </div> 438001568 438001568 Credit Cards 298 2011-03-02 0 An Introduction to Sickness & Injury Income Protection Cover <p> </p> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; line-height: normal"><span style="font-size: 8.5pt">Throughout life we take out many different types of insurance, covering our home, car, mortgage and even our lives, but many people often overlook covering the one thing that pays for all of those other insurances, our income.</span></div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; line-height: normal"><b><span style="font-size: 8.5pt">How long could you survive without your income?</span></b></div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; line-height: normal"><span style="font-size: 8.5pt">The majority of people would be able to manage should they have to take one or two months off work due to illness or injury. For example, we could rely on our savings or even seek support from our partner or other family members. Some employers even provide a few months full sick pay. However, the vast majority of us would struggle if we lost our incomes for a much longer period, such as a year or even longer.</span></div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; line-height: normal"><span style="font-size: 8.5pt">Fortunately, there are insurance plans that can be taken out in order to cover this very risk. </span><span style="font-size: 9pt"><a href="http://www.drewberryincomeprotection.co.uk/"><span style="color: blue">Personal income protection</span></a></span><span style="font-size: 8.5pt"> is a type of insurance designed to provide a monthly benefit to cover lost earnings should you have to take time off work due to sickness or injury. Some plans can even last until age 65 so as to cover earnings until retirement. This means that if you were off work recovering from cancer, say, the plan could payout every month until you were well enough to return to work, however long that may be.</span></div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; line-height: normal"><b><span style="font-size: 8.5pt">How much of my income can I protect?</span></b></div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; line-height: normal"><span style="font-size: 8.5pt">With income protection cover (sometimes known as permanent health insurance) it is usually possible to insure up to 65 per cent of gross earnings and plans can usually protect against practically any medical condition that prevents you from working. With ‘own occupation’ income protection the plan would cover you in your own job and the insurer would never ask you to undertake any other type of work, even if you were well enough do so.</span></div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; line-height: normal"><b><span style="font-size: 8.5pt">What support can I expect from the government?</span></b></div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; line-height: normal"><span style="font-size: 8.5pt">Many people assume that the welfare state will fully provide for them should they suffer long-term illness. In reality, state support, in the form of the </span><span style="font-size: 9pt"><a href="http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/DisabledPeople/FinancialSupport/esa/index.htm"><span style="color: blue">Employment and Support Allowance</span></a></span><span style="font-size: 8.5pt"> (ESA), is very limited in terms of the benefit provided, with weekly rates ranging from £91.40 to £96.85 (as of February 2011). ESA also comes with strict Work Capability Assessments in order to obtain the benefit in the first place. In this light, taking out private insurance is the only real means of gaining sufficient earnings protection.</span></div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; line-height: normal"><b><span style="font-size: 8.5pt">Where can I take out an income protection policy?</span></b></div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; line-height: normal"><span style="font-size: 8.5pt">Although the concept of protecting your earnings is quite straight forward there are a number of important factors to consider, many of which can vary considerably from insurer to insurer. As such, it is usually best to speak to an expert in the field, with Drewberry Insurance being one such adviser in the area. Whether it is discussing occupation definitions, indexation or finding the most appropriate insurer given past medical conditions an independent adviser can help.</span></div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; line-height: normal"><b><span style="font-size: 8.5pt">Can I take out a plan if I am self employed?</span></b></div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; line-height: normal"><span style="font-size: 8.5pt">Given self employed individuals do not have the safety net of company sick pay to rely on many insurers provide various </span><span style="font-size: 9pt"><a href="http://www.drewberryincomeprotection.co.uk/income-protection-cover/self-employed-income-protection/"><span style="color: blue">self employed sickness insurance</span></a></span> <span style="font-size: 8.5pt">options. </span></div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; line-height: normal"><span style="font-size: 8.5pt">For the self employed extra care needs to be taken when calculating the level of income that can be protected, this will vary depending on whether the individual is a sole trader or the director of a limited company. For this latter group it is also important to consider the weigh-up between a personal income protection plan and an executive plan as there are some key differences in how they are structured and taxed.</span></div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; line-height: normal"><span style="font-size: 8.5pt">In either case, whether employed or self-employed, income protection insurance forms a solid means of earnings protection against one of the largest risks we all face in life, long-term sickness or injury.</span></div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; line-height: normal"> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; line-height: normal"><span style="font-size: 8.5pt"> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; line-height: normal"> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; line-height: normal"> </div> </div> </span></div> </div> 438001570 438001570 Insurance 297 2011-02-17 0 The Different Kinds of Life Insurance <p> </p> <div><b><span style="font-size: 10pt">The Different Kinds of Life Insurance</span></b></div> <div><b> </b></div> <div><span style="font-size: 10pt"><a href="http://www.asdafinance.com/insurance/life-insurance/"><font color="#0000ff">Life insurance</font></a> is incredibly important; it gives you and your family peace of mind as you would know that if anything were to happen, they would remain financially sound. Life insurance in the UK is becoming ever popular, with the benefits becoming evident to an increasing number of people. There are different kinds of life insurance policies, meaning that there’s something for everyone. No longer is this kind of insurance inaccessible and expensive: UK consumers can now benefit from affordable levels of life insurance. </span></div> <div> </div> <div><span style="font-size: 10pt">One such kind of life insurance available from ASDA is level term life insurance. This kind of life insurance is actually the most popular kind of life assurance policy. Primarily, this is because this kind of policy is the most affordable, making it more accessible than most. </span></div> <div> </div> <div><span style="font-size: 10pt">So, what is level term insurance? In short, it means that if you were to die during the term of your insurance policy, your family will receive a tax free lump sum payment which will be there to cover costs associated with your death, as well as providing some financial security for the immediate future. Expenses associated with death could include funeral costs mortgage repayments and any debts that would otherwise have been paid by the person who passed away. These debts and financial obligations can often be crippling for a family that has lost a source of income, hence the importance life insurance to all families. </span></div> <div> </div> <div><span style="font-size: 10pt">Of course, there will also be costs in the future, like day-to-day living costs, as well as perhaps educational costs and living costs for any children left behind. Level term insurance is incredibly convenient for families in the UK. Death is a tragedy, and what makes it worse is the difficulty that the family must go through for the rest of their lives if they haven’t taken out <a href="http://www.asdafinance.com/insurance/life-insurance/life-insurance/"><font color="#0000ff">life insurance cover</font></a>. </span></div> <div> </div> <div><span style="font-size: 10pt">This kind of life insurance is considerably cheaper than other options, and you’ll notice even on your <a href="http://www.asdafinance.com/insurance/life-insurance/quote/"><font color="#0000ff">life insurance quote</font></a> that figures are significantly less than what you might have expected. One of the main reasons that this level of cover is significantly cheaper is because the insurer will only have to make a payment if the insured individual passes away while the policy is active. It’s important to note there are a number of different types of level term insurance policies polices available to you so it’s best to speak to an adviser before you take one out. </span></div> <div> </div> <div><span style="font-size: 10pt">Then there’s Whole of Life insurance. This option is more expensive, but is a comprehensive cover option that offers a guaranteed payout when you die. Unlike other kinds of insurance policies, this guarantees that the monthly payments you make will be delivered to your family when you pass away: no matter how your circumstances change after taking out the policy, and you may include income protection cover to ensure that your family’s financial stability is unaffected whilst you’re working. Whilst a Whole of Life policy is more expensive, it provides you with the very best peace of mind and will limit your family’s financial difficulties when you’re no longer around.</span></div> <div> </div> <div><span style="font-size: 10pt">Under the name of whole life insurance, there are a number of types of policy available, catering to the varying budgets and requirements of customers. If you do not need your policy to cover certain things then you could opt out of these additional forms of cover, making your overall premiums cheaper When buying this type of policy it’s best to speak to an adviser to ensure you take out the policy that’s right for you.</span></div> <div> </div> <div><span style="font-size: 10pt">With so many options open to you these days, it makes no sense not to make use of life insurance cover. If you want to ensure that your family will always remain financially secure, then certainly look into taking out one of the many kinds of life insurance policies that are available. </span></div> <div> </div> 438001570 438001570 Insurance 295 2011-02-14 235 Interest rates increasing on fixed rate mortgage deals <p> </p> <div align="center"><b><span style="font-size: 11pt">Interest rates increasing on fixed rate mortgage deals</span></b></div> <div> </div> <div><span style="font-size: 11pt">It’s been a good couple of years for home owners with a variable rate tracker mortgage or for those sitting pretty on a low standard variable rate deal, but there are some early signs that things may be starting to change.</span></div> <div> </div> <div><span style="font-size: 11pt">The record low base rate of 0.50% has meant that some people have been paying hundreds of pounds less each month on their monthly mortgage payment whilst those looking for new deals have managed to lock in to some extremely competitive fixed rate deals for the next five years.</span></div> <div> </div> <div><span style="font-size: 11pt">All good things must come to an end and it seems that even though many experts are saying that we won’t see the Monetary Policy Committee raising bank base rate until later this year, the ever growing threat of inflation and its eventual impact on rates is already starting to be reflected in some fixed rate mortgage pricing.</span></div> <div> </div> <div><span style="font-size: 11pt">Lenders won’t reveal a breakdown of their lending costs or profit margins on their mortgage interest rates as this is commercially sensitive information, however their rates are impacted by movements in swap rates and these have moved quite markedly during the past couple of months. </span></div> <div> </div> <div><span style="font-size: 11pt">In the first week of November last year for example, the swap rate for a 2 year fix was 1.26% and for a 5 year fix was 2.06% but today they now stand far higher at 1.73% and 2.91% respectively.</span></div> <div> </div> <div><span style="font-size: 11pt">As a result of these increases we have already seen fixed rate increases from the likes of Woolwich from Barclays (increases of up to 0.41%), HSBC 2 and 3 year products up by up to 0.50%, First Direct home loans by up to 0.40% and Norwich and Peterborough Building Society by 0.20%.</span></div> <div><span style="font-size: 11pt">To put these increases into context, for someone with a £150,000 mortgage and 20 years still to run, an extra 0.5% on the rate translates to an additional £39 per month on their mortgage payment or if you look at it another way, an extra £468 per year to find from somewhere.</span></div> <div> </div> <div><span style="font-size: 11pt">The decision as to which type of mortgage is best for you will largely depend on how much flexibility you have in your monthly budget. If money is quite tight and an increase in repayments would put a squeeze on your finances, then the security of a fixed rate mortgage would make sense, however if you’ve got a reasonable amount of leeway in your budget, then a variable rate option may suit you better for now.</span></div> <div> </div> <div><span style="font-size: 11pt">If it’s the fixed rate option you’re considering, then I’d recommend you make an appointment with your mortgage advisor pretty quickly to discuss your options before all the best low rate deals disappear. </span></div> <div> </div> <div><span style="font-size: 11pt">Check out the <a href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Mortgages/Remortgage">latest remortgage products</a> on Moneynet or complete a short application and let a mortgage specialist search on your behalf.</span></div> <div><b> </b></div> 438001571 438001571 Mortgages 296 2011-02-14 236 The Halifax credit card cashback offer – it may not be your best option <p> </p> <div><b><span style="font-size: 11pt">The Halifax credit card cashback offer – it may not be your best option</span></b></div> <div><b> </b></div> <div><span style="font-size: 11pt">The <b><u><span style="color: #4f81bd">Clarity credit card from Halifax</span></u></b> is recognised as one of the most attractive ‘plastic’ deals on the market, and this week Halifax launched a promotion where new customers can earn 2% cashback (maximum £60) for balances transferred to this card.</span></div> <div> </div> <div><span style="font-size: 11pt">The Clarity product is popular because there are no charges for overseas transactions, cash withdrawals or balance transfer fees, plus all transactions are charged at a very competitive 12.9% typical APR. </span></div> <div> </div> <div><span style="font-size: 11pt">Whilst the chance to pocket some cash for switching your balance from another card may look appealing, it may not be quite as good as it first appears, mainly due to the fact there is no introductory interest free option for balance transfers. I’ve crunched some numbers just to highlight my point.</span></div> <div> </div> <div><span style="font-size: 11pt">If you switched £3,000 to the Halifax card and paid off 5% of the balance on each of your statements for 17 months, you would pay £385.59 in interest at 12.9%, and once you’ve taken the £60 cashback into the equation your net outlay would be £325.59.</span></div> <div><span style="font-size: 11pt">If you were to switch £3,000 to the <b><u><span style="color: #4f81bd">Barclaycard Platinum credit card</span></u></b>, you’d have to pay a 2.9% one off balance transfer fee of £87 (discounted to £67 up to 28 February) but no interest charges for the first 17 months.</span></div> <div> </div> <div><span style="font-size: 11pt">If you’re planning on switching an existing £3,000 card debt to Halifax Clarity with a view to clearing the balance in full within the first four months then it is still a viable option, however if you intend on taking more time to clear the balance, then a longer term 0% balance transfer card is a cheaper option.</span></div> 438001568 438001568 Credit Cards 294 2011-02-04 0 How to save money without really trying <p> </p> <div><i>Who Wants To Be A Millionaire</i> is ending, the odds on winning the lottery are around 14 million to one<font size="3"> </font>and as for a pay rise – forget it. But with VAT, prices and inflation on the rise, we all need to find a way to balance the books.</div> <div> </div> <div>Here are ten ways to save money in 2011 without having to make too much effort.</div> <div> </div> <div><b>1. Give yourself goals</b></div> <div> </div> <div>You might want to buy a home of your own, spend Christmas in the Caribbean, buy a designer wedding dress or pay off your student debts (or your children’s).</div> <div> </div> <div>Write down three achievable goals and keep the piece of paper somewhere you’ll see it every day, like the fridge door or your bedside table. It will remind you what really matters to you – and make any lifestyle changes easier to handle.</div> <div><b> </b></div> <div><b>2. Check on your bills and statements</b></div> <div> </div> <div>You need to know where your money is going now, so set aside an hour once a month to monitor your outgoings.</div> <div> </div> <div>Look for old direct debits, such as a club membership or magazine subscription you no longer want or use, and cancel them. And watch out for errors such as double billing or double deduction of the same item, then ask for your money back.</div> <div> </div> <div><b>3. Go bargain-hunting – without trading down</b></div> <div> </div> <div>Join voucher code and secret sale sites, sign up to websites offering freebies and check newspaper and magazine websites for special offers and give-aways.</div> <div> </div> <div>Samples of toiletries and make-up, outings for the kids, big discounts on clothes, free food and two-for-one meals out are among the deals you can expect to find.</div> <div> </div> <div><b>4. Give yourself credit </b></div> <div> </div> <div>Borrowing is a fact of life for most people but high interest rates needn’t be – or not if you’ve got a good credit history. It’s held in your credit report, which lists your credit accounts and repayment record.</div> <div> </div> <div>You should check it regularly to be sure that it’s accurate and up to date and challenge any errors or items you disagree with – talk to the lender at once, or you could find it harder to get credit or have to pay higher interest. <u>It’s free to see your Experian credit report and unlimited access to your Credit Score</u> with a 30-day trial of CreditExpert - you can monitor your credit report online and find out what lenders can see about you.</div> <div> </div> <div><b>5. Delete some debts</b></div> <div> </div> <div>It may sound counter-intuitive but, with interest rates for savers still at an historic low, it may be better to pay off what you’ve borrowed instead of putting more aside.</div> <div> </div> <div>You do the maths: if the interest you’re paying on your credit card balance is higher than the interest you’re earning on your savings account, you could end up quids in by clearing your debt.</div> <div> </div> <div><b>6. Take an interest</b></div> <div> </div> <div>Another approach is to look for interest-free deals on balance transfers or new spending – but you’ll only qualify if your credit report shows that you’re a reliable borrower who can comfortably repay what you owe.</div> <div> </div> <div>One simple step that could boost your credit rating is to register to vote – lenders  can use the electoral roll to help verify the address you give them.</div> <div> </div> <div>If they don’t find you at your current address, you could lose out. And remember to save enough to repay what you owe when it becomes due, or you’ll be back in that interest rates trap.</div> <div> </div> <div><b>7. Don’t pay more than you have to</b></div> <div> </div> <div>If you aren’t already using price comparison sites to find the best deals, then start now. You could save hundreds on essentials such as utilities, mobile phone airtime subscriptions and insurance.</div> <div> </div> <div>By using Experian’s <u>LowerMyBills.co.uk,</u> you can match your credit profile to the credit products on offer, minimising the risk of being turned down.</div> <div> </div> <div>You could also investigate online billing – some companies offer cheaper rates if you help them to cut out paperwork.</div> <div> </div> <div><b>8. Don’t be a snob</b></div> <div> </div> <div>Do apples taste different if they come from a discount supermarket? Does premium brand washing powder get your clothes cleaner than an own brand alternative?</div> <div> </div> <div>It’s unlikely, so explore cheaper equivalents for your normal weekly shop. You could even save money by swapping a trip to an out-of-town superstore for home delivery – you’ll save time and fuel and won’t be tempted to overfill your trolley.</div> <div><b> </b></div> <div><b>9. Don’t cut corners</b></div> <div> </div> <div>Skipping a credit repayment or two might seem like a saving at the time but you’ll pay a heavy price in the longer term.</div> <div> </div> <div>For a start, you could face penalty charges, fees and a hike in the interest you pay.  And a missed or late payment stays on your credit report for at least three years, making it harder for you to borrow.</div> <div> </div> <div>It’s better to talk to your lenders if you’re having problems and ask if they will reschedule your debts so repayments are more affordable.</div> <div> </div> <div><b>10. Enjoy yourself!</b></div> <div> </div> <div>Regard saving money as a challenge and reward yourself for your successes – without blowing the budget.</div> <div> </div> <div>For example, if you save £100, you could cook a special meal at home, while £500 might earn you a visit to friends or family for a long weekend.</div> <div> </div> <div>And remember that every pound you haven’t spent takes you closer to making your goals a reality.</div> <div><br clear="all" /> <hr align="left" width="33%" size="1" /> <div id="ftn1"> <div> <div id="ftn2"> <div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> 438001572 438001572 Banking & Saving 293 2011-01-31 0 Credit Card Fraud Still a Major Issue <p>Owners of credit cards have become more worried about credit card fraud than ever over the past few years. Whether it is from stories in the media regarding people who have had their <a target="_blank" href="http://uk.virginmoney.com/virgin/credit-cards-v3/">credit cards</a> used by scammers or anecdotal evidence from friends, it does appear that the problem is getting worse. This may not, though, be the case. A recent report has indicated that the overall number of people who have experienced credit card fraud has dropped in the last year. Could it be that the message is finally getting out about the importance of keeping a close eye on your finances, or have the fraudsters simply moved on to easier targets?<br /> <br /> The annual Card Fraud Index from CPP was released recently and it revealed that over the last year, the number of people affected by card fraud has dropped from 10% to 7%. While this figure does seem to be small, it does represent a significant portion of the population who have been safer in 2010 than they were in 2009.<br /> <br /> Sarah Blaney, a card fraud expert from CPP, commented in a press release that the reduction is good news and shows how certain schemes such as Verified by Visa and MasterCard Secure Code are helping win the fight against <a target="_blank" href="http://uk.virginmoney.com/virgin/splash/cards.jsp">credit card</a> fraud.<br /> <br /> Other results from the survey indicate that 38% of people admitted they had been a victim of card fraud at any time in the past. Of these, 33% had no idea it had happened to them. Over a third (34%) were informed by their bank and 6% found out when they realised they had no money in their bank account. A further 6% had their card refused in a shop. The survey also showed that the average amount stolen by a fraudster was £417.<br /> <br /> The drop in incidences of card fraud may be partly attributed to the use of chip and pin. The system was introduced a few years ago in a bid to reduce the amount of fraud that took place using stolen cards. However, the CPP results also reveal that 20% of the fraud which did take place occurred after a card was cloned which had been stolen at an ATM or chip and pin machine. Skimming machines which can read the card and steal the pin number are a very common method employed by fraudsters to access card details.<br /> <br /> In other cases, cards details are stolen via the Internet. Details of cards can be accessed via online shops. The survey reveals that one in five victims were targeted in this way. In some cases fraudsters are sending out phishing emails which download a small program onto a computer which then searches for bank and card details.<br /> <br /> The decline in the overall numbers of people being affected by card fraud could also be down to the fact that many people simply do not have or no longer use their credit cards. Getting a credit card these days can be difficult and the numbers of <a target="_blank" href="http://uk.virginmoney.com/credit-cards/">credit cards with 0% interest</a> are now few and far between. Long gone are the days where it was commonplace to have such a card.<br /> <br /> In addition, people are keeping a closer eye on their finances by watching their bank accounts and keeping track of their spending. Having increased access to credit reports is also an important factor when it comes to ensuring you are not a victim of card fraud.<br /> <br /> The CPP report has suggested that many credit card users are putting themselves at risk when they use their cards. Almost one in five (18%) admit that they do not check an ATM machine to see if it has been tampered with, while 17% fail to cover their pin number when inputting it. A further 16% admitted that they allow their card to be taken out of sight when they are in shops or restaurants.<br /> <br /> As Ms Blaney explained, these practises are putting people at increased risk and they need to remain vigilant. She says that card protection schemes are helpful to ensure that cards are cancelled as soon as possible, leaving less time for fraud to take place. She is hopeful that the amount of credit card fraud which takes place will continue to decrease.<br /> <br /> If you have a credit card or just a debit card, you need to take steps to ensure you do not become one of the estimated 13 million victims of card fraud each year. Simple steps such as those mentioned above will help and you will be able to rest easy in the knowledge your money is safe.<br /> <br />  </p> 438001568 438001568 Credit Cards 292 2011-01-11 232 Barclaycard sets the pace with 17 month interest free offer <p style="font-size: 13px">The marketing departments for the credit card and personal loan companies have once again clicked into overdrive as they try to tempt us to revamp our finances. </p> <p style="font-size: 13px">It�s a busy time of the year for lenders as they try to get us to sign up for credit as we look to fulfil those New Year resolutions to be smarter with our money.</p> <p style="font-size: 13px">With regards personal loans, there have already been half a dozen rate cuts from high street lenders before we�ve even got to the second week of 2011, however don�t get too excited as most of the cuts are reserved for existing customers only and targeted at larger loans of around �7,000 plus.</p> <p style="font-size: 13px">Checkout the latest personal loan deals today.</p> <p style="font-size: 13px">If you�re looking for a loan of around �2,000 to �3,000 the rates are untouched and in most cases remain well into double figures with some lenders charging almost 20% APR.</p> <p style="font-size: 13px">The most eye catching deal I�ve seen so far is the 0% credit card balance transfer offer from Barclaycard, sitting pretty at the top of the best buy tables with a staggering 17 months interestfree.</p> <p style="font-size: 13px">The Barclaycard Platinum card does charge a one off 2.9 per cent transfer fee, although it is currently offering a �20 rebate on this for anyone transferring �3,000 or more by the end of this month.</p> <p style="font-size: 13px">As you can imagine, in the current financial climate there is likely to be huge demand for this card, but a quick read of the Barclaycard website and it�s clear that this card won�t be available to everyone.</p> <p style="font-size: 13px">To qualify you�ll need a regular income of at least �20,000 per annum, a 4 year clear credit history, no missed repayments and not be an existing Barclaycard customer.</p> <p style="font-size: 13px">If you do meet the criteria and you�re struggling to shift a balance on your existing card, then it makes perfect financial sense to take advantage of this offer. For example if you�ve got a balance of �3,000 at say an average rate of 18% APR, by moving it to 0% for 17 months would save you �654 in interest charges in return for a one off �67 BT fee (including �20 rebate).</p> <p style="font-size: 13px">So whilst credit conditions remain tight, if you�ve got a decent credit record, there are still some good savings to be made. </p> <p style="font-size: 13px">If you�re not fortunate enough to be able to transfer to interest free and are struggling to clear your card debt, try and pay an extra �10 or �20 per month off your balance if you possibly can � you�ll clear the balance years earlier and make a big dent in your interest charges in the process.</p> 438001568 438001568 Credit Cards 290 2010-12-08 0 MBNA Brings Millions Of Contactless Credit Cards To the UK <p>CHESTER, UK -- Today MBNA began its two-year programme to adopt contactless credit cards. MBNA, which is Europe's largest credit card lender, will help millions of UK customers make the switch.</p> <p><br /> </p> <p>MBNA has committed to helping the UK's adopt contactless technology, and as part of this commitment, the credit card lender will issue the new, simple payment cards for all new and replacement MBNA credit cards.</p> <p><br /> </p> <p>Contactless technology is a secure alternative to small cash payments of �15 or less. Instead of entering a PIN Number, users will need to touch the new contactless card to the reader on the payment terminal. This technology works at any store that displays the contactless sign. The new technology is also fully compatible with existing Mastercard and Visa systems.</p> <p><br /> </p> <p>By January 2012, more than five million contactless technology1 MBNA-issued credit cards will be in the British market. This is over and above the estimated ten million contactless enabled credit and debit cards already in use and the 25 million expected to be in use by 20122.</p> <p><br /> </p> <p>Some users have hesitated and expressed concern over the credit card security issues surrounding the new contactless payment technology. However, MBNA was quick to reassure consumers and businesses educating them about the many security layers included in the cards.</p> <p><br /> </p> <p>Contactless payment methods are designed specifically for small payments, and as such, will not work for transactions of �15 or more. Payments do not require a PIN, but they will require a PIN Number for the first transaction. Customers will also have to enter a PIN Number with random transactions to prove authenticity and card ownership. If MBNA customers do become victims of fraud or theft, their credit cards purchases are protected.</p> <p><br /> </p> <p>"The issuing of new and replacement contactless credit cards will be in place for two years and enhance our support for the UK-wide changeover. It also shows we make our commitments a reality -- MBNA is committed to providing choice, simplicity, and value with all of our products and services. Our move to contactless payments is just another great example of this," explained Ian O'Doherty. O'Doherty is the Bank of America Europe Card executive, the company that runs MBNA.</p> <p><br /> </p> <p>With a survey of over 1,000 credit card users3, MBNA discovered consumers are overwhelmingly supportive of the idea of contactless technology and the added convenience. Many consumers feel the technology will save time, be easier to use, and generally make their lives easier:</p> <p><br /> </p> <p>� 63.5% feel the changeover to contactless technology is beneficial for customers</p> <p>� 78% see the technology as being beneficial for businesses</p> <p>� 80% believe contactless payment systems will cut time off in queues while paying for purchases.</p> <p>� 69% expect contactless credit cards will make life easier</p> <p><br /> </p> <p>With the MBNA's new two-year initiative, all new or replacement cards will have contactless technology and will not require any effort from consumers.</p> <p><br /> </p> <p>1Contactless technology is restricted to transactions of no more than �15 and will not require a PIN Number with each transaction. To make a payment, users simply need to touch the card to the face of the payment terminal reader.</p> <p><br /> </p> <p>More businesses are adopting contactless technology as time progresses. Large brands like Subway, Pr�t a Manger, Caff� Nero, and many others already have contactless payment terminals installed, and it doesn't end there. Many other large retailers are testing contactless payments or in the process of installing the terminal, including Spar, Boots, Little Chef, Co-op, and National Trust gift shops.</p> <p><br /> </p> <p>2http://www.contactless.info/home.asp includes industry statistics and contactless credit card information for consumers and businesses.</p> <p><br /> </p> <p>3MBNA's research was performed online between 04/10/2010 and 08/10/2010 by Opinion Matters and included answers from 1,000 respondents who are currently credit card users. All research for MBNA satisfies the MRS Codes of Conduct (2010) in the UK and ICC/ESOMAR World Research Guidelines.</p> <p><br /> </p> 438001568 438001568 Credit Cards 289 2010-12-07 224 Mortgage rates at lowest for 2 years – but for how much longer? <p> </p> <div style="line-height: normal">The interest rates on new mortgage deals have been gradually falling over the last couple years, with some very attractive fixed rates, the lowest we’ve seen for a long time, now available.</div> <div style="line-height: normal"> </div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; line-height: 120%">However,  with all the current uncertainty surrounding the knock on effect of public sector budget cuts and higher than expected inflation, experts are divided as to when interest rates will start to increase, with some predicting rate rises as early as the first half of 2011.</div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 5pt; line-height: normal">Whilst people looking for a 90% loan to value (LTV) mortgage won’t find as many low cost deals available the choice even in this sector is still far better than it has been for some considerable time, if on the other hand, you have a 25% or more deposit, then recent competition has forced mortgage interest rates much lower.</div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 5pt; line-height: normal"> </div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 5pt; line-height: normal"><b><a href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Mortgages/Remortgage"><span style="color: blue">Check out the latest options for your own mortgage balance and term</span></a> here and see how much you could save by remortgaging.</b></div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 5pt; line-height: normal"> </div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 5pt; line-height: normal">Many people will be coming off their existing fixed or discounted rate mortgage in the next few months and will need to make a decision as to what to do next.</div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 5pt; line-height: normal"> </div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 5pt; line-height: normal">The standard variable rate (SVR) that your lender will put you on when your current deal expires will, in some cases, still turn out to be a reasonable rate when compared to the fixed rate you opted for two or three years ago. However, you may not feel comfortable with your mortgage on this variable interest rate, particularly if rates start to increase in the next 12 months. The alternative is to look for a new fixed rate, where at least you will have the peace of mind of knowing what your repayments will be each month.</div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 5pt; line-height: normal"> </div> <p> <table cellpadding="0" border="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td style="border-right: #f0f0f0; padding-right: 0.75pt; border-top: #f0f0f0; padding-left: 0.75pt; padding-bottom: 0.75pt; border-left: #f0f0f0; padding-top: 0.75pt; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; background-color: transparent"> <div style="line-height: normal">But it’s not just the interest rate to take into account when looking for a new home loan; you will also have to consider the costs associated with switching your mortgage. One advantage of doing nothing and staying put on your lender's SVR is that you don’t have to pay a penny, plus you are not tied in with any early repayment charges.</div> <div style="line-height: normal"> </div> <div style="line-height: normal">If you remortgage to a new fixed or tracker rate with another lender you will need to factor in to your calculations the need to pay your new lender’s mortgage arrangement fee, which could cost you anything from just £99 to £999 or more, depending on the particular deal you move to.</div> <div style="line-height: normal"> </div> <div style="line-height: normal">However for some people, rates have fallen by such an extent that if you have a reasonable amount of equity in your property, and depending on the size and term of your loan, it could even be worth exiting your current deal before the maturity date.</div> <div style="line-height: normal"> </div> <div style="line-height: normal">Although the size of the early redemption charges payable in some cases may make the prospect of switching a non starter, for others it may make financial sense to pay the penalty on your existing fixed rate mortgage and to take advantage of one of the new lower rate deals.</div> <div style="line-height: normal"><b>Here’s a taste of some of the best buy fixed rate mortgages available at the moment:</b></div> <div style="text-indent: -18pt; line-height: normal">·<span style="font-size: 7pt">         </span><b>Yorkshire Building Society 2 Year fixed at <span style="color: red">2.89% plus fee £495 (Maximum 75% LTV)</span></b></div> <div style="text-indent: -18pt; line-height: normal">·<span style="font-size: 7pt">         </span><b>First Direct 5 Year fixed <span style="color: red">3.89% plus fee £99 (Max 65% LTV)</span></b></div> <div style="text-indent: -18pt; line-height: normal">·<span style="font-size: 7pt">         </span><b>Post Office 5 Year fixed <span style="color: red">5.79% plus £995 fee (Max 90% LTV)</span></b></div> <div style="text-indent: -18pt; line-height: normal"> </div> <div style="line-height: normal">Whatever decision you decide to make regarding your mortgage, it’s important that you weigh up all the facts and the costs and choose a product that is right for you. Don’t rush in without doing your homework as it could turn out to be an expensive mistake.</div> <div style="line-height: normal"> </div> <div style="line-height: normal"><b>So rather than getting your calculator out and struggling to see if the numbers add up for you, why not <a href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Mortgages/Remortgage/Search/"><span style="color: blue">let moneynet help you search for the best</span></a> deal for your circumstances by entering your requirements here with the option to speak to a mortgage adviser if you so choose.</b></div> <div style="line-height: normal"> </div> <div style="line-height: normal">If it’s not right for you to move now, don’t give up, make a note in your diary to check on moneynet.co.uk in a couple of months time as rates are changing almost daily and there may soon come a point when it does makes sense for you to switch your mortgage.</div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </p> 438001571 438001571 Mortgages 288 2010-12-07 226 Shop safely when using the internet in the run up to Christmas <p>More and more of us are turning to the internet for our shopping, in fact it was reported that almost 30 million people did their Christmas shopping online last year.</p> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; line-height: 15.75pt">It’s not difficult to see why it’s so popular with no crowds, no cold or wet weather, no long queues or having to carry heavy bags round with you. A few clicks and it's all done and within days and all your goodies will turn up on your doorstep... Or at least that’s what you hope.</div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; line-height: 15.75pt">Pretty much everyone seems to do at least some of their shopping online these days either because it's more convenient or because the cheaper deals can be found on the internet.</div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; line-height: 15.75pt">But knowing the retailers you're buying from are legitimate and staying safe online are still vitally important. Otherwise you could end up with no goods arriving or, worse, finding that fraudsters end up using your credit card.</div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; line-height: 15.75pt">Here are a few pointers showing how to stay safe whilst you shop online:</div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; line-height: 15.75pt"><b><span style="font-size: 14pt">How can you trust the site you’re buying from?</span></b></div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; line-height: 15.75pt">If it’s not a major recognised brand or high street store that you’re buying from, it’s worth taking a look at a directory such as <a href="http://www.safebuy.org.uk/directory/index.html">Safebuy</a> or <a target="_blank" href="http://www.shopsafe.co.uk/">shopsafe.co.uk</a>. These organisations have checked out shopping sites before listing them and tested them for things like prices, site security and delivery.</div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; line-height: 15.75pt">If it's not listed it doesn't mean the site should be avoided- you're just going to have to carry out your own checks. Take a look to see if the company is VAT registered and that the site displays a UK phone number and contact address. It’s also worth calling the number to see if you actually get through to a real person.</div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt"><b><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%">The importance of Security</span></b></div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; line-height: 15.75pt">For safe shopping retail websites should display the padlock symbol in the browser and the website address should begin with 'https' whenever you are asked to input your payment information.</div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; line-height: 15.75pt">It’s also a wise precaution to register your cards with <b>Verified by Visa</b> or <b>MasterCard SecureCode</b> when prompted if you haven't done so already. It is quick and easy and offers another level of protection. Cardholders can sign up to Verified by Visa and MasterCard SecureCode at the website of the bank or card company that issues their card, or when they are shopping online at participating merchants. It means that when you use these cards to shop online you'll have to enter a password for your payment to be accepted.</div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; line-height: 15.75pt">As well as keeping your cards safe, it's important to keep your Computer safe too. Make sure you have the latest operating system, browser and up-to-date anti-virus software. If someone else uses your computer or laptop or you use one in a café or library, always log out as soon as you've finished. It’s also a good idea to make a note of the confirmation number of your order or print a copy of the confirmation.</div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; line-height: 15.75pt">If you're buying something that costs over £100, pay by credit card and you'll get extra protection under section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act in case things go wrong or if the retailer goes out of business.</div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; line-height: 15.75pt">Check out the best deals on 0% credit cards, and cashback credit cards <a href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Credit-Card">here</a></div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt"><b><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%">When will your goods arrive and how can you send them back?</span></b></div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; line-height: 15.75pt">There are two things you need to take into account regarding delivery of your shopping.</div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; line-height: 15.75pt">Firstly, when is it going to be delivered? Check whether an item's in stock before you commit to buying it. Secondly, check if there's an extra charge for delivery and take this into account when comparing the cost of items. Some sites offer free delivery while others charge a fee. Often you can get standard delivery free but will be charged a premium if you want it delivered straight away.</div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; line-height: 15.75pt">Also take the time to understand the refund policies for any online retailer you are planning to buy from, especially if they are not based in the UK. Make sure you are comfortable with the refund and return postage policies or compensation that you would get if something were to go wrong.</div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; line-height: 15.75pt">By law online retailers have to give you seven days to return your gifts but sometimes you’ll find that other sites will offer longer returns periods.</div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; line-height: 15.75pt">Shopping online will undoubtedly become more and more popular, and there’s no reason why you shouldn’t be part of it, just make sure you know who you’re dealing with and take the precautions we’ve outlined above.</div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; line-height: 15.75pt">Happy shopping!</div> 438001572 438001572 Banking & Saving 287 2010-07-20 207 Is it time you switched to a better current account? <p><br /> The controversial new overdraft tariff to be introduced by Lloyds TSB later this year has been a hot topic in the media over the last couple of weeks. The decision to introduce a £5 monthly fee on top of existing authorised overdraft interest charges has not gone down well with customers.</p> <p> </p> <p>So if you’re unhappy with your bank account, or perhaps are one of the fifty per cent of people that have never switched accounts, here’s the low down on how to choose a new account and how the process works.</p> <p>Firstly you need to weigh up what is most important to you with your bank account.</p> <p> </p> <p>If you always keep a healthy credit balance you should be looking to earn some interest on your money, if you make regular use your overdraft facility then it’s borrowing costs that are key, or perhaps you’re a frequent traveller overseas and it’s a debit card with low overseas charges that would benefit you most.</p> <p> </p> <p>You’ll find some suggestions for the best accounts for each category at the end of this article, but first let’s look at the switching process.</p> <p> </p> <p>Transferring your account used to be a big hassle, but many banks and building societies have smartened up their act as they seek to attract new customers and so have introduced dedicated switching teams to manage the process on your behalf.</p> <p> </p> <p>Even though it’s easier now, it’s not really something you’ll want to do on a frequent basis, so it’s worth doing your homework first.</p> <p> </p> <p>Have a list of questions to ready to ask your new bank – what are the branch opening hours, what are the fees and/or interest charges for authorised and unauthorised borrowing, do they offer internet banking what are the charges for using a debit card abroad?</p> <p> </p> <p>The Transfer Process</p> <p>• Once you’ve chosen a new provider, you’ll need to complete an application form and provide proof of identity.</p> <p>• You’ll be asked to sign a form authorising your existing bank to transfer your account and all your standing orders and direct debits to your new bank.</p> <p>• The new bank will ask your existing provider for a list of your standing order and direct debit payments – and will then send this list to you for you to confirm that they are all still current.</p> <p>• They will then send updated direct debit and standing order mandates to all companies concerned with details of your new sort code and account number.</p> <p>• Your new bank will order cheque book (if required), and debit cards in readiness for when you start using the new account</p> <p>• You will agree a date for the balance to be transferred to your new account – usually just after you’ve been paid – this gives you time to advise your employer/pension provider of your new account details in time for your next payday.</p> <p>• You will have to return any debit cards and unused cheques to your existing bank before the old account is finally closed.</p> <p><br /> Best accounts if you never go overdrawn</p> <p><b><a target="_blank" href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/includer/6802/EMLNL207_INT_200710_MNET_savng_HalifaxReward_cpa_art">Halifax Reward</a></b> – if you pay in at least £1,000 each month you’ll receive a monthly credit of £5<br /> <a target="_blank" href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/includer/7198/EMLNL207_INT_200710_MNET_savng_SantanderCurrent_cpa_art"><b>Santander</b></a>– 5% credit interest on balances up to £2500 for first 12 months</p> <p><br /> Best accounts if you sometimes use an overdraft facility</p> <p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/includer/7188/EMLNL207_INT_200710_MNET_savng_SantanderPrefCurrent_cpa_art"><b>Santander</b></a> – 0% overdraft up to £2000 for first 12 months – then 50p per day max £5 per month.</p> <p><a target="_blank" href="http://www1.firstdirect.com/1/2/1st-account/?fd_msc=CC475&WT.mc_id=CC475"><b>First Direct First Account</b></a> – if you pay in £1500 per month you get a £250 interest free overdraft. They also pay you £100 when you transfer your account to them. (This is an online account)</p> <p> </p> <p>Best account if you regularly travel abroad</p> <p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.nationwide.co.uk/current_account/default.htm"><b>Nationwide Building Society Flex Account</b></a> – only charges 1% on foreign debit card cash withdrawals and purchases outside of the Visa Europe region. Popular destinations including France, Greece, Italy, Spain, Portugal and Turkey are free.  Charges with other banks are much higher with some charging 2.99% plus £1.50 per transaction.</p> <p> </p> <p>Check out the current account market with the help of the <a target="_blank" href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Banking-Saving">moneynet banking and saving pages</a><br />  </p> 438001572 438001572 Banking & Saving 286 2010-07-13 206 Pensions web chat <p><iframe height="1130" src="http://www.chataboutmoney.co.uk/Flash2/white_label_autosize.asp?EventID=194&Width=580&PartnerID=87" frameborder="0" width="580" scrolling="no"></iframe></p> 438001572 438001572 Banking & Saving 285 2010-07-06 205 Making the most of your savings <p>It’s not surprising that many people are confused when it comes to choosing a savings account. Banks and building societies offer a vast range of accounts with different interest rates and with a mind boggling list of options and terms and conditions.</p> <p> </p> <p>So where do you start?</p> <p> </p> <p>Well it’s probably easier if you understand the ideal savings scenario and then gradually try to aim towards it.</p> <p>Firstly, it’s important to have some of your cash in an <a href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Best-Buys/instant-access-accounts" target="_blank">easy access</a> account for emergencies. You also should look to take advantage of your annual tax free savings allowance, so it may be that you initially keep your emergency fund in an <a href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Best-Buys/variable-rate-isa" target="_blank">instant access ISA</a> and kill two birds with one stone.</p> <p> </p> <p>Once you’ve got a reasonable sum in your easy access account it’s time to look at longer term saving with fixed rate bonds. Unfortunately some people assume a <a href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Best-Buys/fixed-rate-bonds" target="_blank">fixed rate bond</a> is a complex investment as opposed to a simple savings account.</p> <p> </p> <p>Because you don’t have access to your cash for the term of the bond (anything from 6 months to 5 years) the bank compensates you with a higher rate of interest than you’d receive on an easy access savings account.</p> <p>So the ideal situation is to have a savings portfolio consisting of an emergency fund (low rate of interest but easily accessible), some tax free savings in a variable or fixed rate ISA (tax efficient) and some longer term savings where your funds are tied up but where you receive a higher return.</p> <p> </p> <p>If you’re starting to save for the first time, whether it’s for something specific or just to start to get some money behind you, it’s important to get into the habit of saving on a regular basis. If you set up a standing order to transfer money to your account every week or month as soon as you get paid, it gives you the discipline to save regularly and removes the temptation to fritter your cash away.</p> <p> </p> <p>There are a couple of options for your regular savings – a cash ISA with instant access would normally be your first choice with the best instant access ISA rate currently at 2.70% tax free, and allowing you to save up to £5,100 per tax year per person.</p> <p> </p> <p>You can however obtain a higher rate with <a href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Best-Buys/regular-savings-accounts" target="_blank">Regular Saver accounts</a> which are offered by a handful of providers, but beware, they come with some pretty strict terms and conditions, often not permitting withdrawals or allowing you to miss a monthly standing order payment.</p> <p> </p> <p>If you’ve already accumulated a reasonable savings pot and you’re now looking to put some of this into a fixed rate bond, you’re faced with more choices and more decisions to make. Interest rates on fixed rate bonds have fallen by around 0.65% over the last 6 or 7 months, however the biggest decision for most people is still how long to invest their money for.</p> <p> </p> <p>At the moment you can get a rate up to <a href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/includer/7196/EMLNL205_INT_060710_savng_HiSave5year_Newsletter_ cpc_art" target="_blank">3.10%</a> for 1 year, <a href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/includer/7196/EMLNL205_INT_060710_savng_HiSave5year_Newsletter_ cpc_art" target="_blank">3.70%</a> for 2 years, <a href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/includer/7196/EMLNL205_INT_060710_savng_HiSave5year_Newsletter_ cpc_art" target="_blank">4.15%</a> for 3 years, <a href="http://www.aldermore.co.uk/savings/fixed-rate.aspx" target="_blank">4.25%</a> for 4 years and <a href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/includer/7196/EMLNL205_INT_060710_savng_HiSave5year_Newsletter_ cpc_art" target="_blank">4.75%</a> for 5 years.</p> <p> </p> <p>The temptation would be to opt for the highest rate although this means no access to your money for a full five years. With base rate still at a record low of 0.50% there is a distinct possibility that rates will start to rise again, the only thing we don’t know is quite when and how quickly they will increase.</p> <p> </p> <p>The rates on offer for two or three years look quite attractive at present and although you can currently bag an extra 0.60% for a five year fix, that decision may come back to haunt you if rates were to rise by say 1 or 2 percent in a couple of years from now.</p> <p> </p> <p>Even though savings rates are quite low at the moment, it’s worth spending a couple of minutes to find out what rate you’re currently getting on your savings as some rates are as low as 0.1% and will be earning you almost nothing on your hard earned money. If this is you, don’t delay and switch your savings where you can easily earn 25 or 30 times as much interest.</p> <p> </p> <p>Remember it’s your money, don’t let the banks get away with it – vote with your feet.<br />  </p> 438001572 438001572 Banking & Saving 284 2010-06-29 204 Cut the cost of your car insurance with top tips from Moneynet <p>£20 cash back with Moneynet car insurance – <a href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/includer/7194/EMLNL204_INT_290610_MNET_insur_MotorInsurance_Article_art" target="_blank">how much can you save?</a></p> <p> </p> <p>Are you being charged for cover that’s no longer relevant – many of us will shop around for a cheaper deal when we receive our renewal notice, but when was the last time you checked the details of the cover you are actually paying for? </p> <p><br /> A lot of people won’t have looked at their policy details for years even though their circumstances may have changed.</p> <p><br /> Perhaps you’ve changed your job which means that your commute to and from work is now shorter and therefore your annual mileage is now lower than the allowance you’re paying for on your policy.<br /> The higher your annual mileage the more chance you have of an accident and therefore the higher your premiums, so it’s important to get this right.</p> <p><br /> To get an idea of how much you’d save, input your new mileage on the <a href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/includer/7194/EMLNL204_INT_290610_MNET_insur_MotorInsurance_Article_art" target="_blank">Moneynet car insurance search </a><br /> Another area that can increase the cost of your cover is if you have Additional Named Drivers on your policy. Just check to see who is named on your policy and consider if they really need to be included on your insurance any more.</p> <p><br /> Consider opting for a higher excess- The excess on a policy is the amount that the insurance company will deduct from any claim you make. For example, if you make a claim for £500 and there is an excess of £150 the insurance company will pay out only £350 leaving you to pay the excess. Excesses usually vary between nil and £500 and the higher the excess, the cheaper your premium will be. When you get your quote ask for a range of prices with different excesses and see how much you can reduce your premium. But just bear in mind, the higher the excess the more you will have to contribute to any claim.</p> <p> </p> <p>Don't Pay In Instalments- There are usually added costs if you choose to pay your premium by monthly instalments. If you can afford it, reduce your premium by paying the annual cost up front.</p> <p><br /> Beware of Added Extras- your insurance provider may try to add little extras – usually just before you agree to sign on the dotted line. It’s a simple ploy for them to extract a little more money from you before you hand over your credit card details.</p> <p> </p> <p>There isn’t anything wrong with these extras, as long as you’re sure that you need them and aren’t paying over the odds for them.  For example, if you’re adding breakdown cover, check out how much it’s being offered for by the RAC, Green Flag or the AA. If you can get it cheaper elsewhere, then do. Insurance companies are often banking on you not doing your homework and – as you might be getting a good deal on the cover itself – assuming that the extras are the cheapest too.</p> <p> </p> <p>Build up Your No-Claims Discount- One of the best ways to reduce your premium is to drive carefully and avoid accidents. In this way you will build up your no-claims discount and reduce the premium payable. You can usually start building up your no-claims discount after one year of claim-free driving. After one year you could expect a reduction in your premium of 25-30%, building to a maximum of up to 75% after 7-8 claim-free years, although the exact amount of discount and terms will vary from insurer to insurer.</p> <p> </p> <p>Choose a Car With a Low Insurance Group- All cars are rated and grouped by insurance companies in order to determine the insurance premium charged. Groups go from one for the lowest price insurance right up to twenty for the most expensive. You can check which group your car falls into at <a href="http://www.parkers.co.uk/insurance">http://www.parkers.co.uk/insurance</a>. If you're happy with a car in a low insurance group you will definitely save money on your insurance and in many cases you’ll also benefit from cheaper car tax and a lower fuel bill too.</p> <p> </p> <p>Protect Your Vehicle- By fitting approved alarms and/or immobilisers you not only protect your vehicle from thieves but you will also qualify for a discount from many insurance companies.</p> <p> </p> <p>Consider Third Party Fire & Theft Insurance- If your car is of low value you may find it more cost effective to opt for third party fire and theft insurance rather than fully comprehensive. Whilst this could leave you to pick up the bill for repairs to your own car if an accident is your fault the risk might be worth considering if the difference in premiums is great enough.</p> <p> </p> <p>Think About Where You Park Your Vehicle Overnight- If you can get your car off the road and onto a driveway or tuck it away in a garage overnight you could be eligible for a reduced premium. But, don't be tempted to lie about it because the insurance company will refuse to pay out if the car is stolen and you can't prove where it was parked.</p> <p> </p> <p>Never renew your policy without checking out the prices elsewhere- Always shop around for your cover as premiums vary considerably. Never accept the renewal quote offered by your existing insurer without comparing with other providers - loyalty rarely pays when it comes to choosing insurance or other financial products.</p> <p><br /> Even if your car insurance renewal isn’t due quite yet, take a look at the Moneynet car insurance page to <a href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/includer/7194/EMLNL204_INT_290610_MNET_insur_MotorInsurance_Article_art" target="_blank">compare cover from over 90 leading insurers</a> in one simple search, at least you’ll get an idea of the potential savings you can make, in readiness for when your current policy expires.</p> 438001570 438001570 Insurance 283 2010-06-23 203 Don't make friends with online criminals <p>It seems so innocent: adding a few details to your online profile, telling the friends on your social network about your holiday plans or simply opening up a message.</p> <p> </p> <p>But you could be handing your ID over to predatory criminals who haunt the Internet in search of personal data that they can use to clear out people’s accounts or set up new ones in their names.</p> <p> </p> <p>According to an analysis of fraud trends by CIFAS, the UK’s fraud prevention service, we have seen a 22.86 per cent rise in victims of ID fraud in the first quarter of 2010, with almost 27,000 people affected. There has been an increase of almost 45 per cent in ID frauds where the crook succeeded in setting up a new account or in some way claiming money in an innocent person’s name.</p> <p> </p> <p>“There is a huge disconnect between the privacy we crave and the information we give away on social networks,” says James Jones of Experian. “It’s hardly surprising that identity fraudsters have been cashing in.”</p> <p>But criminals are not ignoring established sources of personal data, such as going through your rubbish in search of useful documents.</p> <p> </p> <p>The impact of becoming a victim of ID fraud should not be underestimated. CIFAS warns, “Victims frequently report feelings of uncertainty, helplessness and not knowing who to trust, on top of the financial impact and the time taken to rectify the damage.”</p> <p> </p> <p>These hints should help you not to join their ranks.</p> <p> </p> <p>1. Online friends and members of social network groups aren’t the same as real friends who you know face-to-face. They may be criminals hoping to scoop up your identity – so don’t accept every offer you get and remember to be discreet.</p> <p> </p> <p>2. Always use the privacy settings to keep out strangers and cyber-acquaintances. Check your settings regularly to make sure that you keep private matters private.</p> <p> </p> <p>3. Be careful what you give away on social networks. Your full name, date of birth, address and telephone number are valuable basics for a fraudster. Nicknames, anniversaries, birthdays, children’s names and anything you might use as a password or PIN are best kept to yourself. And if you tell people when you’re away, you might as well hand the keys over to burglars.</p> <p> </p> <p>4. Always shut down your e-mail programme of close your e-mail browser window if anyone else could get into it and alter settings. They could divert key messages – for example, ones containing bank details – and you won’t know until it’s too late.</p> <p> </p> <p>5. Never respond to unsolicited e-mails or phone calls asking for your bank, card or other account details. Don’t click through to any linked website either. These are known as phishing e-mails and are designed to scam you. If an e-mail looks as if it really does come from your bank or another reputable organisation, contact them independently, using a number or address you already have or find via a search engine.</p> <p> </p> <p>6. And never open attachments on unsolicited e-mails – they could contain a virus that will infiltrate your computer and send personal data to a hacker.</p> <p> </p> <p>7. Shred anything sensitive, such as bank, card or catalogue statements, before putting it in the rubbish. Recycling bins are the new goldmines for ID fraudsters.</p> <p> </p> <p>8. Keep your card in sight when you pay. If it’s taken into another room, someone could be copying the data it carries so they can use it online or over the phone. They might even make up a blank card to withdraw cash from an ATM in a country where smart cards aren’t mandatory.</p> <p> </p> <p>9. Never share your PINs and passwords and never write them down anywhere obvious. It’s asking for trouble – and you could be held liable if money goes missing or anything else goes wrong.</p> <p> </p> <p>10. Check your credit report regularly. This lists your credit accounts, such as cards, loans and your mortgage, along with your payment history and details of new applications. Look for transactions, applications or accounts you don’t recognise and challenge them at once with the relevant lender. It’s free to see your <a href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/includer/6925/EMLNL203_INT_230610_MNET_ecln_Experian2_cpa_art" target="_blank">Experian credit report</a> with a 30-day trial of CreditExpert*.</p> <p> </p> <p>*Monthly fee applies after free trial. New members only.<br />  </p> 438001568 438001568 Credit Cards 282 2010-06-15 202 Four simple ways to improve your finances <p><strong>Paying off debt is the biggest money saver</strong></p> <p> </p> <p>Savings rates have tumbled, but borrowing rates on credit cards, personal loans and overdrafts have actually increased over the last year, so the gap between the interest charged on debts compared to interest paid on savings has widened dramatically.</p> <p> </p> <p>Therefore it is seriously worth considering reducing some of your debts as a more effective way of saving money.<br /> Just to highlight this point, if you have an credit card balance with a rate of say 17.9% APR, paying off a £300 lump sum would save you £53.70 in interest charges over a year.</p> <p> </p> <p>To earn the equivalent on your savings, you would need to invest seven times as much i.e. £2100 in the highest paying 1 year bond at 3.00% which would earn you just £50.40 net of basic rate tax.</p> <p> </p> <p><strong>Switch your car or home insurance and put some extra cash in your pocket</strong></p> <p> </p> <p>There are many people who continue to remain loyal to their insurance provider and think it’s not worth the bother switching. The reality is that it only takes a few minutes to compare quotes from almost 100 providers and with insurers desperate for new business; the savings can be much larger than you imagined. It’s quite common for our customers to save over £70 on a single policy.</p> <p> </p> <p>Plus, at moneynet you can currently get an extra £20 cashback on <a href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/includer/7093/EMLNL202_INT_150610_MNET_insur_btq_motor_art" target="_blank">motor insurance</a> and an extra £10 rebate on <a href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/includer/7092/EMLNL202_INT_150610_MNET_insur_btq_home_art" target="_blank">home insurance</a> – check it out for yourself today and see how much you can save.</p> <p><br /> <strong>Repaying a little extra each month can bring big rewards</strong></p> <p> </p> <p>If you haven’t got a lump sum that you can put towards paying off your credit card debt, you can still save a packet simply by paying just a little extra off your credit card statement each month. You’ll be amazed how much difference just an extra £20 per month will make.</p> <p> </p> <p>Here’s the numbers to prove it. If you have a £1500 balance on your credit card at 17.9% APR, by paying an extra £20 each month on top of the 3% minimum repayment, you will pay your balance off in 4 years rather than over 15 years and you’ll save a staggering £845 in interest charges in the process. </p> <p> </p> <p>Another more obvious way to save on credit card interest is to switch your balance to a 0% credit card deal from the likes of <a href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/includer/6885/EMLNL202_INT_150610_MNET_ccard_EggCC_2_CJ_cpa_art" target="_blank">Egg Money</a> where you can get interest free borrowing until August 2011.</p> <p> </p> <p><strong>Switch your bank account and get a £100 bonus</strong></p> <p> </p> <p>Transferring your current account to <a href="http://www2.firstdirect.com/1/2/1st-account/?fd_msc=CC475&WT.mc_id=CC475" target="_blank">First Direct</a> or <a href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/includer/6541/EMLNL202_INT_150610_MNET_savng_Alliance_Leicester_PremCurr_cpa_art" target="_blank">Alliance and Leicester Premier</a> is another way to earn some extra cash; both of these banks are currently offering new customers a one off payment of £100 to switch their cheque account. </p> <p> </p> <p>It’s not often you get the chance to earn £100 without having to graft for it, it’s easy money, with your new bank looking after the transfer process on your behalf.</p> <p> </p> <p>To put it into perspective, if you’re stuck with a savings account paying a mere 1% and you have a balance of £2000, it would take you more than six years to earn £100 in interest (net of basic rate tax). Whereas just by switching your current account you can bag the £100 ‘golden hello’ in no time at all.</p> <p> </p> <p>In these uncertain economic times the message is simple, whether you’re saving or borrowing, don’t rest on your laurels and risk losing out financially. Keep an eye the best deals via moneynet.co.uk to make sure you don’t miss out. <br />  </p> 438001572 438001572 Banking & Saving 279 2010-06-01 200 Make sure you pack the right plastic when you go abroad <p>With the peak holiday season fast approaching it’s a good time for a quick recap on the do’s and don’ts when it comes to using your plastic abroad.</p> <p> </p> <p>There’s no doubt that our cards offer a secure and convenient way to pay for holiday spending, however the associated fees and charges can vary considerably, so it’s worth getting to grips with these before you head for the airport.</p> <p> </p> <p>If you use a credit card overseas you’ll need to bear in mind that the majority of credit card providers will add on a foreign loading fee to all cash and purchase transactions. In most cases these charges are around 2.75% to 2.99%, however there are a few cards offering a better deal.</p> <p> </p> <p>The Zero credit card from Santander and the Post Office credit card don’t charge any loading fee whilst the credit cards from Nationwide Building Society and SAGA don’t charge within Europe and add just 1% for overseas transactions elsewhere.</p> <p> </p> <p>Remember that on top of this there are credit card cash withdrawal fees, as in the UK, most will cost you around 3% minimum £3, so a credit card cash withdrawal of £100 can easily set you back a combined charge of around £6.</p> <p> </p> <p>Most of us take our debit card for granted, especially the fact that it doesn’t cost anything to use whilst in the UK. However it is a different story when you use it abroad and something that holidaymakers can sometimes overlook, until their bank statement hits the doormat and then it’s too late.</p> <p> </p> <p>As with credit cards there is a loading fee for cash withdrawals (2.75% to 2.99%) plus a withdrawal charge typically between £1.50 and £5.00.</p> <p> </p> <p>However the charges that catch most people out are those levied for debit card purchases which are subject to the conversion fee above, plus up to an additional £1.50 per transaction.</p> <p> </p> <p>With sterling taking a hammering against both the Euro and US dollar in the last 18 months, your summer break will seem expensive enough as it is without having to shell out a packet on debit card charges too.</p> <p> </p> <p>So it’s worth a couple of minutes to check with your bank what the charges are for your particular plastic before you jet off, rather than getting a nasty shock when you check your account on your return.</p> <p> </p> <p>At least if you understand the overseas charges, you can adapt your spending pattern accordingly – for example, you don’t want to be making cash withdrawals or purchases of £10 or £20 if you’re going to be hit with charges of £1.50 plus each time.</p> <p> </p> <p>Whilst these costs don’t sound much in isolation, if you look at a scenario where a family is on holiday for their fortnight in the sun and they make 5 debit card cash withdrawals of £100 currency equivalent and 8 debit card purchases of £50 currency equivalent, they could easily be faced with paying between £40 and £50 extra with some cards.</p> <p> </p> <p>A final warning, whatever type of plastic you use overseas beware of an increasingly common custom (particularly in Europe) where the overseas retailer or ATM machine gives you the option to pay in pounds sterling, known as Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC).</p> <p> </p> <p>Whilst it may seem a good idea that you know how much you’ll be debited, the problem is that it gives the retailer the opportunity to use an uncompetitive exchange rate which could see you paying over the odds, in some cases by 3 or 4 percent.</p> <p> </p> <p>Even though most card issuers charge a 2.75%/2.99% loading fee, opting to pay for your purchases in the local currency is often still a better option than being stung by the poor rate used in a DCC transaction.</p> <p> </p> <p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Credit-Card">Check out the latest Moneynet credit card best buys today</a>.</p> 438001568 438001568 Credit Cards 280 2010-05-25 199 Get a better savings rate with Moneynet best buy tables <p>We’re always working hard and looking for ways to bring you even more useful information to help you make the most of your money.</p> <p> </p> <p>Following continued positive feedback from some of our readers, we wanted to make sure that you were aware of our new savings best buy tables, which can help you find the accounts offering the best rates of return for your cash at the push of a button.</p> <p> </p> <p>So whether it’s a fixed rate bond, instant access accounts, a regular savings plan or tax free savings with a Cash ISA, you can find them all in our new <a href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Best-Buys/banking-and-savings" target="_blank">best buy tables</a>.</p> <p> </p> <p>You’ll instantly be able to see the top paying accounts, no matter what type of saver you are, and even if you prefer to do your own research for a product that’s tailor made for you, then we give you the ability to do that too.</p> <p> </p> <p>With good savings rates difficult to come by, you may find that your existing savings account isn’t delivering the returns that your hard earned savings deserve, if that’s the case, find a better deal with Moneynet best buys and put a little extra cash back in your pocket.</p> 438001572 438001572 Banking & Saving 278 2010-05-18 198 Life insurance is 30% cheaper than in 2000 – are you paying too much for your cover? <p>The cost of life insurance has fallen by nearly 30 per cent over the last ten years and in real terms is the cheapest it’s ever been according to independent research released at the end of last year.</p> <p> </p> <p>If you have life insurance already, there’s a good chance that you could save money on your premiums by just by taking out a new policy.</p> <p> </p> <p>Even saving as little as £5 per month is worth considering, especially when you realise that it will save you £600 over ten years, and there’s the potential for some people to save much more.</p> <p> </p> <p>It may be a bit of a depressing topic but for many of us life cover is absolutely vital. But the good news is, if you're smart it doesn’t have to cost a fortune.</p> <p> </p> <p>Most of us try to find the cheapest, car insurance, the cheapest gas and electricity and the best rates for our savings, so why make the same effort with your life insurance and see if you can get a better deal here too.</p> <p>Take a couple of minutes to see if Moneynet can save you some money on your life cover, if you haven’t reviewed it for a few years, you may be pleasantly surprised – check out <a href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Insurance/Life-Assurance">http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Insurance/Life-Assurance</a>.</p> <p> </p> <p>While we’re on the topic of life insurance, here are a few hints and tips to help you pay less for the cover you need.</p> <p> </p> <p><b>1. Check if it’s possible to get a different type of cover at a lower cost</b></p> <p> </p> <p>The type of life policy you decide to choose will have a big impact on size of your monthly premiums. The most common type of life cover is called level term assurance, which pays out a fixed lump sum if you die at any time during the policy term.</p> <p> </p> <p>However, it’s possible to reduce your premiums just by switching to a different type of policy.</p> <p> </p> <p>One option is to take out decreasing term assurance. This is often used to cover your outstanding repayment mortgage; it’s cheaper because the amount of cover this policy offers reduces every month in line with your reducing mortgage balance. Therefore because the insurer faces a lower potential payout, this is reflected in lower insurance premiums.</p> <p> </p> <p><b>2. Consider buying separate policies</b></p> <p> </p> <p>Once you've made a decision as to which type of policy you need, consider whether your partner needs cover too. If you both need life cover don't be tempted to take the easy option and apply for a joint policy. Joint insurance plans work out only marginally cheaper than individual plans, but the big difference with most joint policies is that you can only claim once. Once a claim is made the policy and cover it offers comes to an end, a situation that leaves the surviving partner without any cover.</p> <p> </p> <p>If on the other hand you take out separate policies you will both be covered individually and you'll effectively have twice the amount of cover, in most cases for only a small additional cost.</p> <p> </p> <p><b>3. Check what cover you already have</b></p> <p> </p> <p>It's important you don't waste money by taking out more insurance than you need. You may have other policies in force such as death in service as part of your remuneration package at work.</p> <p> </p> <p>When looking at your overall insurance requirements, make sure you take account of any existing benefits that your employer provides.</p> <p> </p> <p><b>4. Get an up to date quote for your insurance</b></p> <p> </p> <p>So, now you know what type of policy to go for and how much cover to buy, but there's really only one way to guarantee you get good value for money: shop around. I know you've heard it all before, but getting an up to date quote to find the most competitive insurer really is very easy, just click <a href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Insurance/Life-Assurance">http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Insurance/Life-Assurance</a> and we’ll do all the leg work for you and let you know the most competitive prices on offer.</p> <p> </p> <p><b>5. Find a replacement for your existing policy</b></p> <p> </p> <p>You can switch your life insurance plan in much the same way as you would your bank account or credit card provider. However, because life cover is cheaper now than it has been for years, the chances are a new policy could cost you less.</p> <p>There are a few things to bear in mind before you switch your policy:</p> <p><br /> Check that you’re not giving up any special benefits on the original plan which aren't included on the new policy. <br /> To avoid having a period without any cover in place, don't cancel your existing policy until the new one is up and running.</p> <p><br /> If you're a lot older now than you were when you originally took out your policy, or your health has deteriorated, a new policy could prove to be a lot more expensive. If that’s the case, you’re probably best to stick with the policy you’ve got.</p> <p> </p> <p>Compare over 300 life insurance plans from 13 of the UK's top insurers with <a target="_blank" href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/includer/951/EMLNL198_INT_180510_MNET_insur_Protected_cpc">Protected</a><br />  </p> 438001570 438001570 Insurance 276 2010-05-11 197 Is now the time to consider switching your mortgage? <p>Bank base rate has been sitting at a record low of 0.50% since last March, but with all the current political uncertainty and higher than expected inflation, some experts now believe that rates may start to rise again before we reach the autumn.<br />  <br /> Whilst low interest rates have been bad news for savers who are struggling to get a decent return on their money, the situation for some mortgage customers has become much better over the last few months.</p> <p><br /> Whilst people looking for an 85% or 90% loan to value (LTV) mortgage won’t find as many competitive deals available the choice is far better than it was a year ago, if on the other hand, you’re looking at a 70% to 80% LTV mortgage, then recent competition has forced mortgage interest rates much lower.</p> <p><br /> Many people will be coming off their existing 2 year or 3 year fixed or discounted rate mortgage in the next few months and will need to decide what to do next.</p> <p><br /> The standard variable rate (SVR) that your lender will put you on when your current deal expires will, in many cases,  turn out to be a reasonable rate when compared to the one you opted for two or three years ago. However, you may not feel comfortable with your mortgage on this variable interest rate, particularly if rates start to increase later this year. The alternative is to look for a new fixed rate, where at least you know what your repayments will be each month.</p> <p> </p> <p>But it’s not just the interest rate to take into account; you will also have to consider the costs associated with switching your mortgage. The advantage of doing nothing and staying put on your lender's SVR is that you don’t have to pay a penny, plus you are not tied in with any early repayment charges.</p> <p> </p> <p>If you remortgage to a new fixed or tracker rate with another lender you will have to pay your lender an exit fee to leave the mortgage, which in some cases may be as much as £200 to £250. Then you will pay your new lender’s mortgage arrangement fees, which could cost you anything from around £100 to £1,500 or more, depending on the particular deal you move to.<br />  <br /> However for some people, rates have fallen by such an extent that if you have a low LTV, and depending on the size and term of your loan, it may even be worth exiting your current deal before the maturity date.<br /> Although the size of the early redemption charges payable in some cases may make the prospect of switching a non starter, for others it may make financial sense to pay the penalty on your existing fixed rate mortgage and to take advantage of one of the new lower rate deals.</p> <p><br /> Here’s a taste of some of the deals available at the moment:</p> <p><br /> ·         Newcastle BS 2 Year fixed at 3.95% plus fee £995 (Max 80% LTV)<br /> ·         Co-operative Bank  5 Year fixed 4.49% plus fee £999 (Max 75% LTV)<br /> ·         Nationwide BS  5 Year fixed 6.09% plus £999 fee (Max 90% LTV)</p> <p><br /> Whatever decision you decide to make regarding your mortgage, it’s important that you weigh up all the facts and the costs and choose a product that is right for you. Don’t rush in without doing your homework as it could turn out to be an expensive mistake.</p> <p><br /> <b>So rather than getting your calculator out and struggling to see if the numbers add up for you, why not let moneynet help you <a target="_blank" alt="" href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Mortgages/Remortgage/Search/">search for the best deal</a> for your circumstances by entering your requirements here with the option to speak to a mortgage adviser if you so choose.</b></p> <p><br /> If it’s not right for you to move now, don’t give up, check again on moneynet.co.uk in a couple of months time as rates are changing pretty frequently and there may soon come a point when it does makes sense for you to switch your mortgage.<br />  </p> 438001571 438001571 Mortgages 275 2010-05-04 196 Better news for first time buyers <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt">During the last six months the competition amongst mortgage lenders has intensified, despite the housing market showing precious few signs of recovery. <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt">Many of the rate cuts have been available for borrowers with a 20% deposit or more, with mortgage products aimed at the first time buyer still not even on the menu from some high street lenders.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt">Whilst 95% and 100% plus LTV mortgages are unlikely to be found except for a few non standard products where additional security is mandatory, and quite rightly so, there is some brighter news for those looking to buy their first property. <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt">Britannia and The Co-operative Bank have returned to 90% loan to value lending and launched a choice of very keenly priced products to support customers looking to purchase their first home.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt">For a two year fixed rate there is a choice of 5.99% and no fee or 5.49% with a £999 fee, both look worth closer inspection and fare well against the current best buy of 5.98% and £495 fee from Nationwide Building Society. <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt">If you feel more comfortable with a longer term fix, there are five year options priced at 6.39% and no fee or 6.09% with a £999 fee, both will give the NatWest 6.39% with no fee deal a run for its money.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt">For those who are comfortable with a variable rate mortgage, there is also a three year tracker option for first time buyers at 4.49% with a £999 fee.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt">It’s good to see that the competition which has driven rates lower in the mainstream mortgage market is starting to filter through for those looking to take that big step on to the first rung of the housing ladder. This is welcome news however managing to scrape together a 10% deposit will still seem a distant dream for many people.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA">In other mortgage news, ING Direct ramped up the pressure on HSBC at the top of the best buys for discounted tracker rate mortgages. HSBC is offering 2.29% and £999 fee for two years, whilst this week ING relaxed the LTV from 60% to 70% for its 2.55% two year mortgage with no fee.</span></p> 438001571 438001571 Mortgages 277 2010-04-27 195 Liberal Democrat plans to scrap Child Trust Funds is short sighted <p> Whilst the most pressing issue for the Government in power come May 7th will be to set about reducing the budget deficit, at the same time, it should not lose sight of the importance of encouraging the savings habit in the UK. </p> <p> </p> <p>The three main political parties each have a different view on CTF’s with Labour looking to carry on with the scheme as is, Liberal Democrats wielding the axe and the Conservatives maintaining the funding for the poorest third of families and those with disables children only.</p> <p> </p> <p>The scheme to kick-start the savings habit in this country was introduced five years ago, and it is anticipated that five million children will have benefited from the CTF by the time we reach the middle of 2010.</p> <p> </p> <p>Whilst there is an upfront cost to the Government of £250 (up to £500 for poorer families) at birth and a further £250 on the child’s seventh birthday, the latest statistics reveal that  additional contributions of £14.4 million are being made on over 640,000 CTF accounts every month (average £22.50 per month).</p> <p> </p> <p>By saving just £22.50 per month on top of the two £250 payments from the state, a CTF with growth at a modest 4% would be worth £7964.70 by the time a child reaches 18 years of age.</p> <p> </p> <p>If you haven’t looked at the best options available for saving for your children, take a look at the <a target="_blank" alt="Credit Expert" href="www.savingforchildren.co.uk/default.epl?partner=7&offer=127">free expert guides</a> on offer which may help you decide.</p> <p> </p> <p>Just imagine if the CTF had been introduced in 1992, those with a CTF maturing this year would be able to use their lump sum to offset the rising cost of higher education or even put it towards that now seemingly impossible deposit required for their first home. </p> <p> </p> <p>So whilst the CTF scheme may still be in its infancy the political parties shouldn’t lose sight of the fact that from 1st September 2020 when the first CTFs mature, there will be a constant stream of 18 year olds entering adult life on a much sounder financial footing than previous generations – does it really make economic sense to wipe that out?</p> <p>The Labour promise to maintain CTFs for all may be considered a pledge too far bearing in mind the size of the deficit and the Tory pledge to maintain it for those on the lowest income looks a more prudent and acceptable approach in the circumstances.</p> <p> </p> <p>The Liberal Democrat plans however will remove the incentive to save and is short sighted, and even if they give the money back to the electorate via different measures, the funds are far less likely to end up in a child’s savings account.</p> <p> </p> <p> Many people in this country have paid a heavy price for relying  on expensive credit during the last decade, and a return to the values of saving for the future rather than the ‘buy now worry about it later’ attitude should be something that’s very near the top of the agenda for all political parties.</p> 438001572 438001572 Banking & Saving 273 2010-04-21 194 Improving your financial wellbeing - a chance to submit your questions on savings or pensions to an industry expert Live Webchat <p><iframe height="1130" src="http://www.chataboutmoney.co.uk/Flash2/white_label_autosize.asp?EventID=188&Width=620&PartnerID=87" frameborder="0" width="600" scrolling="no"></iframe></p> 438001572 438001572 Banking & Saving 274 2010-04-21 194 Why you should register to vote – now! <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 12pt">If you haven’t received your polling card for 6 May, you need to check that you’re registered to vote – and you only have until Wednesday 21 April.</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 12pt">A YouGov poll for the Electoral Commission has found that, although 90 per cent of us plan to vote, lots of us won’t be able to. Almost one in four mistakenly thought that they were automatically on the electoral roll if they paid Council Tax. And one in five thought they could register right up to the last minute – in fact, you have to register at least 11 working days before polling day.</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 12pt">Even if you think all politicians are rubbish, here are five good reasons why you should register to vote now.</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 12pt">1. Whoever forms the new government, you will complain about them. If you’ve voted, you can at least tell yourself that you were against them from the start – or that any alternative would have been worse.</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 12pt">2. You could improve your credit rating. Lenders use the electoral roll to check that you live where you say you do – if they don’t find you there, you may have to provide additional proof of residence or even get turned down. If you can’t remember whether you’re registered, you’ll find a mention on your credit report, which you can visit online.</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 12pt">3. You’ll help to protect yourself against ID fraud – one of the fastest-growing crimes of the 21st century. If you aren’t down at your current address, it might be more convincing if a criminal registered your name elsewhere. That would help him or her to borrow money in your name and trash your credit status.</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 12pt">4. People died in campaigns to ensure that everyone who is legally an adult has the right to vote. All men got the right to vote in 1918, after fighting in the First World War. All women got the same rights in 1928. The qualifying age was 21 in those days – today it’s 18. If you think that’s shocking, Swiss women weren’t allowed to vote until 1971 and women in Lichtenstein only qualified in 1984.</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 12pt">5. It’s quick and easy. Go to <a href="http://www.aboutmyvote.co.uk">www.aboutmyvote.co.uk</a>, print off a form sign it and return it to your local council. You can also call the Electoral Commission’s helpline on 0800 3 280 280.</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 12pt">You can check your credit rating for free with Experian - <a href="{LogEvent:7308}http://www.moneynet.co.uk/includer/6925/EMLNL194_INT_210410_secln_Experian2_cpa_art" target="_blank">find out more</a></p> 438001572 438001572 Banking & Saving 272 2010-04-12 193 Buying goods online can be quicker, easier and cheaper but be sure to shop safely <p>More and more of us are turning to the internet for our shopping, in fact it was reported that almost 30 million people did their Christmas shopping online last year.</p> <p> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 12pt">It’s not difficult to see why it’s so popular with no crowds, no inclement weather, no long queues or having to carry heavy bags round with you. A few clicks and it's all done and within days and all your goodies will turn up on your doorstep... Or at least that’s what you hope.</p> <p>Pretty much everyone seems to do at least some of their shopping online these days either because it's more convenient or because the cheaper deals can be found on the internet.</p> <p> </p> <p>But knowing the retailers you're buying from are legitimate and staying safe online are still vitally important. Otherwise you could end up with no goods arriving or, worse, finding that fraudsters end up using your credit card.</p> <p>Here are a few pointers showing how to stay safe whilst you shop online:</p> <p> </p> <p><b>How can you trust the site you’re buying from?</b></p> <p>If it’s not a major recognised brand or high street store that you’re buying from, it’s worth taking a look at a directory such as <a target="_blank" href="http://www.safebuy.org.uk">safebuy.org.uk</a> or <a target="_blank" href="http://www.shopsafe.co.uk">shopsafe.co.uk</a>. These resources will help you check out sites before listing them and test them for things like prices, site security and delivery.</p> <p> </p> <p>If it's not listed it doesn't mean the site should be avoided- you're just going to have to carry out your own checks. Take a look to see if the company is VAT registered and that the site displays a UK phone number and contact address. It’s also worth calling the number to see if you actually get through to a real person.</p> <p> </p> <p><b>The importance of Security</b></p> <p>For safe shopping retail websites should display the padlock symbol in the browser and the website address should begin with 'https' whenever you are asked to input your payment information.</p> <p> </p> <p>It’s also a wise precaution to register your cards with Verified by Visa or MasterCard SecureCode when prompted if you haven't done so already. It is quick and easy and offers another level of protection. Cardholders can sign up to Verified by Visa and MasterCard SecureCode at the website of the bank or card company that issues their card, or when they are shopping online at participating merchants. It means that when you use these cards to shop online you'll have to enter a password for your payment to be accepted.</p> <p> </p> <p>As well as keeping your cards safe, it's important to keep your Computer safe too. Make sure you have the latest operating system, browser and up-to-date anti-virus software. If someone else uses your computer or laptop or you use one in a café or library, always log out as soon as you've finished. It’s also a good idea to make a note of the confirmation number of your order or print a copy of the confirmation.</p> <p> </p> <p>If you're buying something that costs over £100, pay by credit card and you'll get extra protection under section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act in case things go wrong or if the retailer goes out of business.</p> <p> </p> <p>Check out the best deals on 0% credit cards, and cashback credit cards <a target="_blank" href="{LogEvent:7200}http://www.moneynet.co.uk/includer/6925/EMLNL193_INT_130410_secln_Experian2_cpa_art">here</a></p> <p> </p> <p><b>When will your goods arrive and how can you send them back?</b></p> <p> </p> <p>There are two things you need to take into account regarding delivery of your shopping.</p> <p> </p> <p>Firstly, when is it going to be delivered? Check whether an item's in stock before you commit to buying it. Secondly, check if there's an extra charge for delivery and take this into account when comparing the cost of items. Some sites offer free delivery while others charge a fee. Often you can get standard delivery free but will be charged a premium if you want it delivered straight away.</p> <p> </p> <p>Also take the time to understand the refund policies for any online retailer you are planning to buy from, especially if they are not based in the UK. Make sure you are comfortable with the refund and return postage policies or compensation that you would get if something were to go wrong.</p> <p> </p> <p>By law online retailers have to give you seven days to return your gifts but sometimes you’ll find that other sites will offer longer returns periods.</p> <p> </p> <p>Shopping online will undoubtedly become more and more popular, and there’s no reason why you shouldn’t be part of it, just make sure you know who you’re dealing with and take the precautions we’ve outlined above.</p> 438001568 438001568 Credit Cards 271 2010-04-06 192 Time to give your credit rating a spring clean <p> </p> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 12pt">Here are 10 simple things you can do to boost your credit score and make yourself more attractive to retailers and lenders.</div> <div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 12pt"><b>1. Close unused accounts</b></div> <div>It’s not only a matter of how much you owe – lenders take into account the amount you could already borrow when they decide if you’re a good bet for more credit. So go through your credit report looking for forgotten accounts or credit cards that you can close down.</div> <div> </div> <div><b>2. Explain yourself</b></div> <div> </div> <div>Missed repayments can blight your credit rating. They stay on your credit report for at least three years, showing that you’ve failed to honour your obligations in the past. If there’s a reason – such as an illness or accident – for any problems in your credit report, you can ask to add a note of explanation. Future lenders will see this and may take it into account.</div> <div> </div> <div><b>3. Get to know your credit report</b></div> <div> </div> <div>Lenders calculate your credit rating using data from your application form – for example, what you earn – and your credit report. This is the history of your credit accounts, such as cards, loans, your mortgage and even catalogue and mobile airtime accounts.<br /> <br /> It also shows your repayment record. Everything in it should be up to date and reflect your situation accurately, or your credit rating could suffer. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/includer/6925/EMLNL192_INT_060410_secln_Experian2_cpa_art">It’s free to see your Experian credit report</a> with a 30-day trial of CreditExpert.</div> <div> </div> <div><b>4. Look out for inconsistencies and errors</b></div> <div> </div> <div>It could be something as simple as different lenders listing you under variants on your address – The Cottage, Wood Street, and 15 Wood Street, for instance – or a minor clerical error that shows an overdue payment you know you made. Either way, your credit rating could suffer, so ask the relevant lender to correct the entry. Be prepared to provide proof.</div> <div> </div> <div><b>5. Show signs of stability</b></div> <div> </div> <div>Lenders look for signs that you’re a stable borrower, so you’ll get a better rating if you live in the same place for at least three years. Equally, a steady job suggests you might be more reliable than someone who chops and changes. If you move frequently for work or have changed jobs in order to progress, be sure to explain the background when you make an application.</div> <div> </div> <div><b>6. Register to vote</b></div> <div> </div> <div>To guard against fraud, lenders compare the address you provide with your registration on the electoral roll. If they don’t find you, you’ll lose valuable points, so contact your local council and get registered at your current address. Remember to cancel any old registration at a previous address while you’re at it.</div> <div> </div> <div><b>7. Separate your finances when you split</b></div> <div> </div> <div>If you apply for or take out joint borrowing, such as a mortgage, you and your financial partner will be linked on your credit report. That means your other half’s credit report could be checked when you make an application – and if he or she has money problems after you split, you could suffer. When you’re sharing out the DVDs and books, agree who takes on what debt, close the old account or accounts and open new ones. Then tell the credit reference agencies – Experian is the UK’s largest.</div> <div> </div> <div><b>8. Don’t leave footprints</b></div> <div> </div> <div>Never fire off applications at random, in the hope that you’ll get a “Yes” from someone. Every application triggers a search of your credit report that leaves a record, known as a footprint. Other lenders may interpret these to mean you’re desperate for money or even suspect a fraud, so make sure you only apply when you’re sure you’ve found the right deal. If necessary, ask for a quotation search that doesn’t leave a footprint behind. Check your credit report for credit application searches carried out by mistake or multiple searches on a single application and ask the lender to get them removed.</div> <div> </div> <div><b>9. Protect your ID</b></div> <div> </div> <div>ID fraud is booming during the recession, with criminals stealing personal data to impersonate innocent victims, take over their accounts, apply for new credit and run up bills in their names. The result can be devastating for your credit rating and take many months to resolve, so go through your credit report regularly for unfamiliar or suspicious entries. If you spot anything, contact the lender immediately and share your concerns.</div> <div> </div> <div><b>10. Stay in control of your credit history</b></div> <div> </div> <div>Regular checks on your credit report will give you a snapshot of what you owe and how well you’re managing. They’re especially important before you apply for any new credit – give yourself plenty of time to set the record straight if you find anything wrong, so you can ensure that your credit rating is good enough to get you the deals you want. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/includer/6925/EMLNL192_INT_060410_secln_Experian2_cpa_art">It’s free to see your Experian credit report</a> with a 30-day trial of CreditExpert.</div> 438001572 438001572 Banking & Saving 270 2010-03-30 191 Less than a week to use your 2009/10 ISA allowance <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 12pt">A brand new tax year starts on Tuesday 6th April when all UK savers will enjoy a bigger tax free savings allowance.</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 12pt">From that date the total amount you can save in an ISA (Individual Savings Account) increases from £7,200 to £10,200 and out of this, the maximum you can save in a cash ISA increases from £3,600 to £5,100.</p> <p>Whilst there’s plenty of time to look at where you are going to use your allowance for next year, if you haven’t used your ISA allowance for this tax year, you need to get your skates on or you risk missing out – it’s definitely a case of use it or lose it.</p> <p> </p> <p>TO USE THIS YEARS ISA ALLOWANCE YOU NEED TO APPLY BY 5TH APRIL AT THE VERY LATEST.</p> <p>Cash ISAs are not as some people think, just for the wealthy, in fact in many cases can be opened with as little as £1. Remember tax free saving makes a great deal of financial sense as non ISA savings accounts automatically have 20% tax deducted.</p> <p> </p> <p>If you still need convincing, take a look at this – if you save £5,100 in an ISA paying 5% you will pocket £250 in interest for the year. However if you held the same sum at the same rate in an ordinary savings account, the taxman would help himself to £50 of your hard earned interest.</p> <p> </p> <p>Some of the best paying ISA deals worth looking at are as follows:</p> <ul> <li>3.00% fixed rate guaranteed for 12 months from <a title="http://content.email1.moneynet.co.uk/?YYdtxJ4EGfsTe2c7a8XGlreAtvVyc0D5Y&http://www.postoffice.co.uk/portal/po/content1?catId=19300232&mediaId=105600780" target="_blank" href="http://content.email1.moneynet.co.uk/?YYdtxJ4EGfsTe2c7a8XGlreAtvVyc0D5Y&http://www.postoffice.co.uk/portal/po/content1?catId=19300232&mediaId=105600780">Post Office</a>, but remember there’s no access to your cash during this period.</li> <li><a title="http://content.email1.moneynet.co.uk/?YtstxJ7EvfWSjI77EUDGlreYtvJyc1X5Y&http://www.bank.barclays.co.uk/Savings/ISAs/CashISAGoldenISAIssue2/P1242569005970" target="_blank" href="http://content.email1.moneynet.co.uk/?YtstxJ7EvfWSjI77EUDGlreYtvJyc1X5Y&http://www.bank.barclays.co.uk/Savings/ISAs/CashISAGoldenISAIssue2/P1242569005970">3.10% variable rate from Barclays</a> also allows you instant access to your money if you need it.</li> <li>3.50% from <a title="http://content.email1.moneynet.co.uk/?YYstuk4GGAWSe27HEUXGlreAzvVzv1X5Y&http://www.santander.co.uk/csgs/Satellite?appID=abbey.internet.Abbeycom&canal=CABBEYCOM&cid=1237855061169&leng=en_GB&pagename=Abbeycom%2FPage%2FWC_ACOM_TemplateW2" target="_blank" href="http://content.email1.moneynet.co.uk/?YYstuk4GGAWSe27HEUXGlreAzvVzv1X5Y&http://www.santander.co.uk/csgs/Satellite?appID=abbey.internet.Abbeycom&canal=CABBEYCOM&cid=1237855061169&leng=en_GB&pagename=Abbeycom%2FPage%2FWC_ACOM_TemplateW2">Santander</a>, this is an excellent deal as you get a good rate and instant access, however you’ll need to phone up or pop into a branch to apply.</li> <li><a title="http://content.email1.moneynet.co.uk/?YYdruJ4EuieTj2cHa8DGlreAtLVyv0DwY&http://www.moneynet.co.uk/includer/yyyy/EMLNL191_INT_300310_yyyy_cpc" target="_blank" href="http://content.email1.moneynet.co.uk/?YYdruJ4EuieTj2cHa8DGlreAtLVyv0DwY&http://www.moneynet.co.uk/includer/yyyy/EMLNL191_INT_300310_yyyy_cpc">5.00% from Yorkshire Bank</a> the best cash ISA rate but be aware that you need to lock your money away for five years to get this.</li> <li>If you’re looking for a stocks and shares ISA, <a title="http://content.email1.moneynet.co.uk/?Ytdruk7GvAsSeIc7E8XGlreYzvJzv0XwY&http://www.moneynet.co.uk/includer/7043/EMLNL191_INT_300310_savng_LegalGeneral2_cpc" target="_blank" href="http://content.email1.moneynet.co.uk/?Ytdruk7GvAsSeIc7E8XGlreYzvJzv0XwY&http://www.moneynet.co.uk/includer/7043/EMLNL191_INT_300310_savng_LegalGeneral2_cpc">Legal & General</a> is offering 50% cashback on its annual management charge.</li> </ul> <p> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 12pt"><span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial">Check out all the latest best deals on <a title="http://content.email1.moneynet.co.uk/?Ytdrxk7EvAs-mI7HTUXGlrXYtLJzc0DwY&http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Best-Buys/variable-rate-isa" target="_blank" href="http://content.email1.moneynet.co.uk/?Ytdrxk7EvAs-mI7HTUXGlrXYtLJzc0DwY&http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Best-Buys/variable-rate-isa">variable rate cash ISAs</a> and <a title="http://content.email1.moneynet.co.uk/?YYdrxJ4GGieHmIcHT8DGlrXAzLJzv1X5Y&http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Best-Buys/fixed-rate-isa" target="_blank" href="http://content.email1.moneynet.co.uk/?YYdrxJ4GGieHmIcHT8DGlrXAzLJzv1X5Y&http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Best-Buys/fixed-rate-isa">fixed rate cash ISAs</a> at Moneynet today.</span></p> 438001572 438001572 Banking & Saving 268 2010-03-23 190 Protect your savings from inflation and the taxman <p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style="text-align: center; margin: 0cm 0cm 12pt"><b><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 16pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial">Protect your savings from inflation and the taxman<o:p></o:p></span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 12pt"><span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold"><font size="3">We all try hard to save money, whether it’s for a holiday, a new car, something more long term or perhaps just tucking some money away for that rainy day. <o:p></o:p></font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 12pt"><span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold"><font size="3">The question is - are you happy that your savings working hard enough for you? – This week we take a look at some of the ways you can get the most from your nest egg.</font></span><span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold"><o:p><font size="3"> </font></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 12pt"><b><u><span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial"><font size="3">1. Don’t put up with low interest rates<o:p></o:p></font></span></u></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 12pt"><span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold"><font size="3">If you’ve got money sitting in a high street bank current account or a branch based instant access savings account, it’s highly likely that you’ll be receiving next to nothing on your savings balance. <o:p></o:p></font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 12pt"><span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold"><font size="3">Did you know that you can earn up to ten times more interest simply by switching to a best buy savings account?<o:p></o:p></font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 12pt"><span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold"><font size="3">Check out the best </font><a href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Best-Buys/instant-access-accounts"><font size="3">instant access savings</font></a><font size="3"> rates and the </font><a href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Best-Buys/fixed-rate-bonds"><font size="3">highest rates on fixed rate bonds</font></a><font size="3"> too.<o:p></o:p></font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 12pt"><b><u><span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial"><font size="3">2. Take out a tax-free Individual Savings Account (ISA)<o:p></o:p></font></span></u></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 12pt"><span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold"><font size="3">Whilst over 8 million people opened cash Isa’s in 2009, there are still plenty of others failing to take advantage of this tax free benefit from the government. Don’t be put off by thinking that an Isa is complex or that it is only for the very wealthy. <o:p></o:p></font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 12pt"><span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold"><font size="3">An Isa is simply a savings account with no tax to pay on the interest. It allows you to invest up to £3,600 in cash for the current tax year (or £5,100 for those over 50 years of age), with a maximum of £5,100 in cash for everybody from 6<sup>th</sup> April 2010.<o:p></o:p></font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 12pt"><span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold"><font size="3">Cash Isa’s in many cases can be opened with as little as £1. Remember non Isa savings accounts will have 20% tax deducted. <o:p></o:p></font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 12pt"><span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold"><font size="3">If you still need convincing, take a look at this – if you save £5,100 in an ISA paying 5% you will pocket £250 in interest for the year. However if you held the same sum at the same rate in an ordinary savings account, the taxman would help himself to £50 of your hard earned interest.<o:p></o:p></font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 12pt"><span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold"><font size="3">Check out the best deals on </font><a href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Best-Buys/variable-rate-isa"><font size="3">variable rate cash ISAs</font></a><font size="3"> and </font><a href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Best-Buys/fixed-rate-isa"><font size="3">fixed rate cash ISAs</font></a><font size="3"> at Moneynet today.</font></span><b><u><span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial"><o:p><span style="text-decoration: none"><font size="3"> </font></span></o:p></span></u></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 12pt"><b><u><span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial"><font size="3">3. Start saving early and watch out for the catches<o:p></o:p></font></span></u></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 12pt"><span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold"><font size="3">Everyone over the age of 16 is entitled to open an ISA. And it’s never too early to start getting one over on the taxman.<o:p></o:p></font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 12pt"><span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold"><font size="3">But as with any savings account, don’t accept high interest rates at face value, some of the banks and building societies employ some pretty sneaky tricks that are sometimes well hidden in their advertising and literature. <o:p></o:p></font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 12pt"><span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold"><font size="3">So beware of bonuses that may only be included in your interest rate for the first few months or the fact that you may receive no interest for an entire month if you make a withdrawal from your account. <o:p></o:p></font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 12pt"><span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold"><font size="3">As a general rule of thumb, if the rate of interest looks really good, there are likely to be some strings attached, so be on your guard.</font></span><span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold"><o:p><font size="3"> </font></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 12pt"><b><u><span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial"><font size="3">4. Be creative and save more from the taxman (and it’s legal!)<o:p></o:p></font></span></u></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 12pt"><span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold"><font size="3">When you’ve made full use of your annual ISA allowance, there are still other ways to save money. <o:p></o:p></font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 12pt"><span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold"><font size="3">If your spouse is a non taxpayer or pays a lower rate than you, you can cut down on the amount of tax paid on your interest by transferring some of your savings into their name. <o:p></o:p></font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 12pt"><span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold"><font size="3">Remember each individual aged 16 and over has an annual tax free savings allowance.</font></span><span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold"><o:p><font size="3"> </font></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 12pt"><b><u><span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial"><font size="3">5. Don’t forget, kids go tax-free<o:p></o:p></font></span></u></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 12pt"><span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold"><font size="3">If you’re putting some money into a savings account for your kids, make sure they don’t have to pay any tax on it. <o:p></o:p></font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 12pt"><span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold"><font size="3">By completing a form R85 (from HM Revenue and Customs) the interest on your child’s account will be paid without any tax being deducted. However children still have personal tax allowances, so if their interest earned exceeds the current threshold of £6475, they will have to pay 20% tax on anything earned above this amount.<o:p></o:p></font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 12pt"><span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold"><font size="3">For more details on the R85 </font><a href="http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Diol1/DoItOnline/DG_4017954"><font color="#0000ff" size="3">http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Diol1/DoItOnline/DG_4017954</font></a></span><span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold"><o:p><font size="3"> </font></o:p></span><span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold"><o:p><font size="3"> </font></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 12pt"><b><u><span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial"><font size="3">6. Protect your savings from inflation too<o:p></o:p></font></span></u></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 12pt"><span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold"><font size="3">In an economy where the prices of goods and services are rising fast, inflation can have a negative impact on the future purchasing power of your savings. <o:p></o:p></font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 12pt"><span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold"><font size="3">National Savings and Investments (a government backed savings body), offers a range of savings accounts that will protect your savings from inflation. The rates currently offer a return of 1% above the rate of inflation (measured by RPI) and all returns are tax free.<o:p></o:p></font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 12pt"><span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold"><font size="3">Click </font><a href="http://www.nsandi.com/products/ilsc/index.jsp"><font color="#0000ff" size="3">http://www.nsandi.com/products/ilsc/index.jsp</font></a><font size="3"> to find out more.<o:p></o:p></font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 12pt"><b><u><span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial"><font size="3">7. A tax free allowance that many people aren’t aware of<o:p></o:p></font></span></u></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 12pt"><span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold"><font size="3">As well as your annual ISA allowance, you can also save a further £25 per month tax free with a friendly society.<o:p></o:p></font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 12pt"><span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold"><font size="3">Click </font><a href="http://www.friendlysocieties.co.uk/"><font color="#0000ff" size="3">here</font></a><font size="3"> for further information <o:p></o:p></font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 12pt"><span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold"><font size="3">We also have some free expert guides specifically aimed at savings for children; why not get your </font><a href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/includer/7049/EMLNL190_INT_230310_savng_Dianomi_ChildSavings2_cpc"><font color="#0000ff" size="3">free copies</font></a><font size="3"> today?<o:p></o:p></font></span></p> <p> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 12pt"><b><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 14pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial">Wednesday is Budget Day – keep up to date with all the changes <o:p></o:p></span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 12pt"><span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial"><font size="3">This year’s Budget comes as <st1:country-region w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Britain</st1:place></st1:country-region> slowly emerges from recession and a General Election nears, leaving Chancellor Darling under pressure to deliver a rosier picture of economic recovery. <o:p></o:p></font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 12pt"><span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial"><font size="3">With the country facing a £178 billion deficit, will the Chancellor have limited room for manoeuvre when he delivers his financial statement, or should we expect the odd surprise or two?<o:p></o:p></font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 12pt"><span style="font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial"><a href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/personal-finance-news/editorial/banking-and-saving/wednesday-is-budget-day-ndash-keep-up-to-date-with-all-the-changes-live-webcast/269"><font size="3">All your budget questions answered – live!</font></a><span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p> </p> 438001572 438001572 Banking & Saving 269 2010-03-23 190 Wednesday is Budget Day – keep up to date with all the changes Live webcast <p><iframe height="1130" src="http://www.chataboutmoney.co.uk/Flash2/white_label_test.asp?Format=autosize&EventID=185&width=620&PartnerID=87" frameborder="0" width="600" scrolling="no"></iframe></p> 438001572 438001572 Banking & Saving 267 2010-03-16 189 Do not let your ISA allowance go to waste <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt">With a little over two weeks remaining for this tax year, it’s time to turn our attention to ISAs and how they can help you getter a better return on your savings.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt">Bank base rate has been at rock bottom for the last 12 months, and the knock on effect has seen interest rates on savings accounts move much lower too. However, just because there’s a cloud of doom and gloom surrounding the savings market at the moment; it’s certainly no reason to discard your annual tax free allowance.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt">In fact in the last week we’ve started to see some better deals being launched by providers as we approach the frenetic two month window which spans the end of one tax year and the start of another, so maybe things are looking up.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt">ISA’s were introduced back in April 1999, and if you had saved your maximum allowance each year, you would have earned interest on your savings of more than £8,400. If you’d ignored ISAs and just saved your money in a standard savings account paying the same interest rate, as a basic rate tax payer you’d have given £1660 back to the tax man, and if you pay tax at 40% then you’d have lost out to the tune of a massive £3320 – ouch!<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt">Just because the annual Cash ISA limit is £5,100, it doesn’t mean you have to save this amount to qualify for tax free interest, some of the providers will let you open an ISA from as little as £1.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt">There are a wide variety of accounts in different shapes and sizes, with something to suit every type of saver, so whether you’re looking for a fixed rate or variable rate or saving on a monthly basis or just with one lump sum, there’s a product out there that will help you maximise your savings returns.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt">If you’re looking to open a Cash ISA, there are a few questions you should always ask, as follows:<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt"><o:p> </o:p></span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt"><b><u><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt">10 essential points to consider when choosing a Cash ISA:<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt"><b><u><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt"><br /> </span></u></b><b><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt">1.      Is the rate fixed or variable?<br /> </span></b><b><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt"><br /> <span>2.      If fixed how long for?<br /> </span><br /> <span>3.      Does the rate include a bonus?<br /> </span><br /> <span>4.      Is the account available via branch telephone or online?<br /> </span><br /> <span>5.      Can I get interest monthly?<br /> </span><br /> <span>6.      What is the minimum deposit/<br /> </span><br /> <span>7.      Once I’ve made my initial deposit, can I pay in additional sums?<br /> </span><br /> <span>8.      Can I make any withdrawals, if yes are there any penalties?<br /> </span><br /> <span>9.      Can I transfer in previous ISA balances?<br /> </span><br /> <span>10.  If I transfer out what is the notice period and penalty details?</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt">We’ve made the task really easy for you, just visit the <a href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Banking-Saving/ISA-Account">Moneynet Cash ISA page</a> and type in your own requirements and we’ll show you a list of accounts that fit the bill. Alternatively if you want to see which are the best cash ISA deals around at the moment, check out our <a href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Best-Buys/fixed-rate-isa">fixed rate ISA best buys</a> or <a href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Best-Buys/variable-rate-isa">variable rate ISA best buys</a> for yourself.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt"><b><i><span style="font-family: Arial"><br /> </span></i></b><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt">Another important point to make is that if you want to transfer your existing ISA(s) to another provider, approach your new provider and give them the details of the account you wish to transfer and let them manage it for you. <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt">Whatever you do, don’t withdraw the funds yourself otherwise you’ll lose the tax free status on that money for ever.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt"><b><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt">Stocks & Shares based ISAs – Don’t miss out on your free guide(s)<o:p></o:p></span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt">It’s important that you do your research, especially if you are looking to invest some or all of your overall tax free allowance of £10,200 in stocks & shares based ISAs.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt">To give you a head start, we’ve pulled together an invaluable selection of free guides from some of the biggest names in the business. These guides are designed to help you get the most out of your investment, so click <a href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/includer/7044/EMLNL189_INT_160310_savng_Dianomi_StockISA_cpc">here</a> </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt">now,<span style="color: rgb(31,73,125)"> </span>to</span><span style="font-family: Calibri; color: rgb(31,73,125)"><font size="3"> </font></span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt">get your own personal free guide(s)</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt">So with 5<sup>th</sup> April tax year deadline just around the corner, make sure you don’t lose out on your ISA allowance, because once it’s gone, it’s gone for good.</span></p> 438001572 438001572 Banking & Saving 266 2010-03-09 188 Spring clean your finances with Moneynet <p>With the worst of the winter hopefully behind us and summer just around the corner, now’s a great time to give your finances the ‘once over’. So as well as dusting down the lawnmower ready for another year and starting those little decorating jobs, don’t forget to review your finances as part of your annual spring cleaning routine.</p> <p>Some of your financial products may be getting a bit old and dusty and in need of replacing, whereas others are proving to be a huge drain on your resources and need to be got rid of as soon as possible. To help get you started, here are four areas for you to focus on and freshen up your money matters in 2010.</p> <p> </p> <p><strong>1. Are you paying over the odds for your life cover?</strong><br /> <br /> Spring is a good time to review your life cover and to make sure that you not only have the right amount of protection in place to protect your dependents, but also that you are not paying over the odds for your cover. Unfortunately, many people sign up for a life policy and then forget about it, however your circumstances are constantly changing, so it’s important that you make sure your life cover arrangements are still up to scratch.</p> <p>Due to continued competition in the market, <strong>life Insurance premiums have never been lower than they are today</strong> so if you took cover out some time ago you may be able to reduce your premiums or alternatively increase the level of cover for the same price.</p> <p>Our advisers can help you decide on the levels of cover required as well as searching to find you the cheapest premiums. So as part of your spring clean, why not take five minutes to get a no <a target="_blank" alt="Life-Assurance" href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Insurance/Life-Assurance">obligation quote today</a> – you could be pleasantly surprised by how much you could save!</p> <p> </p> <p><strong>2. Time to dump those store cards </strong><br /> <br /> In the majority cases store cards are just an expensive rip-off. Stores will entice you with special offers and then take advantage of you with extortionate rates of interest. Some of these cards are charging rates of up to 30% meaning you’ll be paying way over the odds for interest charged on your purchases. Often these cards are aimed at the young or less well off which makes it even more shameful.</p> <p>Our message to you is <a target="_blank" alt="Credit-Card" href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Credit-Card">dump them now and switch the debt to a 0% credit card</a> or alternatively a low cost personal loan with a structured repayment plan. Once you’ve cleared the balance, make sure you chop the card in half and write to the card provider asking them to close your account – that way you’ll avoid the temptation of spending on it again in a moment of weakness. Switching your store card balance of £500 to a 0% credit card will save you a staggering £150 per year – so check out the best credit card deals <a target="_blank" alt="Credit-Card" href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Credit-Card">here</a> and get your spring clean off to a flying start.</p> <p> </p> <p><strong>3. Mortgage rates are falling, so make sure you’re still getting the best deal you can</strong><br /> <br /> If you are one of the millions of borrowers who haven’t reviewed their mortgage for a few years then it's time that you checked out what’s on offer. So whilst you’re giving your home a bit of a facelift, don’t forget to see if it’s worth upgrading your mortgage too. For people with 20% or more equity in their homes there are some great new rates available and therefore some substantial savings to be made.</p> <p>If you do only one thing to improve your finances this year you really should investigate whether you can make savings in this area, after all your mortgage is likely to be your biggest financial commitment and you could be pleasantly surprised.</p> <p>Our advisers are able to do the sums for you and will be able to tell you exactly how much you can save. All our advisers are regulated so the advice that you receive will be accurate and truthful and at the end of the day it will be down to you whether or not you decide to take any action. Click <a target="_blank" alt="Mortgages" href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Mortgages">here</a> to check out the deals or to arrange to speak to an advisor.</p> <p> </p> <p><strong>4. Check your savings rates</strong><br /> <br /> One of the biggest scams pulled off by banks and building societies is to lure you into their savings accounts by offering market leading rates, then, once they've filled their coffers with your money they discreetly lower the rates and hope you won't notice.</p> <p>With bank base rate having fallen by 5% in the last year it means that there are literally billions of pounds of savers' money sitting in accounts which are now paying a paltry amount of interest.</p> <p>So don't let them get away with this daylight robbery - check the rate you are getting on your savings accounts and if it's not good vote with your feet and move your balance to a better paying account.</p> <p>Remember loyalty counts for nothing, so it’s worth checking your accounts every few months to make sure you know when it’s time to move again! To find the best rates for your nest egg, just click <a target="_blank" alt="Banking-Saving" href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Banking-Saving">here</a>.</p> 438001572 438001572 Banking & Saving 263 2010-03-01 187 Eight ways to get cheaper Home Insurance <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt"><font color="#000000"><strong>Here are some invaluable hints and tips to help you cut the cost of your home and contents insurance.</strong> </font></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt"><strong>1. Improve your security to benefit from insurance discounts</strong><br /> Consider improving the security of your home. Many home insurance companies will offer a discount if:</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt"> • You are an active member of a registered Neighbourhood Watch scheme.</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt"> • A burglar alarm is installed. Note that many home insurance companies will only offer a discount if the alarm is installed by a contractor approved by the National Approval Council for Security Systems (NACOSS). In addition, some home insurance companies may require you to have a maintenance contract with a company registered with the National Approval Council for Security Systems.</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt"> • Smoke alarms are installed.</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt"> • All windows have key operated locks.</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt"> • All exit doors are fitted with a British standard approved lock.</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt"><strong>2. Pay small claims yourself </strong><br /> If you claim on your household insurance, premiums are likely to increase the following year. So pay all minor claims you can afford yourself, this is likely to save you money in the long run. Many home insurers offer a no claim discount if you have a claim free history. The discount will usually increase in line with the number of claim free years.</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt"><strong>3. Opt for a higher excess</strong><br /> If you can afford it consider paying a higher excess on your policy, so rather than paying the first £50 of any claim, consider paying the first £100 or £150. This can significantly reduce the monthly cost of your home insurance, although it does mean you will have to pay more when you do claim so don't opt for more than you can reasonably afford. It could be an effective way for you to save money.</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt"><strong>4. Shop around</strong><br /> Half an hour on the Internet could save you hundreds of pounds. For example 10% of people who obtained a quote from <a target="_blank" href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/includer/7016/EMLNL187_INT_020310_insur_RegalHomeIns_cpc_art">Regal insurance saved over £313</a> when compared with their existing premium.</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt"><strong>5. Buy your cover online</strong><br /> If you buy your home insurance online many insurers will offer you a discount of up to 20% or 30%. Check out the latest deal from ASDA home insurance and <a target="_blank" href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/includer/6961/EMLNL187_INT_020310_insur_ASDA_HomeInsurance_cpc_art">save up to £115.</a></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt"><strong>6. Pay your premium in a single annual payment </strong><br /> If you can afford to pay your home insurance premium in a single payment you'll save money. Many insurers charge a hefty interest rate on a home insurance policy if you decide to pay monthly.</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt"><strong>7. Don't be shy, haggle for a better deal </strong><br /> The home insurance market is very competitive and companies are desperate to keep you as a customer. So don't be afraid to pick up the phone and try to haggle with your existing insurer, after all if they can beat or even match the best quote you've been offered online it saves the hassle of switching insurers.</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt"><strong>8. Don't automatically take the cover offered by your lender</strong><br /> More than half of people taking their first step onto the property ladder and arranging insurance - almost 200,000 people each year -still automatically buy their cover through their mortgage lender, even though organising it that way can cost up to 30% more due to the massive commissions that lenders take on insurance sales.</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt">Some mortgage lenders make it difficult for people to break free from their policy, by forcing people to pay a penalty fee for switching their insurance to an alternative provider, however you will find that some insurance providers are happy to pay this fee on your behalf just to secure your business.</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt">Hopefully the hints and tips above will enable you to reduce your home insurance costs and put a bit more cash back into your pocket.</p> 438001570 438001570 Insurance 264 2010-03-01 187 The cost of raising a child hits �200,000 Live webcast <p><iframe height="1130" src="http://www.chataboutmoney.co.uk/Flash2/white_label_autosize.asp?EventID=183&Width=620&PartnerID=87" frameborder="0" width="600" scrolling="no"></iframe></p> 438001572 438001572 Banking & Saving 262 2010-02-23 186 Prepaid cards - enjoy the benefits of shopping online without the risk of getting into debt <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt"><font color="#ff0000">Even if you’ve been turned down for a credit card, you can still get a prepaid card – no credit checks required.</font></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt">Here at Moneynet we’ve just introduced a new section on our website, giving you the details of the <a target="_blank" alt="Prepaid Credit Cards" href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Best-Buys/prepaid-credit-cards">top prepaid cards</a> currently available.</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt">These cards are different from credit cards as there are no credit checks and in many cases you don’t even have to have a bank account. If you can provide evidence of a valid UK address you’ll be accepted for this new breed of plastic.</p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt">The prepaid MasterCard or Visa cards will also prevent you getting into debt that you can’t afford to repay, you just load money onto your card before you shop and then when your funds are running low, you simply top up again.</p> </span></font><font size="3" face="Calibri"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt">It’s also much safer than carrying cash when you go abroad; we’ve got a special section for currency cards, highlighting the <a target="_blank" alt="Prepaid Credit Cards" href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Best-Buys/prepaid-credit-cards">best cards to take when you’re going on holiday.</a></p> </span></font><font size="3" face="Calibri"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt">So if you’ve been turned down for a credit card, but still want to take advantage of the benefits of the discounted online shopping deals, this could be the answer you’ve been looking for.</p> </span></font><font size="3" face="Calibri"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt">You can choose from 'Pay as you go' or 'Pay monthly' cards, so to find out more or to sign up, take a look at the <a target="_blank" alt="Prepaid Credit Cards" href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Best-Buys/prepaid-credit-cards">choice of prepaid cards </a>on offer.</p> </span></font></p> <p> </p> <p> </p> 438001568 438001568 Credit Cards 261 2010-02-16 185 Get a better savings rate with our NEW best buy tables <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt">We’re always working hard and looking at ways to bring you even more useful information to help you make the most of your money.</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt">Following feedback from a number of our readers, we’re pleased to announce the launch of our new savings best buy tables, to help you quickly find the accounts offering the best rates of return for your cash.</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt">So whether it’s a fixed rate bond, instant access accounts, a regular savings plan or tax free savings with a Cash ISA, you can find them all in our new <a href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Best-Buys/banking-and-savings"><font color="#0000ff">best buy tables</font></a>.</p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt">You’ll instantly be able to see the top paying accounts, no matter what type of saver you are, and even if you prefer to do your own research for a product that’s tailor made for you, then we give you the ability to do that too.</p> </span></font><font size="3" face="Calibri"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt">With good savings rates difficult to come by, you may find that your existing savings account isn’t delivering the returns that your hard earned savings deserve, if that’s the case, find a better deal with Moneynet best buys and put a little extra cash back in your pocket.</p> </span></font></p> <p> </p> <p> </p> 438001572 438001572 Banking & Saving 260 2010-02-09 184 Give your kids a head start with their savings <p>At Moneynet, we've teamed up with some of the top specialists when it comes to investing, so if you'd like a free copy of our free guides on Children's Savings Plans and Child Trust Funds click <a href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/includer/6974/EMLNL184_INT_090210_insur_Usay2_cpc_tip">here</a>.</p> <p>Every day hundreds of proud parents throughout the UK welcome their new bundle of joy into the world. It's a great world, but it can be a real challenge financially sometimes, especially when you're ready to leave home and learn to stand on your own two feet.</p> <p>So whilst those new mothers and fathers have a whole host of things to occupy their minds as they come to terms with their new family life, the matter of saving for their baby's future shouldn't be forgotten.</p> <p>Although your new bundle of joy's 18th birthday may seem an eternity away, it's never too soon to start saving for their future and giving them a real head start when they come to buy their first car or put down a deposit on a home of their own.</p> <p>The government are keen for us to become a nation of savers and a few years ago introduced the Child Trust Fund to encourage the savings habit from a very early age. Since their introduction in 2005 more than four million Child Trust Fund accounts have been opened.</p> <p>The Child Trust Fund is basically a long term savings and investment account that allows you to deposit £1200 each year into an account, free from tax. As well as the advantage of the tax free status of the account, the government will set you on your way with a £250 voucher to start each child's account and give you a further £250 when they reach their seventh birthday.</p> <p>There are three types of account to choose from, a cash based savings account, a stocks and shares based account called a stakeholder Child Trust Fund or a stocks and shares based ISA allowing you in conjunction with a financial adviser to decide exactly in which shares or funds you want to invest.</p> <p>The Government has made rules for stakeholder accounts to be a lower risk product where the investments must be across a range of companies rather than investing in just one (so not all your eggs are in one basket) and the money begins to be moved into safer investments and assets when the child reaches 13 years of age.</p> <p>The stakeholder account also has a maximum annual charge limited to no more than 1.5% and all stakeholder providers must accept a minimum contribution of £10 into a stakeholder account (though they can accept less if they wish). With a non stakeholder CTF the charges can be more than 1.5% per year and minimum payment into the fund may be quite a bit higher.</p> <p>Just to give you an idea of the sums involved, if you were to save the maximum £100 each month at an interest rate of 3%, you would build an impressive nest egg of £28,977 in eighteen years.</p> <p>Just imagine how you would have felt if your parents had put aside that sort of money for you and what a difference it would have made to you when you were starting out in your adult life.</p> <p>So whilst cash savings accounts are quite straightforward, if you are thinking of some stocks and shares based investments, it's definitely worth seeking some expert advice to ensure you understand the charges and risks associated with this sort of investment strategy.</p> 438001572 438001572 Banking & Saving 259 2010-02-02 183 Moneynet top tips to help prevent you becoming a victim of financial fraud <p class="promo" style="margin: auto 0cm"><span lang="EN" style="color: black; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial"><font size="3"><font face="Calibri">We’ve just been tipped off about a spate of incidents involving an old-style phone scam which we want to bring to your attention. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Please forward this newsletter to your friends and family to help prevent them getting conned by these tricksters.<o:p></o:p></font></font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; line-height: 125%; margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; tab-stops: 396.0pt"><span lang="EN" style="color: black; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial"><font size="3"><font face="Calibri">Fraudsters have been attempting to trick unsuspecting cardholders into revealing their card details by pretending to be from either their bank, Credit Card Company or one of the international card schemes – Visa and MasterCard.<o:p></o:p></font></font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; line-height: 125%; margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; tab-stops: 396.0pt"><span lang="EN" style="color: black; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial"><font size="3"><font face="Calibri">The scam begins with the fraudster phoning up, typically claiming to be from the security or fraud department and saying that their records have flagged up a fraudulent transaction on the victim’s card. By seeming to offer assistance, the caller hopes to gain their victim’s trust. <o:p></o:p></font></font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; line-height: 125%; margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; tab-stops: 396.0pt"><span lang="EN" style="color: black; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial"><font size="3"><font face="Calibri">The fraudster, who may already have some details about the person they are phoning - such as their address and card number - is really trying to find out the three-digit security code on the back of their victim’s card. The conman will claim that the amount of the fraudulent purchase can be credited back to the card if the individual divulges the three-digit number.</font></font></span><span lang="EN" style="color: black; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial"><font size="3"><font face="Calibri"> <o:p></o:p></font></font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; line-height: 125%; margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; tab-stops: 396.0pt"><span lang="EN" style="color: black; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial"><font size="3"><font face="Calibri">However, beware, if the security code is revealed, the fraudster will use it to try and make fraudulent purchases over the telephone or internet using the victim’s card details.<o:p></o:p></font></font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; line-height: 125%; margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; tab-stops: 396.0pt"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><span lang="EN" style="color: red; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial"><font size="3"><font face="Calibri">The GOLDEN RULE is - never disclose any personal financial information to someone who has cold-called you over the phone – wherever they claim to be from.</font></font></span></b></p> <p> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; line-height: 125%; margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; tab-stops: 396.0pt"><font size="3"><font face="Calibri"><span lang="EN" style="color: black; mso-ansi-language: EN">If you have any doubts when approached in this way you should hang up and call the company back <u>on a number that you know is correct</u>. If you think you have already been a victim of this scam, you should speak to your card company as soon as possible.</span><span lang="EN" style="color: black; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial"><o:p></o:p></span></font></font></p> <p class="MsoBodyText" style="line-height: 125%; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt"><span lang="EN" style="line-height: 125%; font-family: Calibri; color: black; font-size: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial"><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoBodyText" style="line-height: 125%; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt"><span lang="EN" style="line-height: 125%; font-family: Calibri; color: black; font-size: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial">As well as keeping your card details safe and secure, here are a number of other common sense steps that you can follow to help minimise the chances of you becoming a victim of fraud:</span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><span lang="EN" style="line-height: 125%; font-family: Calibri; color: black; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial"><o:p></o:p></span></b></p> <p class="MsoBodyText" style="line-height: 125%; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><span lang="EN" style="line-height: 125%; font-family: Calibri; color: black; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p> <ul type="disc" style="margin-top: 0cm"> <li class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; line-height: 125%; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; color: black; tab-stops: list 36.0pt; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo1"><span lang="EN" style="layout-grid-mode: line; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><font size="3"><font face="Calibri">Don’t let your cards or your card details out of your sight when making a transaction. <o:p></o:p></font></font></span></li> <li class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; line-height: 125%; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; color: black; tab-stops: list 36.0pt; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo1"><span lang="EN" style="layout-grid-mode: line; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><font size="3"><font face="Calibri">Destroy, preferably shred, any documents or receipts that contain personal financial information when you dispose of them.<o:p></o:p></font></font></span></li> </ul> <ul type="disc" style="margin-top: 0cm"> <li class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; line-height: 120%; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; color: black; tab-stops: list 36.0pt; mso-list: l5 level1 lfo2; mso-layout-grid-align: none"><span lang="EN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><font size="3"><font face="Calibri">Register your cards with <span style="mso-bidi-font-style: italic">Verified by Visa</span> or <span style="mso-bidi-font-style: italic">MasterCard SecureCode.</span><span style="layout-grid-mode: line"><o:p></o:p></span></font></font></span></li> </ul> <ul type="disc" style="margin-top: 0cm"> <li class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; line-height: 120%; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; color: black; tab-stops: list 36.0pt; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo3"><font size="3"><font face="Calibri"><span lang="EN" style="layout-grid-mode: line; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'">Do not keep your passwords, login details and PINs written down.</span><span lang="EN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><o:p></o:p></span></font></font></li> <li class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; line-height: 120%; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; color: black; tab-stops: list 36.0pt; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo3"><font size="3"><font face="Calibri"><span lang="EN" style="layout-grid-mode: line; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'">Do not disclose PINs, login details or passwords in response to unsolicited emails or telephone callers claiming to be from your bank, the card schemes or the police.</span><span lang="EN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><o:p></o:p></span></font></font></li> </ul> <ul type="disc" style="margin-top: 0cm"> <li class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; line-height: 120%; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; color: black; tab-stops: list 36.0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo4"><font size="3"><font face="Calibri"><span lang="EN" style="layout-grid-mode: line; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'">When entering your PIN in a shop or a cash machine use your free hand to shield the number from prying eyes or hidden cameras.</span><span lang="EN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><o:p></o:p></span></font></font></li> </ul> <ul type="disc" style="margin-top: 0cm"> <li class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; line-height: 120%; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; color: black; tab-stops: list 36.0pt; mso-list: l4 level1 lfo5"><span lang="EN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><font size="3"><font face="Calibri">Only divulge your card details in a telephone transaction <u>when you have instigated the call</u> and are familiar with the company.<o:p></o:p></font></font></span></li> </ul> <ul type="disc" style="margin-top: 0cm"> <li class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; line-height: 120%; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; color: black; tab-stops: list 36.0pt; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo6; mso-layout-grid-align: none"><span lang="EN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><font size="3"><font face="Calibri">Make sure your computer has up-to-date anti-virus software and a firewall installed and switched on.<o:p></o:p></font></font></span></li> <li class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; line-height: 120%; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; color: black; tab-stops: list 36.0pt; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo6; mso-layout-grid-align: none"><span lang="EN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><font size="3"><font face="Calibri">Access internet banking or shopping sites by typing the address into your browser. Never go to a website from a link in an email and then enter personal details.<b><o:p></o:p></b></font></font></span></li> </ul> <ul type="disc" style="margin-top: 0cm"> <li class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; line-height: 120%; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; color: black; tab-stops: list 36.0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-layout-grid-align: none"><span lang="EN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><font size="3"><font face="Calibri">Don’t access your online banking on a shared computer e.g. in a local library or on university campus.<b><o:p></o:p></b></font></font></span></li> <li class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; line-height: 120%; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; color: black; tab-stops: list 36.0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-layout-grid-align: none"><span lang="EN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><font size="3"><font face="Calibri">Shop at secure websites by ensuring that the security icon (locked padlock or unbroken key symbol) is showing in your browser window and where the URL starts http<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><u>s</u></b> (the letter‘s’ indicates secure).<b><o:p></o:p></b></font></font></span></li> <li class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; line-height: 120%; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; color: black; tab-stops: list 36.0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-layout-grid-align: none"><span lang="EN" style="color: windowtext; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><font size="3" face="Calibri">Always log out after shopping and save the confirmation email as a record of your purchase.</font></span><span lang="EN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><o:p></o:p></span></li> </ul> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><span style="font-family: Arial"><font size="3">Don’t miss our live webcast where you learn how to make your savings more tax efficient<o:p></o:p></font></span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Arial"><font size="3"><font face="Calibri">We’ve teamed up with some investment experts from Fidelity who will be running a live webcast on Thursday 4<sup>th</sup> February at 1pm answering your questions on how to make your investments more tax efficient<o:p></o:p></font></font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Arial"><font size="3" face="Calibri">They will answer your questions on how to make the most of your tax allowances to keep your savings out of the tax man's hands.</font></span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: navy; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p><a target="_blank" href="https://www.fidelity.co.uk/investor/guidance-planning/learn-about-tax/save-tax-on-investment.page?$WT.mc_id=BDC0294">Ask a question</a></p> <p> </p> <p> </p> 438001572 438001572 Banking & Saving 258 2010-01-25 182 Mortgage rates still falling, but is it time to consider a new deal? <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 120%; margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt"><font size="3" face="Calibri">Bank base rate has been sitting at a record low of 0.50% since last March, however with a record jump in the rate of inflation last week, some experts now believe that rates may start to rise again as soon as the summer.</font></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 120%; margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt"><font size="3"><font face="Calibri">The ultra low base rate has been devastating news for savers who are struggling to get a decent return on their money, but the situation for some mortgage customers has become more promising over the last couple of months, particularly for those who have 25% or more equity in their home.<b><span lang="EN" style="color: black"><o:p></o:p></span></b></font></font></p> <p class="promo" style="margin: auto 0cm"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt">Whilst people with an 85% or 90% loan to value (LTV) mortgage won’t find as many competitive deals available the choice is far better than it was a year ago, if on the other hand, you’re looking at a 75% or 60% LTV mortgage, then recent competition has forced mortgage interest rates much lower.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="promo" style="margin: auto 0cm"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt">Many people will be coming off their existing 2 year or 3 year fixed or discounted rate mortgage in the next few months and will need to decide what to do next.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="promo" style="margin: auto 0cm"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt">The standard variable rate (SVR) that your lender will put you on when your current deal expires will, in many cases, <span> </span>turn out to be a reasonable rate when compared to the one you opted for two or three years ago. However, you may not feel comfortable with your mortgage on this variable interest rate, particularly if rates start to increase later this year. The alternative is to look for a new fixed rate, where at least you know what your repayments will be each month.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="promo" style="margin: auto 0cm"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt">Here are the SVRs currently being charged by some of the biggest lenders:<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="promo" style="text-indent: -18pt; margin: auto 0cm auto 36pt"><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 11pt"><span>·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman"; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; -x-system-font: none">         </span></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt">Lloyds/ Cheltenham & Gloucester 2.50%<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="promo" style="text-indent: -18pt; margin: auto 0cm auto 36pt"><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 11pt"><span>·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman"; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; -x-system-font: none">         </span></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt">Halifax 3.50%<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="promo" style="text-indent: -18pt; margin: auto 0cm auto 36pt"><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 11pt"><span>·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman"; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; -x-system-font: none">         </span></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt">First Direct 3.69%<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="promo" style="text-indent: -18pt; margin: auto 0cm auto 36pt"><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 11pt"><span>·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman"; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; -x-system-font: none">         </span></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt">HSBC<span>  </span>3.94%<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="promo" style="text-indent: -18pt; margin: auto 0cm auto 36pt"><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 11pt"><span>·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman"; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; -x-system-font: none">         </span></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt">Abbey (Santander) 4.24%<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="promo" style="text-indent: -18pt; margin: auto 0cm auto 36pt"><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 11pt"><span>·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman"; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; -x-system-font: none">         </span></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt">Woolwich from Barclays 4.99%</span><span><font size="3" face="Times New Roman"> </font></span></p> <p><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt">But it’s not just the interest rate to take into account; you will also have to consider the costs associated with switching your mortgage. The advantage of doing nothing and staying put on your lender's SVR is that you don’t have to pay a penny, plus you are not tied in with any early repayment charges.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt">If you remortgage to a new fixed or tracker rate with another lender you will have to pay your lender an exit fee to leave the mortgage, which in some cases may be as much as £200 to £250. Then you will pay your new lender’s mortgage arrangement fees, which could cost you anything from around £100 to £1,500 or more, depending on the particular deal you move to.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt">However for some people, rates have fallen by such an extent that if you have a low LTV, and depending on the size and term of your loan, it may even be worth exiting your current deal before the maturity date.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt">Although the size of the early redemption charges payable in some cases may make the prospect of switching a non starter, for others it may make financial sense to pay the penalty on your existing fixed rate mortgage and to take advantage of one of the new lower rate deals.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt">Here’s a taste of some of the deals available at the moment:<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p style="text-indent: -18pt; margin-left: 36pt"><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 11pt"><span>·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman"; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; -x-system-font: none">         </span></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt">First Direct 2 Year fixed at 3.47% plus fee £498 (Max 65% LTV)<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p style="text-indent: -18pt; margin-left: 36pt"><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 11pt"><span>·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman"; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; -x-system-font: none">         </span></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt">ING Direct 5 Year fixed 4.88% plus fee £995 (Max 75% LTV)<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p style="text-indent: -18pt; margin-left: 36pt"><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 11pt"><span>·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman"; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; -x-system-font: none">         </span></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt">Nationwide BS<span>  </span>2 Year fixed 5.98% plus £495 fee (Max 90% LTV)<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt">Whatever decision you decide to make regarding your mortgage, it’s important that you weigh up all the facts and the costs and choose a product that is right for you. Don’t rush in without doing your homework as it could turn out to be an expensive mistake.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p><b><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt">So rather than getting your calculator out and struggling to see if the numbers add up for you, why not let moneynet help you search for the best deal for your circumstances by entering your requirements <a href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/mortgages/index.shtml">here</a> <span> </span>with the option to speak to a mortgage adviser if you so choose.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p> <p class="promo" style="margin: auto 0cm"> </p> <p><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt">If it’s not right for you to move now, don’t give up, check again on moneynet.co.uk in a couple of months time as rates are changing pretty frequently and there may soon come a point when it does makes sense for you to switch your mortgage.<o:p></o:p></span></p> 438001571 438001571 Mortgages 256 2010-01-18 181 With savings rates at rock bottom, it's time to look at other ways to boost your finances <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt"><font size="3" face="Calibri">For the last twelve months savings rates have fallen to record lows as the Government slashed base rate in an attempt to kick start the economy.</font></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt"><font size="3" face="Calibri">Those heady days where fixed rate savings accounts were in some cases paying as much as 7% in are unfortunately now long gone.</font></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt"><font size="3" face="Calibri">So whilst there are still one or two reasonable fixed rate savings deals to be had, these are mostly for products where you have to tie your money up for a four or five year period. With variable rate savings accounts the situation is even more depressing, with many accounts paying a paltry 1% or less.</font></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt"><font size="3" face="Calibri">If you haven’t checked the rate you’re getting on your existing savings for a couple of months, contact your bank or building society now, as you may be shocked to discover how little you are actually receiving. To find a better home for your nest egg, check out the <a target="_blank" href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Banking-Saving">savings search</a> on moneynet.co.uk.</font></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt"><font size="3" face="Calibri">However, whilst returns are low on savings accounts, it makes sense to look at other ways to improve your finances as highlighted below.</font><o:p><font size="3" face="Calibri"> </font></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt"><b><font size="3"><font face="Calibri">Paying off debt is the biggest money saver<o:p></o:p></font></font></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt"><span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold"><font size="3"><font face="Calibri">Whilst savings rates have tumbled, borrowing rates on credit cards, personal loans and overdrafts have actually increased over the last year, so the gap between the amount of interest charged on debts compared to interest paid on savings has widened dramatically. Therefore it is seriously worth considering reducing some of your debts as a more effective way of saving money.<b><o:p></o:p></b></font></font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt"><span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold"><font size="3"><font face="Calibri">Just to highlight this point, if you have an ongoing credit card balance with a rate of say 17.9% APR, paying off a £300 lump sum would save you £53.70 in interest charges over a year. To earn the equivalent on your savings, you would need to invest six times as much i.e. £1800 in the highest paying 1 year bond at 3.65% which would earn you £52.56 net of basic rate tax.</font></font></span><o:p><font size="3" face="Calibri"> </font></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><font size="3"><font face="Calibri">Paying a little extra each month can bring big rewards<o:p></o:p></font></font></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt"><font size="3" face="Calibri">If you haven’t got a lump sum that you can put towards paying off your credit card debt, you can still save a packet simply by paying just a little extra off your credit card statement each month. You’ll be amazed how much difference just an extra £20 per month will make. </font></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt"><font size="3"><font face="Calibri">Here’s the numbers to prove it. If you have a £1500 balance on your credit card at 17.9% APR, by paying an extra £20 each month on top of the 3% minimum repayment, you will pay your balance off in 4 years rather than over 15 years and you’ll save a staggering £845 in interest charges in the process.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes">  </span></font></font></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt"><font size="3" face="Calibri">Another more obvious way to save on credit card interest is to switch your balance to a 0% credit card deal from the likes of <a target="_blank" href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/includer/4951/EMLNL181_INT_190110_MNET_ccard_VirginCC_OMG_cpa_art">Virgin Money</a> where you can get 16 months interest free borrowing as long as you’ve got a good credit record. The good thing about this card is that you can use the balance transfer to repay your overdraft or personal loan, you’re not restricted to paying off other card debts.</font><o:p><font size="3" face="Calibri"> </font></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><font size="3"><font face="Calibri">Switch your current account and get a £100 bonus<o:p></o:p></font></font></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt"><font size="3"><font face="Calibri">Transferring your current account to <a target="_blank" href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/includer/6964/EMLNL181_INT_190110_MNET_savng_FirstDirectCurrentAcc_art">First Direct</a> or <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on"><a target="_blank" href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/includer/6541/EMLNL181_INT_190110_MNET_savng_Alliance_Leicester_PremCurr_cpa_art"> <span style="line-height: 115%; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA">Alliance and Leicester Premier</span></a> is another way to earn some extra cash; both of these banks are currently offering new customers a one off payment of £100 to switch their cheque account.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes">  </span></st1:place></st1:city></font></font></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt"><font size="3" face="Calibri">Whilst £100 may not sound that tempting, it’s easy money, with your new bank looking after the transfer process on your behalf. To put it into perspective, if you’re stuck with a savings account paying a mere 1% and you have a balance of £2000, it would take you more than six years to earn £100 in interest (net of basic rate tax). By switching your current account you can bag the £100 ‘golden hello’ for less than an hour’s work.</font><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt"><font size="3" face="Calibri">In these volatile economic times the message is simple, whether you’re saving or borrowing, don’t rest on your laurels and risk losing out financially. Keep an eye the best deals via moneynet.co.uk to make sure you don’t miss out. </font><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 13.5pt; margin: 9pt 0cm 12.75pt; background: white; mso-outline-level: 1"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><font size="3"><font face="Calibri">Buying a new home – your chance to submit your questions to industry experts<o:p></o:p></font></font></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 13.5pt; margin: 9pt 0cm 12.75pt; background: white; mso-outline-level: 1"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Arial"><font size="3"><font face="Calibri">Volatile house prices and a shortage of mortgages mean tough times for everyone in the housing market. Particularly for a first time buyer, the process can be very daunting and stressful. That is why getting specialist, independent advice is vital. <br /> <br /> If you are currently in the process of buying a house or looking to get onto the property ladder then join our live webcast on Thursday 28 January at 1pm. So <a href="/Personal-Finance-News/Editorials//home-buying-advice-live-webcast/257">submit your questions</a> for our experts now and come back and join us when we go live.<o:p></o:p></font></font></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 13.5pt; margin: 9pt 0cm 12.75pt; background: white; mso-outline-level: 1"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><font size="3"><font face="Calibri">Congratulations to our competition winners<o:p></o:p></font></font></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 13.5pt; margin: 9pt 0cm 12.75pt; background: white; mso-outline-level: 1"><font size="3"><font face="Calibri">A big well done to John Harris, Rob Dodson and Mouli Raj who each won an Ipod shuffle in our Christmas newsletter competition.<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><o:p></o:p></b></font></font></p> <p> </p> 438001572 438001572 Banking & Saving 257 2010-01-18 181 Home buying advice: Live webcast <p><iframe height="1130" src="http://www.chataboutmoney.co.uk/Flash2/white_label_test.asp?Format=autosize&EventID=182&width=620&PartnerID=87" frameborder="0" width="600" scrolling="no"></iframe></p> 438001571 438001571 Mortgages 254 2009-12-01 174 Moneynet Top Tips to Help Cut the Cost of your Car Insurance <p><font size="2" face="verdana"> <p><b>1. Review your existing cover -</b> many of us will shop around for a cheaper deal when we receive our renewal notice, but when was the last time you checked the details of the cover you are paying for? A lot of people won't have looked at their policy details for years even though their circumstances may have changed.<br /> <br /> For example, maybe you can Reduce Your Annual Mileage, not only will you be helping to save the planet but you'll be saving some money into the bargain. The higher your annual mileage the more chance you have of an accident and therefore the higher your premiums.<br /> <br /> To get an idea of how much you'd save, input your new mileage on the Moneynet car insurance search<br /> <br /> <a href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/motor-insurance">http://www.moneynet.co.uk/motor-insurance</a><br /> <br /> Perhaps you've changed your job which means that your daily commute and therefore your annual mileage is now lower than you're insured for. Another area that increases the cost of your cover is if you have Additional Named Drivers on your policy. Just check to see who is named on your policy and consider if they really need to be included on your insurance any more.</p> <p><b>2. Select a Higher Excess - </b>The excess on a policy is the amount that the insurance company will deduct from any claim you make. For example, if you make a claim for £500 and there is an excess of £50 the insurance company will pay out only £450 leaving you to pay the excess. Excesses usually vary between nil and £250 and the higher the excess, the cheaper your premium will be. When you get your quote ask for a range of prices with different excesses and see how much you can reduce your premium. But just bear in mind, the higher the excess the more you will have to contribute to any claim.</p> <p> </p> <p><b>3. Don't Pay In Instalments - </b>There are usually added costs if you choose to pay your premium by monthly instalments. If you can afford it, reduce your premium by paying the annual cost up front.</p> <p> </p> <p><b>4. Build up Your No-Claims Discount - </b>One of the best ways to reduce your premium is to drive carefully and avoid accidents. In this way you will build up your no-claims discount and reduce the premium payable. You can usually start building up your no-claims discount after one year of claim-free driving. After one year you could expect a reduction in your premium of 25-30%, building to a maximum of around 70% after 5-6 claim-free years, although the exact amount of discount and terms will vary from insurer to insurer.</p> <p> </p> <p><b>5. Avoid Penalty Points on Your Licence - </b>Driving carefully has another bonus - you will avoid points on your license for speeding or other offences such as careless driving. Driving within the law will help you avoid the fines that the courts impose. But it's not just the fines that will hurt your pocket; picking up penalty points can also significantly increase the cost of your insurance premium. Don't give your insurance company any excuse to load your premiums.</p> <p> </p> <p><b>6. Choose a Car With a Low Insurance Group - </b>All cars are rated and grouped by insurance companies in order to determine the insurance premium charged. Groups go from one for the lowest price insurance right up to twenty for the most expensive. You can check which group your car falls into at <br /> <br /> <a href="http://www.parkers.co.uk/insurance">http://www.parkers.co.uk/insurance</a>. <br /> <br /> If you're happy with a car in a low insurance group you will definitely save money on your insurance and in many cases you'll also benefit from cheaper car tax and a lower fuel bill too.</p> <p> </p> <p><b>7. Protect Your Vehicle - </b>By fitting approved alarms and/or immobilisers you not only protect your vehicle from thieves but you will also qualify for a discount from many insurance companies.</p> <p> </p> <p><b>8. Consider Third Party Fire & Theft Insurance - </b>If your car is of low value you may find it more cost effective to opt for third party fire and theft insurance rather than fully comprehensive. Whilst this could leave you to pick up the bill for repairs to your own car if an accident is your fault the risk might be worth considering if the difference in premiums is great enough.</p> <p> </p> <p><b>9. Think About Where You Park Your Vehicle Overnight - </b>If you can get your car off the road and onto a driveway or tuck it away in a garage overnight you could be eligible for a reduced premium. But, don't be tempted to lie about it because the insurance company will refuse to pay out if the car is stolen and you can't prove where it was parked.</p> <p> </p> <p><b>10. Shop Around For Cover - </b>Always shop around for your cover as premiums vary considerably. Never accept the renewal quote offered by your existing insurer without comparing with other providers - loyalty rarely pays when it comes to choosing insurance or other financial products. Even if your car insurance renewal isn't due quite yet, take a look at the Moneynet car insurance page <br /> <br /> <a href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/motor-insurance">http://www.moneynet.co.uk/motor-insurance</a> <br /> <br /> to compare cover from the leading insurers in one simple search, and if you like the quote you can buy online. To make life even easier, we've added a login section so each time you return to the site, you can access previous searches that you've made. You can simply re-load these details at a later date, which means you don't have to fill in all your details over and over again.</p> <p> </p> </font></p> 438001569 438001569 Loans 253 2009-11-24 173 Choose the best personal finance products to make your money go further <p> </p> <div>There’s no getting away from the fact that the recession is still hitting many of us where it hurts, in the wallet!</div> <div>But even though many of the banks and building societies are offering credit cards, savings, current accounts and insurance deals that are pretty run of the mill, there are still some top notch products out there that are a cut above the rest.</div> <div> </div> <div>So, if you’re looking to knock your finances into shape and get a few more pounds in your pocket, it certainly helps if you have some of the most competitive financial products to help you along the way.</div> <div>For example the <a target="_blank" href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/includer/4951/EMLNL173_INT_241109_MNET_ccard_VirginCC_OMG_cpa_art">Virgin Credit Card</a><span> offers 0% on balance transfers for a table topping 16 months. As well as being the longest interest free balance transfer card on the market, it also offers the flexibility to allow the balance transfer to be paid into your current account, enabling you to repay expensive overdrafts and loans as well as other credit and store cards. </span></div> <div> </div> <div>If you’re looking to switch your credit card borrowing to 0% in January as part of your new year’s resolutions, it’s probably best to get your application in now, so you’re already to go come January 1st.</div> <div> </div> <div>Once you’ve got your credit card sorted, maybe it’s time to turn your attention to your current account. If you’re one of the many people still remaining loyal to the account you opened when you left school or started your first job, it’s time to start looking after number one and opening an account that gives you something in return.</div> <div> </div> <div>If this sounds like you,  check out the multi award winning <a target="_blank" href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/includer/2251/EMLNL173_INT_241109_MNET_savng_Alliance_Leicester_PremDirect_cpa_art">Alliance & Leicester Premier Direct </a><span><a target="_blank" href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/includer/2251/EMLNL173_INT_241109_MNET_savng_Alliance_Leicester_PremDirect_cpa_art">account</a> where you get credit interest of 6% AER and a 0% overdraft for the first 12 months – how does your existing current account compare?</span></div> <div> </div> <div>Whilst we’re on the subject of borrowing money, interest rates on personal loans have increased by around 2% since the onset of the credit crunch with the average rate now standing at over 12.4% APR.</div> <div> </div> <div>However it’s not all bad news, for example you can still borrow money from as low as 8.0% APR typical for Nectar card holders with <a target="_blank" href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/includer/6832/EMLNL173_INT_241109_MNET_ploan_SainsburysPL_BTQ_cpa_art">Sainsbury’s Bank</a><span> where a loan of £7,500 over three years will cost you just £153.20 per month. </span></div> <div> </div> <div>If you want to check other low rate loan providers on Moneynet.co.uk, just click <a href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Loans/Personal-Loan">http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Loans/Personal-Loan</a></div> <div> </div> <div>If you’re not in a position where you need to borrow money at the moment, don’t worry, you can still improve your finances by switching your savings for a great rate.</div> <div> </div> <div>The Post Office is currently offering the highest paying account for a one year bond, fixed at an excellent 3.70% for a full 12 months. If you’re happy to put your money away for a little longer, you can get a best buy 4.25% with Birmingham Midshires for a 2 year deposit.</div> <div> </div> <div>If it’s a variable rate savings account that you want, take a look at the <a target="_blank" href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/includer/6720/EMLNL173_INT_241109_MNET_savng_Investec_cpc_art">High 5 account from Investec</a>, currently paying 3.36% gross</div> <div> </div> <div>To find a savings account that meets your own personal requirements, we give you the option search the whole market here <a href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Banking-Saving">http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Banking-Saving</a></div> <div> </div> <div>Whilst switching products will take a little bit of effort on your part and a few minutes of your time, the financial rewards are not to be sniffed at.</div> <div> </div> <div>You’ve worked hard enough for your money, so isn’t it time that you made it work equally hard for you in return?</div> <p> </p> 438001572 438001572 Banking & Saving 252 2009-11-17 172 When was the last time you checked how much you could save with new cheaper life insurance? <p>The cost of life insurance has fallen by nearly 30 per cent over the last ten years and in real terms is the cheapest it’s ever been according to independent research earlier this year. If you have life insurance already, there’s a good chance that you could save money your premiums by just by taking out a new policy.</p> <p> </p> <p>Even saving as little as £5 per month is worth considering, especially when you realise that it will save you £600 over ten years, and there’s the potential for some people to save much more.</p> <p> </p> <p>It may be a bit of a depressing topic but for many of us life cover is absolutely vital. But the good news is, if you're smart it doesn’t have to cost a fortune.</p> <p> </p> <p>Most of us try to find the cheapest, car insurance, the cheapest gas and electricity and the best rates for our savings, so why make the same effort with your life insurance and see if you can get a better deal here too.</p> <p>Take a couple of minutes to see if Moneynet can save you some money on your life cover, if you haven’t reviewed it for a few years, you may be pleasantly surprised – check out <a href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Insurance/Life-Assurance">http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Insurance/Life-Assurance</a><br /> <br /> Alternatively, <a href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/includer/6854/EMLNL172_INT_171109_MNET_insur_BarclaysLife_D_cpc_art">Barclays Life</a> is offering a 10% online discount and a <a href="http://adfarm.mediaplex.com/ad/ck/8006-65246-3869-12">free £15 M&S voucher</a></p> <p>While we’re on the topic of life insurance, here are a few hints and tips to help you pay less for the cover you need.</p> <p> </p> <p><br /> <strong>1. Check if it’s possible to get a different type of cover at a lower cost.</strong><br /> <br /> The type of life policy you decide to choose will have a big impact on size of your monthly premiums. The most common type of life cover is called level term assurance, which pays out a fixed lump sum if you die at any time during the policy term.<br /> <br /> However, it’s possible to reduce your premiums just by switching to a different type of policy.<br /> <br /> One option is to take out decreasing term assurance. This is often used to cover your outstanding repayment mortgage; it’s cheaper because the amount of cover this policy offers reduces every month in line with your reducing mortgage balance. Therefore because the insurer faces a lower potential payout, this is reflected in lower insurance premiums.</p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p><strong>2. Consider buying separate policies</strong><br /> <br /> Once you've made a decision as to which type of policy you need, consider whether your partner needs cover too. If you both need life cover don't be tempted to take the easy option and apply for a joint policy. Joint insurance plans work out only marginally cheaper than individual plans, but the big difference with most joint policies is that you can only claim once. Once a claim is made the policy and cover it offers comes to an end, a situation that leaves the surviving partner without any cover.<br /> <br /> If on the other hand you take out separate policies you will both be covered individually and you'll effectively have twice the amount of cover, in most cases for only a small additional cost.</p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p><strong>3. Check what cover you already have</strong><br /> <br /> It's important you don't waste money by taking out more insurance than you need. You may have other policies in force such as death in service as part of your remuneration package at work. When looking at your overall insurance requirements, make sure you take account of any existing benefits that your employer provides.</p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p><strong>4. Get an up to date quote for your insurance</strong><br /> <br /> So, now you know what type of policy to go for and how much cover to buy, but there's really only one way to guarantee you get good value for money: shop around. I know you've heard it all before, but getting an up to date quote to find the most competitive insurer really is very easy, just click<br /> <br /> <a href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Insurance/Life-Assurance">http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Insurance/Life-Assurance</a><br /> <br /> and we’ll do all the leg work for you and let you know the most competitive prices on offer.</p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p><strong>5. Find a replacement for your existing policy</strong><br /> <br /> You can switch your life insurance plan in much the same way as you would your bank account or credit card provider. However, because life cover is cheaper now than it has been for years, the chances are a new policy could cost you less.<br /> <br /> There are a few things to bear in mind before you switch your policy:</p> <p> </p> <ul> <li>Check that you’re not giving up any special benefits on the original plan which aren't included on the new policy.</li> <li>To avoid having a period without any cover in place, don't cancel your existing policy until the new one is up and running.</li> <li>If you're a lot older now than you were when you originally took out your policy, or your health has deteriorated, a new policy could prove to be a lot more expensive. If that’s the case, you’re probably best to stick with the policy you’ve got.</li> </ul> <p> </p> <p><br /> Compare over 300 life insurance plans from 13 of the UK's top insurers with <a href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/includer/951/EMLNL172_INT_171109_MNET_insur_Protected_cpc_art">Protected</a></p> <p> </p> <p> </p> 438001571 438001571 Mortgages 251 2009-11-10 171 The Moneynet guide to switching your current account <p>The controversial new overdraft tariff soon to be introduced by Halifax has been a hot topic in the media over the last couple of weeks. The decision to replace existing authorised and unauthorised interest with simplified but more expensive daily flat fees has not gone down well with customers. <br /> <br /> Anyone using an agreed overdraft limit will pay £1 per day on borrowing up to £2500 and £2 per day for balances over this figure. If you slip into unauthorised overdraft, the charge rises to a hefty £5 per day. <br /> <br /> So if you're unhappy with your bank account, or perhaps are one of the fifty per cent of people that have never switched accounts, here's the low down on how to choose a new account and how the process works. <br /> <br /> Firstly you need to weigh up what is most important to you with your bank account. <br /> <br /> If you always keep a healthy credit balance you should be looking to earn some interest on your money, if you make regular use your overdraft facility then it's borrowing costs that are key, or perhaps you're a frequent traveller overseas and it's a debit card with low overseas charges that would benefit you most. <br /> <br /> You'll find some suggestions for the best accounts for each category at the end of this article, but first let's look at the switching process. <br /> <br /> Transferring your account used to be a big hassle, but many banks and building societies have smartened up their act as they seek to attract new customers and so have introduced dedicated switching teams to manage the process for you. <br /> <br /> Even though it's easier now, it's not really something you'll want to do on a frequent basis, so it's worth doing your homework first. <br /> <br /> Have a list of questions to ask your new bank - what are the branch opening hours, what are the fees and/or interest charges for authorised and unauthorised borrowing, do they offer internet banking what are the charges for using their debit card abroad?</p> <p><br /> <br /> <strong>The Transfer Process</strong><br /> <br /> Once you’ve chosen a new provider, you’ll need to complete an application form and provide proof of identity.<br /> <br /> You’ll be asked to sign a form authorising your existing bank to transfer your account and all your standing orders and direct debits to your new bank.<br /> <br /> The new bank will ask your existing provider for a list of your standing order and direct debit payments – and will then send this list to you for you to confirm that they are all still current.<br /> <br /> They will then send updated direct debit and standing order mandates to all companies concerned with details of your new sort code and account number.<br /> <br /> Your new bank will order cheque book (if required), and debit cards in readiness for when you start using the new account.<br /> <br /> You will agree a date for the balance to be transferred to your new account – usually just after you’ve been paid – this gives you time to advise your employer/pension provider of your new account details in time for your next payday.<br /> <br /> You will have to return any debit cards and unused cheques to your existing bank before the old account is finally closed.<br /> <br /> <br /> <font color="#ff0000"><strong>Best accounts if you never go overdrawn </strong></font><br /> <br /> <strong>Halifax Reward</strong> - if you pay in at least £1,000 each month you'll receive a monthly credit of £5<br /> <br /> <strong>Alliance & Leicester Premier Direct</strong> - 6% credit interest on balances up to £2500 for first 12 months <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <font color="#ff0000"><strong>Best accounts if you sometimes use an overdraft facility</strong></font> <br /> <br /> <strong>Alliance & Leicester Premier</strong> - 0% overdraft up to £2000 for first 12 months - then 50p per day max £5 per month.<br /> <br /> <strong>First Direct First Account </strong>- if you pay in £1500 per month you get a £250 interest free overdraft. They also pay you £100 when you transfer your account to them. (This is an online account) <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <font color="#FF0000"><strong>Best account if you regularly travel abroad</strong> </font><br /> <br /> <strong>Nationwide Building Society Flex Account</strong> - only charges 1% on foreign debit card cash withdrawals and purchases outside of the Visa Europe region. Popular destinations including France, Greece, Italy, Spain, Portugal and Turkey are free. Charges with other banks are much higher with some charging 2.99% plus £1.50 per transaction.</p> 438001570 438001570 Insurance 248 2009-10-27 169 New chance for loyal customers to reap extra rewards <p>The battle to attract customers is still as intense as ever, even though the UK is still deep in recession. This has made institutions look at how they can win over new customers, and offering rewards seems to be a popular and potentially a good deal for customers too.<br /> <br /> Even though you may have a couple of products with your high street bank and been a customer for many years, it's highly unlikely that you receive any preferential treatment for your custom.<br /> <br /> The new Nectar Points promotion from <a target="_blank" href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/includer/6881/EMLNL169_INT_271009_MNET_savng_SainsburysNector_cpc_art">Sainsbury's Finance </a>rewards customer loyalty and enables you to boost your points earning potential with the following four products.</p> <p> </p> <ul> <li>A <a target="_blank" href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/includer/6881/EMLNL169_INT_271009_MNET_savng_SainsburysNector_cpc_art">Sainsbury's Credit card</a> offering 10 months interest free credit on purchases (12 months at Sainsbury's) and 10 months 0% on balance transfers</li> <li>An <a target="_blank" href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/includer/6881/EMLNL169_INT_271009_MNET_savng_SainsburysNector_cpc_art">Easy Access savings account</a> with up to five penalty free withdrawals allowed.</li> <li>Home Insurance with 20% discount for paying online and no extra charge for paying by monthly instalments</li> <li><a target="_blank" href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/includer/6881/EMLNL169_INT_271009_MNET_savng_SainsburysNector_cpc_art">Competitive Pet Insurance</a></li> </ul> <p> </p> <p><strong>Focus on Credit Cards with reward benefits</strong><br /> If you spend on a rewards based credit card you'll be rewarded for your loyalty in the form of points that you can use to redeem against meals out, flights, trips or in some cases receive a cash rebate instead. <br /> <br /> However be aware that transactions, such as balance transfers, and cash withdrawals generally won't count towards your points. Reward cards are designed to encourage us to spend, and the more you spend the more points you build up. <br /> <br /> So how can you pick the card that's right for you? - Well, it depends on your shopping habits, where you tend to shop and the type of reward that appeals to you. So let's take a look at some of the options and how much you can earn - just by using a specific credit card for your day to day shopping and expenses.<br /> <br /> <strong>Tesco Clubcard Credit Card</strong><br /> <br /> <strong>How many points do you get?</strong><br /> <br /> Shopping at Tesco or Tesco.com you get 5 points for every £4 spent and for shopping elsewhere you receive 1 point for every £4 spent.<br /> <br /> <strong>So how much could you earn in a year?</strong><br /> <br />  </p> <table border="2" cellspacing="2" cellpadding="2" align="center"> <tbody> <tr style="font-weight: bold"> <td> </td> <td> <p>Monthly spend</p> </td> <td> <p>Annual Rewards</p> </td> <td> <p>Monthly spend</p> </td> <td> <p>Annual Rewards</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td>Monthly food shop - <strong>Tesco</strong></td> <td>£300</td> <td>£45.00</td> <td>£500</td> <td>£75.00</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Monthly petrol spend - <strong>Tesco</strong></td> <td>£100</td> <td>£15.00</td> <td>£150</td> <td>£22.50</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Other monthly day to day spending (average)</td> <td>£300</td> <td>£9.00</td> <td>£500</td> <td>£15.00</td> </tr> <tr> <td>TOTAL in reward vouchers</td> <td>£69.00</td> <td>£500</td> <td>£112.50</td> <td> </td> </tr> <tr> <td>Value if redeemed against Tesco deals</td> <td> </td> <td>£276.00</td> <td> </td> <td>£450.00</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <p><br /> <br /> So whilst vouchers for £69-00 or £112.50 off your Tesco shopping is great for doing nothing, if you use the vouchers to buy deals from the Tesco deals catalogue, the vouchers are worth 4 times their face value. So how does £276 or £450 worth of hotel accommodation, restaurant meals, flights, holidays or days out grab you? There's a whole load more to spend your vouchers on, check out the link below for more details. <br /> <br /> <strong><u>LATEST UPDATE </u><u>- Tesco are currently running a promotion where Clubcard points are doubled on Tesco in store spend so you'll receive the equivalent of 9 points for every £4 spent, a big chance to rack those points and rewards up even faster.</u></strong><br /> <br /> <a alt="tescos" href="http://www.tesco.com/clubcard/deals/">http://www.tesco.com/clubcard/deals/</a> <br /> <br /> <strong>John Lewis Partnership Card</strong><br /> <br /> <strong>How many points do you get?</strong><br /> <br /> Shopping at John Lewis or Waitrose (including online) you get 1 point for every £1 spent and for shopping elsewhere you receive 1 point for every £2 spent.<br /> <br /> <strong>So how much could you earn in a year?</strong><br /> <br />  </p> <table border="2" cellspacing="2" cellpadding="2" align="center"> <tbody> <tr style="font-weight: bold"> <td> </td> <td> <p>Monthly spend</p> </td> <td> <p>Annual Rewards</p> </td> <td> <p>Monthly spend</p> </td> <td> <p>Annual Rewards</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td> <p>Monthly food shop - <strong>Waitrose </strong></p> </td> <td> <p>£300</p> </td> <td> <p>£30.00</p> </td> <td> <p>£500</p> </td> <td> <p>£50.00</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td>Other monthly day to day spending (average)</td> <td>£400</td> <td> <p>£20.00</p> </td> <td> <p>£600</p> </td> <td> <p>£30.00</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td>TOTAL in John Lewis vouchers</td> <td> </td> <td> <p>£50.00</p> </td> <td> </td> <td> <p>£80.00</p> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <p><br /> <br /> Whilst £80 in rewards isn't going to change the world, it's certainly not to be sniffed at. To put it into perspective, you would only earn £80(net) interest on your savings at 2.5% if you kept a balance of £4,000 in your account for a full 12 months.<br /> <br /> So why not take advantage of this 'something for nothing' opportunity and use the vouchers to treat yourself, or perhaps use them as Birthday or Christmas presents for friends or relatives. <br /> <br /> <strong>Also worth a look:</strong><br /> <br /> <strong>Amazon.co.uk MasterCard</strong> - gives you 1 point for every £1 spent at Amazon.co.uk and 1 reward point for every £2 spent elsewhere. Plus you receive £15 credit when you make your first purchase with the card.<br /> <br /> <strong>Important information</strong><br /> Cashback and reward credit cards are a fantastic way to get something for nothing as long as you pay your statement balance off in full every month. <br /> <br /> If you don't clear your card balance every month the interest charges could more than wipe out any benefit you've accrued in rewards or cashback.<br /> <br /> Happy shopping!<br /> <a alt="Credit Card Search" href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Credit-Card">Moneynet Credit Card Search</a><br /> <br /> <strong><a target="_blank" href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Personal-Finance-News/Editorials/family-finance/write-a-will-week/250">Have you got any questions about writing a will or an existing will you already have?</a><br /> </strong><br /> Industry experts, Danny Cox from Hargreaves Lansdown Financial Practitioners and Peter Nellist, partner at Clarke Willmott LLP have put together some answers to the most frequently asked questions on the topic of wills and will writing.<br /> <br /> The complexities of modern family life makes having a valid will even more important. Writing your will is the best way to ensure your estate is passed on exactly as you wish in the most tax efficient manner - and this is why independent legal and financial advice should be sought. So if it's something you want to know a little more about, check out the following webcast for free.<br />  </p> 438001570 438001570 Insurance 247 2009-10-20 168 10 ways to stay ahead of the identity fraudsters <p>You may think the odds are in your favour when it comes to being a victim of identity fraud. But using other people's stolen personal details to obtain credit and commit scams is one of the UK's fastest growing crimes - and the fraudsters are always on the lookout for ways to up their game.</p> <p>So it makes sense to get wise to their dirty tactics and start practising some fancy defensive footwork of your own.</p> <p> </p> <p>This newsletter article is part of National Identity Fraud Prevention Week, which is aimed at increasing awareness of fraudsters' activities, and providing information and advice on protecting yourself from the criminals.</p> <p>To help protect your details, take a few minutes to check out these 10 top tactics.</p> <p> </p> <p><strong>1. Keep your passwords secret <br /> </strong>Being careless with your passwords and PINs is almost inviting someone to hack into your accounts. So make sure you:</p> <ul> <li>Don't write them down</li> <li>Never give them to other people</li> <li>Avoid obvious passwords such as your pet's or children's names or your birthday.</li> </ul> <p> <br /> <strong>2 Don't respond to dodgy e-mails and texts <br /> </strong>Never reply to messages from people you don't know or anything that looks suspicious, even if it seems to have come from a friend - just delete them straight away. The same goes for phishing e-mails that appear to come from your bank or card company and ask you to input your personal details - genuine companies never ask you to do this so don't fall for the scam.</p> <p><br /> The senders of these e-mails aim to gather data that can be used to steal your money and trash your credit status.</p> <p><br /> What to do:</p> <ul> <li>Delete unsolicited e-mails immediately - 99 per cent of us fail to observe this simple precaution, according to a recent survey by PC Tools</li> <li>Alert any organisation a dubious e-mail purports to come from, using the phone number or e-mail address you already have or one you look up on the Internet - don't use the contact information in the e-mail or website, it could send you straight back to the criminals</li> <li>Never click on links in these e-mails - you could unwittingly give a virus access to your computer and all the information in it, especially if you're one of the 43 per cent of us who either have no security software installed or never update it</li> </ul> <p> </p> <p><strong>3 Check your credit report regularly </strong><br /> This is the personal history of your credit accounts, such as cards and loans, so by keeping an eye on it you'll see immediately if there are any suspicious entries and be able to contact the relevant lender to set things straight. You can see your Experian credit report right now with a free 30-day trial of <a target="_blank" href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/includer/6878/EMLNL168_INT_201009_MNET_secln_Experian_cpa_art">CreditExpert</a>.</p> <p> </p> <p><strong>4 Don't give away too much information </strong><br /> Take care that you don't inadvertently give fraudsters a helping hand by revealing personal details about yourself on social networking sites like Facebook. Use the security options so you only share private information, such as your name, address, date of birth and holiday dates, with close friends.</p> <p><br /> <strong>5 Register to vote </strong><br /> It might not seem important but putting your name on the electoral roll at your current address is a simple way of protecting yourself against a criminal misusing your details.</p> <p> </p> <p><strong>6 Go through your statements <br /> </strong>Always make time to check through your bank, card, mobile phone and other financial statements for irregularities the sooner you come across any suspicious transactions, the sooner you'll be able to sort them out. Get into the habit of checking your account regularly via online banking or reading through your bank statement thoroughly as soon as it arrives in the post.</p> <p> </p> <p><strong>7 Sign-up for alerts from CreditExpert <br /> </strong>By taking advantage of an online monitoring service you will be notified immediately if there is any significant change to your credit report - so you will know straight away if, for example, someone else is applying for credit in your name.</p> <p> </p> <p><strong>8 Shred don't bin <br /> </strong>Just because you think something is rubbish it doesn't mean it won't be useful to someone else, so make sure you dispose of old bank statements and other private documents carefully - preferably by shredding them.</p> <p> </p> <p><strong>9 Update your security software </strong><br />  </p> <p>As a nation, we Brits are rather bad at computer security - at least a third of us leave ourselves open to cyber crime by failing to update our anti-virus programs and firewalls. Make sure you have the latest versions installed and install your updates regularly.</p> <p> </p> <p><strong>10 Watch out for shoulder surfers </strong><br /> When you are using your card at an ATM or some other public place, beware of people watching you - they could be memorising your PIN or even taking a sneaky photo with a phone.</p> <p> </p> <p>You can see your Experian credit report for free with a 30-day trial of <a target="_blank" href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/includer/6878/EMLNL168_INT_201009_MNET_secln_Experian_cpa_art">CreditExpert</a>.</p> 438001570 438001570 Insurance 245 2009-10-13 167 Make time to review your savings plans <p>Savings interest rates have changed dramatically since this time last year, so if you haven't checked the rate you're currently receiving on your money, do it now, as you may be in for a nasty shock. <br /> <br /> Take five minutes this week to find out the rate that your bank or building society is currently paying you and then take a look at the savings rates on <a href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Banking-Saving" target="_blank">Moneynet</a> to make sure you're not being taken for a ride. <br /> <br /> If you've never really saved seriously before and always thought about putting some money away but never got round to it, why not do something about it now? <br /> <br /> There are a wide range of products to choose from, but the general rule of thumb is that the easier it is for you to access your savings, the lower the interest rate will be. <br /> <br /> For example if you're starting your savings with a <a href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/includer/6873/EMLNL167_INT_131009_MNET_saving_NationwidESP_cpc_art" target="_blank">Nationwide e-Savings Plus</a> account, you can open your account with as little as £1 and as long as you don't make any more than 3 withdrawals per year you'll get 2% AER interest on your money. These accounts can be opened online and you can give each account a name, so they are really useful for putting money aside for those annual expenses such as the car MOT, the holiday fund or for your Christmas expenses. <br /> <br /> If you've got a bigger savings nest egg, then as long as you've got at least £2,000 that you don't need access to, you can earn monthly interest at a rate of between 3.20% (1 year) and 5.10% (5 years) with a Term Deposit account from <a href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/includer/6858/EMLNL167_INT_131009_MNET_saving_YorkshireBankSavings_cpc_art" target="_blank">Yorkshire Bank</a>. The monthly income option is certainly popular with people who are looking for their savings interest to supplement their fixed income particularly those on a pension. <br /> <br /> For people with a bigger savings pot at their disposal, The <a href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/includer/6720/EMLNL167_INT_131009_MNET_saving_Investec_cpc_art" target="_blank">High 5 Account</a> from Investec, is currently paying 3.35% AER and allows you to make withdrawals subject to three months notice. You'll need a minimum of £25,000 to open the account, but it guarantees to pay the average of the top five savings accounts on the market, so saves you shopping around. <br /> <br /> If you haven't saved anything before, then it's worth looking at a regular savings account to start you on your way. <br /> <br /> These accounts usually pay a decent rate of interest, but come with some fairly strict terms and conditions. However if you're looking for some discipline to help you save regularly, then regular saver accounts are just the job. You can currently earn 5% AER from <a href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/includer/6872/EMLNL167_INT_131009_MNET_saving_HalifaxRegularSaver_cpc_art" target="_blank">Halifax Regular Saver</a>. Just beware that you can only pay in between £25 and £500 each month and if you miss a monthly credit or you make a withdrawal, the account will be closed. <br /> <br /> As an example, if you manage to put away £500 per month for the 12 month term, you would end up with a healthy nest egg of £6,000 plus net interest of £129.53 at the end of the year. <br /> <br /> No matter how old you are, it's never too late to save money, and having a little savings behind you can prove to be a great help, and as a bonus you'll earn a little interest for your trouble. <br /> <br /> Check out the Moneynet savings rates at <a href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Banking-Saving" target="_blank">Moneynet</a>, today and find an account that's right for you. <br /> <br /> <a href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Banking-Saving" target="_blank">Compare savings accounts</a></p> 438001570 438001570 Insurance 244 2009-10-06 166 Payment Protection Insurance - have you had a claim for compensation rejected? <p>In the first six months of 2009 the Financial Ombudsman Service received more complaints about Payment Protection Insurance (PPI) than any other financial products or accounts.</p> <p>More astounding is the fact that more than three quarters of the complaints on PPI reviewed by the Ombudsman were ruled in favour of the customer.</p> <p>As a result of these figures the Financial Services Authority has ordered some of the biggest sellers of PPI to review all complaints regarding this type of insurance that were rejected since January 2005.</p> <p>So if you’ve previously complained to your lender about the suitability of PPI cover that was sold to you, but had your claim for reimbursement of premiums and interest turned down, now is a good time to raise the issue once again.</p> <p>If you still don't get the response that you think you’re entitled to or your lender still refuses to look at your claim, refer the matter to the Financial Ombudsman Service (address below).</p> <p>The Financial Ombudsman Service<br /> South Quay Plaza<br /> 183 Marsh Wall<br /> London E14 9SR</p> <p>Alternatively you can telephone them on <strong>0845 080 1800.</strong></p> <p>Don't let yourself be fobbed off, if you think you’ve got a genuine reason why you think PPI was mis-sold to you, then keep persevering – as the financial recompense amounts to a significant sum in many cases.</p> <div> </div> 438001570 438001570 Insurance 242 2009-09-29 1 Five tips for buying the perfect PMI policy <p><strong>If you're looking for private medical insurance and want to buy a policy, here are five top tips to help keep costs down.</strong> <br /> <br /> For many people, the peace of mind they get from having a <a href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Insurance/Private-Medical-Insurance/?ref=pmiEmail1109" target="_blank"><b>private medical insurance policy</b></a> in place is a luxury well worth paying for. <br /> <br /> If you hold a private medical insurance (PMI) policy, you will have access to private medical treatment should you fall ill or have an accident. <br /> <br /> This means you may be able to queue-jump long NHS waiting lists, have a say in where you are treated - and, in some cases, even enjoy tastier hospital food! <br /> <br /> However, with the recession still biting, it's important you protect your pocket and hunt down an affordable policy before taking out PMI. <br /> <br /> Here are my five top tips for finding the perfect PMI deal. <br /> <br /> <strong>1. Check your employee benefits <br /> </strong><br /> These days, more and more employers are starting to take some responsibility for their workers' health and wellbeing. Many companies now offer gym memberships and PMI as work perks. <br /> <br /> According to research by Bupa, after pensions, PMI is the second most desirable employee benefit. <br /> <br /> Therefore, before you shell out for an individual <a href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Insurance/Private-Medical-Insurance/?ref=pmiEmail1109" target="_blank"><b>PMI policy,</b></a> find out from your employer if you can be covered as part of a company scheme. <br /> <br /> Some employers may even pay for PMI for your whole family. So, if your own workplace doesn't offer PMI as a benefit, it's a good idea to see if you can be included under your partner's company policy. <br /> <br /> <strong>2. Reduce the risk</strong> <br /> <br /> As with any insurance policy, the price of your PMI premium will be based largely on risk assessment. <br /> <br /> This means that the more likely your insurer thinks it is you will make a claim, the more expensive your policy will be. <br /> <br /> Therefore, in order to reduce the price of your premium, you need to reduce the risk you pose. <br /> <br /> For example, quitting smoking or losing a few pounds if you're overweight could have a significant impact on how much you pay. <br /> <br /> <strong>3. Limit your cover <br /> </strong><br /> You may find that if you place cash and time limits on the treatment you're entitled to under your PMI policy, your insurer will lower the price of your premium. <br /> <br /> For example, many insurers offer different policies based on pre-determined 'bands' or the 'grade' of the hospitals policyholders are eligible to be treated in. If you agree to limit yourself to lower-grade hospital accommodation, the price of your premium is likely to be lower. <br /> <br /> Furthermore, if you give up your right to choose where you are treated and who by, you may pay even less for PMI. <br /> <br /> You can also put a cap on your cover by agreeing to either pay for certain types of treatment yourself, or use the NHS in conjunction with receiving <a href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Insurance/Private-Medical-Insurance/?ref=pmiEmail1109" target="_blank"><b>private medical care.</b></a> <br /> <br /> <strong>4. Shop around </strong><br /> <br /> Before you buy any insurance policy, it's crucial that you shop around and compare a range of quotes. <br /> <br /> Even if you are offered PMI through an insurance company you already hold policies with, be aware that it's important to check whether you could get a more competitive policy elsewhere. <br /> <br /> One of the fastest and easiest ways to compare different deals is to use an online price comparison service, such as <a href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Insurance/Private-Medical-Insurance/?ref=pmiEmail1109" target="_blank"><b>BeatThatQuote.com's health</b></a> and private medical insurance centre. <br /> <br /> <strong>5. Choose your cover carefully </strong><br /> <br /> As you shop around for the best deal, remember to compare like for like and ensure you purchase the right level of cover for you. Finding the right PMI policy is not only a question of hunting down the cheapest option - it is about ensuring you get the protection you need at an affordable price. <br /> <br /> The benefits of PMI are not unlimited and vary from policy to policy. For example, many insurers will refuse to cover emergency treatment, incurable diseases and few will cover pre-existing medical conditions. <br /> <br /> Therefore, it's important to check the terms and conditions of your PMI policy carefully before signing on the dotted line. You don't want to wait until you fall ill or have an accident to find you are not covered for certain treatments. <br /> <br /> Finally, when fill in the <a href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Insurance/Private-Medical-Insurance/?ref=pmiEmail1109" target="_blank"><b>application form for your PMI policy,</b></a> it's vital you are completely honest about your medical history. <br /> <br /> If you omit information, whether or not this is intentional, you could find your entire policy is deemed invalid when you come to claim.</p> 438001569 438001569 Loans 241 2009-09-29 165 Is £100 enough to tempt you to switch your current account? <p><img height="225" alt="Is £100 enough to tempt you to switch your current account?" width="180" align="left" border="0" style="margin-right: 10px" src="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/_global/images/newsletter/ArticleImage_290909.gif" /> Whilst many people will happily switch their credit card balance at the drop of a hat and shop around for a new mortgage deal each time their fixed rate expires, when it comes down to moving their current account it's a different matter entirely. <br /> <br /> There are a vast array of current accounts to choose from, some come with enticing rates of credit interest with others offering a more competitive deal for those who sometimes dip 'into the red'. <br /> <br /> Despite the best efforts of the marketing departments of the banks and building societies, large numbers of people stick with the current account that they opened when they left college or received their first pay cheque. <br /> <br /> So what's the reason for this misguided loyalty? Well, it seems that the main hurdles that providers have to overcome are consumer apathy combined with the perceived hassle involved in transferring your account to pastures new. <br /> <br /> When you realise that most of the standard accounts offered by the big high street players are paying a miserly 0.1% interest on your credit balances and charging you almost 30% for an unauthorised overdraft, perhaps a quick maths lesson may give you more of an incentive to 'ditch and switch'. <br /> <br /> If you keep an average of £2,000 credit in your current account, you'll receive a paltry £1.60 (after 20% tax) in interest for the entire year, yet if you currently held a similar balance with the <a target="_blank" href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Includer/2251/EMLNL165_INT_290909_MNET_savng_Alliance_Leicester_PremDirect_cpa_art"><b>Premier Direct account at Alliance & Leicester</b></a> you'd receive £96 - starting to get interested now? <br /> <br /> Maybe you're someone who spends more time overdrawn and therefore not too fussed with credit interest deals; however the 'getting a poor deal' theme is pretty similar. Rather than paying £90 per annum in interest for an average £300 unauthorised debit balance, you could slash the cost to less than £35 with the likes of <a target="_blank" href="http://www.cahoot.com/cahoot_products/cahoot_current_account/current_account.html"><b>Cahoot</b></a> with authorised overdrafts from as low as 11.8% EAR, plus you'd also save yourself a fortune in unauthorised fees and charges. <br /> <br /> It's not just those people that have had their accounts with the same institution since the year dot that should seriously consider a better deal, there have been a number of changes in the market recently that may mean the account you switched to in the last six months or so, may have lost some of its sparkle. <br /> <br /> Check out the <a target="_blank" href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Banking-Saving"><b>Banking and Savings</b></a> section on the Moneynet website and find the best current account deal for you. <br /> <br /> If this has whetted your appetite and given you some inspiration to go out and find a more suitable current account, there are a few things you need to take into consideration: <br /> <br />  </p> <ul> <li>In order to receive some of the more competitive deals, you may be required to fund your account with a minimum amount each month; this typically varies from £500 up to £1,500 per month depending on the account you opt for.</li> <li>Beware of packaged accounts where eager bank staff will try to persuade you to opt for one of their accounts with add ons such as mobile phone insurance, car breakdown cover or travel insurance. This sounds quite an attractive proposition until you realise that you'll have to shell out a monthly fee of anything from £6.50 to £25 for the privilege and realise that you could buy your cover cheaper elsewhere anyway.</li> <li>An account that offers a high rate of credit interest will often turn out to prove expensive for borrowing and vice versa, so opt for an account that fits your account usage.</li> <li>Whilst credit interest of 6% or more sounds appealing, don't forget to check the small print as in many cases these attractive interest rates will only apply to the first £1,000 or £2,500 of your balance.</li> <li>It's possible to receive a financial reward for transferring your current account, with <a target="_blank" href="http://www.firstdirect.com/1st-account/"><b>First Direct</b></a> and <a target="_blank" href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Includer/6541/EMLNL165_INT_290909_MNET_savng_Alliance_Leicester_PremCurr_cpa_art"><b>Alliance & Leicester</b></a> both currently offering a cash sum of £100 if you switch.</li> </ul> <p><br /> <br /> So whilst there has been a general reluctance to switch current account, the financial benefits of picking the right account certainly make it worth some serious consideration. <br /> <br /> Remember if you can't be bothered to switch, it will be the banks profits that continue to benefit and that'll be at your expense! <br /> <br /> <a target="_blank" href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Banking-Saving/Current-Account/Results"><b>Click here</b></a> to find the top current account for you <br /> <br /> <a target="_blank" href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Banking-Saving/Current-Account/Results"><b>Compare current accounts >>></b></a></p> 438001570 438001570 Insurance 243 2009-09-29 1 Should I buy PMI? <p><strong>Despite the economic downturn, many people are still taking out Private Medical Insurance policies. Victoria Bischoff investigates whether PMI is a luxury we can’t afford or a valuable way to maintain peace of mind. <br /> </strong><br /> Now that the British recession is in full swing, most of us are feeling the pinch. As a result, many people are choosing to cut back or reduce essential insurance cover in an attempt to relieve the strain on their already stretched budgets. <br /> <br /> This can be a risky move. Without the right home, life or travel insurance policy in place, you could end up facing financial disaster if something unexpected were to happen. <br /> <br /> Yet, surprisingly, private medical insurance (PMI) seems to have fared well during the economic downturn. According to recent research by the Association of British Insurers (ABI), the number of people in the UK who are covered by <a href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Insurance/Private-Medical-Insurance/?ref=pmiEmail1109" target="_blank"><b>private medical insurance</b></a> has increased by 2.7% since 2007. <br /> <br /> So why has PMI remained so popular? <br /> <br /> <strong>The perks of PMI</strong> <br /> <br /> If you hold a PMI policy, you’ll have access to <a href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Insurance/Private-Medical-Insurance/?ref=pmiEmail1109" target="_blank"><b>private medical care</b></a> in the event you experience health problems. <br /> <br /> One of main reasons many people opt for PMI is to ensure they are able to leapfrog long NHS waiting lists. Although the Health Service recently met its 18 week waiting time target, a survey by Bupa showed that more than 80% of Britons still feel this is too long to wait for medical treatment. <br /> <br /> Swifter access to healthcare could mean you are back on your feet and fitter, faster. This is particularly important in the current economic climate; having to take weeks off work while you wait for treatment could leave you with a financial headache on top of any real-life aches and pains. <br /> <br /> However, Bupa’s research reveals cleanliness is the key issue that motivates many people to opt for private medical care. With ‘superbugs’, viruses and infections like MRSA never far from the front pages, it seems people are panicking about the standard of hygiene in British hospitals. <br /> <br /> PMI also has other, perhaps more luxurious, benefits - include having a say in which hospital you are treated at and which specialists you see. In addition, private patients are often housed in private rooms rather than on wards. <br /> <br /> Perhaps of equal importance, though, is the perception that private hospital food might be tastier than NHS grub. (On my latest NHS hospital excursion, I ended up having to crack into my Yorkshire pudding by hand because my knife failed to pierce its rock hard surface!) <br /> <br /> <strong>The pitfalls of PMI </strong><br /> <br /> However, it is worth noting that PMI policies do not offer unlimited benefits. There are many rules – usually called exclusions – that often prevent customers from claiming for certain treatments. <br /> <br /> For example, PMI will not usually offer you cover for emergency treatment, long-term illnesses, pre-existing conditions or incurable illnesses. Other common exclusions include medical conditions arising from alcoholism or drug abuse, complications arising from cosmetic surgery and mental illnesses. <br /> <br /> Always check the terms and conditions of your PMI policy before signing on the dotted line. The benefits you’re eligible to claim will vary enormously depending on the type of cover you have chosen. <br /> <br /> If you're considering taking our a PMI policy, <a href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Insurance/Private-Medical-Insurance/?ref=pmiEmail1109" target="_blank"><b>BeatThatQuote.com's insurance service</b></a> could help; you'll be put in touch with a Financial Services Authority-regulated consultant who'll be able to advise you on the type of cover that will suit you best. <br /> <br /> Finally, remember that even if you do go private, the standard of actual medical care you receive will not necessarily be better than that you would have access to through the National Health Service – even though you will probably be treated faster and in more comfortable surroundings. <br /> <br /> <strong>Four steps to help reduce PMI premiums</strong> <br /> <br /> <strong>1. Check with your employer.</strong> Before you take out an individual PMI policy, check to see whether you are covered by a company scheme. More and more employers seem keen to take some responsibility for their employees’ health and wellbeing. If your employer doesn’t have a scheme, it is worth checking to see if you can be included under your partner’s company policy. <br /> <br /> <strong>2. Lower the risk.</strong> All insurance premiums are calculated based on risk. Therefore, to lower the price of your premium you need to reduce the likelihood you will need to claim on your insurance policy. If you are overweight or a smoker, you are likely to have to pay more for your cover – so if you have recently dropped a few dress sizes or gave up smoking a minimum of 12 months ago, now could be a good time to compare PMI policies. <br /> <br /> <strong>3. Limit your options. </strong>Often, <a href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Private-Medical-Insurance/?ref=BTQpmiEmail0909" target="_blank"><b>PMI premiums cost less</b></a> if you limit the type of treatment covered by your policy. For example, you could restrict the choice of hospitals that you can be treated at or place time and cash limits on your treatment. <br /> <br /> <strong>4. Shop around.</strong> One of the best ways to find the cheapest deal is to shop around using a price comparison website, comparing quotes from a range of companies. As you compare, remember to check the types of cover on offer from each provider and look at what is excluded. The more comprehensive your cover is, the more you will probably have to pay. <br /> <br /> <strong>Paying for peace of mind</strong> <br /> <br /> It appears many people would prefer to make cutbacks elsewhere than lose the peace of mind they get from having a <a href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Private-Medical-Insurance/?ref=BTQpmiEmail0909" target="_blank"><b>PMI policy</b></a> in place. I can certainly see the appeal of knowing medical treatment could be available at short notice, should I ever need it. <br /> <br /> Furthermore, if you’re used to having PMI, it can be a difficult benefit to give up – especially if you’ve had a bad experience with the NHS in the past. <br /> <br /> In today’s troubled times, PMI might be considered a luxury. However, if you can afford it, you may believe it is a luxury worth paying for.</p> 438001569 438001569 Loans 238 2009-09-23 164 Picking the right savings account <p><img height="225" alt="Picking the right savings account" width="180" align="left" border="0" style="margin-right: 10px" src="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/_global/images/newsletter/ArticleImage_230909.jpg" /> It's not surprising that many people are confused when it comes to choosing a savings account. Banks and building societies offer a vast range of products with different interest rates and with a mind boggling list of options and terms and conditions. <br /> <br /> So where do you start? <br /> <br /> Well it's probably easier if you understand the ideal savings scenario and then gradually try to aim towards it. It's important to have some of your cash in an easy access account for emergencies. You also should look to take advantage of your annual tax free savings allowance, so it may be that you initially keep your emergency fund in an instant access ISA and kill two birds with one stone.<br /> <br /> <a target="_blank" href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Banking-Saving/Instant-Access-Account"><b>Compare easy access savings</b></a> <br /> <br /> Once you've got a reasonable sum in your easy access account it's time to look at longer term saving with fixed rate bonds. Unfortunately some people assume a fixed rate bond is some sort of complex equity based investment as opposed to a simple savings account. Because you don't have access to your cash for the term of the bond (anything from 6 months to 5 years) the provider compensates you with a higher rate of interest than you'd receive on an easy access savings account. <br /> <br /> So the ideal situation is to have a savings portfolio consisting of an emergency fund (low rate of interest but easily accessible), some tax free savings in a variable or fixed rate ISA (tax efficient) and some longer term savings where your funds are tied up but where you receive a higher return. <br /> <br /> <a target="_blank" href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Banking-Saving/Term-Fixed-Rate-Deposits"><b>Compare fixed rate savings bonds</b></a> <br /> <br /> If you're starting to save for the first time, whether it's for something specific or just to start to get some money behind you, it's important to get into the habit of saving on a regular basis. If you set up a standing order to transfer money to your account every week or month as soon as you get paid, it gives you the discipline to save regularly and removes the temptation to fritter your cash away. <br /> <br /> There are a couple of options for your regular savings - a cash ISA with instant access would normally be your first choice. However with the best instant access ISA rate currently at 2.65% tax free, you can get an almost identical return (after tax) with the standard internet savings account from Egg paying 3.25%. <br /> <br /> You can obtain a far higher rate with Regular Saver accounts which are offered by a handful of providers, but beware, they come with some pretty strict terms and conditions. For example Halifax is currently paying an attractive 5% rate but you must make a single monthly payment of between £25 and £500 every month for 12 months and you are not allowed to withdraw any of your money during the year. <br /> <br /> If you fail to stick to these conditions the rate drops to a derisory 0.25%, so don't opt for this type of account unless you're absolutely sure you can stick to the rules for the full duration. <br /> <br /> <a target="_blank" href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Banking-Saving/Regular-Savings-Account"><b>Compare regular savings accounts</b></a> <br /> <br /> If you've already accumulated a reasonable savings pot and you're now looking to put some of this into a fixed rate bond, you're faced with more choices and more decisions to make. Interest rates on fixed rate bonds have picked up quite nicely since the low point seen in March 2009, however the biggest decision for most people is how long to invest their money for. <br /> <br /> At the moment you can get a rate up to 3.85% for 1 year, 4.40% for 2 years, 4.70% for 3 years, 5.15% for 4 years and 5.40% for 5 years. <br /> <br /> The temptation would be to opt for the highest rate although this means no access to your money for a full five years. With base rate still at a record low of 0.50% it is likely that rates will start to rise again, the only thing we don't know is quite when and how quickly they will increase. The rates on offer for two or three years look quite attractive at present and although you can currently bag an extra 0.75% for a five year fix, that decision may come back to haunt you if rates were to rise by say 1 or 2 percent in a couple of years from now. <br /> <br /> <a target="_blank" href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Banking-Saving"><b>Compare Savings Accounts >>></b></a></p> 438001570 438001570 Insurance 235 2009-09-09 162 Five simple ways to get more interest on your savings <p><img border="1" hspace="5" alt="Get more interest on your savings" align="left" src="/_global/images/newsletter/growing.jpg" /></p> <p><font size="2" face="Verdana"><font size="2" face="Verdana">Savings rates may have taken a hammering over the last year or so, but there are some easy steps you can take to ensure you get the best return on your hard earned cash.<br /> <br /> With base rate at a record low of 0.5% there are many savings accounts now offering a rate close to zero. <br /> <br /> However, don't despair, there are still ways to bring your savings return back up to a more rewarding level. Here are just a few ideas to get you started: <br /> <br /> <b>1. Current accounts that pay interest on credit balances</b><br /> <br /> Interest bearing current accounts can offer a good rate, but just be aware that most impose a limit on how much of your savings are eligible for interest; this is typically about £2,500. <br /> <br /> </font><a target="_blank" href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Includer/6501/EMLNL162_INT_090909_MNET_savng_Prem21Account_cpa_art"><font size="2" face="Verdana">Alliance & Leicester's Premier 21 account</font></a><font size="2" face="Verdana"> offers in-credit interest of 5% on the first £1,000, while its </font><a target="_blank" href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/includer/2251/EMLNL162_INT_090909_MNET_savng_Alliance_Leicester_PremDirect_cpa_art"><font size="2" face="Verdana">Premier Direct current account</font></a><font size="2" face="Verdana"> offers the same rate but on the first £2,500. <br /> <br /> The </font><a target="_blank" href="http://www.abbey.com/csgs/Satellite?appID=abbey.internet.Abbeycom&c=Page&canal=CABBEYCOM&cid=1237835058201&empr=Abbeycom&leng=en_GB&pagename=Abbeycom%2FPage%2FWC_ACOM_TemplateW2"><font size="2" face="Verdana">'credit option' current account from Abbey</font></a><font size="2" face="Verdana"> also pays 5% on the first £2,500 for the first 12 months. <br /> <br /> Halifax gives you the chance to get something back from your current account in a slightly different way. Their </font><a target="_blank" href="http://www.halifax.co.uk/bankaccounts/reward-current-account.asp"><font size="2" face="Verdana">Reward Current Account</font></a><font size="2" face="Verdana"> gives you a net payment of £5 per month regardless of the balance, as long as at least £1,000 is paid in each month. On £1,000, this equates to a savings rate of 7.5%, so well worth a look. <br /> <br /> </font><strong><a href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Banking-Saving/Current-Account/Results"><font size="2" face="Verdana">Compare current accounts>>></font><br /> </a></strong><br /> <b>2. Regular saver accounts</b><br /> <br /> There are some great deals among 'regular saver' accounts at the moment that could see you earn the best savings rates on the market. The top rate currently comes courtesy of the Buckinghamshire Building Society Chiltern Gold Mine account which pays a whopping 6.25% fixed for 12 months. The Halifax and NatWest Regular Saver accounts both pay a very creditable 5%.<br /> <br /> Just bear in mind that you must make a payment into the account every month, usually between £25 and £250, and no withdrawals are permitted, but they are a great option if you're looking to build your first savings pot.<br /> <br /> <strong><a href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Banking-Saving/Regular-Savings-Account">Compare regular savings accounts>>></a></strong><br /> <br /> <b>3. Zopa</b><br /> <br /> The days of earning 7% from UK banks and building societies are long gone. The closest you are likely to get to this now is via online lending website <a target="_blank" href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/includer/6793/EMLNL162_INT_090909_MNET_ploan_Zopa_CPA_art">Zopa</a>. The site is currently offering eye watering savings rates of up to 8.1%. <br /> <br /> Although this is considered a lending site, it is one where members of the public lend money to one another, so the lender receives the loan rate, minus charges, as an effective savings rate. <br /> <br /> As the loan rates on the site range from 9.8% to 14.1%, depending on the quality of the borrower's credit file, the average rate paid to lenders is around 8.1%. <br /> <br /> With Zopa there is no savings protection that you would normally receive via the Financial Services Compensation Scheme. However, your risks are not tied to one borrower because the money you lend is spread over many individuals, so the chances of losing all your money are very slim. Zopa operates a rigorous credit score process and to date has seen very low default rates, but your return is not guaranteed so you need to bear this in mind.<br /> <br /> <b>4. Consider an offset mortgage</b><br /> <br /> This is a great way of saving money, particularly in the current environment when savings rates have been decimated but mortgage rates remain comparatively high. <br /> <br /> Offset mortgages work by offsetting your savings against your outstanding mortgage, which means that you only have to pay interest on the net balance. For example, if you have a £160,000 mortgage and £50,000 savings, then in return for not receiving interest on the savings you will only pay interest on £110,000 of your mortgage.<br /> <br /> Your savings may have only been earning a rate of 1%, but you may be paying 5% on your mortgage borrowing. While you will lose the 1% return you would have got on your savings, you will gain substantially more than this by not paying 5% interest on that £50,000 of your mortgage. <br /> <br /> This will either reduce monthly payments, or you can keep the same level of payments and clear your mortgage much earlier. Offsetting is also tax efficient as while you would pay tax on your savings income, there is no tax charged on the equivalent saving you are making on your mortgage.<br /> <br /> The beauty of an offset mortgage arrangement is that your savings are still accessible if you need them, if you withdraw them then the level of your mortgage liable for interest will simply increase. <br /> <br /> <strong><a href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Mortgages">Compare mortgages>>></a></strong><br /> <a href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Mortgages/Search"><strong>Speak to a mortgage advisor>>></strong></a><br /> <br /> <b>5. Make use of your tax free savings allowance</b><br /> <br /> It's not often the government gives you something for nothing, that's why you should try to make the most of your annual ISA allowance where you can save up to £7,200 tax free.<br /> <br /> At present you can save up to half of your allowance (£3,600) in a Cash ISA - just like an ordinary savings account (either variable or fixed rate) except there is no tax deducted from the interest you earn.<br /> <br /> From 6th October the annual ISA allowance increases to £10,200 with a maximum of £5,100 in cash for anyone who will be aged 50 or over on or before 5th April 2010.<br /> <br /> You can search for the best cash ISA accounts <a href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Banking-Saving/ISA-Account">here</a>. However if you are a more serious investor and are considering investing your ISA allowance in the stock market, then we have some free useful guides for you <a href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/includer/6846/EMLNL162_INT_090909_MNET_savng_DianomiISA_cpa_art">here</a>.<br /> <br /> Whatever you're looking to do with your nest egg, check out the <a href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Banking-Saving">best savings accounts</a> at moneynet today and ensure your money is working as hard as it can. <br /> <br /> </font><strong><font size="2" face="Verdana"><a href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Banking-Saving">Compare savings accounts>>></a></font></strong></p> 438001570 438001570 Insurance 233 2009-09-02 161 Life insurance costs are tumbling - check you're not paying over the odds <p><img height="225" alt="Life insurance costs are tumbling - check you're not paying over the odds" width="180" align="left" border="0" style="margin-right: 10px" src="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/_global/images/newsletter/ArticleImage_020909.gif" /> The cost of life insurance has fallen by nearly 30 per cent over the last ten years and in real terms is the cheapest it's ever been according to independent research earlier this year. If you have life insurance already, you may be able to reduce your premiums just by switching provider.<br /> <br /> It may be a bit of a depressing topic but for many of us life cover is absolutely vital. But the good news is, if you're smart it doesn't have to cost a fortune.<br /> <br /> Most of us try to find the cheapest car insurance, the cheapest gas and electricity and the best rates for our savings, so why not make the same effort with your life insurance and see if you can get a better deal here too.<br /> <br /> Take a couple of minutes to see if Moneynet can save you some money on your life cover, if you haven't reviewed it for a few years, you may be pleasantly surprised - check out <a target="_blank" href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Insurance/Life-Assurance"><b>http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Insurance/Life-Assurance</b></a><br /> <br /> While we're on the topic of life insurance, here are a few hints and tips to help you pay less for the cover you need.<br /> <br /> <b>1. Check if it's possible to get a different type of cover at a lower cost</b><br /> <br /> The type of life policy you decide to choose will have a big impact on the size of your monthly premiums. The most common type of life cover is called level term assurance, which pays out a fixed lump sum if you die at any time during the policy term.<br /> <br /> However, it's possible to reduce your premiums just by switching to a different type of policy.<br /> <br /> One option is to take out decreasing term assurance. This is often used to cover your outstanding repayment mortgage; it's cheaper because the amount of cover this policy offers reduces every month in line with your reducing mortgage balance. Therefore because the insurer faces a lower potential payout, this is reflected in lower insurance premiums.<br /> <br /> <b>2. Consider buying separate policies</b><br /> <br /> Once you've made a decision as to which type of policy you need, consider whether your partner needs cover too. If you both need life cover don't be tempted to take the easy option and apply for a joint policy. Joint insurance plans work out only marginally cheaper than individual plans, but the big difference with most joint policies is that you can only claim once. Once a claim is made the policy and cover it offers comes to an end, a situation that leaves the surviving partner without any cover.<br /> <br /> If on the other hand you take out separate policies you will both be covered individually and you'll effectively have twice the amount of cover, in most cases for only a small additional cost.<br /> <br /> <b>3. Check what cover you already have</b><br /> <br /> It's important you don't waste money by taking out more insurance than you need. You may have other policies in force such as death in service as part of your remuneration package at work. When looking at your overall insurance requirements, make sure you take account of any existing benefits that your employer provides.<br /> <br /> <b>4. Get an up to date quote for your insurance</b><br /> <br /> So, now you know what type of policy to go for and how much cover to buy, but there's really only one way to guarantee you get good value for money: shop around. I know you've heard it all before, but getting an up to date quote to find the most competitive insurer really is very easy, just <a target="_blank" href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Insurance/Life-Assurance"><b>click here</b></a> and we'll do all the leg work for you and let you know the most competitive prices on offer.<br /> <br /> <b>5. Find a replacement for your existing policy</b><br /> <br /> You can switch your life insurance plan in much the same way as you would your bank account or credit card provider. However, because life cover is cheaper now than it has been for years, the chances are a new policy could cost you less.<br /> <br /> There are a few things to bear in mind before you switch your policy:<br /> <br /> • Check that you're not giving up any special benefits on the original plan which aren't included on the new policy. <br /> <br /> • To avoid having a period without any cover in place, don't cancel your existing policy until the new one is up and running. <br /> <br /> • If you're a lot older now than you were when you originally took out your policy, or your health has deteriorated, a new policy could prove to be a lot more expensive. If that's the case, you're probably best to stick with the policy you've got. <br /> <br /> <a target="_blank" href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Insurance/Life-Assurance"><b>Compare Life Insurance >>></b></a></p> 438001571 438001571 Mortgages 232 2009-08-26 160 Ten easy ways to cut the cost of your car insurance <p><img height="225" alt="Ten easy ways to cut the cost of your car insurance" width="180" align="left" border="0" style="margin-right: 20px" src="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/_global/images/newsletter/ArticleImg_260809.gif" /> With the new 59 car registrations due out next week, we thought it was a good time to share some of our tips with you on how to get a better price for your car insurance.<br /> <br /> <b>1. Review your existing cover</b> - many of us will shop around for a cheaper deal when we receive our renewal notice, but when was the last time you checked the details of the cover you are paying for? A lot of people won't have looked at their policy details for years even though their circumstances may have changed.<br /> <br /> For example, maybe you can <b>Reduce Your Annual Mileage,</b> not only will you be helping to save the planet but you'll be saving some money into the bargain. The higher your annual mileage the more chance you have of an accident and therefore the higher your premiums. Perhaps you've changed your job which means that your daily commute and therefore your annual mileage is now lower than you're insured for.<br /> <br /> Another area that increases the cost of your cover is if you have <b>Additional Named Drivers</b> on your policy. Just check to see who is named on your policy and consider if they really need to be included on your insurance any more.<br /> <br /> <b>2. Select a Higher Excess</b> - The excess on a policy is the amount that the insurance company will deduct from any claim you make. For example, if you make a claim for £500 and there is an excess of £50 the insurance company will pay out only £450 leaving you to pay the rest. Excesses usually vary between nil and £400 and the higher the excess, the cheaper your premium will be. When you get your quote ask for a range of prices with different excesses and see how much you can reduce your premium. But just bear in mind, the higher the excess the more you will have to contribute to any claim.<br /> <br /> <b>3. Don't Pay By Instalments</b> - There are usually added costs if you choose to pay your premium by monthly instalments. If you can afford it, reduce your premium by paying the annual cost up front.<br /> <br /> <b>4. Build up Your No-Claims Discount</b> - One of the best ways to reduce your premium is to drive carefully and avoid accidents. In this way you will build up your no-claims discount and reduce the premium payable. You can usually start building up your no-claims discount after one year of claim-free driving. After one year you could expect a reduction in your premium of 25-30%, building to a maximum of around 70% after 5-6 claim-free years, although the exact amount of discount and terms will vary from insurer to insurer.<br /> <br /> <b>5. Avoid Penalty Points on Your Licence</b> - Driving carefully has another bonus - you will avoid points on your license for speeding or other offences such as careless driving. Driving within the law will help you avoid the fines that the courts impose. But it's not just the fines that will hurt your pocket; picking up penalty points can also significantly increase the cost of your insurance premium. Don't give your insurance company any excuse to load your premiums.<br /> <br /> <b>6. Choose a Car With a Low Insurance Group</b> - All cars are rated and grouped by insurance companies in order to determine the insurance premium charged. Groups go from one for the lowest price insurance right up to twenty for the most expensive. You can check which group your car falls into at <a target="_blank" href="http://www.parkers.co.uk/insurance"><b>http://www.parkers.co.uk/insurance.</b></a> If you're happy with a car in a low insurance group you will definitely save money on your insurance and in many cases you'll also benefit from cheaper car tax and a lower fuel bill too.<br /> <br /> <b>7. Protect Your Vehicle</b> - By fitting approved alarms and/or immobilisers you not only protect your vehicle from thieves but you will also qualify for a discount from many insurance companies.<br /> <br /> <b>8. Consider Third Party Fire & Theft Insurance</b> - If your car is of low value you may find it more cost effective to opt for third party fire and theft insurance rather than fully comprehensive. Whilst this could leave you to pick up the bill for repairs to your own car if an accident is your fault the risk might be worth considering if the difference in premiums is great enough.<br /> <br /> <b>9. Think About Where You Park Your Vehicle Overnight</b> - If you can get your car off the road and onto a driveway or tuck it away in a garage overnight you could be eligible for a reduced premium. But, don't be tempted to lie about it because the insurance company will refuse to pay out if the car is stolen and you can't prove where it was parked.<br /> <br /> <b>10. Shop Around For Cover</b> - Always shop around for your cover as premiums vary considerably. Never accept the renewal quote offered by your existing insurer without comparing with other providers - loyalty rarely pays when it comes to choosing insurance or other financial products.<br /> <br /> There are currently some great deals on offer from the likes of <a target="_blank" href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Includer/6822/EMLNL160_INT_260809_MNET_insur_Swiftcover2_CPC_art"><b>Swiftcover</b></a> who certainly live up to their name by offering the quickest and simplest quote system in the market.<br /> <br /> <a target="_blank" href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Insurance/Motor-Insurance"><b>Compare Motor Insurance >>></b></a></p> 438001569 438001569 Loans 231 2009-08-18 159 Moneynet top tips on Home Insurance <p><img height="225" alt="Moneynet top tips on Home Insurance" width="180" align="left" border="0" style="margin-right: 20px" src="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/_global/images/misc/toy-houses.gif" /> Here are some invaluable hints and tips to help you cut the cost of your home and contents insurance. <br /> <br /> <b>1. Don't pay twice for your cover</b> <br /> <br /> Many people have personal possessions such as mobile phones; cameras and jewellery covered on a household insurance policy so don't pay again for it to be covered on your travel insurance policy. Home insurance plans typically offer more comprehensive cover for such items and are likely to charge less. Travel insurance may only pay out a maximum limit of £200 for these possessions if they are lost, stolen or damaged. Most contents insurance policies will also provide cover for broken glass in furniture; so don't pay twice by buying the policies that furniture companies may try to sell you at the time of purchase. <br /> <br /> <b>2. Shop Around</b> <br /> <br /> Half an hour on the Internet could save you hundreds of pounds. Obtain an instant quote via <a target="_blank" href="https://uk-moneynet.insurancewide.com/insurance/home/quote/?dsk=moneynet&sdsk=default"><b>the moneynet home insurance page</b></a> and see how it stacks up against your current insurance deal. <br /> <br /> <b>3. Opt for a higher excess</b> <br /> <br /> If you can afford it consider paying a higher excess on your policy, so rather than paying the first £50 of any claim, consider paying the first £100 or £150. This can significantly reduce the monthly cost of your home insurance, although it does mean you will have to pay more when you do claim so don't opt for more than you can reasonably afford. It could be an effective way for you to save money. <br /> <br /> <b>4. Pay small claims yourself</b> <br /> <br /> If you claim on your household insurance, premiums are likely to increase the following year. So pay all minor claims you can afford yourself, this is likely to save you money in the long run. Many home insurers offer a no claim discount if you have a claim free history. The discount will usually increase in line with the number of claim free years. <br /> <br /> <b>5. Improve your security to benefit from insurance discounts</b> <br /> <br /> Consider improving the security of your home. Many home insurance companies will offer a discount if:</p> <ul> <li>You are an active member of a registered Neighbourhood Watch scheme.<br />  </li> <li>A burglar alarm is installed. Note that many home insurance companies will only offer a discount if the alarm is installed by a contractor approved by the National Approval Council for Security Systems (NACOSS). In addition, some home insurance companies may require you to have a maintenance contract with a company registered with the National Approval Council for Security Systems. <br />  </li> <li>Smoke alarms are installed. <br />  </li> <li>All windows have key operated locks. <br />  </li> <li>All exit doors are fitted with a British standard approved lock.</li> </ul> <p><br /> <br /> <b>6. Buy your cover online</b> <br /> <br /> If you buy your home insurance online many insurers will offer you a discount of up to 20% or 30%. <br /> <br /> <b>7. Purchase both buildings and contents insurance together</b> <br /> <br /> Purchase both buildings and contents insurance at the same time and most insurers will provide an additional discount. Just to prove that the last two tips are true, check out this current home insurance offer from <a target="_blank" href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Includer/4161/EMLNL159_INT_180809_MNET_insur_NationwideHomeCJ_cpa_art"><b>Nationwide Building Society.</b></a> Not only do you get a massive 25% discount for buying both home and contents cover, you also get an extra 5% for buying online, plus there are no extra charges for paying your premium monthly. Just <a target="_blank" href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Includer/4161/EMLNL159_INT_180809_MNET_insur_NationwideHomeCJ_cpa_art"><b>click here</b></a> to find out more. <br /> <br /> <b>8. Pay your premium in a single annual payment</b> <br /> <br /> If you can afford to pay your home insurance premium in a single payment you'll save money. Many insurers charge a hefty interest rate on a home insurance policy if you decide to pay monthly. <br /> <br /> <b>9. Consider renting a safety deposit box</b> <br /> <br /> While none of us like the idea of keeping our most prized possessions safely locked away in a safety deposit box, if you have one or two very valuable personal items, you may well find it cheaper to keep these in a safety deposit box and only bring them out on special occasions rather than pay an expensive insurance premium to keep them on-hand all the time. <br /> <br /> <b>10. Don't be shy, haggle for a better deal</b> <br /> <br /> The home insurance market is very competitive and companies are desperate to keep you as a customer. So don't be afraid to pick up the phone and try to haggle with your existing insurer, after all if they can beat or even match the best quote you've been offered online it saves the hassle of switching insurers. <br /> <br /> <b>11. Don't automatically take the cover offered by your lender</b> <br /> <br /> More than half of people taking their first step onto the property ladder and arranging insurance - almost 200,000 people each year -still automatically buy their cover through their mortgage lender, even though organising it that way can cost up to 30% more due to the massive commissions that lenders take on insurance sales. <br /> <br /> Some mortgage lenders make it difficult for people to break free from their policy, by forcing people to pay a penalty fee for switching their insurance to an alternative provider, however you will find that some insurance providers are happy to pay this fee on your behalf just to secure your business. <br /> <br /> Hopefully the hints and tips above will enable you to reduce your home insurance costs and put a bit more cash back into your pocket. <br /> <br /> <a target="_blank" href="https://uk-moneynet.insurancewide.com/insurance/home/quote/?dsk=moneynet&sdsk=default"><b>Compare Home Insurance>>></b></a> <br /> <br /> <b>How to survive university</b> <br /> <br /> With A level results out this week, we thought this short video guide on how to survive university would be really useful. The webcast is presented by TV finance expert Alvin Hall and it answers questions that many parents and students have raised as they prepare for life at college or university. <br /> <br />  </p> <a name="video"></a><embed src="http://watch.digitalnewsagency.com/dnaplayer.swf" width="367" height="207" allowfullscreen="true" allowscriptaccess="always" flashvars="file=video/200382lloyds5minfinal030809.flv&image=p_200261storypic.jpg&link=http://www.digitalnewsagency.com/story/view/3277-alvin-hall-lloyds-tsb-students-university-stud/all"></embed> 438001569 438001569 Loans 228 2009-08-12 158 Fixed rate savings bonds - rates are on the up <p><img height="225" alt="Fixed rate savings bonds - rates are on the up" width="180" align="left" border="0" style="margin-right: 20px" src="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/_global/images/newsletter/ArticleImg_120809.gif" /></p> <p>It was less than three months ago that we were getting excited to see interest rates starting to break the 4% barrier on fixed rate savings bonds.<br /> <br /> Well things have moved on quite nicely since then and we've now reached the stage where there are some accounts now paying well above 5% for longer term deposits.<br /> <br /> In the last couple of weeks here at Moneynet we've seen some of the banks and building societies battling it out to offer the best rates and attract much needed savings balances from the general public.<br /> <br /> This intense competition to offer the top rate is good news for savers as rates continue to edge upwards - here's hoping that the trend continues!<br /> <br /> So what is a fixed rate bond? - The word bond can be a bit confusing and some people assume that it is associated with investments in stocks and shares, but I can assure you that's not the case.<br /> <br /> A fixed rate bond is just a cash savings account where you receive a fixed rate of interest for the term of your investment. You will find that most bonds are for a term of between 1 and 5 years although there are also a few for 6 or 9 months if you look hard enough.<br /> <br /> Many of the fixed rate bonds currently on offer give you the option to receive your interest on a monthly basis, a great way to boost your income if you're finding it a struggle to make ends meet.<br /> <br /> Some of the best deals around at the moment are: <br /> <br /> At the shorter end of the scale, <a target="_blank" href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Includer/6835/EMLNL158_INT_120809_MNET_savng_WestBromwich_eBond_cpc_art"><b>West Bromwich Building Society</b></a> are paying a one year ‘best buy’ rate of 3.90% fixed from £5,000, closely followed by <a target="_blank" href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Includer/6834/EMLNL158_INT_120809_MNET_savng_PostOffice_GrowthBond_BTQ_cpa_art"><b>Post Office</b></a> at 3.85% fixed for a 12 month term with a minimum deposit of £500 required. <br /> <br /> By putting your savings away for an even longer term you will be rewarded with yet higher returns. For example <a target="_blank" href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Includer/6828/EMLNL158_INT_120809_MNET_savng_BarnsleyBS_cpc_art"><b>Barnsley Building Society</b></a> is paying 5.15% for 4 years and 5.40% for 5 years with a minimum opening balance of just £100 needed to open an account.<br /> <br /> You can find the full range of bonds currently available via the Moneynet banking and savings <a target="_blank" href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Banking-Saving/Term-Fixed-Rate-Deposits"><b>search here.</b></a><br /> <br /> <b>So what are the downsides of fixed rate bonds?</b><br /> <br /> Firstly you must be sure that you are able to tie your money up for the term of the bond, as in most cases there are no withdrawals permitted until it matures. It's always best to keep some of your savings in an <a target="_blank" href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Banking-Saving/Instant-Access-Account"><b>instant access account</b></a> for emergencies and then put the rest into a bond for a term that suits your circumstances.<br /> <br /> Another potential issue is knowing how long to tie your money up for. Whilst there are rates of 5.40% payable if you put your cash away for five years, rates may still increase further- but no one knows for sure what will happen a few months further down the line.<br /> <br /> The other thing to bear in mind with fixed rate bonds is that the same guarantee from the Financial Services Compensation Scheme of £50,000 per registered institution applies, so if you've got a larger sum, it may be worth spreading your money between providers if you're looking for absolute peace of mind.<br /> <br /> So whilst we've highlighted a couple of the minor potential downsides, when you realise that many instant access accounts are paying a miserly 0.1% and the very best barely managing 3%, then it's plain to see why fixed rate bonds are worth some serious consideration.<br /> <br /> If you can get double your rate of interest and are confident that you won't need to have access to your money for a year or more, then it certainly makes sense to make your money work harder with a fixed rate bond.<br /> <br /> By the way, if you're one of those with an instant access savings account that I mentioned that's paying you virtually nothing, you may be interested to learn that <a target="_blank" href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Includer/6792/EMLNL158_INT_120809_MNET_savng_SainsburysInternetSaver_cpa_art"><b>Sainsbury's Bank</b></a> is currently offering a cracking rate of 2.90% plus 1,000 free nectar points with its Internet Saver account if you apply before 22nd August - <a target="_blank" href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Includer/6792/EMLNL158_INT_120809_MNET_savng_SainsburysInternetSaver_cpa_art"><b>click here</b></a> to find out more.<br /> <br /> <a target="_blank" href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Banking-Saving/Term-Fixed-Rate-Deposits"><b>Compare Fixed Rate Bonds>>></b></a><br /> <a target="_blank" href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Banking-Saving/Instant-Access-Account"><b>Compare Instant Access Accounts>>></b></a><br /> <a target="_blank" href="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/Banking-Saving"><b>Compare all Savings Accounts>>></b></a></p> 438001570 438001570 Insurance 224 2009-07-21 155 Find the right finance deal for your new car <p><img height="225" alt="Find the right finance deal for your new car" width="180" align="left" border="0" style="margin-right: 10px" src="http://www.moneynet.co.uk/_global/images/newsletter/Article_Img_21July09.gif" /></p> <p>The new 59 registration cars will be appearing on our roads in a little over a month and with car dealerships struggling in the current economic downturn there will be some absolute bargains to be found.<br /> <br /> So if you're in the market for some new wheels, this could be the opportunity to pick up an excellent deal as garages up and down the country, offer massive discounts in an effort to shift some stock.<br /> <br /> The only minor downside will be that because new car prices are tumbling, it also means that any vehicle you are looking to trade in will be worth a little less too.<br /> <br /> However be careful not to pay over the odds for your finance in the rush to pick up your shiny new 'pride and joy'.<br /> <br /> The garage may offer you their own finance, so you need to be aware of the s