January 15th, 2026 | Andrew Hagger | News

Credit scores are often used by credit card providers and lenders to get a better idea of how people manage their money, and helps them decide whether to offer them credit and on what terms. Yet, for many people, what actually determines a good or bad credit score is an area clouded by confusion.

Newly released research from Capital One UK of the nation’s credit card holders found that, despite the fact that building their credit score was respondents’ main reason for taking out their first credit card (cited by 32% of them), confusion was rife when they were asked to identify the key factors that can affect their score.

In the past week, searches for “how to boost credit score” have surged by 156%2, so it’s clear that many people have improving their credit score as one of their New Year’s resolutions.

44% of credit card holders think their income affects their credit score

The number one misconception in Capital One UK’s survey was around income3, with 44% of respondents believing that their salary affects their credit score. However, as income is not listed on credit reports, it does not affect credit scores. While lenders will often ask for information about people’s income on applications for credit, this is part of an entirely separate ‘affordability check’.

The second most common misconception, cited by almost a third (31%) of respondents, was that using an eligibility checker for a credit card would damage their credit score. However, most eligibility checkers (like Capital One UK’s QuickCheck tool) use a soft search that doesn’t show up on people’s credit reports and therefore doesn’t affect their score.

When it comes to factors that can affect credit scores4, the answer that credit card holders were most familiar with was making payments on existing credit, cited by almost two-thirds (63%) of respondents. This was followed by more than half (55%) correctly identifying credit limit usage as something that can have an impact on their credit score.

One topic which split respondents was the impact that Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) accounts have on credit scores – with just under half (49%) believing that BNPL might influence their credit score. As BNPL is simply another form of credit, making regular, on-time payments can positively affect credit scores, while missing payments can have a negative impact.

Around a third (31%) of credit card holders are actively trying to improve their score, rising to 58% of 18-44 year olds

Of those surveyed by Capital One UK, 31% said they were actively trying to improve their credit score, and 75% said they were confident they knew how to do so. These figures were both highest among younger adults, with 58% of 18-44 year olds actively working to improve their scores and 87% saying they were confident they knew how to do so.

However, Capital One UK’s research shows that, despite these higher levels of confidence and interest in improving their credit scores, these younger respondents seemed less able on average to correctly identify the factors that influence them, with some notable drops in awareness.

Just over half (51%) of 18-44 year olds correctly identified that making payments on existing credit can affect their score, down from 63% of respondents overall, while only 43% of them were aware that opening a new credit or debit account can affect their credit score, down from more than half (53%) overall. Similarly, only 41% of respondents aged 18-44 were aware that being on the electoral roll can influence their credit score, down from more than half (52%) overall.

For an age group that’s more focused than average at building their credit scores, joining the electoral roll can be a relatively simple way to boost your score. It helps lenders to verify your identity which helps them to approve credit applications more quickly.

A spokesperson from Capital One UK said: “We want to help people succeed with credit and our findings suggest there’s more to be done to help people understand how credit scoring really works.

“Building a good credit score needn’t be confusing nor complicated. Start by checking your credit score so you know where you stand, make sure the information on your credit report is accurate and then show lenders you can manage money responsibly by making regular, reliable payments. The New Year is a great time to set financial goals for the year ahead, so follow these quick tips to start the year on a strong financial footing.”

Three top tips to improve your credit score

With the survey results highlighting widespread confusion around credit scores and how to improve them, Capital One UK has shared three top tips for anyone hoping to get on the right track.

1. Check your credit score and monitor it regularly

In order to improve your credit score, you need to know where you stand. Capital One UK’s free tool, CreditWise, provides a quick and easy way to check your credit score and report. Your score will help you understand how lenders see you and your report will give you an idea of what you need to change. Through regular monitoring, you’ll be able to track your progress and understand how your financial decisions affect your score.

2. Fix any errors on your credit report

Errors on your credit report aren’t unheard of, and even a small error like a typo in your address could be enough to damage your score and reduce your credit options. If you spot a mistake when checking your report, simply ask the credit reference agency to fix it. If you’re regularly checking your report, you can make sure it’s error-free and that lenders have an accurate picture of your financial health.

3. Always pay at least the minimum monthly payment

If you’ve taken out a credit card, you’ll need to repay at least the minimum monthly payment each month to avoid a fee and start building your credit score. If you miss a payment you could damage your credit score, so setting up a monthly Direct Debit is a good idea to stay on top of your repayment. It’s a good idea to pay your balance in full each month if you can, so you can avoid paying interest on what you owe.

January 14th, 2026 | Andrew Hagger | News

A new Multitrip.com survey shows people are determined to make the most of their time off this year, with 53% already planning to enjoy three or more holidays in 2026. Despite the rising cost of living, the study, which is based on feedback from more than 2,500 respondents in the UK and Ireland, reveals a strong intention to adapt and keep travel on the agenda.

When asked if the cost-of-living crisis had affected their travel plans for 2026, 65% of people said it had. However,

• 38% say they will spend about the same as in 2025, while 22% are ready to treat themselves by spending even more than last year.
• 35% say their travel plans are not affected at all by the cost-of-living crisis.

Where adjustments are being made, most people are finding flexible solutions:

• 44% will take fewer holidays,
• 17% will opt for shorter breaks, and
• 7% will choose destinations closer to home.
• Just 2%, plan to skip holidays this year.

When it comes to the holidays being planned for 2026:

• Mainland Spain (16%) and the Canaries (14%) remain the most popular destinations
• September (33%) has retained the top spot as the most common month for travel, followed by May (27%) and June (26%).

Christian Bennett at Multitrip.com said: “From solo escapes and multigenerational breaks to learning new skills, the holidays people are taking are more varied and experience-driven than ever, and accidents can happen. Making sure you have the right insurance in place as soon as you book your holiday, allows you to relax and look forward to your well-earned break, as well as being able to switch off whilst you are away. We offer a range of policy types and optional add-ons to suit holidaymakers’ travel needs.”

For those taking more than one holiday, an annual travel insurance policy offers good value. Multitrip.com’s annual policies offer three levels of cover with optional add-ons, allowing travellers to tailor their policy to suit their needs.

“Family policies can also be a convenient and cost-effective option. For example, Multitrip.com’s covers two adults and two dependent children, providing coverage for family trips as well as individual travel plans throughout the year. This means any parent travelling with friends or on a solo escape, would also be covered independently,” said Bennett.

January 12th, 2026 | Andrew Hagger | News

Purchasing a car is one of the most important financial commitments most households make, yet simple strategic choices can save thousands of pounds without compromising on quality or reliability. With UK motorists facing persistent cost-of-living pressures, understanding where genuine savings exist, instead of chasing superficial discounts, makes the difference between a smart purchase and an expensive mistake.

1. Choosing the Right Type of Car for Your Budget

The smartest savings begin before you ever visit a showroom: matching your actual needs against aspirational wants. According to Zutobi’s 2024 depreciation analysis, UK cars experience an average 38.72% depreciation over three years, meaning a £30,000 new vehicle loses over £11,600 in value before you’ve finished paying it off. This loss makes used cars far more attractive, as someone else absorbs that initial depreciation hit whilst you acquire a perfectly reliable vehicle at substantially reduced cost. A three-year-old model typically gives you modern safety features, remaining manufacturer warranty coverage, and 40-60% lower pricing than showroom equivalents. Focus on practical considerations, such as daily mileage requirements, passenger capacity, and actual boot space needs, instead of lifestyle aspirations that cost thousands extra yet deliver minimal real-world benefit.

1. Timing Your Purchase to Maximise Savings

Seasonal patterns create predictable opportunities for savvy buyers. Registration plate changes in March and September generate intense pressure on dealers to meet quarterly targets, making these months prime negotiating periods. As those plates age into October and April, respectively, dealerships often offer improved incentives to clear remaining stock before newer plates dominate buyer interest. Additionally, December traditionally sees slower footfall as consumers focus on Christmas spending, prompting dealers to discount aggressively to achieve year-end targets. Current economic conditions amplify these patterns with higher interest rates that have softened demand throughout 2024-2025, giving buyers increased leverage when negotiating. Monitor manufacturer incentive schemes and dealer special offers, which frequently coincide with these natural sales lulls.

1. Cutting Finance and Ownership Costs

Finance arrangements are another area where substantial savings hide in plain sight. Average UK car finance payment reached £244 monthly in 2025, but shopping between lenders can reduce this considerably. Compare APRs meticulously because a seemingly modest 2% difference compounds over a four-year agreement. Understand product structures: Personal Contract Purchase (PCP) offers lower monthly payments but includes a substantial balloon payment, potentially trapping you in perpetual finance cycles. Hire Purchase costs more monthly but builds equity faster. If cash purchasing proves feasible, you eliminate interest entirely whilst gaining a stronger negotiating position on vehicle price.

1. Reducing Running Costs from Day One

Purchase price is just the beginning of ownership costs. Insurance group ratings, fuel efficiency, road tax bands, and predicted maintenance expenses all impact long-term affordability. Vehicles in lower insurance groups (1-20 rather than 30-50) can save £300-£500 annually on premiums. Fuel-efficient models delivering 50+ mpg versus 35 mpg save approximately £600 yearly for average mileage. Consider Clean Air Zone compliance since non-compliant vehicles face daily charges in cities like London, Birmingham, and Manchester, adding £12.50-£15 per entry.

Smart car buying is about directing spending toward value and not vanity, guaranteeing that your vehicle serves you economically for years instead of becoming a financial burden from day one.

January 9th, 2026 | Andrew Hagger | News

• 23% will work extra hours
• 21% will use credit cards
• 18% will sell belongings
• 6% will ask family or friends for help
• 5% will take out emergency loans
• 5% will seek debt advice

January 8th, 2026 | Andrew Hagger | News

As we enter a new year, many people are thinking about how to feel more in control of their money.

Financial New Year’s Resolutions can focus on small, manageable changes that can make a meaningful difference to financial confidence and stability in 2026.

Here, Sophie Graham, a Personal Finance Expert at Sunny, shares 10 money resolutions to try this year.

10 Money Resolutions For 2026

Sophie Graham, a Personal Finance Expert at Sunny, says: “January often brings a fresh focus on money, but meaningful change usually comes from simple habits rather than big overhauls. Setting realistic goals and making small adjustments can help build confidence, reduce stress and create healthier financial routines that last well beyond the new year.”

1. Start the year with a clear view of your finances

“Taking a moment to look over your income, spending and existing commitments can be surprisingly powerful. Knowing what comes in and what goes out each month helps highlight where small changes might be possible. It also makes it easier to avoid unwelcome surprises later on. Beginning the year with clarity sets the tone for calmer, more confident money decisions.”

2. Build a realistic monthly budget and keep it flexible

“A budget is far more useful when it reflects real life rather than perfection. Allowing for treats and occasional overspending makes it easier to stick to your budget. Checking in regularly helps ensure it still works as circumstances change. A flexible budget supports better habits without feeling restrictive.”

3. Strengthen an emergency fund, little by little

“Unexpected costs are part of life, whether it’s a household repair or an unplanned bill. Adding small, regular amounts to an emergency fund can soon build into something reassuring. This buffer reduces the need to rely on credit when things go wrong. Even little progress can bring a real sense of security.”

4. Tackle high-interest debt with a clear plan

“High-interest debt can quietly hold you back if it’s left on autopilot. Paying off the debts with the highest interest first means more of your money goes towards reducing what you owe. Even small extra payments can make a noticeable difference over time. Having a clear plan in place makes progress feel more achievable and motivating.”

5. Review subscriptions and recurring payments

“It’s easy for subscriptions and memberships to fade into the background, even when they’re no longer being used. A regular review can free up money without affecting day-to-day life. Cancelling just one or two unused services can reduce monthly outgoings instantly. These small savings often add up over the year.”

This is especially the case for business or investment fees, such as property management service fees. This is because many work on a percentage basis. However, organisations offering flat fee property management services are usually much better value. Particularly when your property is of a higher value, saving you a significant amount of money.

6. Plan ahead for upcoming plans and events

“If you know you’d like to go on holiday this year, or have events such as a wedding or big birthday coming up, planning ahead can make a real difference. Setting aside money in advance helps spread the cost and avoids last-minute stress. Even small, regular amounts can make larger expenses feel far more manageable. Thinking ahead allows you to enjoy these moments without worrying about the impact on your finances.”

7. Be more intentional with everyday spending

“Small, frequent purchases such as takeaways, coffees or impulse buys can quietly add up. Taking a moment to decide which of these genuinely adds value makes spending feel more deliberate. Planning ahead for meals or setting simple limits can help reduce waste without feeling restrictive. Being intentional with spending supports better habits and frees up money for what matters most.”

8. Automate savings where possible

“Setting up automatic transfers to savings can remove the need to remember each month. Saving becomes part of your routine rather than a decision you have to revisit. Even small automated amounts can build steadily over time. Automation helps turn good intentions into consistent progress.”

9. Set a clear savings goal for the year

“Saving feels more motivating when there’s a clear reason behind it. Whether it’s a holiday, home improvements or longer-term security, a defined goal gives direction. Tracking progress helps keep momentum going. Purposeful saving turns good intentions into visible results.”

10. Check in on progress before the year ends

“Money goals don’t have to wait until December to be reviewed. A mid-year or autumn check-in allows time to adjust plans if circumstances change. Recognising progress, even small wins, helps reinforce positive habits. Regular reflection keeps financial resolutions realistic and relevant throughout 2026.”

January 8th, 2026 | Andrew Hagger | News

January 5th, 2026 | Andrew Hagger | News

Running a successful business demands more than simply tracking income and expenses, and it often requires strategic financial planning, regulatory compliance and proactive risk management that many owner-managers lack the time or expertise to handle effectively. Professional accountancy services change financial operations from administrative burdens into strategic advantages, providing insights that drive growth whilst guaranteeing compliance with complex UK regulations.

Local expertise that understands your business landscape

Regional knowledge significantly impacts financial strategy and tax efficiency. Accountants familiar with local business ecosystems understand sector-specific challenges, regional economic trends and networking opportunities that national firms may overlook. Manchester’s diverse economy spanning digital technology, advanced manufacturing, financial services and creative industries creates distinct opportunities and regulatory considerations. Local accountants maintain relationships with regional HMRC offices, banks and business support organisations that facilitate smoother interactions when issues arise. They understand property market dynamics affecting business premises decisions, local authority business rate structures and regional grant programmes supporting expansion or innovation initiatives.

Comprehensive services beyond basic accounting

Modern accountancy practices go beyond year-end accounts and tax returns. Tax planning identifies legitimate opportunities to minimise liabilities through capital allowances, R&D tax credits and efficient profit extraction strategies. Management accounts provide monthly financial insights, allowing for proactive decision-making instead of reactive responses to year-end surprises. Payroll services guarantee accurate wage calculations, pension auto-enrolment compliance and timely PAYE submissions. According to the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales, advisory services, including business valuations, succession planning and financial modelling support strategic objectives that basic compliance work cannot address. Experienced accountants in Manchester, for instance, deliver integrated solutions where tax strategy informs business structure decisions, compliance obligations shape operational planning and financial forecasting guides expansion timing, which creates cohesive approaches rather than siloed functions.

1. Compliance and risk management made simple

UK businesses go through complex obligations, including corporation tax, VAT, PAYE, Making Tax Digital requirements and Companies House filings. According to HMRC’s business tax guidance, penalties for late submissions or errors can reach thousands of pounds whilst triggering investigations that consume valuable management time. Professional accountants make sure that deadlines never slip, submissions contain accurate information and businesses claim all entitled reliefs. They interpret regulatory changes affecting operations, implement systems meeting Making Tax Digital requirements and maintain audit trails satisfying HMRC scrutiny. Risk management is more than just compliance and includes fraud prevention, internal control recommendations and insurance adequacy assessments.

1. Strategic insights for growth and expansion

Financial forecasting changes vague growth ambitions into actionable plans supported by realistic projections. Budgeting processes allocate resources efficiently whilst establishing performance benchmarks against which actual results can be measured. Cash flow modelling identifies funding requirements before crises emerge, enabling proactive banking relationships rather than desperate last-minute financing searches. According to the Federation of Small Businesses, access to professional financial advice correlates strongly with business survival rates and growth trajectories.

1. Building a partnership that adds value

Effective accountant relationships transcend transactional service delivery, becoming ongoing partnerships where professionals understand business goals, industry challenges and owner priorities. Proactive communication means accountants suggest opportunities instead of simply responding to queries, whilst tailored advice reflects specific circumstances rather than generic recommendations.

Professional accountancy support is an investment and not an expense, delivering returns through tax savings, compliance confidence and strategic clarity that owner-managers cannot achieve whilst simultaneously running operations.

January 5th, 2026 | Andrew Hagger | News

Santander UK is today launching its latest ‘Santander Quarterly Scamtracker’, which shows that a total of £15.5 million was stolen from customers between October and December 2025. Throughout 2025, the bank saw more than £66.5 million stolen from customers in APP (Authorised Push Payment) scams.

The Scamtracker results for October to December 2025 show the biggest amounts were stolen from customers via investment scams, with more than £8 million taken in the three-month period. Customers aged 45+ were particularly at risk from these types of scams, accounting for more than £7 million – nearly £9 in every £10 stolen in an investment scam between October and December. Across the year investment scams have accounted for more than £30 million stolen – almost half the total amount stolen from Santander customers in 2025.

Purchase scams also remained prevalent, with criminals stealing a further £3 million in the last three months of the year. Customers looking to purchase vehicles or pay for building work were particularly targeted this quarter – with scammers using this to steal more than £2 million. Throughout the year, Santander has highlighted the risk of purchase scams with criminals selling items from fake gig tickets through to beauty products and weight loss jobs. In total, more than £15.5 million has been stolen in 2025 via purchase scams.

Chris Ainsley, Head of Fraud Risk Management at Santander UK said:

“£66.5 million is a shocking amount to see disappear from accounts and fall into the hands of the criminals who carry out these scams. Throughout the year we have focused on empowering our customers with the knowledge they need to stop the scammers in their tracks – a focus that will continue into 2026.

“Our latest warning as we head into January is around online job ads and promises of money for watching or “liking” Tik Tok videos, often with the need to pay an upfront fee to get started. The job doesn’t exist and rather than making money, customers will find they’ve lost out to a scammer.”

One to watch

Data from Santander has highlighted cases where customers have been approached by scammers offering money for “liking” and watching videos, often on TikTok. The scammers will ask customers for an “advance fee” to secure the job, before disappearing with their money. In Q4 2025, more than £95,000 was stolen by criminals offering jobs online, with a third of this (£31,000) originating on TikTok.

The bank is urging consumer to be wary in January as many of us take the time to re-evaluate our finances and look for ways to make extra money to cover the cost of Christmas. Customers are urged to be on the look-out for any requests for upfront payments to start a new “job” – a sure sign of a scam.

January 3rd, 2026 | Andrew Hagger | News

Go.Compare is urging Brits to review their home insurance this week as its latest research revealed that more than two-thirds (67%) do not plan to update their policy after buying their Christmas presents, potentially leaving expensive items unprotected.

The findings follow one of the year’s biggest gifting periods, with many households receiving high-value presents such as jewellery, gadgets and designer accessories. Without checking policy limits, these items may not be fully insured, particularly if their value exceeds the policy’s single article limit.

What is a single article limit and why does it matter?

A single article limit is the maximum amount your insurer will pay out for any one item, unless that item has been individually listed on your policy. For example, if someone has a £2,000 camera stolen but their policy only has a £1,000 single article limit, they would only be able to claim up to £1,000 unless the camera was declared as a named high-value item.

Despite this, Go.Compare’s research shows that nearly one in four Brits (24%) say that won’t be updating their policy after purchasing their Christmas presents, as it isn’t worth the hassle. This oversight could turn an exciting Christmas present into a costly financial loss if something goes wrong.

Nathan Blackler, home insurance expert at Go.Compare, said: “Many people assume their contents insurance will automatically cover new Christmas gifts, but that is not always the case. If you have received or bought anything valuable this year – such as jewellery, a smartwatch, a new phone or an expensive camera – it is important to check your single article limit.

“This reminder is particularly timely. December and January are peak months for high-value purchases, and the darker winter months often see a rise in burglaries. Yet many people only discover their policy limits when it’s too late, at the point of making a claim.”

A full explanation of single article limits and how to check them is available here:
https://www.gocompare.com/home-insurance/contents-insurance/single-article-limit/