July 29th, 2025 | Andrew Hagger | News

Your financial health is much more than a number on a credit score report or the balance in your savings account. It reflects how well you manage your money day-to-day, how prepared you are for the unexpected, and how you plan for the future. In a world of fluctuating costs and evolving financial pressures, improving your financial health can help you build confidence in managing both short-term challenges and long-term goals. Taking a few key actions can lead to a more secure and stable financial future, without the need for drastic changes or complex financial products.

Understand your current situation

The first step in improving your financial health is to get a clear picture of where you currently stand. This means looking at your income, your spending habits, and any debts or loans you have. Keep track of your monthly income and outgoings to identify areas where you could be overspending or unnecessarily wasting money. Apps or spreadsheets can help you set up a simple budget. Understanding your situation also involves knowing exactly how much you owe and to whom. If your outgoings exceed your income, you may need to make adjustments to how you spend your money or explore ways to increase your income.

Managed debt correctly (including BNPL)

Debt can be a significant source of stress, especially when it feels unmanageable. But not all debt is inherently harmful – it’s how you manage it that makes the difference. Start by prioritising high-interest debts, like credit cards, and aim to pay them off as quickly as possible. If you’ve used Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) services, keep a close eye on the payment dates. Missing a BNPL repayment can lead to high penalties or interest. If needed, negotiate with creditors for more favourable repayment terms. Consolidating multiple debts into a single loan with a lower interest rate can also simplify things. Staying on top of your debts will prevent them from spiralling out of control.

Build and improve credit

Building or improving your credit score can open up better financial opportunities, like securing loans or getting better interest rates. If you have limited credit history, start with a credit card builder, which is specifically designed for people in this situation. Use it responsibly by making small purchases and paying the balance off in full each month. This consistent behaviour signals to lenders that you can manage credit responsibly. If you already have credit cards, avoid missing payments and try not to use more than 30% of your available credit. Over time, these habits will positively impact your score and give you more financial flexibility when you need it.

Save for the future

Saving money, even in small amounts, can provide you with a safety net for the unexpected. Start by setting aside a small portion of your income each month into a savings account, focusing on building an emergency fund that can cover at least three months’ worth of living expenses. Having this safety net helps reduce stress when facing unexpected bills or job changes. Beyond emergencies, aim to set financial goals for the future, whether it’s for a house deposit or a significant investment. Use apps or savings plans that automatically transfer money into a savings account to make the process easier and more consistent. Over time, your savings will grow, providing you with greater security and peace of mind.

July 28th, 2025 | Andrew Hagger | News

£16.7 million in home insurance claims could have been lost in just one year due to smoke alarm negligence, according to estimates from a new study.[1] The research states there were approximately 13,458 dwelling fires across Britain during this period where a smoke alarm was missing or didn’t operate.

Home insurance claims can be invalidated if smoke alarms aren’t kept operational or if policyholders lie about owning one. Based on the number of insured households in Britain, this means roughly 10,124 claims for fire damage could have been invalidated. As a result, thousands of Brits may have had to pay for the repairs themselves – an additional setback during an already challenging situation.

The figures come from Go.Compare home insurance, which applied its latest survey data to FCA insurance numbers and statistics from British fire and rescue services. It calculated the financial loss in the 2023/24 financial year using average claim payout figures and the estimated number of fires at insured households without working alarms.

Despite the potential consequences, a significant number of residents aren’t aware that failing to install and maintain a smoke alarm can void their insurance. Close to two-thirds (62%) of Brits told the insurance comparison site they didn’t know claims can be denied if smoke alarms aren’t checked regularly.[2]

Around 1% of residents also said that they don’t have a smoke alarm installed, equal to over half a million adults living in a property without this vital safety equipment.[3] Similarly, only 6% stated that they check their alarms weekly or more, as recommended by multiple fire and rescue services.[2]

Fires in residences without a working smoke alarm accounted for 43% of all reported dwelling fires in the year ending March 2024 and for more than half (52%) of all fatalities from dwelling fires.[4] Go.Compare is urging homeowners and tenants alike to prioritise fire safety, highlighting this life-threatening oversight.

Nathan Blackler, home insurance expert at Go.Compare, said: “It goes without saying that failing to install and regularly test a smoke alarm could have catastrophic consequences. But on top of the huge safety risk, your insurer likely won’t pay out if your smoke alarm wasn’t working when a fire occurred, so you’d suffer the financial consequences of the blaze – as well as the emotional ones.

“It might feel like one of the more mundane tasks on your to-do list, but it’s also one of the most important. Testing your alarm takes just seconds. Consider setting a weekly reminder so that you’re less likely to forget. If you have difficulty maintaining your alarms yourself, you can contact your local fire service for support. If you don’t know how to test it, you will likely find instructions in the manufacturer’s manual.”

More statistics about smoke alarm safety can be found on Go.Compare’s website.

July 24th, 2025 | Andrew Hagger | News

In today’s fast-paced business environment, companies seeking ways to streamline procedures and focus on critical capabilities go to outsourcing. Accounting is one great area for outsourcing since it lets businesses transfer work and knowledge to outside contractors. Outsourcing accounting lets businesses save money, boost productivity, and get specialist knowledge. Outsourcing accounting has several benefits and could be the best option for businesses attempting to optimise their financial processes.

Access to expertise 

One of the main benefits of outsourcing accounting services is easier access to experienced experts. Accounting requirements are technical knowledge of advanced financial rules and standards and technical proficiency. Using professional accountants in Central London, companies can access tax law, financial analysis, and auditing professionals. This information guarantees exact and compliant financial records, therefore reducing the possibility of expensive mistakes or fines. Outsourcing also allows businesses to employ best practices and modern accounting technologies without paying for expensive software or training. 

Efficiency and cost savings 

Accounting outsourcing appeals to many because it reduces overhead for all organisations. In-house accounting teams cost money for salaries, benefits, infrastructure, training, and recruiting. Instead, outsourcing lets organisations pay just for their services, which can change depending on size or slowdown. This affordable method boosts cash flow, letting companies spend more on expansion than administration.

Your outsourced accountant will also be able to advise you as to the most affordable and profitable business account, so in so many ways you are going to find that you have a much more efficient approach to your finances in business. But that’s not all.

Outsourcing organisations use innovative accounting software to improve procedures, reduce manual errors, and boost efficiency, producing robust financial data for quick decisions. 

Better compliance and risk management 

Mistakes might have serious legal consequences due to complex financial and tax laws. When outsourcing accounting services to reliable organisations, experts familiar with changing laws ensure compliance. This proactive method reduces non-compliance and boosts a company’s finances and brand. Industry norms, tax, and labour legislation apply to highly regulated businesses. Outsourced accounting teams offer frequent audits to ensure legal and accurate financial documents. Reduced regulatory risk helps organisations protect capital and focus on goals. 

Prioritise business core functions 

Companies must focus on assets to compete. Many organisations find internal accounting time-consuming and draining funds from innovation and growth. Outsourcing accounting lets organisations focus on growth, customer service, and product development. This focus shift might boost performance by relieving administrative finance responsibilities for key staff. CEOs can improve company performance and make data-driven choices by outsourcing accounting. 

Scalability and flexibility 

Outsourcing accounting services allows one to scale up or down. Accounting changes with company seasonality. Flexible outsourcing accounting solutions meet these needs. Strong economies may require additional payroll processing and financial reporting aid. Instead of cutting people, they may reduce service when business is slow. Scalable, dynamic finance management maximises efficiency for all firms. 

Conclusion 

Companies outsource accounting to maximise resources, increase productivity, and obtain professional financial services. Outsourcing helps companies stay competitive in today’s always-shifting market by lowering costs, preserving compliance, and releasing resources. Professional accountants assist companies in lawfully handling their finances. Companies can concentrate on customer value, creativity, and expansion by outsourcing their accounting. Skilled accountants help businesses to make wise financial decisions. A smart, long-term solution that can increase operations and profitability is accounting outsourcing.

Image attributed to Pexels.com 

July 22nd, 2025 | Andrew Hagger | News

New research from Hodge Bank has revealed that nearly half (45%) of those between the ages of 18-34 need to borrow from a loved one to be able to pay an unexpected cost of £500.

In comparison, 1 in 5 (19%) of those between 45-54 would have to borrow money, and just 1 in 10 (11%) of 55–64-year-olds. This drops to just 5.8% for those above the age of 65.

When it comes to paying for an emergency cost of £500, nearly half of Brits (46%) would pay this from their debit account, while two in five (41.4%) would have to pay this on their credit cards.

However, the survey by Hodge Bank revealed that 1 in 5 Brits aren’t putting away anything at all from their salaries each month for emergencies.

When it comes to the most frequent unexpected costs that crop up, car and house payments are leading the way for needing emergency funds. The top five unexpected costs that Brits face are:

Christie Cook, Managing Director of Retail at Hodge, says:

“This research paints a clear picture of how everyday life is increasingly unpredictable for many, especially for younger adults. What’s most striking is the regularity of these unexpected costs. For some people, this isn’t a rare occurrence but something they’re dealing with weekly, if not daily.”

 With continued pressures from inflation and living costs, many households are finding it harder to maintain a financial buffer. The frequency of unplanned expenses leaves less room for longer-term financial planning and increases the need for accessible, short-term savings options.

As the gap widens between age groups and regions in terms of financial stability, the ability to access savings quickly when needed is more important than ever. It’s prompting people to rethink how they manage their money day-to-day.”

Hodge has responded to these shifting needs by offering a new Easy Access Savings Account, giving savers more flexibility to deal with life’s surprises.

While long-term saving remains important, many are now prioritising quick access to funds for emergencies and irregular expenses.

July 22nd, 2025 | Andrew Hagger | News

Are you interested in improving your financial situation? If so, then you need to consider the steps that you can take to save more money in life. There are lots of little choices that youc an explore here which will help you get your costs under a greater level of control. Here are some of the best possibilities.

Work On A Budget

First, you should make sure that you are working with a budget. By working with a budget, you can guarantee that you don’t end up in a situation where you are slipping into the red without even fully realising it is happening. This is all too easy and it’s something that’s quite simple to avoid. You just need to make sure that you use an app to manage and monitor your spending in real time. In doing so, you can ensure that your budget never grows out of control. 

Use 0% Credit Card Balance Transfers 

Another point to think about is using your credit in a smart way. One example would be 0% transfers. With a 0% transfer, you can move money from a credit card with a high interest rate to one with a far lower rate overall. This is a great idea as it’s often the interest that is the real killer here in terms of your finances. You can search for some of the best options like this online and find the one that will provide the greatest benefits. 

Open A High Interest Savings Account

Another great option to save money could be to open a high interest savings account. As the name suggests, this will give you a higher rate of interest compared to other bank accounts. You typically need a larger amount of money to open a high interest savings account so be sure to check with the bank just how much you need. High interest savings accounts are wonderful if you are trying to save up for larger, more expensive items or luxuries. This could include fancy holidays or a deposit on a new place. High interest savings accounts have many other perks so be sure to check them out. 

You Could Be Owed Money

Finally, if you have ever had any sort of finance or credit cards then you could be owed some money back from these companies. You may have heard about the incident with the car finance companies charging for items that weren’t needed or warranted. They are now having to pay back thousands to the customers who were misold. You never know, if you don’t look into it. Check out PCP refunds to find out more, all you need to do is fill in the necessary information and then the claim company will handle the rest. 

We hope this helps you understand some the little things that you can do to save money in your life. By exploring the best options here, you can guarantee that your costs are far easier to handle overall. This will also free up some funds for the life expenses that you might be struggling to fit into your budget. 

July 18th, 2025 | Andrew Hagger | News

The savings best buy tables are incredibly competitive and this is good news as it drives up rates for consumers.

The downside, particularly in the easy access savings market, is that many of the top paying deals come with some hefty restrictions.

So, while you may feel pretty smug in bagging a top rate, unless you read the terms and conditions carefully you may get caught out and later find there is a nasty sting in the tail.

For example, your account may include the following:

• Limited number of withdrawals permitted with the rate dropping substantially if you exceed the limit.
• Part of the total interest rate might contain a bonus element which disappears after 12 months
• You may have to sign up for a current account or pay a monthly fee to qualify for the savings deal.
• The rate might expire after 12 months, and your money will be switched to an account paying an inferior interest rate.

Andrew Hagger personal finance expert from Moneycomms says; “It can be a bit of a minefield for savers trying to find a great easy access rate that doesn’t come with any potential tricks or catches”.

“That’s why our Easy Access Savings table is based on the best accounts with no strings – just a straightforward deal, with no bonus, no restrictions on withdrawals and no need to purchase an additional product to qualify”.

“Yes, the rates on a ‘No Strings’ savings account may be slightly lower, but at least you know where you stand and there are no nasty surprises waiting round the corner”.

“The tables below show 10 of the top easy access deals with restrictions or potential catches as well as the top 10 ‘No strings’ savings deals available today”.

  Research by Moneycomms.co.uk 17 July 2025

Research by Moneycomms.co.uk 17 July 2025

July 17th, 2025 | Andrew Hagger | News

New research from Go.Compare Mobile has revealed that almost one in ten (9%) Brits are considering switching mobile phone providers due to the quality of their signal.* With the current adult UK population, this could mean 4.7 million people are debating whether to ditch their current provider.**

The survey asked 2,000 people about their mobile phone coverage, with almost one in four (23%) citing quality of signal as a key motivation when it comes to choosing a new mobile provider.

While 9% of people are thinking about switching their provider due to signal quality, another 12% have already done so. This number jumps for those living in Greater London, where one in five residents (20%) say they’ve had to switch providers due to signal issues.

Across the UK, 8% of people surveyed say they aren’t happy with their signal in their home and 7% aren’t satisfied with the signal they get when they’re away from their home.

Mobile phone signal in the UK is delivered through four different mobile network operators, or MNOs: EE, O2, Three and Vodafone, which build and maintain the mobile phone masts.

While there are other providers such as Tesco Mobile or Lebara, these are technically ‘virtual network operators’, as Nathan Blackler, spokesperson for Go.Compare Mobile, explains:

“If you aren’t with one of the main four operators, your network will be leasing network space from the MNOs, as these are the ones who build and maintain the mobile phone masts. For example, Asda Mobile is hosted on Vodafone’s network and GiffGaff is on O2.”

Nathan continued, “Being unable to use your phone, especially in your own home, can be really frustrating and at times stressful, so it’s no surprise that signal quality is an important factor for so many people when choosing a provider.

“To make it easier to check the quality of each network’s mobile phone coverage before you commit to a new contract, Go.Compare has launched a new mobile coverage checker. Take a look at the network which provides the best coverage for you, thinking about where you most often need a good signal, like your home and workplace.

“Then, armed with this information, you can make an informed decision about which contract is best for you – comparing the handset, the amount of data you get a month and any roaming charges if you travel abroad.”

To find out more about the mobile coverage checker and compare mobile phone deals, visit, https://www.gocompare.com/mobile-phone/mobile-coverage-checker/

July 9th, 2025 | Andrew Hagger | News

Government plans to ‘nudge’ savers towards becoming investors by changing Cash ISA allowances is being seen as “another outrageous attack on the older generation”.

A major new survey has revealed immense resistance to the Government’s proposed changes to reduce the Cash ISA tax free allowance from £20,000 to as low as £4,000 – which an incredible 97% of Cash ISA savers oppose.

The findings from Hampshire Trust Bank (HTB) come just days ahead of Chancellor Rachel Reeves’ Mansion House speech, when she is expected to announce reforms aimed at encouraging investment in Stocks & Shares ISAs. The bank reveals just 9% of Cash ISA savers would turn to this option.

Giving a voice to Cash ISA savers across the UK, the research highlights deep concerns over retirement security, investment risk and the erosion of long-standing savings products relied upon by millions.

Key insights:

• Virtually all the bank’s Cash ISA savers say reducing the allowance is a bad idea
• 89% say cash-based, tax-free saving is critical to their financial future
• Just 9% would move their savings to a Stocks & Shares ISA
• Over 750 respondents left powerful personal messages pleading to policymakers.

The research paints a strikingly similar picture to concerns recently raised by Martin Lewis, who warned such changes would be ineffective and would frustrate many. Now, hard data from real ISA savers shows the opposition is very real and will be taken very personally.

Stuart Hulme, Managing Director of Savings at HTB, said:

“There’s a misconception that Cash ISA savers will simply become investors in the stock market. Our customers have told us that’s just not true. Cash ISA savers are cautious by nature – many are older, reliant on the interest income to top up their pensions – and can’t afford to gamble with their future.

“Our customers have spoken with clarity and conviction. These aren’t just numbers – they’re people who’ve planned, saved and now feel betrayed. They feel penalised, and as one saver put it, ‘at the age of 80 years old, I am not going to gamble my life savings in stocks and shares’.

“Only 9% of Cash ISA savers said they would switch to a Stocks & Shares ISA, undermining the logic behind the proposed change. Rather than boosting investment, the policy discourages cash savings. Many savers told us they’d respond better to Stocks & Shares incentives over Cash ISA reductions.

“The Treasury thinks this will gently steer savers towards investing – but our customers see it differently. To them, this isn’t a nudge – it’s a shove into uncertainty.”

Respondents expressed anxiety over being pushed into the stock market, facing new tax burdens, or losing access to what many see as a stable savings option in an uncertain economy.

“Ridiculous reduction – lower than ever before”, “For goodness sake, give us an incentive to save” and “Stop taking positive risk averse saving options away from regular and responsible savers”.

The bank’s survey suggests the Government risks failing to boost investment and alienating millions of responsible savers if it proceeds with the reforms.

The bank’s full findings can be found at htb.co.uk/cash-isa-reforms-survey

July 7th, 2025 | Andrew Hagger | News

American Express® Cardmembers can now use their Card to book directly with Wizz Air – and to celebrate, have launched a limited time cashback offer for Cardmembers. From 7 July to 4 August 2025, eligible Cardmembers who spend £150 or more with Wizz Air will receive £15 back. The offer applies to flight bookings made online or via the Wizz Air App, as well as onboard services.

This latest agreement with Wizz Air adds to Amex’s growing base of accepting merchants in the UK and means that Cardmembers can use their Amex Card ® with all major airlines that fly in and out of the country. Wizz Air joins a record number of businesses in the UK that recognise the value of accepting Amex, including every major supermarket chain, high street retailers and hundreds of thousands of small businesses. The agreement also adds to Amex’s widespread travel and transit acceptance across the UK, encompassing every rail company and contactless acceptance with Transport for London.

The offer is available for eligible Amex Cardmembers including American Express ® Preferred Rewards Gold Credit Card, The American Express® Rewards Credit Card, The American Express® Business Gold Card, Amex^® Cashback Card and Amex^® Cashback Everyday Card.*

To redeem the offer, Cardmembers need to make a purchase of £150 or over online or onboard using their Amex Card and they will receive £15 back. The offer is valid once per Cardmember for the first 90,000 Cardmembers. Cardmembers must save the Offer to their Card to be eligible.

When it comes to travelling, airport lounge access, travel insurance and the ability to earn additional Membership Rewards® points are just some of the benefits on offer with American Express. For example, The Platinum Card® offers unlimited access to over 1,400 airport lounges, comprehensive worldwide travel insurance and 2x Membership Rewards points when spending at American Express Travel Online. The Platinum Card representative 694.9% APR variable. Fees apply T&Cs apply.

Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Offer excludes hotel bookings, car hire, airport transfers, and airport parking. www.americanexpress.com/uk/benefits/amex-offers

July 4th, 2025 | Andrew Hagger | News

As the summer travel season approaches, Hodge is sharing five practical tips to help UK holidaymakers keep their finances in check and avoid the all-too-common trap of overspending abroad.

According to a survey from the Post Office, holiday overspend is on the rise with 67% of holidaymakers confessing they went over budget on their last trip abroad, with 57% stating the rising food prices were to blame.

With foreign transaction fees, fluctuating exchange rates and on-the-go purchases adding up fast, even the most budget-conscious travellers can end up spending more than planned. But Hodge believes that a few simple changes can go a long way.

Christie Cook, Managing Director of Retail at Hodge, said:

“Holidays should be a time to relax, but too often they’re followed by financial regret. At Hodge, we’re committed to helping people make confident and informed financial decisions, and that includes managing money well while travelling.

“These practical tips are designed to help people enjoy their time away, without coming home to a nasty surprise.”

Five Tips to Avoid Overspending Abroad

• Set a Daily Budget

“Creating a realistic daily spending limit helps holidaymakers stay in control of their money.

“Whether tracked manually or through a budgeting app, daily budgets can prevent accidental overspending, especially on longer trips. Even a rough daily target can stop the little things from spiralling out of control.”

• Use a Travel-Friendly Card
  “Not all bank cards are created equal when travelling. Some charge fees for overseas transactions and ATM use, while others are specifically designed to be used abroad without added costs.

“It’s worth checking your card’s fees and considering an alternative if needed, a travel card can save you a surprising amount.”

• Don’t Exchange Currency at the Airport
  “Airport exchange desks often offer poor rates and hidden fees. Instead, travellers are encouraged to exchange money in advance or order currency online for better value.

“Getting your currency sorted before you go means more money in your pocket and one less stress at the airport.”

• Always Pay in Local Currency
  “Many merchants offer dynamic currency conversion, the option to pay in pounds rather than the local currency, but this often comes with a worse exchange rate.

“Always opt to pay in the local currency, it’s almost always cheaper.”

• Build a Buffer into Your Budget
  “Unexpected expenses are inevitable when travelling, from last-minute excursions to forgotten essentials. It’s recommended to set aside 10–15% of your overall budget to accommodate these costs.

“A buffer gives you flexibility and peace of mind. It’s a small step that makes a big difference.”

By following these five simple tips, holidaymakers can take control of their travel budgets, avoid unnecessary costs, and make the most of their time away. A little planning goes a long way when it comes to spending smart abroad.