HM asks: “My boyfriend and I are going to California for an extended trip over Easter. I’m planning to take debit and credit cards to use while we are away but I know the fees could be high. Which are the best cards to use when abroad?”
Opening up the loft could lower your overheads – Renting out spare space or taking in a lodger boosts household incomes
Wednesday, February 1st, 2012Are you seeking ways to boost your battered income? The answer could be closer to home than you think. There is money to be made by taking in a lodger, or by renting out space on the driveway or in the loft.
40 cigarettes a day turn into a first home for Julie – her mortgage is cheaper than the £400 a month spent on smoking
Tuesday, January 31st, 2012Enough was enough for Julie Parnell when she added up the cost of her 40 cigarettes-a-day habit. Keen to start her own business and get on the property ladder, she went cold turkey.
Ask Jo: Energy switching – fixed or standard rates?
Wednesday, January 25th, 2012A spate of price cuts in the energy market in recent weeks has led many people to wonder whether it is better to opt for a fixed rate tariff or take a gamble on standard rates. Our resident Personal Finance guru Jo THonrhill tkaes you through your options.
Eurozone crisis sparks dive in level of future pensions
Tuesday, January 24th, 2012Annuity rates have plummeted by almost four per cent in the past three months, tearing a huge hole in future pensioners’ incomes.
Customers on fixed deals won’t share benefits of cheaper energy
Tuesday, January 24th, 2012Almost a third of households will see no drop in annual fuel bills despite the round of price cuts by the ‘Big Six’ suppliers.
Taxman gets tough as late payment deadline looms
Monday, January 23rd, 2012Brutal new penalties for late payment of tax – coupled with strike action by Revenue call centre staff – are threatening millions of individuals and businesses just as one of the tax year’s most important deadlines draws near.
Ask Jo: Starting a pension in the your 40s – is it worth it?
Wednesday, January 18th, 2012JP writes: I have worked for myself for the past six years but now realise as I’m approaching 40 that I have neglected my pension arrangements. I’m starting to worry about this but don’t know where to start. I’ve read that the fees and charges on traditional pension plans can be high. Am I better off investing in an equity Isa?
