How to save money and keep the pounds - finding a money diet that works for you.
Getting into financial shape doesn’t have to be painful and it could take the pressure off your purse over the summer.
Whether you’re planning your summer holiday or just gearing up for the six weeks when your children will be off school, the next couple of months can be an expensive time. There’s nothing guaranteed to make that holiday feeling disappear faster than the arrival of a credit card bill to pay for it all. Ideally, you should save enough so you can pay for your holiday upfront but if that’s out of the question, try making some cutbacks now to free up some cash for your summer break.
Paying bills by direct debit; your rights if a mistake has been made.
Millions of us choose to pay our bills by direct debit and standing order, but what happens if there's a problem or mistake?
How do you pay your bills? By cheque, telephone or internet banking or direct debit? Already millions of us opt for the convenience of direct debit or standing order; not only is it less of a faff, many companies give you a discount as well. But do you know exactly what the difference is between the different payment methods or what your rights are if there’s a problem? The Financial Ombudsman says that many consumers don’t know the difference between the different payment methods and – worse than that – neither do some bank staff.
Simple steps to help you save more money and spend less.
There’s never a bad time to improve your money management skills, and even small changes can make a big difference
Are you someone who finds it easy to budget, pay off debts and build up savings? Or do you struggle to make your wages last the month and find it hard to resist the temptation to splurge? If it’s the latter, do you feel comfortable with the way you deal with your money or would you rather have a little more control?