Learn about saving money on energy bills, opening fixed rate savings accounts, and obtaining free travel and breakdown insurance. Find out about meter reading tips and how to resolve smart meter problems. Explore the importance of critical illness and income protection insurance, and discover strategies for boosting retirement savings. Hear discussions on women's state pension age and understanding credit files and scores. Plus, get tips on saving money and getting insurance.
The energy price cap is set to fall by 7% on Sunday, leading to lower overall electricity and gas rates but increasing standing charges, sparking debate on the fairness of energy bills.
Opening a fixed rate savings account now can provide flexibility and the option to take advantage of high interest rates, with the NS&I guaranteed growth and income bonds being recommended as a one-year fixed savings option.
The podcast addresses concerns about standing charges and advises listeners to consider existing customer tariffs when switching energy providers to optimize their tariffs and highlights the need for a comprehensive energy policy.
Deep dives
Energy price cap is falling and Q&A on energy
The energy price cap is set to fall by 7% on Sunday, leading to lower overall electricity and gas rates. However, standing charges, which are the daily charges to access gas and electricity, are increasing slightly. This change has sparked debate on the fairness of the structure of energy bills, as it ends up benefiting high energy users more than low users. The episode includes a Q&A segment to address common energy-related questions, such as whether to fix rates, the future of prices, and issues with smart meters.
Insights into fixed rate savings and NS&I bonds
The podcast explores the current landscape of fixed rate savings and the potential impact of interest rate changes. It suggests that opening a fixed rate savings account now, even if you are unsure about putting money in, can provide flexibility and the option to take advantage of high interest rates. The episode highlights the NS&I guaranteed growth and income bonds as a one-year fixed savings option, offering competitive interest rates. It also discusses the importance of understanding tax implications and recommends considering personal circumstances before making a decision.
Discussion on energy market issues and switching providers
The podcast delves into the broken state of the energy market and the challenges faced by consumers. It addresses concerns about standing charges and their impact on different income groups. Additionally, it provides insights into the fluctuating energy market and advises listeners to consider existing customer tariffs when switching providers. While it is difficult to predict future energy prices and deals, recommendations are made for electricity prepayment meter users to optimize their tariffs by strategically timing top-ups. The episode concludes by highlighting the need for a comprehensive energy policy that addresses cost of living issues and competition in the market.
The Importance of Smart Meters and Their Rollout
Smart meters are a form of credit, making them part of your credit file. They can provide useful information about energy usage and help cut bills. However, the rollout of smart meters has faced challenges. Many of the early models, known as smet one meters, became ineffective when customers switched energy providers. It is recommended to wait for compatible smart meters with future-proof technology to be available. Despite this, smart meters can be beneficial if functioning properly.
Understanding Credit File and Credit Scores
Your credit file and credit score are impacted by certain factors. While getting a mobile phone contract can affect your credit file, getting married or receiving a pay rise do not directly impact them. A mobile phone contract is seen as credit, while marriage does not automatically link your credit file to your spouse's. It is important to note that credit scores from credit reference agencies are just indicators and do not consider income, which plays a significant role in determining loan eligibility.
Martin is back with a bumper episode. Find out the savings account you need to know about, why even though energy prices are lower some people could be paying more this winter and also the action that you need to take this weekend to keep your bills as low as possible. Plus how you could be paid to insure your phone, free Greggs and Martin finds out the financial nuggets that older people would love to tell their younger, working selves. Don’t miss it!
Jump to:
07:51 Best savings rates
11:31 Martin’s energy advice
24:34 Problems with energy meters
30:50 What people who’ve retired wish they’d known…
1:00:10 Free Greggs!
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