The Martin Lewis Podcast Question Time: Will my ex’s debt affect my credit score? Bridesmaid’s dress consumer rights? Credit card won’t give money back
Jan 12, 2026
In this engaging discussion, Martin Lewis tackles a range of pressing financial questions. He clarifies how an ex's debt might impact credit scores and dives into consumer rights when purchasing a bridesmaid's dress. A listener shares the woes of builder issues, prompting tips on Section 75 rights and chargebacks. Martin also emphasizes the importance of financial education for students and answers whether ex-partners' debts affect one's finances. Plus, get ready for a laugh as he reveals his wrestling persona and finishing move!
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Pay By Card For Extra Protection
- Use a credit card for part of costly purchases to gain Section 75 protection and easier complaint routes.
- Also consider chargeback as secondary protection if Section 75 may not apply.
Gifts Create Section 75 Grey Areas
- Buying a bridesmaid dress for someone else creates a grey area for Section 75 because of who benefits from the purchase.
- Retailer rights belong to the purchaser, so gift receipts or notes help transfer consumer rights.
Negotiate Before Going To Ombudsman
- If a bank rejects a Section 75 claim, escalate to the Financial Ombudsman and argue the transaction structure (single vs staged).
- Offer the bank a chargeback settlement as a full-and-final short-term tactic before lodging an ombudsman complaint.