The Last Word with Matt Cooper Personal Finance: 1 In 4 Yet To Spend Last Year's Christmas Vouchers
Dec 3, 2025
Charlie Weston, Personal Finance Editor at the Irish Independent, dives into surprising findings from the CCPC survey, revealing that nearly one in four people haven't used last year's Christmas vouchers. He discusses common consumer spending habits, the pitfalls of unspent vouchers, and hidden fees. Weston also highlights the rising trend of health insurance uptake, even amid increasing premiums, explaining the shift in consumer behavior towards securing coverage. Tune in for essential insights into managing finances and staying informed!
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Large Share Of Vouchers Remain Unspent
- Many people forget or misplace employer gift vouchers, leaving balances unused for long periods.
- Charlie Weston warns hidden fees kick in after 18 months, eroding voucher value if you delay spending.
Spend Vouchers Quickly To Avoid Fees
- Do spend employer gift vouchers promptly to avoid inactivity fees and redemption charges.
- Charlie Weston lists specific charges like monthly reductions after 18 months and €8 redemption fees for transfers.
Listeners Share Real Voucher Experiences
- Listeners report varied employer voucher experiences, from full €1,500 gifts to none at all.
- Examples include an employer deducting it from a bonus and HSE staff saying they never received Christmas bonuses.