

The Martin Lewis Podcast
BBC Radio 5 Live
Martin Lewis answers your financial questions, offering valuable money-saving tips.
Episodes
Mentioned books

May 22, 2025 • 1h 2min
Free £310 bank switch | Winter Fuel Shenanigans | Energy Price Cap to fall but you should still fix
Martin Lewis looks at the Energy Price Cap and what your best options are for your bills.He gives his view on the recent announcement that the Winter Fuel Payment will be expanded. A guide on how to get paid to switch bank accounts.Tell Us this week is all about when have you saved a fortune by pure accident?Mastermind explains the difference between annual and compound interest.

May 15, 2025 • 55min
Childcare SPECIAL: Your questions & problems put to Sec of State for Education Bridget Phillipson
Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson joins Martin Lewis to answers your questions about the cost of childcare. They cover topics such as are there enough funds for 30hrs funded childcare? Why 800,000 miss out on Tax Free Childcare? Child Benefit cliff-edge problems & more.

May 8, 2025 • 1h 14min
Interest rate cut special: what savers & mortgage holders need do now. Including… why locking in savings can be a winner.
Jane King, an independent mortgage advisor from Ashridge Private Finance, joins the conversation to explore the recent UK interest rate cut. She shares critical insights on whether to fix your mortgage now or wait, emphasizing the importance of swift action for savers wanting to lock in higher rates. They discuss what it takes to get accepted for a mortgage, highlighting eye-opening facts that many might not know. Plus, a lively debate on savvy summer purchases abroad adds a fun twist!

Apr 30, 2025 • 48min
Credit & Debit Card Q&A special: How credit scoring works, best 0% deals, stoozing, top cards abroad
Dive into the world of credit and debit cards with insights on managing debt and selecting the best options. Learn the truth behind credit scoring and how it affects loan approvals. Discover savvy strategies, like stoozing, to maximize savings and pay off mortgages more efficiently. Plus, find out the top credit cards for international travel and enjoy a wealth of tips to enhance your financial health!

Apr 24, 2025 • 1h 1min
The Shrinkflation Nation | Why now is the time to check if you’re owed £100s of energy credit
The main topic is all about how you could potentially get money back from your energy firm. If you pay by monthly direct debit then Martin explains why you should be checking now if you’re owed serious cash.The Tell Us is about shrinkflation. Where can you find provable evidence of groceries, cleaning productions or cosmetics that are no longer as big as they were.Plus, if you're aged 20 to 25, Martin explains a trick that can get you a free four-year railcard worth £100 via the bank Santander.Get in touch… email martinlewispodcast@bbc.co.uk

Apr 16, 2025 • 37min
Is the £20,000 cash ISA going to be killed? What savers should be doing NOW
Discover the potential changes to the £20,000 cash ISA limit and what it means for your savings. Learn effective strategies to maximize your returns early in the tax year. Explore short-term bonus rates and the pros and cons of switching accounts. Get expert insights on the best cash ISA rates and how to manage your savings wisely. Delve into the benefits of cash ISAs versus traditional accounts and find answers to common questions about contribution limits and tax advantages.

Apr 2, 2025 • 57min
Q&A Special: Beat the bill rises, ISAs, Car financing, Pension tax, Premium Bonds, Child Trust Funds and more
Martin and Adrian tackle urgent financial queries amid rising costs, discussing strategies for managing utility bills and council tax. They dissect a Supreme Court case on car finance mis-selling and the implications for consumers. The duo also advises on Child Trust Funds transitioning to ISAs, and the importance of pension contributions. A light-hearted credit score quiz adds humor, while personal customer service stories showcase the difference between average and exceptional interactions. Tune in for valuable insights on navigating today's financial landscape!

14 snips
Mar 27, 2025 • 54min
Martin Lewis speaks to Britain's biggest energy boss about prices, smart meters and more
Greg Jackson, Founder and CEO of Octopus Energy, shares his expertise as he tackles pressing queries about rising energy prices and smart meters. He discusses the recent 6.4% increase in energy costs and offers strategies for consumers considering fixed rates. The conversation dives into the profit margins in the energy market, highlighting stark differences between suppliers and retailers. Jackson emphasizes the importance of transparency in energy pricing and the challenges posed by smart meter implementation, aiming to empower consumers amid these complexities.

Mar 20, 2025 • 1h 16min
Beat the urgent ISA deadline – top cash ISAs for savers, stocks & shares for investing
In this engaging discussion, Ed Marshall, a Chartered Financial Planner at Dean Wealth Management, shares his insights on stocks and shares ISAs. He and Martin dive into the critical deadline for ISAs, explaining the tax benefits and strategies for maximizing savings. They also discuss the complexities of backbilling in energy bills and consumer rights. From lightbulb moments in personal finance to tips on transitioning from child trust funds to junior ISAs, this conversation is packed with valuable advice for both savers and investors.

Mar 13, 2025 • 60min
Last Chance! Boost State Pension by £10,000s: a must listen if age 40 to 73
Martin’s poorly, but he’s battled through the coughs and splutters because he’s adamant that YOU need to hear how you could boost your state pension by TENS of THOUSANDS of pounds.If you’re aged between 40 and 73 – it’s a must listen.It’s all about missing National Insurance years. Martin brings you a step-by-step guide and a full Q&A. It’s everything you need to know.