The Martin Lewis Podcast

BBC Radio 5 Live
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Nov 3, 2025 • 27min

Question Time: Will ISA changes hit what I’ve saved? Safer to stick cash under the bed? A credit card for my eight-year-old?

Listeners dive into burning questions like whether proposed ISA changes will impact their savings and if it's wise to stash cash under the mattress. Martin reveals why giving your eight-year-old a credit card is a bad idea and suggests prepaid options instead. He also clarifies that making a car finance claim won't affect your current agreements. Plus, he explains the marriage tax allowance and shares his simple dinner recipe. Tune in for insights that could save you money!
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Oct 30, 2025 • 60min

Martin v Ofgem boss: Why are energy bills so high (is it green levies?) | Scrap standing charges | Is the Price Cap a rip-off?

In this insightful discussion, Jonathan Brearley, Chief Executive of Ofgem, breaks down the complexities of household energy bills. He explains the components of energy costs, including wholesale prices and policy levies, while addressing the rising network costs driven by maintenance and renewable integration. Brearley also discusses the implications of standing charges, potential reforms, and how renewables may reduce prices long-term. Martin Lewis probes into O2's price hikes and regulatory transparency, ensuring consumers understand their rights amid rising energy costs.
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7 snips
Oct 20, 2025 • 33min

Question Time: Can I refuse a Smart meter? Should I clear my student loan? Is a stoozer a loser?

In this engaging discussion, Martin tackles whether smart meters are mandatory and clarifies the benefits of upgrading. He advises on handling student loans, suggesting saving over immediate repayment. When it comes to energy tariffs, he weighs the pros and cons of one- versus two-year fixes. With a touch of broadcasting wisdom, he shares tips to enhance on-air delivery. Finally, he explains stoozing and its potential impact on future mortgage rates, offering strategic advice for managing debts.
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Oct 16, 2025 • 1h 3min

Free £400 for switching bank! Was Uni worth it? Cash ISAs to be cut

Discover seven banks ready to pay you to switch accounts and learn the ins and outs of the process, from eligibility to joint accounts. Dive into debates about the true value of university education, with diverse listener opinions revealing mixed outcomes. Also, get the latest on potential cuts to cash ISA limits and updates on car finance misselling. Explore how to tackle switching bonuses legally and hear personal anecdotes that add a light-hearted touch to financial discussions.
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Oct 13, 2025 • 27min

Question Time: Is cash king? Should you keep some mortgage debt? Can I reclaim student loan taken off my bonus?

This week, listeners dive into credit card strategies and whether unused cards should be canceled. The discussion heats up around managing mortgage debt and potentially keeping it for future borrowing flexibility. Martin also clarifies the ins and outs of reclaiming student loan deductions from bonuses and shares a success story about overpaid loans. Plus, there’s a glimpse into Martin's fitness journey and his routine updates. Finally, he tackles the complexities of distance selling rights at Argos.
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Oct 9, 2025 • 59min

14 million to get mis-sold car finance compensation!

A new £8.2bn redress scheme could see 14 million people compensated for mis-sold car finance. Martin Lewis breaks down what mis-selling looks like and who qualifies for claims. He advises on how to submit complaints, the importance of doing so promptly, and details about average payouts. Notably, he addresses how to claim for deceased relatives and the nuances of opting out to take cases to court. Plus, he clarifies eligibility of vehicles and provides practical tips on navigating the claims process.
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10 snips
Oct 2, 2025 • 42min

Energy Question Time: Is it time to fix? (spoiler: YES!) How do I get my credit back? Are Smart Meters… not?

With energy prices on the rise, save £100s with expert tips on fixing your tariff now. Discover the pros and cons of smart prepayment meters and get advice for low-energy users on standing charges. Learn how to reclaim excess credit from direct-debit accounts, and whether it's time to cash out if you're in the green. Dive into the tricky world of solar panels and export contracts, and find out how many smart meters are actually functioning as they should. Your energy savings journey starts here!
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9 snips
Sep 29, 2025 • 30min

Question Time: Is having a pension worth it? Why has my home insurance doubled? And Martin's Mick Jagger history!

In this enlightening discussion, the value of pensions takes center stage, highlighting their tax benefits and employer contributions. Martin shares a personal anecdote about trying to persuade Mick Jagger to finish his accounting degree. Listeners learn why their home insurance might have doubled and gain insight into the importance of fully paying off credit cards to avoid interest. Each question leads to practical advice that empowers listeners in their financial decisions.
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Sep 25, 2025 • 1h 4min

Should you take a student loan? Martin’s five things you need to know about student finance

Dive into the complexities of student finance with insights on tuition costs and the nuances of loan repayments. Discover how parental contributions can impact students, and why current interest rates may not tell the whole story. There's also an update on energy standing charges that aims to help low users. Plus, listeners share amusing accidental savings stories. Martin emphasizes that loans might be better left for future investments like a mortgage, and he explains how different repayment plans affect graduates based on their earnings.
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5 snips
Sep 22, 2025 • 23min

Question Time: Should you invest in gold? Student loan interest? How to get energy credit back?

Explore how to reclaim your energy credit and whether switching suppliers is worth it. Martin dives into the ins and outs of student loans, addressing the 2023 reforms and interest changes. He also shares insights on investing in gold and when it's smart to overpay your mortgage. Plus, enjoy a light-hearted listener question about ducks and tips on locating a Child Trust Fund. If you've got burning financial queries, Martin's here to help!

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