The Nationwide Building Society informs us that people are losing around GBP248 million through expired or unpaid Child Trust Fund vouchers.
According to data gathered by them a quarter if the vouchers have expired while over 40 percent of the valid ones have not been used so far this year. In financial terms this, said the Nationwide Building Society, means almost GBP13 million each year is being lost in interest earnings alone.
A further word of caution came from a Nationwide Building Society spokesman who explained that if a suitable provider is not chosen by the parents then the government can allocate one for them, though this may not be in the best interests of the child. Child Trust Fund Vouchers are an excellent tax efficient savings vehicle and it is a shame more people are not using them.
Tesco Finance has just announced an improved rate for its internet saver account, paying 6.25 percent AER for 12 months.
The finance arm of Tesco has brought in a 12 month additional interest bonus of 1.5 percent, enabling them to bring this outstanding rate to the market. As a spokesman for the company said, this offer could not be timed any better, since consumers are now looking for the best savings rates possible as they look to make the most of their money.
Customers can invest up to GBP100,000 in the Tesco Finance Savings Account, enjoying the bonus interest rate for the first 12 months, after which it will revert to its regular 4.75 percent AER.
The decision by Gordon Brown to review the state of social care in order to make them more affordable and fairer for everyone has been welcomed by Saga Insurance.
The insurer has asked for steps to be taken as quickly as possible to help those who need it but also advises people to take independent financial advice in the meantime to ensure they make the best decision. Saga Insurance research shows that the typical cost of a 4 year care home stay is expected to almost double in the next twenty years, from GBP112,000 to GBP223,000.
A Saga Insurance spokesman said that it was vital to get professional financial advice since it could help inheritances be protected rather than seeing it all eaten up in care fees as is currently the case.
More information about Saga Insurance can be found within Moneygossip.co.uk.
