Money Matters Advice from the Experts

Pension reforms should bring greater flexibility

money109 In last week’s article I discussed how the new coalition Government set out its proposals for limiting the tax relief available on pension contributions for high earners.

Last updated 11 September 2010
Published by http://www.cumberlandnews.co.uk

A bit of relief over pension contributions

tractor39 Over recent years successive governments have tried to encourage individuals to take responsibility for their own retirement and therefore remove some of the financial burden from the state.

Last updated 11 September 2010
Published by http://www.cumberlandnews.co.uk

First time buyers: Is it time for you to take the plunge?

Summer holidays are over for another year and the nights are starting to draw in; Christmas cards have started appearing in the shops.

Last updated 11 September 2010
Published by http://www.cumberlandnews.co.uk

Take the stress out of moving

When contracts are successfully exchanged for a house sale, most sellers feel daunted by the preparation for the move which is viewed by many as a highly stressful experience.

Last updated 3 September 2010
Published by http://www.cumberlandnews.co.uk

Affordable renting?

forrentpic278 In the past, many people regarded buy-to-let as a means of making money quickly rather than as a long-term investment.

Last updated 2 September 2010
Published by http://www.cumberlandnews.co.uk

School costs are an expensive exercise

schoolboy278 As the new school year looms closer many parents will let out a sigh of relief as their children leave the summer hibernation of their bedrooms, switch off the games console and emerge into the sunlight to be reunited with their school friends.

Last updated 2 September 2010
Published by http://www.cumberlandnews.co.uk

Beware the banking scams

moneyscreengrab208 Earlier this month, it was reported in national media that six people had been arrested over a scam which police believe compromised the security of more than 20,000 bank accounts and credit cards in the UK.

Last updated 28 August 2010
Published by http://www.cumberlandnews.co.uk

Avoid getting burnt

venice208 The prospect of having somewhere abroad where the sun shines reliably and it doesn’t rain is an appealing one for many. Putting together the ready cash to fund such a dream (be it a villa or timeshare) is not the end of your worries, however.

Last updated 28 August 2010
Published by http://www.cumberlandnews.co.uk

Buyers still in the driving seat

andy interirororor The downturn in the housing market caused by the economic downturn and tighter lending conditions together with the recent withdrawal of compulsory Home Information Packs has led to an increased supply of properties for sale and much fewer buyers, especially those who can immediately proceed with a purchase.

Last updated 17 August 2010
Published by http://www.cumberlandnews.co.uk

Savers and investors need to take long term view

It continues to be a tough time for savers and investors with the base rate showing little sign of moving upwards.

Last updated 13 August 2010
Published by http://www.cumberlandnews.co.uk

Give the gift of tax relief

inheritancetax138 In last week’s article I discussed the need for individuals to examine their estates and consider whether they need to plan for Inheritance Tax given the freeze on the nil rate band, currently £325,000.

Last updated 13 August 2010
Published by http://www.cumberlandnews.co.uk

Personal choice in savings

piggybank68 If you are thinking about saving for a rainy day, there are a number of options available to you. Depending on what is important to you will determine which saving option you take. For example, how long you can tie your cash up for, how quickly you are likely to need access to it, and whether you pay tax.