As well as taking advantage of rising Isa allowances, the over-50s could boost their cash by reassessing their home contents and buildings insurance. “The over-50s are one of the groups that are most likely to be overpaying” for home insurance, says The Guardian. In fact, if you regularly renew with your existing provider you could be paying as much as twice what you need to. “Lower burglary rates and fierce competition in the sector have pushed down prices dramatically over the past five years.” Head to Moneysupermarket.com to compare insurance prices.
• The future of cheques has been dealt another blow – cheque guarantee cards are to be phased out by 30 June 2011. Industry body Apacs says it will still be possible to write cheques after that date but customers won’t be able to guarantee them with a plastic card.
• Bradford & Bingley has launched a new savings account paying a highly competitive 3.3%. The Notice Saver Online account is available to both new and existing customers. There is a £1,000 minimum opening balance and you’ll have to give 60 days’ notice before you can access your cash.
• It’s time to start keeping an eye out for camera bargains. You may not be thinking about Christmas yet, but manufacturers and retailers are. Digital camera makers are preparing to launch their new cameras in time for Christmas, which means retailers will soon start discounting the old models to make way for the new, says Which? magazine.
• If you’re a student, teacher, lecturer, administrator or other staff member in education, you can get big discounts on Apple computers, software and iPods. You just need to be over 18 and have proof of your employment or student status. For more, call 0800-072 1154. Which? has named the Apple Macbook 13-inch 2ghz computer one of their Best Buys.
• If you were aged 60 or over on 27 September, then you qualify for the government’s Winter Fuel Payments scheme. You can claim up to £250 tax-free if you are over 60, and £400 if you are over 80. If you have received the payment in previous years, or get a state pension, then you will receive your payment automatically in November or December. Everyone else should call 08459-151515 to put in their claim.
• Get yourself some free homeware. The Daily Telegraph is giving away a free £5 House of Fraser gift card. The card is only valid on full-price homeware items, but there is no minimum spending limit, so you can get yourself some free items, says Martin Lewis on Moneysavingexpert.com. Get a voucher at Telegraph.co.uk/promotions.