Money Tips email | 21 April 2021

MSE_James

Hi Forumites! 

This thread is the place to discuss anything and everything that's in the latest Money Tips email.

The team has been working flat out to bring you the latest deals, guides and tips 'n' tricks. We've picked out a few highlights:

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1. Check out the best bank switching deal for more than a year
   Find out which four banks now offer a bonus when you switch account
    
2. Martin Lewis explains the new Government 5% deposit mortgage scheme
   He sets out why it's not necessarily right for all homebuyers
   
   
3. We've got details of the top 0% spending card
   Up to 21 months interest-free ... but only borrow if it's needed and affordable
    
4. Discover how to get your hands on some water-saving freebies
   An easy way to cut your bills and help the environment without it costing you a penny
    
5. Don't miss the alert over scammers using fake MSE & Martin Lewis emails
   There's a 'clone firm' using our names. Also remember we won't call you or knock on your door

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If you're not already signed up to receive our Money Tips direct to your inbox, why not? Handily, however, you can do so here.

nightsky224

Any gardeners know if the Azalea potted plant for £10 is a good deal, was tempted for my nan but no ideas how much they normally cost in the garden centre https://www.moneysavingexpert.com/redir/3d1b1a8b?url=https://www.thompson-morgan.com/p/azalea-romantic-lime-green-house-patio-plant/KB3180TM?source=mse21-azalea

The_Wrekin

BANK SWITCHING.  With M&S closing my current account (despite saying that they "valued my loyalty" and were "sorry to see me leave"), I decided to switch to HSBC. After about 10 days, I hadn't heard anything. I rang up HSBC. After a long wait I got through to somebody who, frankly, did not seem very keen to help me. He eventually said that their underwriters had sent me an email asking for some documents. Fair enough, but I never received that email.  After further reluctant discussion he said he would arrange for them to re-send the email. Again, the email did not arrive (I checked my junk folders etc.). My email address was correct on my application form (I kept a copy.) I think I had a narrow escape from HSBC with that low level of service.  I then switched to First Direct (another HSBC Bank!) and the service has been absolutely first class at every stage.   

dobbiesloan

I switched to Virgin in January and got the £180 free wine, I had a letter from them telling me that they are reducing the interest rate they are paying me and telling me I could leave. If I switch to HSBC for the £125 + Uber Eats vch would there be any problems?

Graham_Readman

I was attempting to use the save water link, but when I hit the link all I got was '502 gateway........'
I wonder if anyone had the same problem ? I would appreciate any help on this matter whether from the forum or from administration TIA

johnmrchips

Very interesting to note that almost twice as many women as men have taken part in the current poll about borrowing. I wonder if it will change later in the day and if working from home is having an effect?

MSE_James

Hi @Graham_Readman - sorry to hear that the link didn't work for you. Please could you try again now? It may have been a temporary problem when lots of people were visiting the Save Water Save Money site all at the same time.  

If you're still seeing the error message, please let us know exactly which link isn't working and we'll see how we can help. 

Vofs1

For the attention of KEVIN GOODSON, MEGAN FRENCH and STEVE NOWOTTNY

MSE weekly email 13/04/2021

RE_ 6. Urgent-check if your photo licence is valid Now

There is an update required to the advice given in this item.

This is due to recent versions of UK passports (since 2018) not holding the photo and your signature on the same page in the passport system. It appears that DVLA were not informed of this change and do not say how this issue is to be fixed, The DVLA has not updated their website to inform users of the implications.

If you have a new passport in the last 3 years you are unlikely to be able to renew your driving licence online.

This problem impacts particularly over 70 drivers who need to renew their driving licence every three years. Not only can they not renew their licence for free on line they have added costs going through any alternative system for renewal.

MSE  need to highlight this problem and get the Home Secretary to fix it.

Giammy85

I find annoying that in the newsletter the same deal is repeated more than once! Other than that, the information in there is always useful

gandpmudd

It is all very well to talk about low deposits for first time buyers, but many could afford a mortgage (given how much they have to pay in rent!) but lenders' rules preclude most people (eg teachers, nurses, etc) from getting a mortgage.

Johnmcdougall

Attention UK likely travellers planning holidays in Spain this year and those UK non residents who own holiday homes in Spain. Note transfer funds from UK to Spanish banks is likely to face expensive bank charges for every transfer. Cause it is claimed is due to Bretix. If one held a Euro account in another European country no charges are likely by the receiving Spanish bank.  John