On 29 July, the UK Government announced changes to the eligibility for winter fuel payments (WFP). They'll now only be paid to claimants in receipt of state pension credit (SPC). Here, our adviser Luke lets you know how you can check if you're eligible, and what else you can do to make sure you're able to afford to keep your home warm this winter. Statistics from the Department for Work and Pensions show that 800,000 people across the UK who could claim state pension credit don't claim this benefit. If you're a pensioner who is currently not claiming

We all want to keep our homes warm, but the cost can put us off. One way to reduce these costs is through energy efficiency improvements. It’s not always easy to find out what support you can get with this or where to go when things go wrong. ECO scheme The ECO scheme can help cover the cost of insulation, boilers, and other energy efficiency improvements. You can apply through your local council or any energy supplier – it doesn’t have to be your supplier. Eligibility You’ll need to own your home to get energy efficiency support. You can

Your credit score is crucial in the world of managing your money. It's like a key that opens doors to financial opportunities. It's not just a number; it shows how healthy your finances are and has a big say in important decisions in your life, like getting a credit card, a mortgage, or even a job. Let's learn the basics and give you the know-how to make smart money choices.    What is a Credit Score?  At its core, a credit score is a three-digit number that reflects your creditworthiness. It's like a financial report card that lenders use

As the new year starts, many tenants experience rent increases. This could be because of the housing market or other factors. It's important to know how to handle these changes so you can maintain as good landlord-tenant relationship. In this guide, we'll look at the rules for rent increases, how to talk with your landlord, and help you avoid common problems.    Know the Rules: To understand rent going up, you need to know the rules. Landlords have to follow certain laws when they want to charge more rent. We'll talk about things like how much notice they have

As we enter the new year, the idea of a fresh start encourages us to set goals and resolutions, often focused on achieving financial goals. Whether it's building an emergency fund, paying off debts, or improving overall financial well-being, achieving these goals in 2024 calls for a practical approach. Managing your finances can be challenging, especially in the new year. This guide is here to help you navigate your finances this year within the private rented sector.    Reflect on 2023: Begin your journey by looking back on the past year. What worked well? What challenges did you face?

As we step into a new year, it's a great time to start thinking about laying down a solid budgeting plan. For those navigating the private rented sector, managing your finances can be challenging but ever so important. In this blog post, we'll explore practical tips and strategies to help you handle the challenges of budgeting and set yourself up for financial stability in 2024.  Understand Your Income and Expenses: The first step in creating a budget is to have a clear understanding of your income and expenses. List all your sources of income, including your salary, and any

As the year draws to a close, it's the perfect time for both tenants and landlords to conduct a comprehensive year-end review of their rental agreements and properties. This proactive approach can pave the way for a smooth transition into the new year and help maintain a healthy landlord-tenant relationship. Here are essential tips for both parties to consider:    For Tenants:  Review Your Lease Agreement: Take some time to carefully go through your lease agreement. Note any changes in terms, renewal options, or clauses that might impact your tenancy in the coming year.  Document Property Condition: Conduct a

The festive season is meant to be a time of joy, but for those facing rent arrears, it can bring added stress and anxiety. However, there are steps you can take to navigate this challenging situation and ensure that the festive season remains a time of warmth and togetherness. In this article, we'll explore practical tips and resources to help you manage rent arrears during Christmas. Communication is Key Initiate open communication with your landlord to discuss your financial situation. Some landlords may be willing to negotiate a temporary rent reduction or agree to a realistic repayment plan. Communication