Key benefits of a Junior ISA
Parents seeking savings accounts for children may have come across the term Junior ISA (JISA). Set to be launched on November 1st 2011, these will provide a tax-efficient way to save for your offspring's future - but what exactly are JISAs, and what other benefits will they provide? |
Savings for children: what are the options?
Whether you're planning to start a family or already have children, you're bound to be interested in ways to save for your child's future. As with most financial products, there are several available options - but what are these, and how do you establish which package is right for you? |
Tax considerations when choosing child saving accounts
Building a nest egg for our offspring or grandchildren's future is an important consideration for many parents and close relatives. And there are numerous fiscal solutions on the market that allow you to do just that - especially in the form of child saving accounts - many of which are tax-free. |
A guide to share indices
Entering the stock market can be a challenge when you don't know much about the industry. The key is to invest in the right stock index - here is a guide on share indices from the FTSE 350 to NASDAQ Composite to help you find an index you can be confident will earn you money. |
Top ideas for employee rewards
Every employee likes to be recognised for their hard work. This not only boosts their confidence, but also improves morale and can minimise staff turnover at your organisation. Here are some top ideas for effective and popular staff reward schemes. |
Common misconceptions surrounding home reversion plans
Many people do not understand home reversion plans and the benefits of such equity release schemes, meaning they select products that are not the most suitable. It is important that you understand how these plans work and how they may benefit you. |
Why payday loan scare stories are not influencing borrowers
Despite negative coverage in the media, the number of people taking out payday loans continues to increase. A recent survey revealed that the public have a different attitude towards payday loans than policymakers, who often criticise them. |
Is a bridging loan right for budding entrepreneurs?
Raising the money you need to start a business can be hard, however, there are alternatives to bank loans. Among them are bridging loans, peer-to-peer lending and borrowing money from friends and family, meaning you need to do plenty of research. |
Do employees value perks and incentives over pay rises?
Everyone would like to be paid more, which is why you will see even very well remunerated people asking for improved salaries. However, only an unwise business owner would seek to rely solely on pay rises to motivate their workforce. |
Downsizing vs. equity release: Which is right for you?
Many of those approaching their retirement weigh up whether to downsize or release equity from their home. Both options have their advantages and disadvantages and it is important to consider these in relation to each before you come to a decision. |
Why the EHIC is not a substitute for travel insurance
The European Health Insurance Card is not a replacement for travel insurance. While it affords you some protection, there are many areas that it does not cover, which is why you should always take out travel insurance when going abroad. |
Important questions to ask bridging loan companies
Before taking out a bridging loan, you must understand a number of key points. These include the rate of interest you will be charged, the length of time you have to repay the loan and whether there are any arrangement fees that apply. |
FAQs when searching for new insurance providers
Whether you have just made a new purchase that you want to protect or are looking to switch from your current provider in the hopes of getting a better deal elsewhere, it is important that you take the time to search for the insurance company that is right for you. |
How easy is it to implement staff reward schemes?
An effective employee reward scheme may be just what your business is looking for to keep staff motivated during what are tough economic times. Such programmes do not have to be expensive and can play an important role in maintaining good relations between workers and bosses. |
Why you must choose a reputable payday loan provider
If you have come to the conclusion that taking out a payday loan is necessary, it is important that you borrow from a reputable company. Many loan providers are respectable organisations, however, others may employ unscrupulous tactics. |
Why bridging loans are only suitable for short-term funding
You should only consider bridging finance if your funding needs are temporary. This is because the high rates of interest make bridging finance unsuitable as a long-term solution, so if you have long-term needs, you should look at other options. |
Banks vs. specialist lenders - which bridging loans are best?
Both banks and specialist bridging loan companies can provide the bridging finance you need, meaning you need to compare products from a range of providers. You need to look at factors such as interest rates and arrangement fees. |
FAQs about umbrella companies
If you are considering becoming a contractor, you need to know about umbrella companies and what they do. Many new contractors use umbrella companies, as they take care of the administrative side of their affairs and ensure they pay the right tax. |
FAQs about limited companies
Many contractors choose to set up a limited company thanks to the various tax benefits and the limited liability should the business fold. If you are new to contracting, it is important you know all about limited companies and how they work. |
Lifetime mortgages vs. drawdown mortgages - which is right for you?
Most equity release customers opt for either a drawdown lifetime mortgage or a standard lifetime mortgage. Which one you choose will depend largely on what you need the money for. To make an informed decision, you must understand the nature of each. |
How to sensibly manage your payday loan
If you need to access money quickly, payday loans can be a useful option. Much like their name suggests, these products offer a quick cash boost that is repayable once you receive your next wages. However, as is the case with any other kind of debt, it is important that you manage your borrowing commitments carefully. |
Using online points schemes for staff rewards programme
Whether you are hoping to boost productivity levels or wish to show your thanks to long-serving members of staff, reward schemes are a useful tool to implement in the workplace. However, choosing a system that runs entirely online can benefit employers and workers alike. |
A guide to the markets you can access through spread betting
Currencies, commodities and shares can all available through spread betting. Access to various markets is one of the most appealing features of financial betting. However, spread betting is not for everyone and you can lose more than you started with. |
Can bridging loans work for those who only need small amounts?
Some bridging loan companies will lend up to £5 million if you have sufficient equity in your home, however, what if your borrowing needs are more modest? If you need a sum of £10,000, bridging loans can still be an option. |
Why speaking with an equity release adviser is so important
Meeting with an equity release adviser is an opportunity for you to learn all about the different schemes available and whether they are suitable for you. It is also a chance to ask any questions you may have regarding inheritance and other issues. |
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