Don’t let a loan shark ruin your Christmas

We’ve joined forces with our partner, Illegal Money Lending Team (IMLT), to warn people about the dangers of borrowing from loan sharks in the run-up to Christmas.The IMLT is a national organisation, hosted by Birmingham City Council, that was set…

Budget 2024: What does it mean for me?

This week, Chancellor Rachel Reeves announced new plans for how the country’s money will be spent and managed.We’ve broken down some of the key announcements and how it could affect your finances.Rises in National Minimum Wage and State PensionNational Minimum…

How to check if you could pay less Council Tax

If you’re currently paying council tax for your home in England, depending on your circumstances you may be able to receive a discount or not pay it at all.You may be able to get:A discount, for example, for single-person occupancy…

What funded childcare hours am I entitled to?

In England, depending on your circumstances, you may be able to get 15 or 30 hours of free childcare for your children aged nine months to four years old.The amount of childcare you may get depends on:Your child’s ageWhat your…

Moving to Universal Credit: What you need to know as benefits and Tax Credits change

Universal Credit is a single monthly payment to help people on a low income with living costs.You’ll receive a letter in the post from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP)It’s important that you don’t do anything until you receive…

Everything you need to know about The Winter Fuel Payment

The Winter Fuel Payment is an annual payment from the government to help eligible people with their heating costs during the colder months. It’s usually between £100 and £300, depending on your circumstances.If you’re eligible, you’ll typically receive your payment…

Cheap and free places to eat over the summer holidays

The summer holidays have arrived! While the kids might be excited for a long break, we’re aware of the extra financial pressure that it can put on families.Keeping track of what you’re spending while trying to make sure your children…

Are you missing out on unclaimed benefits?

Policy in Practice estimates that a staggering £23 billion of income-related benefits and social tariffs will not be claimed across Great Britain in 2024.Making sure that income is maximised through the take-up of benefits is vital to helping individuals on…

Communicating with bereaved people: A practical guide to having better conversations

How to communicate with bereaved people It’s National Bereaved Parents Day on 3rd July 2024, an awareness event established by charity A Child of Mine in 2020 to honour bereaved parents and to break the silence around the death of…

What does the 2024 Budget mean for you and your money?

Here’s an overview of the key points from the 2024 Budget, announced by the Chancellor yesterday afternoon (March 6).We’ve covered the topics that could affect you and your money:TaxNational Insurance, a payroll tax, cut by 2p in the pound for…

Write your Will for free in March

Wills aren’t just for the wealthy.It’s important for everyone to plan ahead, but did you know that over half of the adults in the UK don’t have a will?Without a clear Will in place, your wishes may not be followed…

Join the nation’s biggest mental health conversation

We’re celebrating Time to Talk Day today (February 1st), the nation’s biggest mental health conversation.The annual awareness day, by Mind and Rethink Mental Illness, is a day for you. It’s a chance for you to be open with your friends,…

NHS Talking Therapies can help

The NHS is encouraging anyone struggling with feelings of depression or anxiety, such as excessive worry, panic attacks, social anxiety, post-traumatic stress or obsessions and compulsions, to seek help through NHS Talking Therapies services.The services are effective, confidential and free…

Take advantage of PayPlan’s free money-saving tool BudgetSmart

Our online money tool, BudgetSmart, helps you maximise your income, reduce your spending and find savings in every corner of your finances.The interactive tool has hundreds of money-saving tips across eight core categories, including support with energy and water bills,…

Understanding the dangers of using Buy Now, Pay Later this Christmas

What is Buy Now, Pay Later?Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) is a payment option offered by retailers to allow customers to spread the cost or delay the payment of their purchase.It has become a very popular payment method for online…

Do one thing for Talk Money Week 2023

Talk Money Week is well underway, and we hope everyone is opening up and discussing finances in a healthier manner.Every year, Talk Money Week focuses on a different theme, and for 2023, the main focus is “Do one thing”.What is…

Understanding economic abuse – why your voice matters this Talk Money Week

What is economic abuse?For Talk Money Week 2023, we’re teaming up with Broxtowe Women’s Project to raise awareness of economic abuse and the support available for victims.Economic abuse is a form of domestic abuse that involves a pattern of controlling,…