Rebecca Goodman
Writer
Rebecca Goodman is a freelance journalist who has spent the past 10 years working across personal finance publications. Regularly writing for The Guardian, The Sun, The Telegraph, and The Independent.
The latest from Rebecca
What is a Bacs Payment?
A Bacs payment, also known as Bankers Automated Clearing Services, is one of the most well-known types of bank transfer in the UK.
How to Use a Prepaid Travel Card
A prepaid travel card lets you load money onto it before you set off, and then you use it to pay for things while you're abroad.
Differences Between Debit and Credit Explained
Debit lets you use and access money you already have. Credit lets you borrow money that you'll later pay back.
Income Tax: Everything You Need to Know
Income tax is charged on most forms of income, but the way you pay depends on your employment.
Tax Brackets, Tax Rates, Tax Bands and Tax Allowances
The UK has two main rates of income tax: 20% and 40%. We explain these different income tax brackets and the allowances you may be eligible for.
How to Pay Taxes
UK income tax is typically paid through the pay-as-you-earn (PAYE) scheme, but additional tax payments, including the self-assessment payment, can also be paid online.
Are You on the Wrong Tax Code? Here’s What to Do
Tax codes are used to calculate how much income tax you must pay. It's important to check to make sure your code is correct. Having the wrong tax code could…
Self-Assessment Tax Return: Who Has to Complete One?
Self-employed workers, or those with additional income streams, must pay income tax by filing a self-assessment tax return. We explain what self-assessment is, who should pay tax this way, and…
PAYE: How the Pay-As-You-Earn System Works
With the pay-as-you-earn (PAYE) system, your employer deducts income tax and national insurance from your salary.
Contactless Payments and Limits Explained
Contactless payments make daily transactions easier by allowing you to hover your card or device over the payment terminal. Here, we look at what a contact payment is, how contactless…
What is the Difference Between a Standing Order and Direct Debit?
Standing orders send payments arranged by you. Direct debits are collected by the person or company you are paying.
Mobile Payment Apps: Everything you Need to Know
Mobile payment apps turn your smartphone into a wallet. Learn how to find a safe, secure app so you can start transferring funds and making contactless purchases.
How to Open a Bank Account
You can apply to open a current account online, over the phone or in a bank or building society branch with a form of ID and proof of address, and…
How Overdrafts Work
An overdraft can be an arranged or unarranged loan you take through your current account when you’re out of money. An annual interest rate will apply when you borrow
Cheques: How to Write and Use Them
Cheques account for only 1% of payments in the UK, but if you need to write one you must do it correctly so a bank does not reject it. Our…