The latest from Ruth
Card Declined: Why Has My Card Been Declined?
Although it may leave you a little red faced, cards can be declined for a number of reasons, these could include reaching spending limits, being abroad or getting your information…
How To Check Your Credit Card Statement
Your credit card statement contains your balance, minimum payment due, the due date, your limit and more.
Credit Card Charges And Fees Demystified
Credit card charges that might show up on your statement include fees from travelling abroad, cash withdrawals, or paying your interest and balance late.
Credit Card Minimum Payments Explained
Your minimum credit card payment is a compulsory sum you have to pay to keep to the terms of your credit card agreement. We explain how minimum payments are calculated…
Credit Card Limits Explained
All credit cards have a credit limit, which sets the maximum amount you can borrow on the card. Find out how credit card limits are calculated and whether you can…
What is a Standard Variable Rate Mortgage?
A standard variable rate, or SVR, is an interest rate set by your mortgage lender that you may be moved onto once your fixed, tracker or discount rate mortgage deal…
Savings Accounts Earn You Interest on Your Money
How much interest you earn depends on the type of savings account, how much you save and how long you are willing to lock your money away.
Retirement Interest Only Mortgages: How RIO Mortgages Work
A retirement interest-only mortgage (RIO) is a type of home loan available to borrowers over 55. With a RIO, you repay interest monthly. Capital does not have to be repaid…
Understanding your Pension Statement
A pension statement is an annual summary of your pension pot. It shows how much you have built up so far and gives you a projected retirement income. Your state…
Pension Advice: Everything you Need to Know
Whether you're approaching retirement or want to understand the funds you’re investing in, you might consider getting some advice about your pension.
What is a Credit Union? Should I Join One?
Credit unions are co-operatives that provide loans and savings accounts to members. Find out how they work and how you can join one.
What is the Financial Conduct Authority?
The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) is an independent public body that regulates the financial services and markets in the UK. It aims to protect consumers, maintain the integrity of the…
Cashing in a Pension: Your Options at Retirement Explained
Cashing in a pension usually only becomes possible at age 55. At this point some or all of your pension funds can be used to buy an annuity, set up…
Are you paying too much for your pension? Learn how to minimise the fees
Pension providers charge for their services with pension charges and fees. Pension charges can include annual management charges, platform fees, underlying fund fees, inactivity fees and exit charges. While they…
How ethical pension funds work
Ethical pension funds bring socially responsible investing to retirement planning by ensuring the underlying investments meet Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) criteria.