http://www.beatmydebt.comRss Feed for all the news and articles from Beat My Debt40Headline figures show personal insolvencies in the UK have fallen by 11.3% between in 2011 compared to 2010. However has the number of people struggliFri, 03 Feb 2012 04:58:14 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/bankruptcy-figures-fall-in-2011-but-have-debt-problems-really-reduced.htmEven though the overall numbers of people insolvent has fallen between 2010 and 2011, but many forced to use debt management plansFri, 03 Feb 2012 04:51:01 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/is-the-cost-of-bankruptcy-forcing-people-into-debt-management-plans.htmIf you start an IVA, we ask whether your monthly payments will remain fixed or whether they could change for any reason.Thu, 02 Feb 2012 06:10:43 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/are-IVA-payments-fixed.htmWe consider whether you can include hire purchase debts in an individual voluntary arrangement.Wed, 01 Feb 2012 10:04:08 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/can-I-include-an-HP-debt-in-an-IVA.htmIf you are already bankrupt, we consider what you can do if the official receiver has asked you to make a payment each month which you cannot afford.Thu, 26 Jan 2012 04:33:28 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/bankrupt-but-cannot-afford-the-monthly-payment-what-can-I-do.htmIf you are planning on starting a DMP, we consider whether it is best to pay a debt management company to help you or use a free serviceWed, 25 Jan 2012 04:49:31 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/should-I-pay-for-a-debt-management-plan-or-use-a-free-service.htmIf you are struggling with personal debts we consider the steps you will need to go through to get an Individual Voluntary Arrangement.Tue, 24 Jan 2012 06:24:19 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/how-do-I-start-an-IVA.htmWe consider what living expenses you will be allowed if you declare yourself bankrupt.Mon, 23 Jan 2012 06:33:27 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/what-is-a-reasonable-living-expenses-budget-for-bankruptcy.htmWe consider how easy it is to add a debt if you have already started your debt management plan.Thu, 19 Jan 2012 04:55:16 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/I-left-a-debt-out-of-my-debt-management-plan-what-can-I-do.htmA report by insolvency specialist Begbies Traynor has showed 5,306 firms ran into severe financial trouble in the final quarter of 2011 – up 24 %Thu, 19 Jan 2012 04:47:09 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/increasing-number-of-companies-face-bankruptcy.htmDemand for payday loans from one lender have nearly tripled over the 2011 Christmas period compared to the year before. Thu, 19 Jan 2012 04:35:50 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/payday-loan-lender-sees-demand-treble-over-christmas.htmIf you are thinking about starting a debt management plan, we ask whether you will need to open a new bank account.Tue, 17 Jan 2012 06:32:18 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/if-I-start-a-debt-management-plan-do-I-have-to-open-a-new-bank-account.htmNew legally-binding rules for bailiffs will be introduced following proposals which have been announced by the government.Tue, 17 Jan 2012 06:24:16 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/new-rules-for-bailiffs-to-be-introduced.htmWe consider your options if you are already in an IVA but cannot afford to keep paying your agreed monthly payments.Fri, 13 Jan 2012 05:52:56 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/I-cannot-afford-to-pay-my-IVA-what-can-I-do.htmAn estimated 10 million people in the UK - amounting to around 20% of adults - are in a 'constant struggle' to manage their debtsFri, 13 Jan 2012 05:43:32 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/10-million-people-in-UK-struggling-with-debt.htmWe consider what would happen if you pay off some of your debts preferentially to others before you declare yourself bankrupt.Mon, 09 Jan 2012 05:37:52 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/what-happens-if-you-repay-debt-before-declaring-yourself-bankrupt.htmOver 12 million people will spend January 2012 relying on their credit cards simply to fund day-to-day living expensesMon, 09 Jan 2012 05:30:07 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/12-million-will-fund-living-expenses-with-credit-in-january.htmIf you are planning to start an individual voluntary arrangement we consider what will happen if you have only just stopped using credit cardsThu, 05 Jan 2012 06:39:37 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/can-I-start-an-IVA-if-I-have-recently-taken-credit.htmA quarter of the 44,000 people who have taken out Debt Relief Orders since 2009 are aged 25-34Thu, 05 Jan 2012 06:36:30 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/25-percent-of-debt-relief-orders-started-by-young-people.htmSome 53pc of people in full-time employment said that all of their disposable income has been swallowed up, according to a study.Wed, 04 Jan 2012 03:54:34 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/many-have-already-run-out-of-money-in-first-week-of-january.htmAlmost a million people have turned to a high cost payday loan to cover their mortgage or rent in the past yearWed, 04 Jan 2012 03:34:36 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/homeowners-pay-mortgages-with-payday-loans.htmIf the Christmas period has left you struggling with debts, we offer some practical advice for getting your finances back under control. Wed, 04 Jan 2012 02:42:56 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/in-debt-after-christmas-what-can-I-do.htmIf you are working out your debt management plan living expenses budget, we consider what allowance you can include for your pets.Thu, 22 Dec 2011 07:19:50 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/can-a-budget-for-pets-be-included-in-DMP-living-expenses.htmIf you are working out your IVA living expenditure budget we consider how much you will be allowed to include for keeping pets.Tue, 20 Dec 2011 07:05:54 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/how-much-can-be-included-for-pets-in-IVA-living-expenses.htmWe find out whether your name will appear in the local newspaper if you declare yourself bankrupt.Mon, 19 Dec 2011 06:04:37 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/is-bankruptcy-advertised-in-the-newspaper.htmA debt advice business has gone into liquidation after suffering a drop in take-up by IPs for its IVA cases.Mon, 19 Dec 2011 05:24:50 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/debt-management-advice-company-closed.htmIf you start a debt management plan we consider the affect that this will have on your credit rating.Fri, 16 Dec 2011 06:09:16 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/how-will-a-debt-management-plan-affect-my-credit-rating.htmCallcredit has successfully trialled out Noddle, its free credit report serviceFri, 16 Dec 2011 06:03:15 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/free-credit-reports-for-all-closer-to-reality.htmRising unemployment and increased pressure on household budgets will lead to more borrowers falling behind on their mortgages and getting repossessed Fri, 16 Dec 2011 05:50:34 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/house-repossession-warning-for-2012.htmIf you are struggling with debt it is possible that one or more of you creditors will take legal action against you. We consider whether you can stop Wed, 14 Dec 2011 06:19:43 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/can-legal-action-be-stopped-using-an-IVA.htmOne in four consumers is in urgent need of a financial plan if they are to avoid falling into debt in 2012Wed, 14 Dec 2011 06:14:09 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/prevent-personal-debt-with-better-financial-management.htmWe investigate more of the important questions that you need to answer before deciding to start a debt management plan.Tue, 13 Dec 2011 05:27:43 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/important-debt-management-plan-questions-answered.htmSixty per cent of pay day loan customers regret taking out the loan, according to research by trade association R3.Tue, 13 Dec 2011 05:22:05 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/payday-loan-customers-regret-borrowing-more-money.htmWe consider if you can use a debt management plan to resolve a debt problem if you are self employed.Mon, 12 Dec 2011 06:01:00 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/can-I-do-a-debt-management-plan-if-I-am-self-employed.htmA protocol for Debt Management Plans (DMPs) could be introduced in 2012Mon, 12 Dec 2011 05:28:34 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/new-regulation-for-debt-management-plans.htmThe Business minister Edward Davey MP has announced proposals which aim to save time and money when it comes to simpler bankruptcy casesFri, 02 Dec 2011 04:44:47 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/new-proposals-could-reduce-the-cost-of-declaring-yourself-bankrupt.htmWe consider how to correctly complete your bankruptcy living expenses budget when making a bankruptcy applicationFri, 02 Dec 2011 03:34:40 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/how-to-complete-a-bankruptcy-living-expenses-budget.htmThe Government has released its latest official debt figures which show a surprising fall in the number of people who are struggling with debtWed, 16 Nov 2011 05:45:33 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/UK-personal-debt-figures-fall.htmWe ask what is the minimum amount you will need to pay each month if you start an IVA?Wed, 16 Nov 2011 01:48:14 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/what-is-the-minimum-payment-for-an-IVA.htmWe look at the implications if your income changes while you are bankrupt.Thu, 10 Nov 2011 03:51:58 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/what-happens-if-my-income-changes-while-bankrupt.htmIf you are looking at the option of bankruptcy to deal with your debt problem we answer more of the important questions that you may have Wed, 09 Nov 2011 06:29:42 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/important-bankruptcy-questions-answered.htmWe consider how individual voluntary arrangements can be used stop action from bailiffs and how an IVA can stop bailiffs taking action at allMon, 07 Nov 2011 04:37:26 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/will-an-iva-stop-bailiffs.htmWe find out about the top five effects that bankruptcy will have on you and how long these effects will last.Fri, 04 Nov 2011 04:19:49 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/top-five-effects-of-bankruptcy.htmWe consider the cost of going bankrupt and understand how these costs can be paid.Wed, 02 Nov 2011 03:58:24 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/what-does-bankruptcy-cost.htmWe find out what happens to your credit rating after you go through bankruptcy.Tue, 01 Nov 2011 04:09:31 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/bankruptcy-how-it-affects-your-credit-rating.htmIf you are considering an IVA we answer more of the important questions you are likely to be asking about this debt management solution.Mon, 31 Oct 2011 04:58:52 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/important-IVA-questions-answered.htmWe look at some of the things that you might hear if you are considering a DMP and discover whether there is any truth to them.Thu, 27 Oct 2011 03:51:26 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/top-debt-management-plan-myths-answered.htmAre you starting a debt management plan? We give answers to the most frequently asked DMP questions.Wed, 26 Oct 2011 04:01:44 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/top-five-debt-management-plan-questions.htmWe investigate what it means to declare yourself bankrupt in the UK and how you can start the filing for bankruptcy process.Tue, 25 Oct 2011 04:06:43 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/declaring-yourself-bankrupt.htmWe consider some of the key myths that surround declaring yourself bankrupt and find out whether there is any truth in them.Fri, 21 Oct 2011 04:41:06 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/the-top-bankruptcy-myths-answered.htmWe provide some simple bankruptcy advice and help if you are thinking about declaring yourself bankrupt.Tue, 18 Oct 2011 04:44:08 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/bankruptcy-advice-and-help-going-bankrupt.htmConsidering the possibility of going bankrupt? Here are answers to 5 questions which people always ask about bankruptcy.Mon, 17 Oct 2011 03:27:01 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/top-5-bankruptcy-questions.htmA major overhaul of the bankruptcy fee structure is needed, the Insolvency Service has warnedThu, 13 Oct 2011 05:31:44 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/could-the-cost-of-going-bankrupt-rise-again.htmWe consider what will happen if your IVA fails and ways to avoid IVA failure.Thu, 13 Oct 2011 03:00:21 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/what-happens-if-my-IVA-fails.htmWe find out more about the IVA debt solution and ask whether it is suitable for you.Wed, 12 Oct 2011 04:33:56 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/should-I-do-an-IVA.htmWe consider whether individual voluntary arrangements can be used to avoid going bankrupt and what you need to consider before using an IVA service.Mon, 10 Oct 2011 06:27:15 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/how-can-an-IVA-be-used-to-avoid-bankruptcy.htmWe ask whether the IVA debt solution or a debt management plan is a better option to choose if you are looking for debt management solution.Fri, 07 Oct 2011 04:52:43 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/iva-or-debt-management-plan-which-is-the-best-debt-solution.htmWe ask what costs are involved in setting up a debt management plan and whether there are alternatives to paying these costs.Wed, 05 Oct 2011 03:58:31 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/what-does-a-debt-management-plan-cost.htmUK debt statistics recently released give us more information about the current state of UK families personal finances.Tue, 04 Oct 2011 04:00:13 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/uk-debt-statistics-october-2011.htmDebt is a key contributor to stress both at home and work. We consider how a debt management solution can be used to ease stress.Tue, 04 Oct 2011 01:48:08 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/use-a-debt-management-solution-to-ease-stress.htmWe ask what is the cost of doing an individual voluntary arrangement and how these costs are paidMon, 03 Oct 2011 03:34:36 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/what-does-an-IVA-cost.htmWe consider some of the key myths that surround the IVA debt solution and find out whether there is any truth behind them.Thu, 29 Sep 2011 05:19:54 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/the-top-5-IVA-myths-answered.htmWe ask whether you can make a claim for PPI miss-selling if you are bankrupt or have already been discharged from bankruptyThu, 29 Sep 2011 03:06:39 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/can-I-claim-for-PPI-miss-selling-if-I-am-bankrupt.htmThinking of starting an IVA? We answer 5 key questions that people ask before they begin an IVA debt solution.Wed, 28 Sep 2011 05:09:46 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/top-5-IVA-questions.htmWe find out more about the debt management plan solution and how it can help to ease the stress of personal debt problems. Mon, 26 Sep 2011 05:40:53 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/what-is-a-debt-management-plan.htmWe consider the IVA debt solution and ask whether it might be suitable to help resolve your debt problem.Mon, 26 Sep 2011 05:32:20 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/what-is-an-IVA-debt-solution.htmWe consider your rights if you are contacted by a debt collectorThu, 22 Sep 2011 05:06:42 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/your-rights-when-dealing-with-debt-collectors.htmWith over 1.8 million people having borrowed to pay for their summer holidays, we consider what you can do if the summer has left you with debtsWed, 21 Sep 2011 04:25:35 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/what-are-your-options-if-the-summer-holidays-have-left-you-in-debt.htmAre you a home owner and about to start a debt management plan? We consider if your house is at risk from a charging order. Wed, 21 Sep 2011 02:22:51 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/will-I-get-a-charging-order-if-I-do-a-debt-management-plan.htmBetween May and July, unemployment rose by 80,000. With unemployment set to rise still further, we ask what to do if you are unemployed and have debtTue, 20 Sep 2011 04:38:11 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/what-can-you-do-if-unemployment-leaves-you-struggling-to-pay-your-debt.htmWe consider how to open a new bank account and the things you will need to think about especially if you are trying to resolve a debt problem. Fri, 16 Sep 2011 06:08:51 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/how-easy-is-it-to-open-a-new-bank-account.htmAverage rents have now risen to £713 per month. We consider what options you have if you are struggling to pay your rent and other debtsFri, 16 Sep 2011 03:43:02 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/what-can-you-do-if-rent-rises-leave-you-struggling-to-pay-rent-and-other-debts.htmAs Ryanair launches its prepaid master card, we ask whether having a prepaid debit card is a good idea or whether there is a better alternativeThu, 15 Sep 2011 04:29:58 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/is-a-prepaid-debit-card-a-good-idea.htmThe government wants the new "all in one" Universal Credit benefit system to be paid on a monthly basis.Tue, 13 Sep 2011 01:33:07 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/welfare-benefits-to-be-paid-monthly.htm62% - or 30 million - of British people are needlessly leaving electrical items on standby, putting a big drain on our energy use and budgetsTue, 13 Sep 2011 01:17:59 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/62-percent-of-brits-wasting-energy-and-money.htmWe consider what you have to do if you want to go bankrupt.Mon, 12 Sep 2011 04:59:55 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/how-do-I-go-bankrupt.htmHousehold budgets could be squeezed for the next 10 years as the impact of tax rises and cuts is felt, the Institute for Fiscal Studies (IFS) has warnMon, 12 Sep 2011 04:51:38 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/uk-household-budgets-face-10-year-squeeze.htmWe consider whether you can use an IVA to resolve your debt problem if you are self employed and the main issues you will need to think about.Fri, 09 Sep 2011 02:09:51 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/can-I-do-an-IVA-if-I-am-self-employed.htmMore than a million people have pulled out of making personal pension contributions due to a squeeze on household finances, according to the ONSFri, 09 Sep 2011 01:53:32 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/millions-stop-paying-into-their-pension-to-save-cash.htmIf you are a homeowner and considering a debt management plan to solve your debt problem, we investigate whether you will have to release home equity Thu, 08 Sep 2011 02:18:11 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/will-I have-to-release-home-equity-if-I-do-a-debt-management-plan.htmThe proportion of women declaring themselves bankrupt or going into IVAs has reached record levels latest figures reveal.Thu, 08 Sep 2011 01:45:10 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/female-insolvencies-hit-record-levels.htmIf you declare yourself bankrupt we consider what affect this will have on your employment and whether your employer will be told.Tue, 06 Sep 2011 02:20:56 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/will-my-employer-be-told-if-I-go-bankrupt.htmHM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) is taking a tougher stance against business owners who have failed to pay tax before going bankruptTue, 06 Sep 2011 02:13:28 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/hmrc-targets-tax-dodging-directors.htmIf you are thinking about starting an IVA we consider what priority payments you can include in your living expenses budget.Mon, 05 Sep 2011 03:30:22 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/in-an-IVA-living-expenses-budget-what-payments-can-be-included-as-priority.htmThe Co-operative Bank has moved into 245 Britannia branches across the country in a major push to become a serious rival to the UK's 'big five' banks.Mon, 05 Sep 2011 03:19:33 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/co-op-opens-245-new-branches-on-the-high-street.htmSome young people are struggling to cope with financial responsibility, a charity saysMon, 05 Sep 2011 02:59:57 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/18-and-19-year-olds-struggling-with-debt.htmAnyone who took out a loan from the Student Loan Company before 1998 will see the interest on debts still owing rise from 4.4 per cent to 5.3 per centFri, 02 Sep 2011 03:42:45 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/why-has-my-student-loan-payment-gone-up-when-my-salary-has-stayed-the-same.htmBanks have processed more than 97% of their huge backlog of complaints about payment protection insurance (PPI).Fri, 02 Sep 2011 03:15:08 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/PPI-backlog-97-percent-cleared-by-banks.htmFalling salaries are raising concerns about the rising cost of living as families say they are more worried than ever about it.Thu, 01 Sep 2011 03:49:26 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/families-more-worried-than-ever-about-living-costs.htmMost people would rather raid their savings than rack up big debts on credit cards in the battle to beat the squeeze on household financesThu, 01 Sep 2011 03:03:55 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/hard-up-households-raid-savings-before-getting-into-debt.htmIf you are using an IVA you will need to include any tax debts you owe to HMRC. We ask how likely it is that HMRC will accept your IVA.Wed, 31 Aug 2011 04:24:46 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/will-HMRC-accept-my-IVA-proposal.htmA survey by Skipton Building Society finds the average Briton doesn't start taking their financial future seriously until they reach 34 years of ageWed, 31 Aug 2011 03:27:56 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/focus-on-financial-planning-to-avoid-debt.htmA debt management plan can be a good way of getting your debts under control. We investigate how long a debt management plan will lastFri, 26 Aug 2011 04:57:33 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/how-long-will-my-debt-management-plan-last.htmIf you are having problems keeping up with your home rent payments, we ask whether you could use an IVA to help solve the problem. Thu, 25 Aug 2011 02:19:34 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/can-an-IVA-help-if-I-am-struggling-to-pay-my-rent.htmThe number of pensioners relying on financial assistance from family members has more than doubled to a quarter of a million since last yearThu, 25 Aug 2011 02:13:24 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/increase-in-pensioners-forced-to-borrow-from-their-families.htmIn Scotland, almost 700,000 people have run up credit card balances of as much as £30,000, according to the latest Scottish Household Survey. Thu, 25 Aug 2011 01:27:17 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/one-third-of-scots-borrowing-to-get-by.htmDeclaring yourself bankrupt can seem a very worrying process unless you know what to expect. We discuss what happens when you go to the court to submiWed, 24 Aug 2011 06:10:51 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/when-I-go-bankrupt-what-happens-at-the-court.htmFive million UK households are vunerable to debt because they have such low levels of savings Wed, 24 Aug 2011 04:05:55 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/those-with-no-savings-more-likely-to-get-into-debt.htmIf you are currently in a debt management plan but are not happy with the debt management company you are with, we ask whether you can changeTue, 23 Aug 2011 04:26:54 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/can-I-change-my-dmp-company-if-I-am-not-happy.htmDemand for Debt Relief Orders (DROs) in Northern Ireland was more than double the UK average during the first month of their availabilityTue, 23 Aug 2011 04:16:26 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/massive-demand-for-debt-relief-orders-in-northern-ireland.htmBrits continued to be cautious about building up new debt in July but saving a lot less.Tue, 23 Aug 2011 04:02:41 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/britons-use-savings-and-borrow-less.htmAfter bankruptcy we consider what will happen when you meet the official receiverMon, 22 Aug 2011 06:03:12 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/once-I-am-bankrupt-what-happens-at-the-meeting-with-the-official-receiver.htmMany banks are still struggling to hit their targets to deal with payment protection insurance complaints, despite an extension from the FSAMon, 22 Aug 2011 05:55:19 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/banks-struggling-to-process-PPI-miss-selling-claims.htmComplaints about businesses that demand upfront fees for loans they never arrange have risen again, according to the Office of Fair Trading (OFT).Mon, 22 Aug 2011 05:46:17 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/complaints-about-loan-fees-rising-says-OFT.htmHousehold budgets are deteriorating at a faster rate than during the height of the recession in early 2009Mon, 22 Aug 2011 05:31:30 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/uk-household-finances-worse-than-during-height-of-recession.htmIf you are currently in a debt management plan but are worried that it is not working for you, we consider the possibility of switching to an IVA.Fri, 19 Aug 2011 04:06:13 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/my-DMP-is-not-working-can-I-change-to-an-IVA.htmPrivate rents in England and Wales rose to an average £705 per month in July, according to a survey Fri, 19 Aug 2011 03:59:33 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/rents-reach-new-high-as-demand-remains-strong.htmRatings agency Standard and Poor’s warning that mortgage bad debts are likely to soar in the North paints a bleak picture for Yorkshire’s homeownersFri, 19 Aug 2011 02:34:23 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/home-repossessions-likely-to-rise-in-north-of-england.htmIf you cannot afford to make monthly payments we consider under what circumstances doing an IVA may still be possible.Thu, 18 Aug 2011 05:37:17 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/can-I-do-an-IVA-if-I-have-no-disposable-income.htmThousands of middle-income earners are turning to backstreet payday loans to make ends meet after being deterred by the High Street banks. Thu, 18 Aug 2011 05:26:32 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/thousands-of-middle-income-earners-turn-to-payday-loans.htmProperty repossessions have rocketed by 14% since the end of 2010 according to figures released by the Council of Mortgage Lenders (CML).Thu, 18 Aug 2011 05:09:45 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/home-repossessions-up-14-percent-since-end-of-2010.htmRoyal Bank of Scotland (RBS) is to stop nearly a million basic account holders using cash machines owned by rivals.Thu, 18 Aug 2011 04:50:14 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/rbs-cuts-basic-account-customers-atm-access.htmRecent government debt statistics have shown a rise in the number of people with serious debt problems. Could this be a sign of things to come? Wed, 17 Aug 2011 01:49:07 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/debt-statistics-show-the-first-rise-in-personal-debt-problems-for-a-year.htmOne in five people in debt owe money to friends and familyWed, 17 Aug 2011 01:41:33 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/debtors-borrow-from-loved-ones-to-make-ends-meet.htmA third of high-income families now rely on overdrafts of more than £1,000, compared with 15pc in 2008.Wed, 17 Aug 2011 01:26:16 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/high-earners-increase-overdraft-debt.htmAn unexpected rise in the unemployment total today dented hopes that the UK economy will stage a recovery this autumn.Wed, 17 Aug 2011 01:06:08 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/uk-economic-recovery-dented-as-unemployed-total-increases.htmInflation increased to 4.4 per cent in July as transport, food and rent and household services pushed the rise in the cost of living closer to 5%Tue, 16 Aug 2011 06:34:46 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/inflation-hits-4-point-4-percent-as-cost-of-living-squeeze-tightens.htmAlmost half of individuals are concerned about their debts, with credit card debt fears dominating worries for 53 per cent of individuals.Tue, 16 Aug 2011 06:21:33 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/50-percent-of-people-concerned-about-debt.htmThe number of people becoming personally insolvent has risen for the first time in a year, official figures show.Fri, 05 Aug 2011 12:56:36 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/personal-insolvencies-rise-for-the-first-time-in-2011.htmThe UK base rate was held at its record low of 0.5% in August for the 29th consecutive monthFri, 05 Aug 2011 12:29:03 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/uk-interest-rates-held-at-0-point-5-percent-for-another-month.htmThree quarters of UK workers have not had a pay rise this year, says the Chartered Institute for Personnel and Development (CIPD).Wed, 03 Aug 2011 06:26:25 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/pay-freeze-for-75-percent-of-workers.htmRaising interest rates would leave millions teetering on the brink of financial disaster, leading economists warn.Wed, 03 Aug 2011 05:59:50 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/interest-rate-rise-would-cost-families-500-pounds-a-year.htmThe lastest UK debt statistics produced by Credit Action give an interesting insight into the state of UK families personal finances today.Tue, 02 Aug 2011 10:48:29 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/uk-debt-statistics-august-2011.htmDoor step lender Provident Financial has reported a surge in half-year profitsThu, 28 Jul 2011 06:38:57 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/provident-financial-sees-profits-surge.htmA senior Bank of England official last night warned that Britain could tip back into recession, dealing a further blow to the fragile economy.Thu, 28 Jul 2011 06:16:48 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/risk-britain-could-tip-back-into-recession.htmNew research has revealed a worryingly high level of debt amongst consumers earning £13,500 per year or less.Wed, 27 Jul 2011 03:45:45 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/debts-equal-earnings-for-those-on-low-incomes.htmIncreasing numbers of older home owners are releasing equity from their property to deal with problem debtsWed, 27 Jul 2011 03:01:54 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/pensioners-forced-to-release-home-equity-to-pay-debts.htmAround 40 per cent of households reported a fall in financial income during the month of July. Wed, 27 Jul 2011 02:41:56 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/40-percent-of-households-report-july-income-fall.htmIf you have now moved abroad we consider whether you can still declare bankruptcy in ukTue, 26 Jul 2011 04:15:31 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/can-I-go-bankrupt-in-the-UK-if-I-have-already-moved-abroad.htmA total of 5,179 companies in the UK were facing critical problems in the second quarter of this year, representing liabilities of nearly £60bnTue, 26 Jul 2011 04:06:13 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/more-than-5000-companies-in-critical-condition.htmThe UK’s economic growth rate slowed to just 0.2 per cent during the three months to June this yearTue, 26 Jul 2011 03:57:57 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/economic-growth-stutters-at-0-point-2-percent.htmWe consider what to do if you are struggling to pay a debt management plan and payday loanMon, 25 Jul 2011 04:04:25 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/I-am-in-a-dmp-but-have-taken-a-new-payday-loan-what-should-I-do.htmSome people are saving less because they are having to pay higher household bills, figures have suggested.Mon, 25 Jul 2011 03:21:53 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/higher-living-expenses-hitting-personal-savings.htmIf you are currently in an IVA we consider whether or not you are obliged to make a claim for PPI miss-selling so that all of your creditors benefitFri, 22 Jul 2011 05:28:33 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/if-I-am-in-an-IVA-do-I-have-to-make-a-PPI-miss-selling-claim.htmA report by insurer LV= says high cost of childcare and finding six weeks of entertainment will leave many parents strugglingFri, 22 Jul 2011 05:20:20 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/summer-holidays-to-cost-uk-parents-8-point-6-billion-pounds.htmFormer Scotland and Blackburn Rovers captain Colin Hendry has been discharged from his bankruptcy and will only have to pay back £36,000 of £2.1m debtThu, 21 Jul 2011 01:38:33 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/footballer-colin-hendry-writes-off-2-million-pound-debt-in-bankruptcy.htmThe minimum level of debt for a creditor to petition for bankruptcy could rise to £3,000 from £750, under proposals announced by the minister for insoThu, 21 Jul 2011 01:22:00 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/threshold-on-creditors-bankruptcy-petitions-may-rise-to-3000-pounds.htmThe number of people in Scotland starting a Debt Payment Programme through the Debt Arrangement Scheme (DAS) rose by 35% between April and June 11Thu, 21 Jul 2011 12:46:05 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/debt-arrangement-schemes-in-scotland-up-35-percent.htmWith more and more people considering bankruptcy as the best solution for dealing with their debt, we consider whether the process is privateTue, 19 Jul 2011 05:46:40 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/is-bankruptcy-private.htmBarclaycard's 24-month 0% balance transfer deal is a best buy, but experts question how many people will actually be accepted.Tue, 19 Jul 2011 05:17:35 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/barclaycard-offers-two-year-0-percent-balance-transfer-deal.htmAlmost 10pc of graduates failed to get a job last year after leaving university, with those studying arts, communications and engineering worst offMon, 18 Jul 2011 04:19:53 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/one-in-10-graduates-unemployed-in-fragile-jobs-market.htmThe number of lower middle-class families seeking credit has surged in recent months as they prepare for a long period of economic stagnation.Mon, 18 Jul 2011 03:52:25 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/increase-in-families-applying-for-credit.htmIf you live abroad but you owe money in the UK which you cannot afford to repay, we consider whether you can use a debt management planFri, 15 Jul 2011 03:52:28 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/can-I-do-a-debt-management-plan-if-I-live-abroad.htmA code of practice has been launched for short-term lenders in Parliament amid heated exchanges between MPs and representatives of the industryFri, 15 Jul 2011 03:37:24 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/payday-loan-code-launched-amid-heated-debate.htmCharity report paints grim picture of the pressures faced by about one tenth of the UK population.Fri, 15 Jul 2011 03:11:25 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/more-than-3-million-households-in-financial-difficulty.htmIf you are already in an IVA, we consider whether it is possible to settle the arrangement early.Wed, 13 Jul 2011 04:04:56 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/can-an-iva-be-settled-early.htmConsumer experts have warned that shoppers for 'big-ticket' goods should pay by credit card to give them protection if the store goes bust.Wed, 13 Jul 2011 03:51:08 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/pay-by-credit-card-to-protect-yourself-from-shops-going-bust.htmA quarter of Britons use credit cards to tide them over until the next payday, according to a survey. Wed, 13 Jul 2011 03:35:28 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/25-percent-of-britons-rely-on-credit-cards-before-payday.htmIf you live in a property owned by your partner or spouse we consider whether whether you would have to release equity if you do an IVATue, 12 Jul 2011 06:56:14 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/will-equity-have-to-be-released-from-my-partners-property-if-I-do-an-iva.htm93% of people in the UK are worried about the effect of inflation on their finances, according to new research from Post Office Savings.Tue, 12 Jul 2011 06:01:39 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/93-percent-worried-about-the-impact-of-inflation.htmHM Revenue and Customs has strongly denied claims that the Time to Pay (TTP) scheme is keeping unviable businesses afloat.Mon, 11 Jul 2011 07:11:43 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/taxman-defends-time-to-pay-scheme.htmDebt-laden Britons are faced with a frightening new question – can they afford to go bankrupt? Mon, 11 Jul 2011 06:43:40 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/what-happens-when-you-cant-afford-the-price-of-bankruptcy.htmWe consider how you can use a debt management plan to resolve mortgage arrears and protect your home from repossession.Fri, 08 Jul 2011 04:46:27 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/can-mortgage-arrears-be-included-in-a-debt-management-plan.htmBritish Gas customers will pay an extra £200 a year after the energy giant became the latest to raise its energy prices.Fri, 08 Jul 2011 04:37:09 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/british-gas-raises-prices-by-18-percent.htmCampaigners are voicing their concerns about the high-cost lending practices of payday loan companies.Fri, 08 Jul 2011 04:26:22 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/concerns-grow-about-payday-loans.htmIf you are declared bankrupt, we consider what will happen to a property which you own jointly with someone else.Thu, 07 Jul 2011 05:12:23 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/if-I-go-bankrupt-can-the-official-receiver-sell-a-house-owned-in-joint-names.htmThe House of Commons has voted against proposals to impose a cap on the interest rates charged by "high-cost" credit providers such as payday lendersThu, 07 Jul 2011 04:51:09 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/mps-fail-to-cap-payday-loan-interest-rates.htmDebt Relief Orders have now been introduced to Northern Ireland, giving some struggling borrowers a new solution with which to tackle their debtThu, 07 Jul 2011 04:23:04 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/debt-relief-orders-launched-in-northern-ireland.htmIf you are struggling to pay your mortgage and are starting to get into arrears, we consider how you can use an IVA to solve the problem.Fri, 01 Jul 2011 01:39:26 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/i-am-struggling-to-pay-my-mortgage-can-an-iva-help.htmMortgage lenders' forbearance may have helped many people stay in their homes, but it's also forcing some homeowners further into debt.Fri, 01 Jul 2011 12:29:17 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/mortgage-help-pushing-some-further-into-debt.htmStudent debt takes an average of 11 years to repay, holding many students back as they try to get on with life after university.Thu, 30 Jun 2011 05:27:26 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/student-debt-takes-an-average-11-years-to-repay.htmIf you are made redundant while in an IVA, we consider whether you will be able to settle the arrangement in full with your redundancy money.Wed, 29 Jun 2011 06:47:09 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/can-I-settle-my-iva-with-a-redundancy-payment.htmThe number of court orders to evict tenants has risen by 9 per cent in the last year, as landlords’ crackdown on unreliable tenants. Wed, 29 Jun 2011 06:40:25 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/evictions-up-as-rents-hit-record-high.htmBritain is facing a raft of home repossessions as soon as interest rates start to rise says bank executiveWed, 29 Jun 2011 06:06:51 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/britain-facing-increase-in-home-repossessions.htmIf you are a homeowner we consider whether you will have to release equity from your property if you start a debt management plan.Wed, 29 Jun 2011 02:45:51 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/if-I-start-a-debt-management-plan-will-I-have-to-release-equity-from-my-house.htmMore families are raiding their rainy day savings pots to cope with the soaring cost of living, new research shows. Thu, 23 Jun 2011 03:48:31 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/more-families-raiding-savings-pots-to-cope-with-cost-of-living.htmA charity has located the UK’s repossession hotspots and predicted further increases in the coming months. Thu, 23 Jun 2011 03:22:53 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/corby-identified-as-uks-repossession-capital.htmIf you go bankrupt we consider whether you will be allowed to keep a car.Wed, 22 Jun 2011 05:42:31 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/can-I-have-a-car-if-I-go-bankrupt.htmWe discuss whether or not the fact that you are in an IVA will be kept private and who will find out about the arrangement.Tue, 21 Jun 2011 06:41:42 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/is-an-iva-private.htmRising inflation is putting the squeeze on family finances and most are around £60 a month worse off than they were a year ago. Tue, 21 Jun 2011 06:16:11 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/families-700-pounds-a-year-worse-off.htmFSA data shows a rise in repossessions for the first time in more than a yearTue, 21 Jun 2011 06:01:45 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/home-repossessions-jump-by-17-percent.htmWe consider whether cash borrowed from pay day loans companies and door step lenders can be included in a debt management plan.Mon, 20 Jun 2011 06:37:21 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/can-I-include-a-payday-loan-in-a-debt-management-plan.htmWith the summer sales starting this week beware the temptation to take out a store card offering special offers or discounts at the checkoutMon, 20 Jun 2011 06:31:01 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/beware-of-high-storecard-interest-charges.htmBritons’ finances have suffered their steepest decline since the recession in June as people loaded up with more debt to finance the cost of livingMon, 20 Jun 2011 06:11:02 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/increase-in-people-borrowing-to-pay-bills.htmLoan seekers will be able to see their credit history without paying using Callcredit's new online serviceFri, 17 Jun 2011 11:53:50 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/credit-agency-to-offer-free-credit-report-service.htm32% of UK homeowners are delaying home maintenance projects to make ends meet, according to new research from comparison website Gocompare.Fri, 17 Jun 2011 11:37:25 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/third-of-homeowners-delaying-home-maintenance-to-save-cash.htmIf your partner or spouse is declared bankrupt, we consider whether or not you will be liable to pay towards their debts.Thu, 16 Jun 2011 05:23:40 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/do-I-have-to-pay-towards-my-partners-debts-if-they-go-bankrupt.htmWe consider if you can carry out an individual voluntary arrangement if you are a student.Wed, 15 Jun 2011 05:25:36 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/can-I-do-an-IVA-if-I-am-a-student.htmSavers are being warned against taking cash early from their pension pots as they could be putting their money at risk. Wed, 15 Jun 2011 04:33:00 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/pension-cash-release-schemes-could-mean-trouble.htmWe consider the best time to start a debt management plan to protect your priority living expenses and stop your debts getting out of control.Tue, 14 Jun 2011 05:03:23 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/when-should-I-start-a-debt-management-plan.htmThe Office of Fair Trading (OFT) has revealed that 43 debt management firms have surrendered their consumer credit licences, as it published revised gTue, 14 Jun 2011 03:23:43 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/OFT-reveals-new-debt-management-company-guidance.htmWe consider whether you can continue running your business after you have been declared bankrupt.Mon, 13 Jun 2011 06:48:26 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/if-I-go-bankrupt-can-I-carry-on-with-my-business.htmSome tenants are at risk of getting into rent arrears because of rising rental costsMon, 13 Jun 2011 06:40:22 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/higher-rents-adding-to-financial-pressure-on-tenants.htmOne in five Britons do not have any money left after meeting all of their outgoings each month.Mon, 13 Jun 2011 06:22:21 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/many-britons-are-left-with-no-disposable-income.htmIf you are a home owner, we consider what will happen to your property if you carry out an individual voluntary arrangement.Thu, 09 Jun 2011 05:12:55 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/how-will-my-house-be-affected-if-I-do-an-iva.htmHM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) will provide an eagerly awaited update on the time to pay scheme, at the Institute of Chartered AccountantsThu, 09 Jun 2011 04:24:42 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/hmrc-to-give-update-on-time-to-pay-scheme.htmIf a county court judgement has been issued against you by one of your creditors, we consider whether this debt can be included in a dmpWed, 08 Jun 2011 05:46:41 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/can-I-include-a-county-court-judgement-in-a-debt-management-plan.htmMore young people are struggling with debt problems, according to Citizens AdviceWed, 08 Jun 2011 05:26:13 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/debt-problems-soar-for-under-25-year-olds.htmA bankrupt director who spent thousands of pounds on cars and holidays, instead of paying his creditors, has been given a suspended jail sentence.Wed, 08 Jun 2011 05:11:13 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/bankrupt-director-given-jail-sentence.htmIf you owe money to a payday loan company, doorstep lender or similar, we consider whether you can include these debts in an IVA.Tue, 07 Jun 2011 04:03:44 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/can-a-payday-loan-be-included-in-an-IVA.htmThe most recent figures from Credit Action show that debt remains a worrying reality for many people in the UKTue, 07 Jun 2011 03:53:37 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/uk-debt-statistics-june-2011.htmHouse repossessions are likely to rise again next year, the Council of Mortgage lenders (CML) has warned.Tue, 07 Jun 2011 03:14:22 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/house-repossessions-likely-to-rise-in-2012.htmWe ask how long you must to wait after using a credit card or taking other debts such as a personal loan before you can declare yourself bankruptMon, 06 Jun 2011 05:28:06 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/can-I-go-bankrupt-if-I-have-only-just-stopped-using-my-credit-cards.htmWe consider whether you must include all of your unsecured creditors in a debt management plan or whether you can keep some out of the arrangement.Fri, 03 Jun 2011 01:03:20 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/do-I-have-to-include-all-my-debts-in-my-debt-management-plan.htmIf you are considering making a claim for PPI miss-selling, we consider what will happen to any refund or compensation you receive if you are in IVAWed, 01 Jun 2011 02:06:18 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/what-will-happen-if-I-get-PPI-compensation-while-I-am-in-an-iva.htmHeavy credit card borrowing in April pushed up consumer lending more than forecast, Bank of England figures have showed.Wed, 01 Jun 2011 01:59:03 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/credit-card-borrowing-increases-at-fastest-rate-since-Febuary-2010.htmDishonest credit brokers that demand upfront fees for loans they have no intention of arranging will be closed by the Office of Fair Trading (OFT).Wed, 01 Jun 2011 01:34:41 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/upfront-charges-to-be-refunded-if-a-loan-is-not-agreed.htmThere are many different debt management companies. We suggest the things you should consider when choosing which one to help you solve your debtsTue, 31 May 2011 05:20:10 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/choosing-the-right-debt-management-company-to-help-solve-your-debt-problem.htmInformation and advice about how to better manage your credit cards and avoid getting into credit card debtTue, 31 May 2011 05:09:35 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/avoid-debt-with-better-credit-card-management.htmUp to 300,000 households have switched from repayment into risky interest-only mortgage deals to help cover living costsTue, 31 May 2011 04:36:30 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/families-switch-60-billion-pounds-worth-of-mortgages-to-interest-only.htmIf you declare yourself bankrupt, we consider how much you will be asked to pay towards your debts each month.Fri, 27 May 2011 12:31:09 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/how-much-will-I-have-to-pay-my-creditors-if-I-go-bankrupt.htmSome rogue debt management firms are failing to pass clients' cash to creditors on receipt, leaving the debt-stricken thousands of pounds worse off. Fri, 27 May 2011 12:18:40 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/rogue-debt-firms-holding-on-to-client-cash.htmIf you need a new car while you are in a debt management plan we consider the options available and the effect these will have on your DMP.Thu, 26 May 2011 04:23:31 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/I-am-in-a-debt-management-plan-and-need-a-new-car-what-are-my-options.htmThe CML (Council of Mortgage Lenders) has said it expects to see an increase in the number of homeowners falling behind with their home loan payments Thu, 26 May 2011 03:30:14 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/expected-rise-in-homeowners-struggling-with-mortgages.htmIf you are trying to resolve a debt problem we consider whether an individual voluntary arrangement is suitable for you.Wed, 25 May 2011 03:48:29 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/do-I-qualify-for-an-individual-voluntary-arrangement.htm35% of households saw their financial situation worsen in May, according to the Household Finance Index (HFI) from MarkitWed, 25 May 2011 03:38:11 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/rising-debt-contributes-to-decline-in-household-finances.htmHome buyers will spend more than half of their take-home pay on their mortgage once interest rates begin to rise againWed, 25 May 2011 02:48:30 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/home-buyers-to-spend-half-of-take-home-pay-on-mortgage.htmIf you are a homeowner we investigate whether or not your house is at risk if you go bankrupt.Mon, 23 May 2011 04:40:10 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/if-I-go-bankrupt-but-have-equity-in-my-property-can-I-keep-my-house.htmA spring surge in demand from tenants pushed rents back up to record high levels during April. Mon, 23 May 2011 04:26:56 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/property-rents-hit-record-high.htmThe cost of running a home has risen to its highest level since 2008 on the back of soaring utility bills.Mon, 23 May 2011 04:13:30 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/running-a-home-gets-more-expensive.htmDebt management plans are one of the most popular solutions to resolve personal debt problems. We consider what criteria you need to meet to qualifyFri, 20 May 2011 06:26:32 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/do-I-qualify-for-a-debt-management-plan.htmThe demand for payday loans has sky rocketed by 58 per cent since the beginning of the month as living costs continue to riseFri, 20 May 2011 06:21:03 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/demand-for-payday-loans-soars.htmLatest figures show debt repayments now take up 10 per cent of a family monthly income. Fri, 20 May 2011 06:08:19 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/families-spend-10pc-of-income-servicing-debts.htmComplaints about payment protection insurance double and consumers warned it will take 'months if not years' to get compensationFri, 20 May 2011 05:54:51 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/ppi-mis-selling-claims-swamp-banks.htmIf you are thinking about starting an IVA, we consider whether you can have your own bank account and which bank this should be with.Mon, 16 May 2011 02:54:32 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/can-I-have-a-bank-account-if-I-do-an-IVA.htmMore than one in five Britons are so financially stretched they are struggling to make ends meet.Mon, 16 May 2011 02:48:15 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/many-families-close-to-breaking-point.htmThe number of people running up debts with their energy supplier has nearly tripled during the past four years, a charity has warned. Mon, 16 May 2011 01:32:08 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/threefold-rise-in-customers-unable-to-pay-energy-bills.htmIf you are planning on starting an IVA you should include all of your unsecured debts. We consider whether there are any limits to the number of debtsFri, 13 May 2011 01:49:31 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/how-many-debts-do-I-need-to-start-an-IVA.htmFollowing the release of the latest insolvency figuresit has been suggested that Britons are dramatically cutting back on their spendingFri, 13 May 2011 01:29:55 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/britons-shun-debt-in-favour-of-cutting-back.htmFour firms which targeted consumers with misleading information about debt have been shut down by the Office of Fair Trading.Fri, 13 May 2011 01:14:49 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/IVA-miss-selling-companies-shut-down-by-oft.htmIf you feel you have been miss-sold PPI you can now make a claim for compensation. We consider whether this is possible if you already have a dmpThu, 12 May 2011 03:52:11 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/can-I-claim-for-PPI-miss-selling-if-I-am-in-a-debt-management-plan.htmThe Council of Mortgage Lenders (CML) has today reported an increase in repossessions. Thu, 12 May 2011 03:21:49 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/CML-reports-rise-in-repossessions.htmAs the latest insolvency figures reveal a harsh picture of trading conditions for the UK’s small businesses and self-employed, business owners are cauThu, 12 May 2011 02:16:28 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/business-failures-leave-directors-liable-for-debt.htmIf you have already gone bankrupt but forgot to include a creditor we consider whether they can still be added later.Wed, 11 May 2011 04:31:51 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/I-forgot-to-include-a-debt-in-my-bankruptcy-can-I-add-it-later.htmThe banks' defeat over the mis-selling of PPI could create a 'feeding frenzy' among claims handlers when most people can make a claim on their ownWed, 11 May 2011 03:32:22 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/no-need-to-use-PPI-claims-handlers.htmShoppers are being urged to take care when signing up for retailers store card offers as the wrong deal could result in large interest chargesWed, 11 May 2011 03:10:01 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/warning-over-interest-charges-on-store-cards.htmWith the latest government figures showing a fall in the number of people being declared insolvent, we consider if the worst is overTue, 10 May 2011 04:16:55 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/personal-bankruptcies-fall-but-is-there-still-trouble-ahead.htmalmost 3 million homeowners 37% would be unable to afford their monthly mortgage payments if their interest rate increased by just two percentTue, 10 May 2011 03:34:48 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/rate-rise-would-make-many-mortgages-unaffordable.htmOne third of all credit-card applications were rejected in the past year because of poor credit ratings.Tue, 03 May 2011 05:55:07 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/consumers-left-counting-cost-of-poor-credit-rating.htmThe Insolvency Service is set to increase bankruptcy petition fees by a further £75 on June 1 2011.Thu, 28 Apr 2011 12:21:01 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/cost-of-bankruptcy-to-rise-to-700-pounds.htmWe consider the debts that should be included and which must be left out of an individual voluntary arrangement Thu, 14 Apr 2011 06:08:24 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/which-debts-can-I-include-in-an-iva.htmThe typical Briton has more than £8,400 of unsecured debt but the majority of people would not begin to worry until it reaches £10,000Thu, 14 Apr 2011 05:59:47 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/britons-do-not-worry-about-debt-until-it-reaches-10000-pounds.htmAlmost half of UK pensioners are struggling to make ends meet, with some being forced to cut down on food, new research has revealed. Thu, 14 Apr 2011 05:37:29 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/50-percent-of-pensioners-struggling-with-finances.htmIf you declare yourself bankrupt, it is likely that the bank account you are currently using will be frozen. We consider if you can open a new accountWed, 13 Apr 2011 02:53:42 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/if-I-go-bankrupt-can-I-have-a-bank-account.htmWe investigate how much you will need to pay each month if you want to start a debt management planTue, 12 Apr 2011 04:21:16 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/how-much-will-I-have-to-pay-each-month-to-do-a-debt-management-plan.htmThree quarters of mobile phone subscribers are wasting as much as £200 each year because they are on the wrong contract. Mon, 11 Apr 2011 03:55:15 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/are-you-overpaying-on-mobile-phone-bills.htmWe consider whether to use a debt management plan or individual voluntary arrangement if you have a debt problemFri, 08 Apr 2011 01:47:00 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/is-it-better-to-do-a-debt-management-plan-or-an-individual-voluntary-arrangement.htmIVA company Blair Endersby has sold its entire portfolio of Individual Voluntary Arrangements to insolvency firm Grant Thornton. Fri, 08 Apr 2011 01:37:57 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/blair-endersby-sells-iva-portfolio.htmBogus websites claiming to offer loans to people have been closed down by the Office of Fair Trading (OFT).Fri, 08 Apr 2011 01:21:41 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/office-offair-trading-shuts-down-bogus-loan-websites.htmThe Consumer Credit Counselling Service (CCCS) reports that 50,000 people logged on to their website between midnight and 7am for help last year.Thu, 07 Apr 2011 07:15:56 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/worrying-about-debt-through-the-night.htmIf you declare yourself bankrupt, it is important to understand who will be made aware of your situation. We consider who will be informedWed, 06 Apr 2011 03:24:27 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/who-will-be-told-if-I-go-bankrupt.htmResearch by Credit Action has shown that personal debt remains a significant problem in the UKWed, 06 Apr 2011 03:13:15 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/uk-debt-statistics-update.htmOne in five working age Britons fear that they would not be able to provide for themselves if they become long term unemployed. Wed, 06 Apr 2011 02:34:11 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/middle-income-earners-could-not-survive-if-unemployed-for-6-months.htmWe consider whether you can save each month while you are in a debt management plan.Tue, 05 Apr 2011 01:49:58 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/can-I-save-while-I-am-in-a-debt-management-plan.htmAlternative lender Fair Finance has secured £2m of commercial funding from a syndicate of major banks to fund expansion. Tue, 05 Apr 2011 01:23:46 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/fair-finance-to-increase-lending-to-those-with-poor-credit-records.htmWe consider whether you can carry out an IVA without being able to remember who all your creditors are.Mon, 04 Apr 2011 05:22:12 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/can-I-do-an-IVA-if-I-cannot-remember-how-much-debt-I-owe.htmOfficial figures from the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) have revealed that families will face a `spiralling debt crisis` over the next four yMon, 04 Apr 2011 05:07:28 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/families-face-spiralling-debt-crisis-over-next-four-years.htmMen are less likely to seek help with debt than women as they tend to be more optimistic about their situation and like to find a solution themselvesMon, 04 Apr 2011 05:00:00 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/men-less-likely-to-seek-debt-help.htmWine retailer Oddbins will go into administration on April 4 after HM Revenue and Customs blocked proposals for a company voluntary arrangement (CVA).Fri, 01 Apr 2011 05:11:50 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/oddbins-to-enter-administration-as-CVA-fails.htmIn the month of February, consumers in the UK collectively took on another £2bn of debt, latest figures from the Bank of England reveal.Fri, 01 Apr 2011 04:53:20 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/personal-debt-rises-2-billion-pounds-in-February.htmA change to insolvency legislation will expand access to the Debt Relief Order regime to those with an approved pension, the government has announced.Fri, 01 Apr 2011 04:41:26 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/more-people-can-now-use-debt-relief-orders.htmThe number of borrowers unable to pay their mortgage bills rose unexpectedly in the first quarter, official figures showed todayFri, 01 Apr 2011 04:33:19 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/mortgage-defaults-rise-despite-0-point-5-percent-rates.htmIf you are planning to use a debt management plan we consider what living expenses should be included in your living expenditure budget. Wed, 30 Mar 2011 07:04:18 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/if-I-do-a-debt-management-plan-what-living-expenses-am-I-allowed.htmThe cost for a consumer to petition their own bankruptcy will increase by £25 to £625 from 4th April 2011.Wed, 30 Mar 2011 06:56:21 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/the-cost-of-bankruptcy-rises-again.htmIf you have debts in the UK but have now moved to a different country we consider whether you can do an IVAMon, 28 Mar 2011 04:35:50 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/I-have-debts-in-the-UK-but-have-moved-abroad-can-I-do-an-IVA.htmDebt advice charity Money Advice Trust has conducted research looking into how men deal with `problematic debt`.Mon, 28 Mar 2011 04:28:47 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/how-men-get-into-and-resolve-personal-debt-problems.htmWe review whether the new government home loan scheme firstbuy will help those people who have a poor credit rating buy a house.Fri, 25 Mar 2011 01:31:01 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/can-I-use-the-new-government-first-time-buyer-loan-scheme-if-I-have-a-poor-credit-rating.htmBankrupt TV celebrity Kerry Katona has moved into a six-bedroomed mansion in affluent Oxted, Surrey, that costs £5,500 a month to rentFri, 25 Mar 2011 01:03:35 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/bankrupt-katona-rents-5500-pound-a-month-mansion.htmThere have been reports recently of debt management companies going bust or being forced to close. We investigate options if your dmc goes bustThu, 24 Mar 2011 03:00:17 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/what-can-I-do-if-my-debt-management-company-goes-bust.htmThe Firstbuy scheme, a new shared equity scheme for first-time buyers has been described as a "shot in the arm" for the housing market.Thu, 24 Mar 2011 02:47:11 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/government-introduces-new-loan-scheme-for-first-time-buyers.htmWe can see `signs of recovery` in the direct loans market, the Finance & Leasing Association (FLA) reports.Thu, 24 Mar 2011 02:32:06 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/signs-of-recovery-in-unsecured-loans-market.htmGrant Bovey, husband of TV presenter Anthea Turner and failed buy-to-let investor, has been discharged from bankruptcy after a yearThu, 24 Mar 2011 02:20:40 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/anthea-turners-husband-discharged-from-bankruptcy.htmA credit card war has seen consumers being lured by some of the most attractive deals to date. But those taking one of these top offers need to avoid Wed, 23 Mar 2011 04:25:17 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/credit-card-price-war-avoid-the-traps.htmThe highest student loan debt in England stands at £66,150 while the 20 largest individual debts owed to the Student Loan Company total over £1mTue, 22 Mar 2011 01:29:02 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/highest-student-loan-debts-revealed.htmMore UK households are set to struggle with repayment of their debts in the coming months due to a combination of job losses, falling incomesTue, 22 Mar 2011 01:08:40 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/CCCS-warning-over-struggling-households.htmNew legislature means debtors will be given £10 a month to spend for three years. But critics say this serves only to extend their miseryMon, 21 Mar 2011 02:50:06 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/new-bankruptcy-rules-mean-more-has-to-be-paid-back-to-creditors.htmBritons remain deeply pessimistic about the economy and are increasingly worried about their personal finances, a poll has showed.Fri, 18 Mar 2011 03:37:23 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/britons-increasingly-fretful-about-finances.htmSome graduates could end up paying back double their original student loans under the new fees system in EnglandFri, 18 Mar 2011 03:04:37 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/graduates-could-pay-back-double-their-student-loans.htmDCM Money Solutions Limited has gone into administration with administrators selling its client database to ClearDebt GroupThu, 17 Mar 2011 06:11:13 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/debt-management-company-goes-into-administration.htmHigher tax thresholds, fewer tax credits and rising interest rates are all likely to push middle-earning families into debt, a charity has said.Tue, 15 Mar 2011 07:20:04 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/financial-squeeze-set-to-push-families-into-debt.htmAn online loan firm offering short-term finance has more than doubled profits as cash-strapped consumers look for help during the economic slump.Tue, 15 Mar 2011 07:08:38 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/pay-day-loan-company-sees-more-workers-applying-for-loans.htmConsumers are in debt to utility companies to the tune of £624m, thanks to two successive freezing winters and recent spiralling energy costs.Fri, 11 Mar 2011 06:04:17 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/households-struggling-to-pay-energy-bills-as-cost-of-heating-homes-rises.htmAn interest rate rise by the Bank of England's monetary policy committee would cut the disposable incomes of almost every mortgage payer in BritainFri, 11 Mar 2011 05:40:14 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/interest-rate-rise-would-hit-90-percent-of-homeowners.htmWhen applying for a dmp we consider what allowances you can add for children who are no longer in education but continue to live with youThu, 10 Mar 2011 05:57:50 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/can-I-include-the-cost-of-children-who-have-left-education-but-still-living-with-me-in-dmp-living-expenses.htmThe Bank of England (BoE) ignored market pressure for a hike in the base rate today and kept it anchored at 0.5% for the 24th consecutive month. Thu, 10 Mar 2011 05:46:09 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/interest-rates-remain-at-0-point-5-percent.htmMoving your overdraft onto a credit card offering an introductory balance transfer rate of 0 per cent or a low cost personal loanThu, 10 Mar 2011 05:35:03 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/credit-cards-could-help-reduce-your-debt-burden.htmWith the lavish ceremonies of celebrities publicised extensively our dream ‘fairy tale’ weddings are landing us in very real debtThu, 10 Mar 2011 05:05:25 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/average-wedding-costs-26000-pounds.htmIf you are planning to start a debt management plan we look at your options for using a joint bank accountWed, 09 Mar 2011 04:04:02 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/can-we-still-use-a-joint-bank-account-if-I-do-a-debt-management-plan.htmThe Insolvency Service is banning more directors for longer periods, a report has claimed from city law firm Reynolds Porter Chamberlain (RPC).Wed, 09 Mar 2011 03:52:45 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/insolvency-service-targets-more-rogue-directors.htmFamilies are being urged to make savings a priority as new figures show millions of households in Britain have none at all. Wed, 09 Mar 2011 03:39:52 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/housholds-urged-to-save-despite-rising-cost-of-living.htmThe latest numbers from Credit Action show that there has been an overall drop in debt problems in the UK since the same time period in 2010. Wed, 09 Mar 2011 02:20:05 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/new-statistics-show-fall-in-uk-debt-problems.htmYou may have heard that if you make no further payments towards your unsecured debt for a period of six years, it will then be written off.Tue, 08 Mar 2011 03:25:14 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/if-I-stop-paying-my-debt-for-six-years-will-it-be-written-off.htmGiving up smoking not only improves your health, it can also give your finances a substantial boost.Tue, 08 Mar 2011 03:17:43 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/quit-smoking-and-save-more-than-2500-pounds.htmThe level of business failures in January 2011 fell more than 10 per cent year on year, according to research from credit reference agency Experian.Tue, 08 Mar 2011 02:42:01 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/number-of-corporate-failures-falls.htmWe consider whether you can keep up the payments to family debts when in an individual voluntayr arrangementMon, 07 Mar 2011 04:13:06 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/if-I-do-an-IVA-can-I-keep-paying-debts-that-I-owe-to-my-family-or-friends.htmMore than 200 MPs have signed a motion calling for financial education to be made compulsory in schools.Mon, 07 Mar 2011 04:05:53 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/MPs-call-for-money-lessons-in-schools.htmA third of young adults in the UK think buying something on a credit card does not count as spending moneyFri, 04 Mar 2011 04:51:46 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/credit-cards-do-not-count-as-spending-say-young-adults.htmFamilies face massive rises in fuel and food costs, ministers warned last night. Fri, 04 Mar 2011 04:31:02 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/food-and-fuel-bills-soar.htmMore and more people are choosing bankrupty to resolve their debt problems. we consider how long bankruptcy will lastThu, 03 Mar 2011 01:25:09 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/how-long-does-bankruptcy-last.htmOne in five adults living alone are regularly using credit cards and loans to fund their lavish lifestyle, according to research. Thu, 03 Mar 2011 01:16:56 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/news-articles/1-in-5-singles-fund-lifestyle-on-credit.htmThe Scottish Government is planning to expand its Debt Arrangement Scheme das, including six-month payment holidays to enhance the debt solutionThu, 03 Mar 2011 12:22:02 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/scotland-to-revamp-debt-arrangement-scheme.htmIf you are already in a debt management plan, we consider whether you can add additional debts at a later date.Wed, 02 Mar 2011 07:32:43 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/can-I-add-new-debts-to-my-existing-debt-management-plan.htmInsolvency experts predict an increase in company failures, with evidence emerging that HMRC is adopting a harder stance on outstanding debtsWed, 02 Mar 2011 04:54:28 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/insolvency-experts-predict-an-increase-in-company-failures.htmThe amount of peronal debts that banks wrote off soared nearly 25% in the final quarter of 2010, according to the Bank of England. Wed, 02 Mar 2011 04:14:33 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/banks-write-off-2-point-27-billion-pounds-worth-of-pesonal-debt-in-three-months.htmOne in 10 Britons is permanently overdrawn and more than a third have dipped into the red at least once during the past year. Wed, 02 Mar 2011 03:56:38 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/one-in-10-britons-permanently-overdrawn.htmIf you are thinking about declaring yourself bankrupt, it is important to understand how this will affect your ability to rent a propertyTue, 01 Mar 2011 01:21:24 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/if-I-go-bankrupt-will-I-be-able-to-rent-a-property.htmAn internal memo sent to official receivers (ORs) at the Insolvency Service has revealed that bosses believe the regulator could make a loss of £11m Tue, 01 Mar 2011 12:57:16 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/insolvency-service-fears-11-million-pound-deficit.htmWe consider whether you should make a claim for payment protection insurance miss selling while you are in an IVAMon, 28 Feb 2011 03:43:45 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/can-I-make-a-claim-for-PPI-miss-selling-if-I-am-in-an-IVA.htmHome owners with equity of less than 15 per cent are finding it virtually impossible to find a new mortgage, new figures suggest. Mon, 28 Feb 2011 03:34:42 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/home-owners-finding-it-virtually-impossible-to-remortgage.htmaccording to a new survey more and more of us are choosing not to holiday at all or to take a more affordable close-to-home break. Mon, 28 Feb 2011 03:20:01 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/a-quarter-of-britons-unable-to-afford-a-holiday.htmIf you are in a debt management plan but the company you are using to manage the plan does not seem to be giving a good service what can you doFri, 25 Feb 2011 03:12:19 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/I-am-not-happy-with-my-debt-management-plan-company-what-are-my-options.htmA recent survey of SMEs has highlighted the controversy surrounding insolvency law, with 96 per cent of those questioned saying they thought DirectorsFri, 25 Feb 2011 02:42:32 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/demand-for-more-protection-against-phoenix-companies.htmIf you have recently started an IVA you may receive a letter suggesting that it might not have been the best solution for youFri, 25 Feb 2011 02:15:12 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/I-am-in-an-IVA-but-have-been-told-that-it-may-not-be-my-best-option-what-should-I-do.htmBritons are failing to take advantage of 0pc interest deals on credit cards despite only half of people clearing their balances in full each monthThu, 24 Feb 2011 06:53:36 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/borrowers-waste-279-pounds-a-year-in-credit-card-interest.htmMoney Advice Direct Limited trading as UK Insolvency Helpline told to stop using false statements and misleading content on its website by the OFTThu, 24 Feb 2011 05:37:35 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/OFT-warns-misleading-debt-advice-firm.htm'Sale-and-rent' firms are telling homeowners to sell their house without checking they can afford to rent it back, with some acting with no FSA authorTue, 22 Feb 2011 02:04:35 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/sale-and-rent-back-firms-giving-poor-advice.htmFour out of 10 Britons think their financial situation is set to get worse and nearly half are worried about the amount of debt they haveTue, 22 Feb 2011 01:47:09 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/britons-believe-their-financial-situation-will-worsen-over-the-next-six-months.htmDespite selling over 70 million records and putting their name to more than 50 UK chart singles, all five members of a hit 70s band now face bankruptcMon, 21 Feb 2011 04:05:47 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/UB40-band-members-face-bankruptcy.htmAlmost two thirds of parents who have one child say they are too poor to have a second.Mon, 21 Feb 2011 03:47:14 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/sixty-percent-of-parents-say-we-cant-afford-a-second-child.htm2011 will see the highest levels of personal insolvency on record across the UK, rising to around 140,000 people, according to accountancy firm TenonTue, 15 Feb 2011 02:03:18 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/140000-personal-insolvencies-predicted-in-2011.htmOne in six people failed to pay at least one bill last year, with around four million missing credit card payments which can damage your credit ratingTue, 15 Feb 2011 12:19:30 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/one-in-six-people-fail-to-pay-bills.htmThe government has found an additional £27 million to preserve the provision of free debt advice and save the jobs of hundreds of debt advisorsTue, 15 Feb 2011 12:00:32 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/free-debt-advice-saved.htmThe government’s insolvency service official figures today showed that personal insolvencies increased slightly in 2010 to reach the highest on recordFri, 04 Feb 2011 02:40:44 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/personal-insolvencies-highest-on-record-but-official-figures-mask-even-more-worrying-picture.htmOfficial statistics published this morning reveal there were 4,988 company insolvencies in the fourth quarter of 2010 – a 14.5 per cent drop v 2009Fri, 04 Feb 2011 02:32:59 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/corporate-insolvencies-down-nearly-15-percent.htmIf you are going through the process of declaring yourself bankrupt we consider the budget you can include for children living at home.Thu, 03 Feb 2011 03:49:37 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/if-I-declare-bankruptcy-can-I-include-housekeeping-expenses-for-children-living-at-home.htmAlmost a third of people claim they have “no spare cash” as pressures on personal budgets mount, according to a surveyThu, 03 Feb 2011 03:15:11 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/fewer-people-have-cash-to-spare.htmThe British Bankers’ Association (BBA) has called for the creation of a single body to regulate debt advice, under proposals to deliver a fairer deal Wed, 02 Feb 2011 05:28:31 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/banks-call-for-single-body-to-regulate-debt-advice.htmHM Revenue and Customs is increasingly rejecting company voluntary arrangements (CVAs), according to a turnaround specialist from K2 Business Rescue.Wed, 02 Feb 2011 04:51:43 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/hmrc-rejecting-more-cvas-K2-claims.htmIf you are trying to settle your debt with a lump sum a full and final individual voluntary arrangement could protect you from further creditor actionTue, 01 Feb 2011 05:03:19 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/can-I-use-an-iva-to-protect-against-creditor-action-while-I-release-equity-from-my-property.htmUsing a debt management plan is one of the most common ways to resolve a personal debt problem. We consider whether each of your creditors must agree Mon, 31 Jan 2011 05:25:45 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/do-all-of-my-creditors-have-to-accept-my-debt-management-plan-payments.htmAccording to the fourth annual Post Office Consumer Credit Report, millions used their credit card in January for daily purchasesMon, 31 Jan 2011 05:12:38 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/millions-relying-on-plastic-for-day-to-day-living.htmCitizens Advice has issued redundancy notices to 900 debt advice staff following a government decision to cut funding to the charity.Mon, 31 Jan 2011 05:00:14 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/debt-advisory-staff-axed-by-citizens-advice.htmIf you are planning to resolve your debt problem using a debt management plan, how much you can include for a housekeeping expenditure allowanceThu, 27 Jan 2011 03:16:49 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/what-is-a-reasonable-housekeeping-budget-in-a-debt-management-plan.htmIf you are making payments towards debts owed to friends or family, you will normally have to stop these payments if you declare yourself bankruptWed, 26 Jan 2011 04:04:50 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/do-I-have-to-include-debts-to-friends-or-family-if-I-go-bankrupt.htmThe Aston Villa FC goalkeeper Brad Friedel has filed for bankruptcy with debts of over £5 million despite receiving a weekly wage of £40,000.Wed, 26 Jan 2011 03:58:20 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/aston-villa-goalkeeper-declared-bankrupt.htmOne in five people retiring this year will still have debts when they stop work, owing an average of about £33,000, research shows.Wed, 26 Jan 2011 02:39:46 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/debts-of-33000-pounds-for-one-in-five-pensioners.htmIf you are in an IVA, you may want to try to save some money each month. We consider whether saving is allowed while you are in an ivaTue, 25 Jan 2011 03:58:34 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/can-I-start-a-savings-account-if-I-am-in-an-IVA.htmAlmost a third of small firms (30 per cent) will need extra funding to cope with the increase in VAT, according to research by British bank Aldermore.Tue, 25 Jan 2011 03:52:09 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/vat-rise-will-cause-small-business-cashflow-problems.htmIf you are paying off your debt using a debt management plan, we consider your options if you earn any additional overtime or receive a lump sumMon, 24 Jan 2011 03:30:42 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/if-I-am-in-a-debt-management-plan-do-I-have-to-pay-any-overtime-I-earn-or-a-lump-sum-I-receive-to-my-creditors.htmHouseholds are concerned about rising inflation and are gloomy over their prospects as finances are expected to deteriorate over the next 12 monthsMon, 24 Jan 2011 02:55:00 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/survey-reveals-households-concerned-over-finances.htmiPhone 4s and other smartphones are being resold in increasing numbers, fetching up to £430, as owners look for quick cashMon, 24 Jan 2011 02:38:52 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/iphone-4s-sold-on-as-owners-feel-pinch.htmIf you are applying for an IVA and are living with a partner or spouse, we consider whether you need to include your partner’s incomeFri, 21 Jan 2011 03:03:40 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/do-I-have-to-include-my-partners-income-when-I-apply-for-an-IVA.htmLending to businesses rose for the first time in nine months in November, data from the Bank of England showed todayFri, 21 Jan 2011 02:55:48 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/lending-to-firms-rises-slightly.htmThe finances of private tenants deteriorated in December, with nearly 12% of all rent unpaid or paid late.Fri, 21 Jan 2011 02:43:23 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/rent-arrears-rise-again-say-letting-agents.htmNew bankruptcy guidelines have been issued this week which will mean that it will be more difficult to buy back your property from the orThu, 20 Jan 2011 04:40:49 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/if-you-declare-bankruptcy-it-may-now-be-harder-to-keep-your-home.htmBanks and building societies are tempting customers to bag a financial bargain in the January sales with offers on borrowing and insurance. Thu, 20 Jan 2011 03:53:18 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/beware-the-banks-big-january-sales.htmDebt relief orders are becoming increasingly popular to resolve personal debt problems. We consider what belongings will be taken from you in a droWed, 19 Jan 2011 05:03:11 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/if-I-do-a-debt-relief-order-will-any-of-my-belongings-be-taken-away-from-me.htmMen are less likely to seek help for spiralling debts than women - even though they face a greater risk of bankruptcy figures have shownWed, 19 Jan 2011 04:57:31 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/women-keener-to-seek-debt-help-than-men.htmA property developer will not be discharged from being bankrupt for ten years following a significant case in Leeds County Court late last year.Wed, 19 Jan 2011 04:09:49 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/property-developer-declared-bankrupt-for-10-years.htmIf you receive a charging order, the person you owe money to has secured their debt against your property. Can this debt be included in bankruptcyMon, 17 Jan 2011 04:40:47 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/can-I-include-a-charging-order-in-the-list-of-my-debts-if-I-go-bankrupt.htmHouseholds face having to find an extra £1,800 a year just to cover rising interest rates on their debts, bank industry analysts are warning.Mon, 17 Jan 2011 04:33:19 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/families-face-1800-pound-bill-if-interest-rates-soar.htmDebt management firm Fairpoint Group has revealed that it now has 35,300 customers in long term debt solutions, after a rapid uplift in its dmpsMon, 17 Jan 2011 04:09:10 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/fairpoint-sees-rapid-growth-in-dmps.htmIf you are thinking about declaring yourself bankrupt, we consider whether you will be able to keep a car which is currently subject to a hire purchasThu, 13 Jan 2011 04:55:37 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/what-happens-to-a-car-on-HP-if-I-declare-bankruptcy.htmIncreasing numbers of tenants appear to be struggling to make rental payments, according to letting agents. Thu, 13 Jan 2011 04:01:04 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/increasing-numbers-of-tenants-default-on-rent.htmWith the deadline for self assessment tax returns due at the end of January, we consider whether you can include an unexpected tax bill in a dmpWed, 12 Jan 2011 02:50:57 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/can-I-add-a-tax-debt-to-a-debt-management-plan.htmRecovery? The British economy may be growing again but people are facing a living standards squeeze fuelled by price rises and the increase in VATWed, 12 Jan 2011 02:33:57 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/families-hit-as-fuel-and-food-costs-soar.htmThe bank rate was left unchanged again at 0.50% at the December meeting, the 21st month in a row. So what will happen in 2011, 2012 and beyond? Tue, 11 Jan 2011 05:43:57 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/when-will-interest-rates-increase.htmWith average credit card interest between 15 and 30 percent, paying for Christmas on plastic can be very costly. We consider how to save for christmasTue, 11 Jan 2011 02:05:55 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/avoid-getting-into-debt-over-christmas-start-saving-now-for-december-2011.htmWhen calculating your living expenses for an IVA application what happens if your car expenses are above the agreed guidelines. Mon, 10 Jan 2011 03:01:22 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/I-want-to-do-an-IVA-but-my-car-expenses-are-higher-than-the-creditor-guidelines-what-can-I-do.htmBritons see themselves as in serious financial difficulty only when their debts reach £16,000, a report has found. Mon, 10 Jan 2011 01:49:12 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/debts-of-15000-pounds-thats-no-problem-say-borrowers.htmA debt relief order is one option for dealing with a debt problem. We consider what would happen if your finances improve while your dro is in placeFri, 07 Jan 2011 01:11:49 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/what-happens-if-I-start-a-debt-relief-order-and-my-finances-improve.htmThe number of people with serious debt problems in the UK is at alarming proportions statistics from Credit Action have shown.Fri, 07 Jan 2011 01:03:02 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/worrying-uk-debt-statistics.htmRumours that social network site Facebook is to offer a ‘pay later’ option for buying virtual goods online has prompted a warning from debt expertsFri, 07 Jan 2011 12:38:47 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/debt-warning-over-facebook-pay-later-option.htmBorrowing from Credit unions, a small part of Britain's financial landscape which has grown as banks cut back on loans after the credit crisisFri, 07 Jan 2011 12:17:45 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/credit-unions-expected-to-grow-in-2011.htmIf you are struggling with debt, you may need to negotiate reductions in your monthly repayments. We consider what living expenses are reasonableThu, 06 Jan 2011 05:40:28 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/what-are-acceptable-living-expenses-if-I-am-negotiating-reduced-debt-payments.htmResearch by Shelter shows millions using credit cards in last-ditch attempt to keep roof over their headsThu, 06 Jan 2011 05:21:45 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/2-million-use-credit-cards-to-pay-mortgage-or-rent.htmBankruptcy is often regarded as an option to avoid at all costs. However, you can consider bankruptcy if your house has been repossessed Wed, 05 Jan 2011 03:00:51 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/can-I-declare-bankruptcy-and-write-off-my-debt-if-my-house-is-repossessed.htmFour out of 10 people admit they still owe money spent last Christmas, according to government's Insolvency ServiceWed, 05 Jan 2011 02:51:47 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/high-levels-of-personal-debt-remain-across-the-country.htmWith Christmas behind us, 2011 looks as though it could be a tough year money wise. January is therefore the perfect time to review your financesTue, 04 Jan 2011 04:58:42 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/keep-out-of-debt-in-2011-give-yourself-a-financial-makeover.htmMiddle-class families will be more than £3,000 a year worse off this year, with the rising cost of living pushing many to the brink of bankruptcyTue, 04 Jan 2011 04:34:59 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/families-3000-pounds-worse-off-and-many-facing-bankruptcy.htmHomeowners should start preparing for interest rate rises ahead of a return to “normalised” levels of around 5pcThu, 23 Dec 2010 04:19:21 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/homeowners-should-prepare-for-interest-rates-of-5-percent.htmVAT will increase in January and push up the cost of many monthly living costs. We consider whether you will be allowed to reduce your IVA paymentsWed, 22 Dec 2010 03:04:17 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/after-the-vat-increase-in-january-can-I-reduce-my-iva-payments.htmThe looming VAT increase will add £158 a year to essential bills for the average household, according to consumer experts.Wed, 22 Dec 2010 02:55:58 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/vat-rise-will-add-158-pounds-to-family-bills.htmThe Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) has called for temporary measures to help the UK's small firms through the continuing cold snap.Wed, 22 Dec 2010 02:21:06 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/small-firms-need-financial-help-due-to-cold-weather.htmAs the cost of living increases and family incomes stagnate or fall, we consider the options for saving your house if you cannot pay your mortgageTue, 21 Dec 2010 04:08:04 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/i-am-struggling-to-pay-my-mortgage-how-can-I-avoid-repossession.htmBanks have cruelly let down small businesses by not lending, the spending watchdog has warned. Tue, 21 Dec 2010 03:52:15 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/banks-let-down-small-businesses.htmAccording to research from helpline charity, the Samaritans, 30% of people said 2010 had been one of the worst years everTue, 21 Dec 2010 03:33:54 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/research-reveals-2010-has-been-harsh-year-for-many-britons.htmThe VAT increase will take effect on the 4th January 2011. We consider what how this will affect your debt management planMon, 20 Dec 2010 07:25:44 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/how-will-the-vat-increase-in-january-affect-my-debt-management-plan.htmThe Office of Fair Trading has ordered more than 50 doorstep lenders to improve standards or face action.Mon, 20 Dec 2010 07:04:52 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/oft-clamps-down-on-doorstep-lenders.htmIf you are struggling with debt and start a debt management plan we investigate whether it is still possible to use a debit card.Fri, 17 Dec 2010 04:26:12 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/can-I-have-a-debit-card-if-I-do-a-debt-management-plan.htmMore than seven million home owners are at risk of rising interest rates, the Bank of England warns today, as it says people need to start paying off Fri, 17 Dec 2010 04:20:22 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/home-owners-threatened-by-rising-interest-rates.htmThe OFT have warned payday lender Safeloans Limited, trading as Paydayok, not to misuse its customers direct debit facilities.Fri, 17 Dec 2010 04:01:39 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/oft-acts-to-stop-unfair-practices-with-payday-loans.htmThe use of charging orders to secure debts against a property is common. Can a creditor issue a charging order if it is not your propertyThu, 16 Dec 2010 04:27:37 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/can-one-of-my-creditors-get-a-charging-order-against-my-partners-house.htmAlmost six million people have borrowed money to pay for Christmas, up almost 50 per cent on last year, researchers have claimed. Thu, 16 Dec 2010 04:19:37 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/six-million-people-borrow-money-to-pay-for-christmas.htmLiving expenses are gradually increasing. With VAT due to increase in January we investigate whether IVA payments can be reduced to compensateWed, 15 Dec 2010 03:55:15 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/if-my-living-expenses-go-up-after-the-VAT-increase-can-I-reduce-my-iva-payments.htmMortgage arrears and repossessions will rise modestly next year, the Council of Mortgage Lenders (CML) predicts.Wed, 15 Dec 2010 03:35:42 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/repossessions-to-rise-in-2011-lenders-forecast.htmIf you have debts of £15,000 or less which you are unable to repay, one solution you may think about is a debt relief order.Tue, 14 Dec 2010 03:29:39 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/can-I-do-a-debt-relief-order-if-I-am-a-home-owner-with-negative-equity.htmHome owners are falling behind with their monthly mortgage payments at an alarming rate, charities warn, as estate agents reveal the struggle to sell Tue, 14 Dec 2010 03:00:40 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/home-owners-face-repossession-amid-struggle-to-sell-properties.htmThe OFT has reprimanded MBNA over the way its in-house debt collection arm dealt with customers in financial difficulties following concerns raisedTue, 14 Dec 2010 02:47:04 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/oft-reprimands-mbna-over-collection-practices.htmIt is common for two people to borrow money in joint names but for the money to be spent by just one party. We consider who is liable to repay this deMon, 13 Dec 2010 02:25:55 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/am-I-responsible-for-joint-debts-if-I-did-not-spend-the-money.htmMore than half of UK households are struggling to repay credit cards and loans despite the economy showing signs of recovery this year, the Bank of EnMon, 13 Dec 2010 02:18:49 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/half-of-households-are-struggling-with-debts.htmThe Insolvency Service has shut down UK Bankruptcy Limited that offered debt solutions and took referrals from a website called IVA Council.Mon, 13 Dec 2010 02:02:27 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/uk-bankruptcy-limited-shut-down.htmOver four million working Britons are living in fear of being made redundant, according to the latest personal debt tracker survey by R3Fri, 10 Dec 2010 01:03:56 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/four-million-britons-living-in-fear-of-redundancy-and-debt.htmWe consider whether you can add additional debts if you are already in an individual voluntary arrangement.Thu, 09 Dec 2010 01:39:14 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/once-my-iva-has-started-can-I-still-add-additional-debts.htmWorkers suffered a typical pay cut of £700 last year as the average pay rise of 1.7 per cent failed to keep up with inflation, research shows. Thu, 09 Dec 2010 01:28:05 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/workers-suffer-pay-cut-of-700-pounds-due-to-inflation.htmIf you are a director of a limited company which can no longer pay its debts we consider whether you will be held personally liable to pay any debtWed, 08 Dec 2010 01:56:31 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/are-directors-liable-for-company-debts.htmThe rising cost of living has become the biggest financial concern for the over 55s, according to a report by AvivaWed, 08 Dec 2010 01:43:12 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/rising-cost-of-living-becomes-main-financial-worry-for-over-55s.htmIf you are using a debt management plan to resolve your debt problems, we investigate what would happen if your financial circumstances improveTue, 07 Dec 2010 03:39:06 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/what-happens-to-my-debt-management-plan-if-my-income-improves.htmBank overdraft charges have reached the highest levels on record, according to figures released by the Bank of England. Tue, 07 Dec 2010 03:33:47 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/bank-overdraft-charges-at-record-high-of-19-per-cent.htmA bankrupt comedian was last week sentenced at Liverpool Crown Court to 40 months in prison for breaching bankruptcy rulesTue, 07 Dec 2010 03:12:21 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/bankrupt-comedian-goes-to-prison-for-breaching-bankruptcy-rules.htmMore and more people are finding that their properties are in negative equity. We consider what effect this will have if you start an IVAMon, 06 Dec 2010 04:45:45 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/can-I-do-an-iva-if-my-house-is-in-negative-equity.htmThe New Year’s rise in VAT will cost the average middle-class family up to £448 a year, a report by a leading economist claims.Mon, 06 Dec 2010 04:39:48 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/middle-class-face-450-pound-vat-rise.htmMore people are struggling to pay their energy bills this winter as providers rake up their prices, new figures reveal.Mon, 06 Dec 2010 04:23:57 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/homeowners-struggle-with-higher-fuel-bills-as-prices-increase.htmFrom the 1st of December 2010 the policy surrounding the amount a bankrupt person is required to pay towards their debts was changed.Fri, 03 Dec 2010 01:23:21 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/changes-to-bankruptcy-policy-mean-that-more-people-will-have-to-pay-after-declaring-themselves-bankrupt.htmA frequently asked question from those considering a debt management plan is whether they will have to include all of their creditors in their DMP.Fri, 03 Dec 2010 01:18:03 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/leaving-debts-out-of-a-debt-management-plan.htmWith Christmas just around the corner, many people will want to spend a little bit more this month. We consider the effects of missing a dmp paymentThu, 02 Dec 2010 05:52:19 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/what-will-happen-to-my-debt-management-plan-if-I-miss-a-payment-at-christmas.htmMore than 1,100 businesses collapsed every working day last year, the highest level on record, official figures revealed. Thu, 02 Dec 2010 05:28:46 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/1100-businesses-collapse-every-day.htmMillions of households are falling behind with their bills as an extra 40 per cent take on more debt to cover the costs, insolvency experts report. Thu, 02 Dec 2010 05:08:46 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/millions-of-households-taking-on-more-debt.htmWith on line credit card spending expected to be higher than ever this Christmas, we consider how you can avoid running up debts and interest charges Wed, 01 Dec 2010 03:00:07 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/internet-shopping-this-christmas-avoid-credit-card-debt-by-keeping-track-of-your-spending.htmThe Civil Court Users Association has issued a damning response to the Office of Fair Trading’s decision to take action against four major creditorsWed, 01 Dec 2010 02:45:15 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/ccua-slams-oft-verdict-on-charging-orders.htmNine out of 10 people have run up unsecured debt and many fear they will never be able to pay back what they owe, a survey has claimed. Wed, 01 Dec 2010 02:26:37 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/ill-die-in-debt-say-one-in-three.htmIf you are considering an IVA you should expect to include all of your unsecured debts. However there are some debts that are not included in the ivaTue, 30 Nov 2010 04:42:36 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/if-I-do-an-iva-do-I-have-to-include-all-my-debts-or-can-I-leave-some-out.htmBritons typically rack up almost £200 a month on their credit cards due to purchases online, researchers have found. Tue, 30 Nov 2010 04:20:17 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/britons-use-credit-cards-to-spend-200-pounds-a-month-online.htmWith an annual interest rate of an astonishing 2689 percent, a Wonga loan can be very very difficult to repay. Tue, 30 Nov 2010 04:04:09 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/wonga-dot-com-charging-2689-percent-for-payday-loans.htmA debt management plan is a popular method for dealing with personal debt which cannot be repaid. what affect will a dmp have on your homeFri, 26 Nov 2010 02:09:06 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/if-I-start-a-debt-management-plan-can-I-keep-my-house.htmDebt advisors should be subject to further regulation according to a recent survey. Fri, 26 Nov 2010 01:58:16 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/should-debt-advisors-be-further-regulated.htmMiddle-income earners will be squeezed by a triple crunch that will cost each more than £700, research has revealed.Fri, 26 Nov 2010 01:52:29 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/pay-freezes-inflation-and-childcare-subsidy-cuts-could-cost-middle-income-earners-700-pounds.htmIf you have started an IVA but feel you are no longer able to maintain your monthly payments, one option is to stop paying and declare yourself bankruThu, 25 Nov 2010 01:56:16 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/can-I-stop-paying-my-iva-and-declare-myself-bankrupt.htmWomen are being warned against taking out store cards to pay for party dresses and presents this Christmas. Thu, 25 Nov 2010 01:51:35 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/avoid-store-cards-if-you-dont-want-debt-next-christmas.htmOne of the major concerns people have when thinking about an IVA is how his type of debt solution will affect their credit rating.Wed, 24 Nov 2010 02:15:11 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/if-I-do-an-iva-what-will-happen-to-my-credit-rating.htmBanks are making it harder for borrowers to get a loan at a reasonable rate as Christmas approaches. Wed, 24 Nov 2010 12:58:36 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/banks-make-us-pay-more-for-a-smaller-loan.htmA large firm of debt collectors, Aktiv Kapital, has been warned for trying to take action against people who do not owe any money.Wed, 24 Nov 2010 12:51:34 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/debt-collector-firm-warned-for-targeting-wrong-people.htmWith millions of people still struggling with credit card bills from last year’s Christmas spending we consider the best way to keep out of debtTue, 23 Nov 2010 02:10:19 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/avoid-a-new-year-debt-hangover-this-christmas-by-sticking-to-a-gift-budget.htmAlmost half of Britons will start the New Year in debt, new research has suggested. Tue, 23 Nov 2010 01:22:04 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/half-of-britons-will-start-the-new-year-in-debt.htmWith home equity falling, an increasing number of people are choosing to go bankrupt to resolve their debt. Can tax debts can be included in bankruptyMon, 22 Nov 2010 01:52:51 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/if-i-owe-tax-to-hmrc-can-these-debts-be-included-in-bankruptcy.htmOver 70% of people in debt say that their creditors acted more positively towards them when they started resolving their debt problem Mon, 22 Nov 2010 01:43:05 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/what-is-the-creditor-reaction-to-debt-management-solutions.htmSome people are being forced to put their homes at risk because of debts of as little as £600, the Office of Fair Trading (OFT) has found.Mon, 22 Nov 2010 01:33:33 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/homes-at-risk-from-charging-orders-due-to-debts-as-small-as-600-pounds.htmNearly two-thirds of people are worried about their finances, but most are failing to take steps to improve their situationMon, 22 Nov 2010 01:18:35 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/two-in-three-people-worry-about-having-enough-money.htmChoosing a debt management plan as a way to resolve debt problems. We consider whether payments to creditors have to be missed before a dmp can startFri, 19 Nov 2010 05:11:15 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/do-I-have-to-start-missing-payments-before-I-can-do-a-debt-management-plan.htmThere is no requirement for creditors to stop the interest on accounts included in a debt management plan. However interest is often frozenFri, 19 Nov 2010 05:05:05 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/will-interest-on-debts-be-stopped-by-a-debt-management-plan.htmHomeowners who are struggling with unsecured debt are increasingly at risk of banks trying to secure the outstanding balance against their property.Thu, 18 Nov 2010 01:57:48 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/will-doing-an-iva-stop-my-creditors-from-taking-a-charging-order-against-my-house.htmThe rising cost of living means households need to find an extra £1,100 to maintain the same standard of living that they enjoyed two years agoThu, 18 Nov 2010 01:19:26 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/households-need-to-find-an-extra-1100-pounds-to-combat-rising-cost-of-living.htmAlmost two million people who failed to pay enough income tax in 2006/07 will have their debts written off. Thu, 18 Nov 2010 01:06:48 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/hmrc-writes-off-two-million-tax-debts.htmWith increasing living costs and downward pressure on incomes, thousands of Britons will start struggling to meet their debt payments in 2011.Wed, 17 Nov 2010 03:45:58 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/thousands-of-britons-on-the-verge-of-debt-disaster.htmGraduates on modest incomes face an effective tax rate of 45 per cent and crippling debts for most of their working livesWed, 17 Nov 2010 02:34:17 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/the-30-year-graduate-debt-trap.htmThe number of young people contacting Citizens Advice for help has soared over the last year with debt problems accounting for a third of all enquirieWed, 17 Nov 2010 02:11:54 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/under-25s-in-debt-turn-to-citizens-advice-as-recession-bites.htmIf you go bankrupt, you will be expected to keep to a sensible living expenditure budget. We investigate what living expenses are allowable Tue, 16 Nov 2010 02:15:34 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/if-I-go-bankrupt-what-living-expenses-will-I-be-allowed.htmThe internet is the most important source of information for solutions to personal debt problems a recent survey suggests. Tue, 16 Nov 2010 02:01:36 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/the-internet-is-the-most-popular-source-of-debt-advice.htmAlmost seven million Britons are living beyond their means and refuse to alter their lifestyle despite the recession, according to latest research. Tue, 16 Nov 2010 01:54:48 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/millions-of-britons-living-beyond-their-means.htmIf you are starting a debt management plan, you need to be in control of your cash. You should therefore open new bank accountMon, 15 Nov 2010 05:24:22 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/can-I-open-a-new-bank-account-if-I-am-starting-a-debt-management-plan.htmA property developer who hit headlines this year for his solo rowing race around the world has been declared bankrupt for five years Mon, 15 Nov 2010 05:14:04 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/ocean-rower-made-bankrupt-for-five-years.htmMore than half of families are struggling to pay back their debts, research reveals today.Mon, 15 Nov 2010 04:55:00 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/half-of-families-struggling-to-pay-debts.htmA UK debt charity has warned that the debt crisis looks set to escalate again, despite the latest figures indicating a drop in personal insolvencies.Thu, 11 Nov 2010 11:56:42 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/debt-charity-warns-of-calm-before-the-storm.htmWith the possibility of wages being reduced and jobs lost as a result of the government cuts, many people are at risk of missing their dmp paymentsWed, 10 Nov 2010 06:17:25 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/i-am-in-a-debt-management-plan-and-have-been-made-redundant-what-can-I-do.htmThe government has announced proposals to reform the Debt Relief Order (DRO) regime to allow debtors with an approved pension access to the scheme.Wed, 10 Nov 2010 04:22:29 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/government-proposes-reform-of-debt-relief-orders.htmBankruptcy will have a negative affect on your credit rating for up to six years. We consider whether the people you live with will also be affectedTue, 09 Nov 2010 04:21:29 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/if-I-go-bankrupt-how-it-affect-the-credit-rating-of-the-people-I-live-with.htmMany options exist for anyone worried about debt and considering a debt management solution. In this article we explain where to best get information Tue, 09 Nov 2010 04:12:48 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/sources-of-debt-management-solutions-information.htmA raid of a British bankrupt’s house in New Zealand has uncovered hoards of gold bars, silver coins and foreign bank notes worth £1.1m.Tue, 09 Nov 2010 03:36:02 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/hidden-treasure-discovered-at-bankrupts-house.htmConstruction group Rok has tumbled into administration with debts of £190million, leaving a cloud of uncertainty over the future of 3,800 workers. Tue, 09 Nov 2010 03:25:17 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/rok-collapse-puts-3800-jobs-in-peril.htmThe official number of people declaring themselves insolvent in England and Wales has fallen by 3.7%. Does this mean that the effects of the recessionMon, 08 Nov 2010 03:16:18 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/number-of-people-declaring-bankruptcy-falls.htm50% of respondents in a recent survey have said that they had received what they now believe to be misleading or incorrect debt management adviceMon, 08 Nov 2010 03:09:37 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/are-debt-management-companies-providing-good-advice.htmIf you are in an IVA there may be times when unforeseen financial problems mean you are unable to make your regular monthly payment.Fri, 05 Nov 2010 01:28:29 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/what-happens-if-I-miss-one-of-my-iva-payments.htmBankruptices fell by 25% and total insolvencies by 3.7% in England and Wales in the third quarter, but experts are waryFri, 05 Nov 2010 01:22:34 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/bankruptcies-fall-to-five-year-low.htmThe number of people using credit cards to gamble on line has increased dramatically over the last few years. If you have a debt problem, we consider Thu, 04 Nov 2010 03:52:47 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/can-I-include-gambling-debts-in-my-debt-management-plan-or-iva.htmEveryone - celebrities included - can witness their financial affairs come crashing around them when hit by debt.Thu, 04 Nov 2010 03:47:04 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/celebrity-and-the-threat-of-bankruptcy.htmBritons are typically draining their savings by £100 a month to cover household bills and ‘back to school’ costs, according to new research. Thu, 04 Nov 2010 03:21:41 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/britons-drain-savings-by-100-pounds-a-month.htmIf you want to carry out an IVA, your creditors must be given the opportunity to accept or reject the payment proposal.Wed, 03 Nov 2010 02:20:28 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/what-happens-if-one-of-my-creditors-rejects-my-iva.htmBritain has become a “shameless” nation where a third of adults are not embarrassed to discuss their debt, new research suggests. Wed, 03 Nov 2010 02:12:28 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/shameless-britain-lacks-embarrassment-about-debt.htmSome 26% of people asked in a poll have lent money to friends in the last year with less than half of the money having been paid back.Wed, 03 Nov 2010 01:35:34 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/increase-in-people-who-lead-money-to-friends-struggling-with-debt.htmA debt management plan is a common way of dealing with a personal debt problem. However, if you are a homeowner, you could still get a charging orderMon, 01 Nov 2010 05:38:55 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/if-I-do-a-debt-management-plan-is-my-house-at-risk-of-a-charging-order.htmAlmost three million homeowners, 37pc of all mortgage holders would struggle to pay their mortgage if interest rates rose by just 2 percentage points.Mon, 01 Nov 2010 05:32:05 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/interest-rate-rise-threat-for-3m-home-owners.htmThree years after huge losses on sub-prime mortgages sparked the global financial meltdown, lenders are entering the British marketMon, 01 Nov 2010 05:17:32 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/the-return-of-sub-prime-mortgage-firms-target-overlooked-market.htmBritish children are in the dark when it comes to guess the cost of basic shopping items, a survey has showed. Mon, 01 Nov 2010 04:52:13 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/children-have-little-idea-about-the-cost-of-living.htmThe appetite for borrowing among consumers remained weak in September, according to figures from the Bank of England.Fri, 29 Oct 2010 06:45:48 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/demand-for-borrowing-remains-weak.htmOver 371,200 Time to Pay arrangements have been granted to struggling businesses since November 2008 but rapid drop in last few monthsFri, 29 Oct 2010 06:31:51 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/drop-in-number-of-time-to-pay-schemes-granted-by-HMRC.htmWith many people concerned about whether their jobs are safe, we consider what will happen if you are in an IVA and you are made redundant.Thu, 28 Oct 2010 03:10:22 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/what-happens-if-I-am-made-redundant-while-in-an-IVA.htmMore than one in three people (35%) aged 25-34 expect their pensions to come from personal savings and investments, rather than from the governmentThu, 28 Oct 2010 03:05:25 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/young-people-must-save-more.htmBankruptcy is becoming a far more acceptable way of dealing with a personal debt problem. However the fee payable to declare Bankruptcy is significantWed, 27 Oct 2010 04:41:38 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/I-cannot-afford-the-bankruptcy-court-fee-what-can-I-do.htmYoung graduates are being clobbered with excessive bank charges after having their interest-free overdrafts withdrawn. Wed, 27 Oct 2010 04:29:36 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/overdraft-charges-lumber-graduates-with-added-debts.htmThe spending review did nothing to protect public sector workers facing redundancy from high-cost lenders, who spot a business opportunityWed, 27 Oct 2010 11:36:49 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/high-cost-lenders-are-cashing-in-on-spending-review-cuts.htmIf you are a sole trader and your business has debts that it cannot afford to pay, you are personally liable for the outstanding balances.Tue, 26 Oct 2010 02:03:22 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/what-can-I-do-if-I-cannot-pay-my-sole-trader-business-debt.htmA young family has been forced to pay more than £1,000 in bank charges after becoming overdrawn by just 8p.Tue, 26 Oct 2010 01:56:37 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/young-family-charged-1000-pounds-in-fees-after-going-overdrawn.htmMore than six out of 10 households are worried about the cost of their energy bills this winter and 20% of consumers are already struggling to pay theTue, 26 Oct 2010 01:43:14 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/High-energy-costs-prompt-householders-to-cut-back-on-winter-heating.htmOne of the major downsides to a debt management plan is that the creditors are not under any obligation to freeze their interest charges.Mon, 25 Oct 2010 03:18:46 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/I-am-in-a-debt-management-plan-but-my-creditors-are-still-adding-interest-what-can-I-do.htmGreedy cashpoint companies are charging families rising amounts to withdraw their own money while on the move such as during half-term week.Mon, 25 Oct 2010 03:10:38 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/greedy-cashpoint-firms-now-charging-2-pounds-to-withdraw-money-from-machines.htmThe monthly living expenditure budgets which creditors are prepared to accept within a debt management plan or IVA have recently increased.Fri, 22 Oct 2010 01:25:43 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/living-expenses-allowances-increase-for-debt-management-plans-and-ivas.htmOne in five mothers is approaching middle age by the time she has a child, figures have revealed.Fri, 22 Oct 2010 01:12:09 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/one-in-five-babies-are-born-to-women-over-35-due-to-high-mortgages-and-debt.htmThe Office of Fair Trading warns consumers to avoid “debt wipe out” companies, who claim to to be able to wipe out some debtsFri, 22 Oct 2010 12:08:15 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/warning-on-unenforceable-debt-claims-companies.htmIf you are a home owner and are in an IVA, you will normally have to release equity from your property. what happens if you cannot get a mortgageThu, 21 Oct 2010 12:52:32 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/what-happens-if-I-cannot-get-a-mortgage-to-release-equity-at-the-end-of-my-iva.htmGenerally IVAs are successful. However there are instances when they fail. We consider why this might be and what to do if your IVA is not workingWed, 20 Oct 2010 12:26:21 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/my-iva-is-failing-what-can-I-do.htmKerry Katona was declared bankrupt in 2008. Since then her lifestyle has surprised many and shone a light on how you can be bankrupt and still live inWed, 20 Oct 2010 12:10:47 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/the-mystery-of-kerry-katonas-bankruptcy.htmThe two debt management industry self regulatory bodies, the debt resolution forum (DRF) and DEMSA have revealed that merger talks have failed.Wed, 20 Oct 2010 11:44:26 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/dfr-and-demsa-merger-talks-collapse.htmWilmott Turner Financial Services the personal debt solutions specialists are pleased to announce the appointment of new Managing Director James FallaWed, 20 Oct 2010 09:36:28 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/james-falla-joins-beat-my-debt.htmBankruptcy is becoming far more acceptable as a solution for dealing with a personal debt problem. We consider what will happen to your carTue, 19 Oct 2010 03:12:12 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/if-I-go-bankrupt-what-happens-to-my-car-and-other-vehicles.htmThe Office of Fair Trading has issued guidance on the controversial section 77 of the Consumer Credit Act, warning consumers they must pay their debtsTue, 19 Oct 2010 02:39:59 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/oft-warns-consumers-must-pay-their-debts.htmThe comprehensive spending review will bring swingeing public sector cuts, job losses and redundancies across the board. Find out what you can doTue, 19 Oct 2010 02:30:13 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/what-to-do-if-redundancy-looms.htmConsumers in the UK are being encouraged by a watchdog to stay clear of firms claiming to use a legal loophole to clear debts.Mon, 18 Oct 2010 06:22:39 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/warning-over-debt-clearance-claim.htmWomen are being hit the hardest by Britain’s economic meltdown, figures have revealedMon, 18 Oct 2010 05:57:43 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/female-bankruptcy-soars-to-record-high.htmThe Government has laid out controversial plans to pull the plug on child benefit payments for all higher rate taxpayers from 2013.Mon, 04 Oct 2010 12:24:19 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/child-benefit-axed-for-high-rate-taxpayers.htmIf you are struggling with personal debt and are considering an individual voluntary arrangement, we consider what happens if you have a car on hpFri, 01 Oct 2010 11:56:03 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/what-happens-to-my-car-HP-agreement-if-I-do-an-IVA.htmFigures from the Bank of England today revealed that British households opted to repay loans and overdrafts last month.Thu, 30 Sep 2010 11:35:13 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/UK-consumers-opted-to-repay-unsecured-debt-in-August.htmDepending on interpretation, recent statistics relating to Protected Trust Deeds and bankruptcy could lead to varying conclusionsTue, 28 Sep 2010 08:14:51 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/scotland-leads-insolvency-figures.htmIf you are having difficulty with your debt repayments you may be thinking of taking a consolidation loan. We consider whether this is a good idea or Fri, 24 Sep 2010 01:31:11 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/should-I-consolidate-my-debt-with-a-loan-or-do-a-debt-management-plan.htmMinutes from meetings of the Protected Trust Deed Working Group demonstrate concerns that Protected Trust Deeds are mis-sold by debt management companFri, 24 Sep 2010 01:24:06 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/are-protected-trust-deeds-being-mis-sold.htmWith at least a million people currently suffering from problem debts, a well managed debt management plan is a potential solutionFri, 24 Sep 2010 01:18:42 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/debt-management-plans-used-to-deal-with-growing-debts.htmhmrc tax arrears, tax man will not write off arrears, problems with tax arrears, hmrc to write off some tax arrearsFri, 24 Sep 2010 01:02:29 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/hmrc-will-not-write-off-tax-underpayments.htmIf you are considering a debt management solution such as a debt management plan, we consider what happens to debts which are not in your name.Thu, 23 Sep 2010 12:36:28 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/can-debts-which-are-not-in-my-name-be-included-in-my-debt-management-plan.htmLenders have become stricter since the financial slowdown A new not-for-profit lending scheme is being unveiled aimed at giving manageable loansThu, 23 Sep 2010 12:24:01 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/affordable-loans-plan-is-unveiled.htmIf you are struggling with debt but your living expenses are too high to do an IVA, we consider what options are open to you.Wed, 22 Sep 2010 01:57:23 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/my-living-expenses-are-too-high-for-an-iva-what-can-I-do.htmA campaign calling for the Government to end "legal loan sharking" has been backed by more than 100 MPs. Wed, 22 Sep 2010 01:39:34 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/more-than-100-mps-sign-motion-to-end-legal-loan-sharking.htmIf you feel that a debt management plan is the right debt solution it can be concerning if you are then advised by a debt management company to do an Tue, 21 Sep 2010 01:22:52 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/I-want-to-do-a-debt-management-plan-but-have-been-advised-to-apply-for-an-IVA-what-should-I-do.htmDespite rock-bottom interest rates, borrowing money can still be an expensive businessTue, 21 Sep 2010 01:04:30 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/five-ways-to-get-a-cheaper-loan.htmAs a self employed person you may own certain assets such as tools of your trade which you need to keep working. If you declare bankruptcy, we consideMon, 20 Sep 2010 03:45:39 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/I-am-self-employed-if-I-declare-bankruptcy-can-I-keep-my-tools.htmThe amount of pocket money children receive has fallen to a seven-year low, according to a survey.Mon, 20 Sep 2010 03:40:45 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/even-children-feel-the-pinch-as-hard-times-push-their-pocket-money-down.htmIf you are currently in an IVA (Individual Voluntary Arrangement) and you receive notification from HMRC that you have to repay tax arrearsFri, 17 Sep 2010 12:10:11 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/I-have-to-pay-tax-arrears-but-I-am-in-an-IVA-what-can-I-do.htmSteep rent rises are forcing many tenants into arrears, a buy-to-let rent reports showsFri, 17 Sep 2010 11:46:26 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/rents-rise-as-supply-and-demand-favours-landlords.htmThe government could scrap child benefit payments for children after 16, a move which would mean increased debt problems for peopleThu, 16 Sep 2010 02:02:54 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/scrapping-child-benefit-at-16-could-drive-many-into-debt.htmTaxpayers who owe back-dated tax because of tax coding errors will not be charged interest, the head of the HM Revenue & Customs has revealed.Thu, 16 Sep 2010 01:50:25 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/taxpayers-who-owe-more-than-2000-pounds-will-not-pay-interest.htmMillions of families will see their child benefit scrapped and younger pensioners will lose winter fuel payments under drastic Government proposals. Wed, 15 Sep 2010 12:30:42 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/child-benefit-may-be-scrapped-at-16.htmWorkers at Britain’s biggest local authority are being forced to accept drastic changes to their employment contracts – or risk losing their jobs.Tue, 14 Sep 2010 01:09:05 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/birmingham-city-council-puts-employment-squeeze-on-26000-workers.htmDearer air fares, rising food bills and price mark-ups on clothes after the summer sales kept Britain's inflation rate stubbornly high at 3.1%Tue, 14 Sep 2010 12:44:17 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/inflation-stays-high-as-clothes-food-and-travel-rise.htmHM revenue & customs have just begun the first wave of a three month process informing six million taxpayers that they have paid the wrong tax. Mon, 13 Sep 2010 11:50:40 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/how-to-deal-with-a-letter-from-the-taxman.htmAugust saw overdraft rates reach their highest level since records began in 1995Fri, 10 Sep 2010 02:21:31 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/overdraft-rates-at-record-high.htmA leading credit rating agency has warned that government cuts and tax increases could result in a rise in repossessions across the UK housing market.Fri, 10 Sep 2010 02:10:52 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/UKs-home-repossession-story-not-over-yet.htmA debt advice charity says a third of debtors have no solution to their financial problemsThu, 09 Sep 2010 01:42:34 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/debt-problems-mount-for-struggling-households.htmThe number of cash machines in the UK has fallen and withdrawals have dropped as shoppers turn to cards, figures show.Thu, 09 Sep 2010 01:21:37 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/shoppers-turning-to-card-payments.htmEvery family in Britain will be living in fear of a crippling tax demand following the admission by HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) that it has bungled Wed, 08 Sep 2010 11:18:14 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/now-we-all-have-to-fear-a-tax-demand-after-HMRC-blunder.htmMillions of the elderly and people approaching retirement have no pension, no savings and large debts, shocking research reveals today. Wed, 08 Sep 2010 10:58:44 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/too-poor-to-retire-the-over-55s-with-no-pension-no-savings-just-massive-debts.htmHigh Street banks have been accused of leaving some customers in "dire poverty" after taking money out of their accounts without permission.Mon, 06 Sep 2010 02:32:19 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/banks-leave-some-customers-in-dire-poverty.htmNearly 15,000 people claiming Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA) are struggling with debts of over £15,000, according to figures released todayMon, 06 Sep 2010 01:16:13 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/benefit-claimants-owe-huge-debts.htmThe job cuts at Royal Bank of Scotland are turning into a "horror story", according to union UniteFri, 03 Sep 2010 11:49:39 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/rbs-horror-story-as-uk-job-cuts-top-20-000.htmFears of a double-dip recession and rising food prices are fuelling a boom in home-grown vegetables. Thu, 02 Sep 2010 11:49:04 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/credit-crunch-leads-to-grow-your-own-veg-boom.htmThe property market has stalled, according to Nationwide, with house prices falling 0.9% in August but still up £3,000 since the start of the year. Thu, 02 Sep 2010 11:36:23 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/house-prices-dip-is-healthy.htmNew rules mean companies will not be allowed to advertise a service as 'free' if the consumer has to pay anything other than unavoidable costsWed, 01 Sep 2010 04:07:20 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/crackdown-on-free-debt-management-advertising.htmCash-strapped families are being overwhelmed by debts they can never afford to repay.Wed, 01 Sep 2010 03:44:03 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/banks-forced-to-write-off-40-million-pounds-a-day-in-family-debt.htmHome owners must have been scared out of their minds on hearing the warning from a leading economist this week that the Bank of England will be forcedTue, 31 Aug 2010 11:29:17 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/where-will-interest-rates-be-in-2012.htmBritain's consumer confidence rose in August for the first time in six months, bolstering the incipient economic recovery Tue, 31 Aug 2010 11:08:09 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/confident-consumers-raise-hopes-of-averting-double-dip-recession.htmMillions of people who are still paying off their student loans will be worse off this year, as the Student Loans Company is raising the interest rateFri, 27 Aug 2010 11:05:24 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/student-loans-to-cost-more.htmThe exam results are in and the annual scramble for banks to win a new batch of undergraduate business has started. Fri, 27 Aug 2010 10:40:27 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/money-tips-for-students-going-to-university.htmPutting aside some money in savings could mean the difference between survival or financial disaster if you fall on difficult times.Thu, 26 Aug 2010 12:40:17 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/how-much-do-you-really-need-for-a-rainy-day.htmStaff are effectively facing dramatic pay cuts as companies battle to keep down costs wih pay freezes amid fears of a double dip recession. Thu, 26 Aug 2010 12:15:41 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/workers-face-pay-cuts-amid-double-dip-recession-fears.htmA rate-cutting frenzy is punishing savers who have already endured 18 months of misery. Thu, 26 Aug 2010 12:07:04 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/savers-pounded-in-rate-cut-frenzy.htmBritish shoppers are in the grips of recession shopaholism, having amassed nearly £24 billion of unsecured debt during the downturnWed, 25 Aug 2010 12:57:09 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/shopaholic-brits-amass-24-billion-debt-during-downturn.htmGrieving families are being hounded for repayments of debts owed by their deceased loved ones even before their estates have been sorted outWed, 25 Aug 2010 12:24:22 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/loan-firms-hound-grieving-families-for-debts.htmCredit card borrowers who miss a monthly repayment are facing increasingly harsh penalties. Wed, 25 Aug 2010 12:11:01 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/tougher-punishment-for-credit-card-late-payers.htmNearly seven people in 10 want the government to impose a cap on the interest rates that can be charged by credit companies, a poll suggests.Tue, 24 Aug 2010 12:58:03 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/public-want-government-to-cap-credit-interest-rates.htmThe soaring price of everyday goods from petrol to household bills has forced more Britons to dip into their life savings. Tue, 24 Aug 2010 12:09:30 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/savers-raid-accounts-as-inflation-hits-hard.htmBritish consumers are being handed even more generous credit card deals than those on offer before the recession, new research has shown. Mon, 23 Aug 2010 05:54:48 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/new-debt-boom-fears-as-banks-offer-more-generous-credit-card-deals.htmBritons dig into their savings and investments to help them with everyday living costsMon, 23 Aug 2010 05:30:46 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/britons-dig-into-4600-pounds-of-savings-to-cover-living-costs.htmThe level of deposit being asked for has risen since the boom Potential first-time buyers are facing rising rents as they wait to raise a depositFri, 20 Aug 2010 06:46:26 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/wannabe-house-buyers-seeing-rents-rise.htmWhile many of us endure long hours at the office, the reality is that we've already spent a third of our pay just getting to workFri, 20 Aug 2010 06:26:51 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/how-going-to-work-eats-up-30-percent-of-our-pay-as-costs-of-childcare-and-commuting-add-up.htmThe Consumer Credit Counselling Service (CCCS) has warned of a likely rise in repossessions in 2011.Wed, 18 Aug 2010 01:24:22 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/debt-charity-warns-of-rise-in-repossessions.htmShoppers are being crippled by the biggest monthly jump in food and soft drink prices since records began in 1996, official figures revealed yesterdayWed, 18 Aug 2010 11:50:20 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/food-price-hikes-means-we-are-buying-less.htmNew analysis of official figures from the Ministry of Justice shows that men who lose control of their financial affairs have more debt than womenMon, 16 Aug 2010 11:01:06 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/are-women-more-prudent-than-men.htmCash-strapped employees borrowed £1.2bn in 2009, paying interest rates of up to 2000 percentMon, 16 Aug 2010 10:44:56 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/payday-loans-quadruple-as-1-point-2-million-borrow-in-short-term.htmOver 25,000 households reported mortgage arrears problems in the second quarter of 2010, according to figures released by debt charity cabMon, 16 Aug 2010 10:29:32 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/over-25000-suffer-mortgage-arrears-problems.htmShoppers are paying up to 58 per cent more for basic grocery items than they were three years ago, according to figures published today. Mon, 16 Aug 2010 10:14:59 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/food-prices-up-58-percent-the-cost-of-groceries-has-rocketed-over-past-three-years.htmThe number of houses repossessed by mortgage lenders continued to drop in the second quarter of this year, according to the latest figuresFri, 13 Aug 2010 12:23:24 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/home-repossessions-fall-again.htmHigh Street spending has slowed to a crawl as anxious consumers continue to tighten their belts, sparking fresh concerns about the economyFri, 13 Aug 2010 12:11:00 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/recovery-fears-as-high-street-sales-slide.htmStudents starting university this autumn can expect to graduate with debts of almost £25,000, a poll reveals.Fri, 13 Aug 2010 11:55:41 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/new-university-students-expect-debts-averaging-nearly-25000-pounds.htmCutbacks in the public sector will be impacting on UK jobseekers across all sectors between now and the end of the year, according to researchFri, 13 Aug 2010 11:28:23 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/uk-jobs-market-recovery-in-danger-of-stalling.htmaccountancy firm, PricewaterhouseCoopers has assessed the potential effect on UK homeowners of average mortgage interest rates moving to 2008 levelsFri, 13 Aug 2010 11:02:42 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/return-to-2008-mortgage-rates-would-cost-1800-pounds-a-year.htmAverage student rent tops £65 a week with annual 4.3% rise more than double that of past two yearsTue, 10 Aug 2010 11:48:36 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/students-hit-with-record-rent-increases.htmPetrol prices could pass £1.20 a litre by the August bank holiday weekend, close to its all-time high. Tue, 10 Aug 2010 11:37:37 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/petrol-prices-to-hit -1-pound-20-by-august-bank-holiday.htmInterest rates may have fallen but households are finding the cost of borrowing is rising – and may remain highMon, 09 Aug 2010 12:19:35 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/high-cost-of-borrowing-may-be-the-legacy-of-the-credit-crunch.htmThe number of personal insolvencies in England and Wales reached 34,743 in the second quarter of 2010Mon, 09 Aug 2010 12:00:11 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/personal-insolvencies-rise-5-percent.htmIf you believe you have been miss sold payment protection insurance (PPI), you should not delay dealing with debt problemsWed, 04 Aug 2010 06:21:15 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/if-i-have-a-ppi-mis-selling-claim-can-I-start-debt-management-straight-away.htmLarge numbers of people are hiding the fact that their incomes have plummeted and they are struggling to make ends meetWed, 04 Aug 2010 12:01:13 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/britains-new-middle-class-poor.htmThe number of directors taking illegal dividends or loans from their companies is rising at an “alarming rate,” according to accountancy firm Wilkins Wed, 04 Aug 2010 11:07:22 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/delinquent-directors-treat-firms-like-piggybanks.htmWith credit becoming more and more difficult to get, many people are turning to doorstep lenders for their borrowing needs. We consider pros and consTue, 03 Aug 2010 03:38:39 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/I-have-been-turned-down-for-credit-should-I-use-a-doorstep-lender.htm Government looks to curb rise in unregulated loans, with some lenders charging as much as 2,500% annual interestTue, 03 Aug 2010 01:33:33 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/ministers-consider-rates-cap-on-legal-loan-sharking.htmMore than two million sun seekers borrow £1,000 each to pay for their summer holiday – and will spend seven months paying it backTue, 03 Aug 2010 01:09:15 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/sun-seekers-borrow-1000-pounds-to-pay-for-holiday.htmHow to balance a budget and make sure you have enough for a rainy day.Tue, 03 Aug 2010 12:31:01 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/would-your-finances-pass-the-stress-test.htmFood prices will be at least 10 per cent higher by the new year, experts say. Mon, 02 Aug 2010 01:16:41 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/food-prices-to-soar-10-percent-by-end-of-the-year.htmMany more people will have to pay back some of the money paid to them as tax credits in the future, experts say.Mon, 02 Aug 2010 12:55:53 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/tax-credit-repayments-to-soar.htmSettling an IVA early with a lump sum is beneficial for both the debtor and the creditors. We consider if a windfall can be used for a lump sumThu, 29 Jul 2010 05:09:27 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/can-I-settle-my-IVA-early-if-I-receive-a-windfall.htmHundreds of thousands of students who graduated a year ago could soon find that they are paying interest rates of up to 19pcThu, 29 Jul 2010 02:12:50 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/graduates-charged-rates-of-19-percent-on-interest-free-student-overdrafts.htmProfits at British Gas jumped by more than three-quarters to £842m – but its parent company, Centrica, still warned consumers that bills will riseThu, 29 Jul 2010 01:54:51 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/energy-bills-to-rise-as-british-gas-profits-soar.htmBank of England governor Mervyn King yesterday attacked the banks for destroying small firms by starving them of cash. Thu, 29 Jul 2010 01:34:29 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/banks-are-starving-businesses-of-cash-says-bank-of-england-governor.htmMore and more people are choosing to declare themselves bankrupt as a way of resolving their debts. Is bankruptcy appropriate if you are self employedWed, 28 Jul 2010 06:21:23 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/can-I-go-bankrupt-if-I-am-self-employed.htmPlans to tackle climate change will add £277 to annual household fuel bills unless consumers give their homes a ‘green makeover’, ministers warnedWed, 28 Jul 2010 04:51:48 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/homeowners-face-277-pound-fuel-bill-hike-in-move-towards-green-energy.htmFour out of five credit managers believe that public sector spending cuts will spark a sharp increase in business insolvencies within the next yearWed, 28 Jul 2010 02:42:46 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/public-sector-cuts-will-hurt-businesses.htmLloyds TSB has won a landmark court victory which will curtail the number of ways consumers can challenge the enforceability of debtsWed, 28 Jul 2010 02:05:24 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/lloyds-wins-landmark-case-over-PPI.htmMaking sure that you agree the correct level of living expenses is vital for an IVA. We investigate what expenses are acceptable to creditors Mon, 26 Jul 2010 02:10:49 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/if-I-do-an-iva-what-living-expenses-will-I-be-allowed.htmThe easing of the recession has spelled the end for thousands of marriages, lawyers say. Mon, 26 Jul 2010 12:20:03 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/rising-divorce-rate-is-linked-to-the-economic-recovery.htmSeveral new banks are about to hit the high street. We find out whether customers will benefit. Mon, 26 Jul 2010 12:04:04 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/will-the-new-banks-give-us-a-better-deal.htmFewer UK businesses went bust in June but the north-south divide in relation to insolvencies is growing, according to new figures.Fri, 23 Jul 2010 11:35:43 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/insolvency-rate-of-UK-firms-falls.htmWith the school holidays starting, many people are thinking about time away. If you are in a dmp, we consider whether you can go on holidayThu, 22 Jul 2010 05:59:29 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/if-I-have-a-debt-management-plan-can-I-go-on-holiday.htmDebt charity report says debt problems affect people's relationships and ability to work.Thu, 22 Jul 2010 01:48:42 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/debt-problems-impact-negatively-on-peoples-health.htmIt is a final demand that will come as a shock to most of us - we will pay out almost £1million to cover essential bills during our adult lives. Thu, 22 Jul 2010 01:21:08 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/how-lifes-essentials-will-land-average-household-with-a-1-million-pound-bill.htmSingle people end up spending more than £250,000 over the course of their life because they are not part of a couple, research has suggestedWed, 21 Jul 2010 11:15:59 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/cost-of-being-single-is-254082-pounds.htmBorrowers wanting a personal loan are becoming restricted to their current account provider, as only four banks will lend to new customers. Wed, 21 Jul 2010 10:57:16 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/only-four-banks-will-lend-to-new-customers.htmA leading debt charity has warned that repossessions could increase, despite a rallying of the UK economy.Wed, 21 Jul 2010 10:39:51 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/debt-charity-warns-of-impending-repossessions-rise.htmA leaked government report has suggested that the number of home repossessions could rise to unprecedented levels in 2012.Tue, 20 Jul 2010 01:56:03 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/many-of-britons-homeowners-may-be-at-risk-of-repossession.htmBritain’s over-50s have reduced their retirement savings by nearly £18 billion over the last year, according to new research by LV=.Tue, 20 Jul 2010 11:20:44 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/over-50s-slash-retirement-savings.htmRecord-breaking numbers of families are facing home repossession in 2012, according to a new reportTue, 20 Jul 2010 11:04:00 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/repossessions-could-hit-175000-a-year-according-to-unpublished-government-report.htmThe Government is to reduce funding for the Mortgage Rescue Scheme, the BBC has reported.Tue, 20 Jul 2010 10:43:02 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/mortgage-rescue-scheme-under-threat.htmDo you want to stop making your IVA payments and change to a different debt solution? We investigate the implications of ending your IVA earlyMon, 19 Jul 2010 05:41:32 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/i-am-not-happy-with-my-iva-can-I-change-to-a-different-debt-solution.htmEvery year British consumers waste £150 million on late payment credit card charges, Confused.com has revealed.Mon, 19 Jul 2010 04:22:10 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/brits-waste-150-million-pounds-on-credit-card-fees.htmThe cost of a university education will rise as public subsidies are slashed but student repayments will be fairer and linked to earningsMon, 19 Jul 2010 04:01:04 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/vince-cable-says-students-must-pay-more-for-university.htmBritain's banks are "ripping off" their customers, Business Secretary Vince Cable has told the BBC.Mon, 19 Jul 2010 03:54:58 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/banks-continue-to-rip-customers-off.htmWe consider whether a debt management plan is suitable to resolve a debt problem if your income is made up primarily from benefits paymentsFri, 16 Jul 2010 03:39:52 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/can-I-do-a-debt-management-plan-if-I-am-on-benefits.htmRent is quite often a touchy subject. Many people think they're paying too much, while others secretly think they're getting a good dealFri, 16 Jul 2010 01:29:25 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/are-you-paying-enough-rent.htmIt would be wrong to raise interest rates now because the risk of only weak growth over a prolonged period is real, David Miles saysFri, 16 Jul 2010 12:59:38 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/interest-rates-wont-rise-yet-says-bank-of-england-policymaker.htmConsumers could face new financial literacy tests to make sure they understand the detail of loans they want to take out. Thu, 15 Jul 2010 03:59:49 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/consumers-face-new-tests-before-taking-out-loans.htmAround 100,000 mothers have been forced back to work since the start of the credit crunch, official figures revealed yesterday. Thu, 15 Jul 2010 03:32:58 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/100000-mothers-pushed-back-into-work-by-recession.htmUK homeowners increased the value of their stakes in their properties by £3.2bn in the first three months of 2010, figures show.Thu, 15 Jul 2010 01:23:40 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/homeowners-paying-off-their-mortgages-says-bank-of-england.htmBritons went on ten million fewer trips abroad last year as the recession hit foreign exchange rates.Wed, 14 Jul 2010 01:22:00 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/millions-more-of-us-holidaying-at-home.htmThe era of debt-fuelled consumer spending is over, a financial expert has claimed, pointing out Britain’s consumer debts of nearly £1.5 trillion.Wed, 14 Jul 2010 12:24:34 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/era-of-debt-fuelled-consumerism-over.htmIf you are declared bankrupt, any significant assets that you own should be sold to pay off your debts. what happens to home equityTue, 13 Jul 2010 05:20:23 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/what-happens-to-my-home-equity-if-I-go-bankrupt.htmThe Office of Fair Trading has given a warning to a debt management company after finding it advertised free services even though consumersTue, 13 Jul 2010 01:55:55 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/oft-warns-debt-company-carefree-over-false-claims.htmConsumers can now access their statutory credit report online for a £2 nominal from all three major credit reference agenciesTue, 13 Jul 2010 01:43:57 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/credit-reports-now-online.htmOne in three businesses have been rejected by their bank when they asked for a loan or an overdraft, research reveals today. Tue, 13 Jul 2010 01:21:19 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/banks-reject-loans-to-a-third-of-firms.htmA report by Citizens Advice says decision to limit account availability to bankrupt people is 'demoralising and impractical'Mon, 12 Jul 2010 06:41:08 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/bankrupt-people-wrongly-denied-basic-bank-accounts.htmFigures showing the hotspots for personal insolvencies in England point to a North-South divide last year.Mon, 12 Jul 2010 06:16:23 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/north-south-divide-in-personal-insolvency-data.htmIt costs £800 per month to raise a child in Britain, according to a report that paints a picture of the country as an unfriendly place for familiesMon, 12 Jul 2010 05:55:59 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/bringing-up-a-child-costs-800-pounds-a-month.htmBritons have borrowed more than £12 billion to cover the cost of a summer getaway, with one in 10 going into the red just to keep up with the JonesesFri, 09 Jul 2010 04:12:17 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/britons-plunge-into-debt-to-keep-up-with-the-joneses.htmThree-quarters of home owners do not know what impact an interest rate rise would have on them, a survey has indicated. Fri, 09 Jul 2010 03:56:06 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/most-home-owners-unaware-of-impact-of-an-interest-rate-rise.htmThe average annual salary has dropped by more than £2,600 in the last six months, it has emerged.Fri, 09 Jul 2010 03:40:07 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/workers-average-annual-salary-drops-2600-pounds-in-just-six-months.htmBy maintaining interest rates at the record low of 0.5 percent, the Bank of England has protected homeowners from rises to mortgage payments.Thu, 08 Jul 2010 04:57:43 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/keeping-interest-rates-on-hold-is-right-to-protect-families-from-financial-disaster.htmInterest rates have been kept on hold today as the Bank of England waits to see whether its inflation forecasts play out as expected. Thu, 08 Jul 2010 01:49:10 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/rates-held-at-0-point-5-percent-amid-inflation-debate.htmBritain's banks lent just £900m to small businesses last year, less than a quarter of the average annual rateThu, 08 Jul 2010 01:04:37 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/uk-lending-to-small-businesses-collapsed-last-year.htmIf you start an individual voluntary arrangement we consider your options if you feel unable to maintain your monthly paymentsWed, 07 Jul 2010 04:07:41 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/can-I-change-my-agreed-IVA-payments.htmBanks face a crackdown on their right to pinch money from savings accounts to pay off a customer's debts. Wed, 07 Jul 2010 11:18:15 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/watchdog-bans-bank-raids-on-your-savings.htmMore than 300,000 borrowers a year are being denied refunds totalling thousands of pounds for rip-off payment protection insurance (PPI)Wed, 07 Jul 2010 10:12:52 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/banks-ignore-PPI-mis-selling-claims.htmThe number of staff appointments grew in June, according to a survey by the Recruitment and Employment Confederation (Rec) but at a slower pace. Wed, 07 Jul 2010 09:51:30 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/job-growth-slips-for-third-month-in-June.htmKeeping student debt to a minimum while studying has become even more important as graduate jobs become more and more difficult to find.Tue, 06 Jul 2010 04:00:55 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/lack-of-graduate-jobs-means-keeping-student-debts-under-control-is-vital.htmA single person in the UK needs a gross income of at least £14,400 in 2010 to live to an acceptable standard, a charity says.Tue, 06 Jul 2010 12:48:32 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/living-costs-at-least-14400-pounds-for-a-single-person.htmA 2:1 degree is becoming the basic qualification for a graduate job as employers are swamped by applications for a diminishing number of posts.Tue, 06 Jul 2010 12:16:46 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/a-2-1-degree-is-becoming-the-basic-qualification-for-a-graduate-job-say-80-percent-of-bosses.htmThe government has set out plans to cap redundancy payouts to civil servants at a maximum of 15 months' pay.Tue, 06 Jul 2010 11:44:23 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/civil-servant-redundancy-payouts-to-be-capped.htmIf you are struggling financially and have tax or VAT debt, you will need to take action to avoid a bankruptcy petition being made against youMon, 05 Jul 2010 04:33:18 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/I-have-tax-debts-I-cannot-pay-which-debt-solution-should-I-use.htmMillions of families will be hit by a bill of more than £400 this year in excessive charges and poor deals from 'profiteering' banks, a report claims.Mon, 05 Jul 2010 12:30:37 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/greedy-banks-cost-us-all-430-pounds-a-year-in-charges-and-poor-deals.htmIf you have debt which you are unable to repay, a ccj can be taken out against you. we investigate whether you can be forced to pay a ccjFri, 02 Jul 2010 01:04:24 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/can-a-creditor-force-me-to-pay-a-county-court-judgement.htmGraduate unemployment could hit record levels due to planned public spending cuts, a research body has warned. Fri, 02 Jul 2010 11:36:47 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/graduates-face-record-unemployment.htmSantander has announced plans to charge customers up to £50 per month for using their unauthorised overdraft.Fri, 02 Jul 2010 11:13:36 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/santander-puts-50-pound-monthly-penalty-on-unauthorised-overdrafts.htmOne in ten Britons fears they will have to work until they die, it was revealed yesterday. Thu, 01 Jul 2010 05:37:33 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/work-until-you-drop-warning-as-more-face-pension-penury.htmPeople travelling within the EU will benefit from cheaper calls and capped roaming costs from todayThu, 01 Jul 2010 04:50:46 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/cheaper-eu-mobile-phone-calls-for-all.htmIf you are self employed and have debt that you are struggling to repay, an IVA could be the solution. We consider when an IVA might be suitableWed, 30 Jun 2010 02:34:05 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/I-want-to-do-an-iva-but-I-am-self-employed-will-this-be-a-problem.htmCash-strapped families preparing for foreign holidays were given a boost yesterday after the pound hit a 19-month high against the euro.Wed, 30 Jun 2010 01:10:58 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/boost-for-holidaymakers-as-pound-hits-19-month-high-against-weak-euro.htmUp to 270 graduates are battling for every job vacancy after the recession triggered an unprecedented scramble, a study has shown. Wed, 30 Jun 2010 12:45:42 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/the-chances-of-landing-a-graduate-job-since-the-recession-1-in-270.htmIf you are struggling to pay your debts and have a car on HP we investigate which debt management solution is suitable for youTue, 29 Jun 2010 04:22:32 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/i-have-a-car-on-hp-what-is-the-best-debt-solution-for-me.htmTenants in Britain pay the highest room rents in western Europe, research indicated today.Tue, 29 Jun 2010 01:16:04 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/uk-room-rents-highest-in-western-europe.htmMillions of rail passengers face higher than expected annual fare rises of 'up to 10 per cent'Tue, 29 Jun 2010 01:05:03 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/millions-of-rail-passengers-face-inflation-busting-fare-rises-of-up-to-10-per-cent.htmWith VAT increasing to 20 percent the cost of many items included in the weekly shopping will increase. We consider how to reduce shopping billsMon, 28 Jun 2010 01:02:40 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/how-to-cut-the-cost-of-your-shopping-and-avoid-the-rise-in-vat.htmRecord low interest rates have driven down the cost of running a home by 6 per cent in the past two years, research suggested.Mon, 28 Jun 2010 11:00:57 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/falling-mortgage-rates-drive-down-the-cost-of-running-a-home.htmDiscrepancies in list of items which attract VAT mean shoppers can avoid the tax by buying substitute itemsMon, 28 Jun 2010 10:33:09 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/vat-rise-will-add-33-pounds-to-average-shopping-basket.htmFamilies are saving more money than they are borrowing for the first time in more than 20 years, a Bank of England report shows.Fri, 25 Jun 2010 12:39:06 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/families-saving-more-money-than-borrowing-for-first-time-in-20-years.htmFamilies are drowning in debt after a decade-long binge on credit cards. Fri, 25 Jun 2010 12:26:01 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/families-on-the-brink-of-insolvency-crisis-after-decade-long-credit-card-binge.htmTreasury slams the door on Labour's Saving Gateway which aimed to give 50p boost for every pound saved.Fri, 25 Jun 2010 12:10:35 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/saving-scheme-for-low-earners-scrapped.htmMiddle income families will be hit twice as hard as wealthy, despite Osborne's claim that we'll all share the painThu, 24 Jun 2010 10:45:17 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/budget-middle-classes-will-suffer-most.htmThe bombshell rise in VAT will lead to 235,000 job losses and put a permanent dent in the living standards of every family in the countryThu, 24 Jun 2010 10:21:06 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/vat-rises-will-cost-235000-jobs.htmThe raft of housing and child benefit cuts and a VAT rise to 20% announced today could push thousands into serious debt.Tue, 22 Jun 2010 01:57:09 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/benefit-clampdown-could-push-thousands-into-debt.htmBrits prefer driving a nice car to having a financially sound pensions plan, according to new research published this week.Tue, 22 Jun 2010 10:12:13 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/cars-and-jewellery-more-important-than-pension.htmDebt worries are forcing mothers back to work even when they would rather stay at home, a new study has disclosedTue, 22 Jun 2010 10:03:35 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/debt-worries-forcing-mums-back-to-work.htmHome owners are failing to repay large amounts off their mortgage despite historically low interest rates, a new study has suggestedTue, 22 Jun 2010 09:52:53 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/home-owners-struggle-to-reduce-size-of-mortgages.htmIn a bid to ease the pain from severe spending cuts the coalition Government will proceed with its proposal to freeze council tax in englandMon, 21 Jun 2010 02:17:13 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/budget-will-bring-council-tax-freeze.htmEx-boyfriend entitled to half share 17 years after split even though he did not pay mortgage, appeal court rulesMon, 21 Jun 2010 02:09:13 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/mortgage-warning-for-unmarried-couples-as-ex-partner-gets-half-of-house.htmThe number of company collapses is expected to fall short of predictions for 2010 after the rate of business insolvencies fell again in May.Mon, 21 Jun 2010 01:51:57 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/business-failures-drop-in-may.htmIf you considering a debt management plan to resolve your personal debt problems, we investigate what will happen to your bank account and overdraftFri, 18 Jun 2010 03:58:45 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/what-happens-to-my-bank-account-if-I-do-a-debt-management-plan.htmTax credits paid to middle-class families face the axe in next week's emergency Budget, Nick Clegg hinted yesterday. Fri, 18 Jun 2010 10:23:05 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/child-tax-credits-to-be-slashed-for-anyone-earning-over-25000-pounds.htmNationwide has jumped to the top of the loans best-buy table, offering 7.7% APR on loans between £7,500 and £14,999 repaid over five years. Fri, 18 Jun 2010 09:48:24 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/nationwide-launches-market-leading-7-point-7-percent-loan.htmWith the possibility of many family incomes reducing as a result of government cuts, we consider the options if you are struggling with credit cardsThu, 17 Jun 2010 03:44:34 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/I-cannot-pay-my-credit-card-debts-what-can-I-do.htmUp to 67,000 individuals who are struggling with debts have already contacted a loan shark or doorstep lender, according to recent researchThu, 17 Jun 2010 11:37:07 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/67000-turn-to-loan-sharks.htmCapping interest rates and charges imposed by doorstep and payday loan lenders would further reduce competition in the sector, says OFTThu, 17 Jun 2010 10:47:31 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/doorstep-and-payday-loan-lenders-escape-interest-rate-cap.htmHMRC is tightening up on all tax payments, and is refusing requests for deferrals of larger VAT payments, research shows.Thu, 17 Jun 2010 10:19:02 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/time-to-pay-hmrc-tightens-vat-rules.htmA debt management plan is an informal agreement between you and your unsecured lenders for reduced monthly debt repaymentsWed, 16 Jun 2010 01:51:42 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/debt-management-plan-for-store-card-debts.htmAviva report claims that overall happiness and self-esteem are influenced by our sense of financial control and not by how much we earn each year.Wed, 16 Jun 2010 12:50:42 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/happiness-linked-to-financial-planning-research-shows.htmThink carefully before dealing with any organisation which asks for money upfront to get you a loan.Wed, 16 Jun 2010 12:30:06 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/beware-of-loans-with-up-front-fees.htmUnemployment has soared by 23,000 to hit 2.47million, according to new official figures, jobs crisis facing the coalition governmentWed, 16 Jun 2010 12:17:54 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/unemployment-rises-23000-to-2-point-47-million-as-more-than-one-in-four-working-age-britons-now-have-no-job.htmThe basis of every debt management solution is understanding how much you can afford to repay your creditors based on your income and living expenses.Tue, 15 Jun 2010 04:11:19 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/what-are-the-allowable-living-expenses-in-a-debt-management-plan-or-iva.htmA couple that claimed to be able to wipe out clients debt for a fee has been banned from running companies saying borrowers can sell their debtTue, 15 Jun 2010 09:34:51 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/credit-card-killer-couple-are-banned.htmFormer customers of Cartel Client Review are still in the dark over whether they will retrieve millions in lost funds after the firm was shut downTue, 15 Jun 2010 09:01:36 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/cartel-client-review-customers-in-the-dark.htmIf you are in an individual voluntary arrangement but cannot continue making your payments, it is likely that the agreement will fail. Mon, 14 Jun 2010 02:20:25 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/if-my-iva-fails-what-will-happen-to-my-debts.htmCuts in the number of public sector workers may hit the property market, drastically reducing sales and leading to price fallsMon, 14 Jun 2010 11:10:22 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/house-sales-set-to-fall-as-public-sector-cuts-loom.htmBritish Airways cabin crew have revealed deep splits over their threatened strikes as the cost of the dispute hits them in the pocket.Sat, 12 Jun 2010 12:02:48 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/we-cant-afford-to-keep-on-striking-say-british-airways-staff.htmHolidaymakers leaving the EU - including football fans going to the World Cup - are being warned about the risks of running up huge mobile phone billsSat, 12 Jun 2010 11:42:16 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/warning-for-holiday-makers-on-mobile-phone-fees-outside-the-uk.htmWhen you are trying to resolve a debt problem if your debt management company is providing a bad service can you change to a new companyThu, 10 Jun 2010 02:30:41 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/I-am-not-happy-with-my-debt-management-company-can-I-change-to-a-new-one.htmA group of Cheshire-based companies offering national debt management and loan brokerage services to financially distressed clients have been wound-upThu, 10 Jun 2010 12:29:01 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/debt-management-firms-wound-up.htmA winding up order has been issued against claims management firm Credit Issues by HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC).Thu, 10 Jun 2010 12:10:55 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/hmrc-takes-action-against-claims-firm.htmMany thousands of people each month try to resolve their debt problems by starting a debt management plan. We consider the effect of a dmp on propertyTue, 08 Jun 2010 01:02:24 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/if-I-do-a-debt-management-plan-is-my-house-protected.htmFor many of us, in order to cope with day to day expenses, borrowing remains a fact of life. But before turning to credit it's essential to understandTue, 08 Jun 2010 11:42:59 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/how-to-choose-a-credit-card.htmThe prime minister has warned of “difficult decisions” to be made on pay, pensions and deficits as he prepares the country for the emergency budgetTue, 08 Jun 2010 11:24:29 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/pm-warns-cuts-will-be-painful.htmCompanies with public sector contracts are being urged to prepare for inevitable cuts so that they can avoid the risk of going bust Tue, 08 Jun 2010 11:11:48 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/business-must-prepare-for-public-sector-cuts.htmIf you living in rented accommodation, dealing with a debt problem may seem difficult because you have no equity in your propertyMon, 07 Jun 2010 03:09:06 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/I-am-renting-and-have-debt-problems-what-is-the-best-debt-solution-for-me.htmAn interactive map of debt hotspots has revealed which areas of the UK have been affected with the highest proportion of repossessionMon, 07 Jun 2010 12:17:08 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/debt-map-reveals-repossession-hotspots.htmA new poll reveals that, when it comes to the matter of a holiday, British travellers are prepared to dispense with caution and get into debt.Mon, 07 Jun 2010 12:03:24 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/one-third-of-britons-would-go-into-debt-to-pay-for-a-holiday.htmMen have suffered the effects of the recession more than women because of rising unemployment, slower rate of salary increases and houshold expensesMon, 07 Jun 2010 11:52:45 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/men-hardest-hit-by-recession.htmWith the summer holiday season ready to start we consider whether it is right to spend time and money taking a break if you are in an ivaFri, 04 Jun 2010 05:00:52 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/can-I-go-on-holiday-while-I-am-in-an-IVA.htmWhich? Money report reveals the 10 financial products on which consumers waste thousands of pounds each yearFri, 04 Jun 2010 01:26:15 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/the-top-10-most-useless-financial-products-revealed.htmConsumers are wasting thousands of pounds on financial products they do not need or which provide little benefit, including mobile phone insuranceFri, 04 Jun 2010 01:02:10 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/the-finance-hard-sell-consumers-talked-into-loans-and-insurance-they-dont-need.htmRising food bills have driven Britain's inflation rate to the highest in the Western World.Thu, 03 Jun 2010 10:39:24 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/uk-families-face-highest-inflation-in-western-world-as-food-prices-rocket-and-pound-plunges.htmNearly two-thirds of people who take out 0pc balance transfer deals run up interest bills after using the credit cards for spendingThu, 03 Jun 2010 09:32:47 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/two-thirds-of-cardholders-pay-interest-after-taking-zero-percent-transfer-deal.htmSecuring debts against a homeowner’s property using a charging order is becoming increasingly common. How can you argue against thisWed, 02 Jun 2010 01:38:31 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/I-am-at-risk-of-getting-a-charging-order-against-my-house-how-can-I-stop-this.htmYoung people in the UK under 21 owe more than £8,000 in unsecured debts, according to new research.Wed, 02 Jun 2010 11:55:37 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/huge-debts-for-young-people.htmRyanair is increasing the cost of checking-in suitcases to up to £80 per bag during the summer holiday season. Wed, 02 Jun 2010 11:37:16 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/ryanair-ramps-up-charges-for-summer-season.htmCredit card giant pledges to ditch 'adverse order of payments' system in SeptemberWed, 02 Jun 2010 11:19:32 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/mbna-credit-card-holders-to-benefit-from-repayments-change.htmWith more than five million households using credit cards to pay for household bills we consider the options available to resolve thisTue, 01 Jun 2010 01:11:45 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/I-am-using-credit-cards-to-pay-for-my-household-bills-each-month-what-can-I-do.htmStarting salaries for workers taking new jobs fell by 3 per cent last month, despite the rising cost of living.Tue, 01 Jun 2010 11:29:17 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/competition-for-jobs-takes-heavy-toll-on-starting-pay.htmMany students have already had problems with personal debt. We consider how this will affect their ability to get the student loans necessary to suppoMon, 31 May 2010 11:20:44 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/can-I-get-a-student-loan-if-I-have-a-poor-credit-rating.htmThe National Union of Students has warned that the Student Loans Company may experience delays in processing loan applications againMon, 31 May 2010 09:50:03 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/students-are-alerted-over-repeat-of-the-loans-fiasco.htmMore than five million homeowners are turning to their credit cards to pay at least one household bill a month, a survey has revealedFri, 28 May 2010 12:46:17 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/more-people-turn-to-credit-to-make-ends-meet.htmPetrol Prices are unlikely ever to go below 110p a litre again even though fuel costs are on their way down again, according to the AA.Fri, 28 May 2010 12:25:14 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/petrol-prices-to-drop-but-never-below-1-pound-a-litre-says-the-AA.htmChild trust funds are to be scrapped by the government from January 1st 2011. However the need to save for our children’s future has never been greateThu, 27 May 2010 02:04:58 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/the-scrapping-of-child-trust-funds-hands-back-the-burden-of-saving-to-parents.htmFrom 1 July, Alliance and Leicester (AL) will attempt to reduce its queues by making customers withdrawing less than £300 use a cash machineThu, 27 May 2010 11:59:03 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/hsbc-and-a-and-l-follow-nationwide-with-counter-changes.htmMortgage lending remained subdued in April, according to figures from the UK's major banks. Thu, 27 May 2010 11:46:12 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/spring-mortgage-lending-subdued-banks-say.htmThe recession has helped young people learn than money does not grown on trees according to one financial expert.Thu, 27 May 2010 11:31:43 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/money-does-not-grow-on-trees-children-learn.htmIf you are struggling with debt and live with your partner or in a shared house, it is important to understand how your debts will affect other peopleWed, 26 May 2010 12:24:39 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/will-other-people-be-affected-by-my-debt-if-we-live-in-the-same-house.htmWe're expected to spend a massive £100billion on our credit cards during the summer months. Wed, 26 May 2010 10:47:27 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/dont-get-burnt-in-100-billion-pound-summer-credit-card-binge.htmHomeowners who bought their homes between 2006 and 2008 can potentially switch to cheaper loans because the equity in their properties has increasedWed, 26 May 2010 10:26:21 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/homeowners-urged-to-remortgage-as-equity-levels-rebound.htmHome information packs (Hips) are no longer required to sell a home and as a result thousands of people may lose their jobsTue, 25 May 2010 12:24:11 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/my-home-information-pack-Hips-business-is-in-trouble-what-can-I-do.htmA campaign against loan sharks is being stepped up by the Office of Fair Trading and trading standards officers. Tue, 25 May 2010 10:48:45 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/loan-sharks-face-further-attacks-from-regulator.htmInflation-busting pay rises are off the agenda at all but 3% of Britain's companies, while almost one in six are still imposing a pay freezeTue, 25 May 2010 10:22:13 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/pay-rises-stay-below-inflation-as-flexible-labour-force-helps-climb-to-recovery.htmPeople in debt are increasingly considering bankruptcy as a solution. But how likely is it that one of your creditors will force you into bankruptcyMon, 24 May 2010 01:28:01 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/will-my-creditors-make-me-bankrupt.htmSavers are routinely withdrawing their savings to cover the costs of living, new research has disclosed.Mon, 24 May 2010 10:16:08 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/seven-million-savers-routinely-withdrawing-cash-to-cover-living-costs.htmWe paid less into our already-threadbare pensions, and despite talk of the new thrift, we're saving little. But we have cut back on credit cardsMon, 24 May 2010 10:03:43 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/We-have-cut-back-on-the-credit-cards-but-we-are-still-not-saving.htmIt is becoming more and more common for creditors to try and secure personal debts such as credit cards and loans against property.Fri, 21 May 2010 12:02:52 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/one-of-my-creditors-has-threatened-to-attach-their-debt-to-my-house-is-this-possible.htmRegulators will clamp down on excessive interest rates charged on credit and store cards, according to new plans laid out by the government.Fri, 21 May 2010 09:53:04 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/government-to-axe-high-credit-card-interest-rates.htm“Onerous clauses” on payment protection insurance (PPI) mean that borrowers unable to pay back their loans rarely receive an insurance payoutFri, 21 May 2010 09:34:12 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/payment-protection-insurance-rarely-provides-adequate-cover.htmOnce an IVA is in place, creditors are legally obliged to stop their debt collection activities. What can you do if you are still receiving callsThu, 20 May 2010 06:34:36 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/I-am-in-an-iva-but-my-creditors-keep-calling-what-can-I do.htmSome 31 per cent of debtors in statutory insolvency procedures are still being contacted by those they owe money to, R3 has claimedThu, 20 May 2010 05:33:47 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/creditors-hound-debtors-in-ivas.htmPeople saving for their pension have wildly unrealistic expectations about the income they will receive, according to a survey. Thu, 20 May 2010 05:12:43 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/pensions-1-2-trillion-pound-gap-between-expectations-and-reality.htmThe coalition government has suspended the use of Home Information Packs (Hips) by home sellers. Thu, 20 May 2010 04:49:50 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/hips-scrapped-by-coalition-government.htmWhere a County Court Judgement has been issued, statutory interest of 8% pa will automatically be added to the debt. Action must be taken swiftlyWed, 19 May 2010 02:42:04 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/I-have-a-county-court-judgement-I-cannot-pay-what-can-I-do.htmThousands of borrowers are seeking debt management help from their mortgage brokers after attempts to challenge their credit agreement termsWed, 19 May 2010 01:01:39 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/mortgage-brokers-turn-to-debt-management.htmThose aged between 55 and 64 have a lower average income than pensioners, a report by Aviva shows, and are failing to save for retirementWed, 19 May 2010 12:48:23 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/pre-retireds-worse-off-than-pensioners-aviva-study-shows.htmCitizens Advice Bureau (CAB) has revealed 2.4m more enquiries for advice on debt flooded into its call centres in 2009/10 compared to previous yearWed, 19 May 2010 12:34:34 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/citizens-advice-experiences-high-demand.htmIf your company has received a winding up petition you need to take action quickly or the business will be closed. Can pre pack administration helpTue, 18 May 2010 03:55:45 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/can-I-stop-winding-up-using-pre-pack-administration.htmAlthough some people may end up better off after June 22, others fear that the Government's pressing need to cut the deficit will leave them strugglinTue, 18 May 2010 12:23:50 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/coalition-government-families-braced-for-the-emergency-budget.htmUK inflation accelerated again in April to hit its highest rate in 17 months, official figures show. Tue, 18 May 2010 11:46:31 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/uk-inflation-hits-17-month-high.htmTwo-thirds of small businesses want a cut in fuel duty in Chancellor George Osborne's emergency June budget, according to a surveyTue, 18 May 2010 11:31:37 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/small-businesses-want-fuel-duty-cut-in-budget.htmPeople who are renting their property will not lose their house if they declare bankruptcy. So is it better to go bankrupt or do an IVAMon, 17 May 2010 04:19:00 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/i-am-renting-and-cannot-pay-my-debts-should-I-go-bankrupt-or-do-an-IVA.htmFears that economic recovery will fail to stem a tide of rising unemployment are likely to increase as businesses are reluctant or unable to recruitMon, 17 May 2010 11:25:43 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/economic-recovery-may-miss-unemployed.htmBusiness insolvencies fell to 1,818 in April 2010 compared to 2,274 in April last year, according to latest figures.Mon, 17 May 2010 11:12:29 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/fall-in-business-insolvencies.htmWith interest rates at all time lows, many homeowners have avoided losing their homes during the recession. However, when rates start to increaseFri, 14 May 2010 01:33:51 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/how-will-I-pay-my-mortgage-if-interest-rates-rise.htmMore than five million home owners will be unable to afford a rise in interest rates and will be in danger of being evicted from their homesFri, 14 May 2010 11:13:29 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/five-million-home-owners-unable-to-afford-interest-rate-rise.htmMany companies have delayed paying VAT and tax debts by using the government “Time to Pay” scheme. However, using a company voluntary arrangementThu, 13 May 2010 02:15:18 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/avoid-having-to-defer-tax-debts-by-using-a-cva.htmThe number of people trying to have themselves declared bankrupt in England and Wales rebounded in the first three months of the year. Thu, 13 May 2010 12:19:12 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/bankruptcies-to-keep-on-rising-figures-suggest.htmNearly a third of couples remain financially single despite living together, new research has found.Thu, 13 May 2010 11:30:53 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/couples-remain-financially-single.htmWhen personal debts start to get out of hand, the first reaction is often to consolidate with a loan. However in many instances, borrowing more money Wed, 12 May 2010 02:54:43 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/should-I-take-a-loan-to-consolidate-my-debt.htmBank customers with authorised overdrafts are being charged the highest rates in a decade, it has been disclosed today.Wed, 12 May 2010 01:10:31 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/overdraft-rates-highest-in-a-decade.htmConsumers are being more careful about how much they borrow, a debt advice charity has claimed.Wed, 12 May 2010 12:52:49 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/consumers-wary-of-borrowing.htmAn online debt counselling service has attracted 86,444 users in the first three months of 2010, according to its service provider.Wed, 12 May 2010 12:46:04 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/huge-demand-for-online-debt-advice.htmThe aftermath of the election has left us with very little certainty, except the sure knowledge that cuts are coming fast.Wed, 12 May 2010 12:37:20 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/prepare-for-the-age-of-cuts-and-tax-increases.htmCharging orders are increasingly being used by banks to secure personal debts which have fallen into arrears. But should homeowners worry that this wiTue, 11 May 2010 02:43:57 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/if-I-have-a-charging-order-can-I-sell-my-house.htmThe number of companies which were closed due to bad debts fell to the lowest level for a year in the first quarter of 2010. However, there may still Tue, 11 May 2010 11:55:47 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/reduction-in-company-failures-may-not-mean-improvements-for-jobs-and-wages.htmPersonal loan rates have soared over the past three years despite the base rate being at an all-time low.Mon, 10 May 2010 03:00:29 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/personal-loan-rates-soar.htmThe taxman turned down requests from struggling businesses to defer VAT payments of more than £42 million in the first quarter of this yearMon, 10 May 2010 02:22:38 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/taxman-targets-vat-payments-from-struggling-businesses.htmTotal UK personal debt at the end of March 2010 stood at £1.46trn, a debt charity has claimed, meaning that individuals owe more than what the whole cMon, 10 May 2010 12:31:54 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/UK-personal-debt-hits-1point46-trillion.htmThe number of people declared formally insolvent reached the highest levels since records began in the first quarter of 2010. Fri, 07 May 2010 01:06:49 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/personal-insolvency-figures-reach-new-highs-with-no-end-in-sight.htmA new record high has been recorded for the number of people being declared insolvent in England and Wales. Fri, 07 May 2010 11:41:19 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/personal-insolvencies-at-new-high-in-england-and-wales.htmIf you are considering an IVA you will have to agree to repay a minimum amount each month. There are actions ou an take to make this affordableThu, 06 May 2010 01:53:17 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/tips-on-how-to-afford-the-payments-required-for-an-IVA.htmPay freezes and the rising cost of living mean that almost a third of workers are enduring reduced income, according to a surveyThu, 06 May 2010 12:21:27 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/pay-is-frozen-for-one-in-three-says-incomes-data-services-survey.htmInterest rates on current accounts are surpassing those available in the savings market, making them a better place to keep cash.Thu, 06 May 2010 12:07:26 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/current-account-rates-beat-savings.htmOnce a company is put into liquidation, leasing agreements will normally be broken and vehicles returned. However, there may be ways to keep them Wed, 05 May 2010 12:17:28 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/what-happens-to-vehicle-leases-after-liquidation.htmOn Friday the Insolvency Service will release figures showing the number of insolvencies in the UK in the first three months of 2010. Wed, 05 May 2010 10:13:40 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/tips-when-facing-up-to-insolvency.htmRepairing the public finances could take a generation and require tax rises twice the size of those pencilled in by all major political partiesWed, 05 May 2010 09:57:50 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/britons-face-two-decades-of-financial-pain.htmA debt management plan can give immediate relief from a debt problem. However the option of changing to an IVA can bring significant advantagesTue, 04 May 2010 01:12:03 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/can-I-change-from-a-debt-management-plan-to-an-iva.htmOver 93,000 people contacted the Consumer Credit Counselling Service (CCCS) for help with debt in the first quarter of 2010.Tue, 04 May 2010 11:38:44 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/93000-seek-debt-help-in-Q1-2010.htmClydesdale and Yorkshire banks will launch a market-leading credit card deal for people wanting to transfer existing balances this week.Tue, 04 May 2010 11:25:59 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/clydesdale-and-yorkshire-banks-launch-0-percent-credit-cards.htmDespite signs of economic recovery, the number of individuals who are facing personal financial disaster is set to continue.Fri, 30 Apr 2010 01:39:41 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/personal-insolvency-set-to-be-the-highest-since-records-began.htmIf a winding up petition if issued, this could have a catastrophic effect on a company often resulting in its closure and the investigation of its dirFri, 30 Apr 2010 11:42:18 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/who-can-issue-a-winding-up-petition.htmAlmost 400 Britons are being declared insolvent every day as numbers reached a record high last month.Fri, 30 Apr 2010 11:32:05 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/record-numbers-of-britons-declared-insolvent.htmOver 40 percent of small businesses are pessimistic about a potential economic recovery, according to the new survey released on Thursday.Fri, 30 Apr 2010 11:20:54 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/small-businesses-are-cautious-about-year-ahead.htmMortgages should only be given to some first-time buyers "after study and an exam", according to the chairman of a debt charity. Thu, 29 Apr 2010 02:32:14 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/mortgage-exam-needed-for-first-time-house-buyers.htmPublic sector employers are preparing the ground for substantial post-election cuts that could result in 750,000 jobs disappearing according to surveyThu, 29 Apr 2010 02:17:57 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/private-sector-job-recovery-seen-as-gloom-grips-the-public-sector.htmIf you have a car on hire purchase, this will have significant implications if you wish to carry out an IVA. We investigate if you can keep your carWed, 28 Apr 2010 02:20:47 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/what-happens-to-my-car-HP-if-I-do-an-IVA.htmAverage gas bills fell 2% in the first three months of 2010, despite the coldest winter for a generation, according to British GasWed, 28 Apr 2010 12:39:42 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/gas-bills-fall-2-percent-in-first-quarter-of-2010.htmWith inflation and the cost of living on the increase, family budgets have never been tighter. Taking the time to manage your money using some simple Tue, 27 Apr 2010 12:01:31 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/beat-debt-using-some-simple-money-management-techniques.htmA couple have been banned from running a "debt sale" business which took more than a million pounds in fees from clients.Tue, 27 Apr 2010 10:17:23 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/debt-sale-firm-hit-by-legal-ban.htmA new agency has been launched aiming to improve money education in the UK and help people avoid debts.Tue, 27 Apr 2010 09:46:55 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/new-CFEB-agency-aims-to-avoid-debt-spiral.htmAllowing a company to continue to trade while insolvent can lead to the directors being accused of wrongful trading and held liable for company debts.Mon, 26 Apr 2010 01:58:19 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/if-my-company-continues-to-trade-with-a-county-court-judgement-is-this-fraudulent.htmAs a general rule, a person cannot become liable for debts taken out by another individual unless the debt was signed for in joint names.Fri, 23 Apr 2010 02:30:27 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/if-I-separate-from-my-partner-am-I-responsible-for-their-debt.htmAlmost half a million British Gas customers are at the end of their Price Protection Plan 2010, which froze their fuel bills for five years. Fri, 23 Apr 2010 10:27:23 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/more-pain-for-energy-customers.htmAs the stigma surrounding bankruptcy reduces more and more people are choosing this solution but joint account holders are not protectedThu, 22 Apr 2010 01:13:35 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/if-I-declare-bankruptcy-what-happens-to-my-joint-debts.htmThe UK's "hidden" debt mountain stands at an estimated £55bn, one in three consumers keeps their problems from familyThu, 22 Apr 2010 11:12:48 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/secret-debt-one-in-three-consumers-hides-financial-problems-from-family.htmPassengers have reportedly spent thousands of pounds in their attempts to get home, with others facing additional hotel and food costs.Thu, 22 Apr 2010 10:58:54 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/iceland-volcano-passengers-face-money-worries.htmCompany voluntary arrangements are used widely to save businesses in financial difficulty. However directors must consider the potenetial pitfallsWed, 21 Apr 2010 01:50:36 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/what-are-the-downsides-to-doing-a-company-voluntary-arrangement.htmMore than 3.5 million students and graduates face a hefty increase in their student loan rates later this year after an unexpected surge in inflation Wed, 21 Apr 2010 11:52:42 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/students-forced-deeper-into-debt-as-inflation-surges-to-4-point-4-percent.htmPeople struggling to pay their bills should get free and impartial guidanceWed, 21 Apr 2010 11:41:42 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/we-dont-need-more-companies-who-charge-for-debt-advice.htmLegal & General Mortgage Club has launched a new mortgage where applicants do not need to be credit scoredWed, 21 Apr 2010 11:28:36 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/the-mortgage-that-doesnt-require-a-credit-score.htmUnemployment jumped by 43,000 to reach 2.5 million in the three months to February, its highest level in 16 years.Wed, 21 Apr 2010 10:40:24 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/unemployment-rises-to-highest-in-16-years.htmYou may have to open a new bank account if you start an individual voluntary arrangement. However, this process is not as daunting as it first seemsTue, 20 Apr 2010 01:29:17 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/what-happens-to-my-bank-account-if-I-do-an-iva.htmViable firms say they are being put out of business by the Revenue’s aggressive tacticsTue, 20 Apr 2010 01:20:07 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/companies-under-pressure-of-closure-from-hmrc.htmA company director can resolve a personal debt problem using an individual voluntary arrangement. However, care should be taken if the company bankMon, 19 Apr 2010 02:01:51 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/if-I-do-an-iva-will-my-company-credit-rating-be-affected.htmMotor insurers are offering better deals to customers who buy direct from them rather than through a comparison site, according to analysis by AAMon, 19 Apr 2010 11:12:47 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/comparison-sites-could-cost-more.htmDebt management plans are used by thousands every month to tackle personal debt problems. But beware, if interest and late payment charges are not stoFri, 16 Apr 2010 12:33:46 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/will-interest-charges-be-stopped-if-I-do-a-debt-management-plan.htmNorthern Rock launched a price war in the savings market this week with a string of rates aimed at savers with a small sum to depositFri, 16 Apr 2010 11:23:59 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/northern-rock-sparks-savings-rate-war.htmRecord energy bills of more than £500 have been landing on their doormats in recent days after the coldest winter in a generation.Fri, 16 Apr 2010 11:11:27 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/500-pound-energy-bills-landing-on-doormats.htmAre you considering a debt solution but are worried about the effect it will have if you live at home or in a property belonging to your partner?Thu, 15 Apr 2010 02:08:10 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/will-my-parents-house-be-blacklisted-if-I-do-debt-management-or-an-IVA.htmIf you are a director of a small business which receives a county court judgement (CCJ) you may be affected personally even if your company is limitedThu, 15 Apr 2010 11:10:06 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/my-company-has-a-county-court-judgement-will-this-affect-my-personal credit-rating.htmJCB has begun recruiting up to 200 new workers to meet an increase in demand for products.Thu, 15 Apr 2010 10:58:53 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/staffordshire-based-JCB-creates-hundreds-of-new-jobs.htmCash payments will account for less than half of all transactions in five years' time, according to research.Wed, 14 Apr 2010 12:06:41 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/cash-is-being-replaced-by-cards.htmIf you are struggling with debts and owe money your bank any balance in your current account will be at risk unless you open a new account.Tue, 13 Apr 2010 04:33:19 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/will-I-have-to-open-a-new-bank-account-if-I-have-a-debt-problem.htmFor many businesses one of the advantages of a pre pack administration will be that they are able to continue to trade from the same premisesTue, 13 Apr 2010 11:41:47 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/if-I-do-a-pre-pack-administration-can-I-trade-from-the-same-premises.htmGrowth in Britons' take-home pay rebounded in March, with those working in the manufacturing sector experiencing the sharpest rise, a survey has showeTue, 13 Apr 2010 11:29:58 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/take-home-pay-growth-rebounds.htmWith more people than ever before carrying out debt management plans, the risk of receiving a charging order against your property is also increasing.Mon, 12 Apr 2010 10:43:06 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/if-I-do-a-debt-management-plan-will-I-get-a-charging-order.htmBusiness confidence has reached its highest level in four years, according to a survey of UK companies.Mon, 12 Apr 2010 10:39:15 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/uk-business-confidence-hits-four-year-high.htmReceiving a winding up petition can seriously affect your company’s ability to trade as its bank account is likely to be frozen. Fri, 09 Apr 2010 12:53:00 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/if-a-winding-up-petition-is-received-what-happens-to-the-company-bank-account.htmResearch by the Office for National Statistics on social trends suggests that saving is history and consumers have shifted from buying material goods Fri, 09 Apr 2010 12:47:20 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/britain-becomes-nation-of-borrowers-spending-wildly-on-experiences.htmThe Insolvency Service has revealed its package of measures aiming to modernise the insolvency process including on line creditors meetingsFri, 09 Apr 2010 12:35:26 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/changes-to-insolvency-industry-introduce-on-line-creditor meetings.htmPetrol prices have hit an average all-time high of 120p per litre, it emerged today, and there were predictions they could go even higher this summer Fri, 09 Apr 2010 12:23:49 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/petrol-prices-hit-record-high-and-could-increase-even-more.htmUsing an individual voluntary arrangement or debt management plan could resolve your personal debt problem but be aware of your credit ratingThu, 08 Apr 2010 11:16:40 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/what-happens-to-my-credit-rating-if-I-do-an-iva-or-dmp.htmA government strategy to help cash-strapped consumers struggling with record levels of debt is "seriously deficient" because of poor managementThu, 08 Apr 2010 11:10:53 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/consumer-debt-plan-seriously-deficient-say-mps.htmClaims management firm Ratio Money has ceased trading, a statement on its website reveals.Thu, 08 Apr 2010 10:44:06 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/claims-management-firm-stops-trading.htmA debt management plan can be a very effective way of dealing with a personal debt problem. However, beware that the debt repayment period will be sigWed, 07 Apr 2010 10:43:51 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/how-long-will-it-take-to-pay-my-debt-using-a-debt-management-plan.htmA service to help negotiations between over-indebted consumers and creditors is to be launched by the Department of Business, Innovation and Skills Wed, 07 Apr 2010 10:38:50 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/self-help-debtor-service-launched.htmMany mortgages may be cheaper but the lowest interest rates in years are providing little or no returns for saversWed, 07 Apr 2010 10:27:47 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/with-returns-at-rock-bottom-whats-the-point-in-saving.htmA pre pack can be a very good way of solving a company debt problem. However where debt remains unpaid, creditors will call in any personal guaranteesTue, 06 Apr 2010 12:01:04 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/what-happens-to-my-personal-guarantee-if-I-do-a-pre-pack.htmPersonal loans and overdrafts will only be available to "better quality" borrowers in the next three months, according to a survey of lenders.Tue, 06 Apr 2010 11:56:28 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/loans-limited-to-good-quality-borrowers-says-bank-of-england.htmIf you have started an individual voluntary arrangement (IVA) but are unable to maintain the agreed payments, bankruptcy could be an option to resolveThu, 01 Apr 2010 10:25:14 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/can-I-go-bankrupt-if-I-am-in-an-iva.htmBritons now owe more money than the value of the entire country’s annual produce, according to the latest figures from Credit Action.Thu, 01 Apr 2010 10:21:20 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/personal-debt-continues-to-rise.htmThe Office of Fair Trading has today published guidance on the irresponsible lending element of the test to hold a credit licence.Thu, 01 Apr 2010 09:56:09 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/oft-unveils-irresponsible-lending-guidance.htmAbout 1,100 jobs are to be cut at Jarvis by the administrators who are now running the rail maintenance firm.Wed, 31 Mar 2010 03:13:22 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/jarvis-staff-face-1100-job-cuts.htmA company voluntary arrangement (CVA) can solve a company debt problem and transform a business back to profitability.Wed, 31 Mar 2010 10:23:13 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/What-happens-if-I-cannot-pay-my-company-voluntary-arrangement.htmConsumer confidence slipped in March as Britons grew more worried about the economic outlook and the state of their finances, a survey showed on WedWed, 31 Mar 2010 10:19:02 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/consumer-morale-slips-unexpectedly.htmIf your circumstances change while you are in a debt management plan, you can increase or decrease your monthly payments accordingly. Tue, 30 Mar 2010 11:23:05 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/what-happens-if-my-circumstances-change-while-in-a-debt-management-plan.htmIf your company cannot pay the tax it owes, it may be forced to close and directors could be held personally liable for the debts. Mon, 29 Mar 2010 11:46:10 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/what-happens-if-I-cannot-pay-my-company-tax-bill.htmMortgage approvals fell to their lowest level in nine months in February, Bank of England figures showed on MondayMon, 29 Mar 2010 11:41:38 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/mortgage-approvals-hit-nine-month-low.htmDespite making no changes to income tax levels, the 2010 Budget will create tens of thousands of new higher-rate taxpayers, experts have warned. Fri, 26 Mar 2010 10:30:18 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/budget-will-create-more-higher-rate-taxpayers.htmThe government is to create a credit adjudicator that will enable small businesses to appeal a bank’s decision to refuse them a loan.Fri, 26 Mar 2010 10:13:01 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/small-businesses-given-credit-ajudicator.htmIf you are falling behind on your mortgage because money is being swallowed up by other debts, you need to reprioritise your payments or risk losing yFri, 26 Mar 2010 09:56:00 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/debts-mean-I-am-struggling-to-pay-the-mortgage-will-debt-management-help.htmIf your company is wound up, you will be held responsible for its debts if you have given personal guarantees or the business trades while insolventThu, 25 Mar 2010 11:48:45 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/are-directors-personally-liable-for-company-debt-if-a-winding-up-petition-has-been-received.htmJarvis, the railway maintenance contractor, has gone into administration putting jobs at riskThu, 25 Mar 2010 11:40:02 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/jarvis-administration-puts-2000-jobs-at-risk.htmUK banks will be legally obliged to provide a basic bank account to all under plans unveiled in the Budget.Thu, 25 Mar 2010 11:25:53 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/bank-accounts-promised-for-one-million-more-people.htmAn IVA will involve making payments towards your debt for five years and include regular reviews of your income. You could settle immediately lump sumWed, 24 Mar 2010 11:06:11 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/can-a-lump-sum-be-used-to-settle-an-IVA.htmThe City watchdog has met with opposition to its proposals to ban riskier "100 per cent mortgages" which require borrowers to put down little equityWed, 24 Mar 2010 09:16:35 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/fsa-faces-opposition-to-ban-on-100-percent-mortgages.htmCredit card cheques have long been an annoyance to many, and a source of temptation for those without the discipline to resist their high price.Tue, 23 Mar 2010 04:20:58 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/mbna-drops-credit-card-cheques.htmBritish banks could be legally obliged to provide a basic bank account to every UK citizen under new plans to be unveiled in tomorrow's budget.Tue, 23 Mar 2010 10:02:32 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/plans-to-provide-bank-accounts-for-all.htmDebt advisors have warned of a big rise in the number of local authorities in England and Wales using bailiffs to enforce unpaid council tax debtsMon, 22 Mar 2010 01:55:48 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/councils-turn-to-bailiffs-to-recover-tax-debts.htmIf your company has debts which it is unable to pay, it is likely that it will receive a CCJ. Ignoring such action will affect the business’ creditMon, 22 Mar 2010 11:20:46 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/my-company-cannot-afford-to-pay-a-CCJ-what-can-I-do.htmThe UK's economic recovery will remain "sluggish" for the rest of 2010 and not pick up pace until the middle of next year, the CBI warnsMon, 22 Mar 2010 09:55:25 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/economy-will-not-pick-up-pace-until-summer-of-2011-warns-CBI.htmIf bailiffs have been instructed to collect a debt which you owe or you believe that a bailiff may be instructed, you must act quicklyFri, 19 Mar 2010 05:10:21 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/I-am-being-threatened-with-bailiffs-what-can-I-do.htmOver 10 million people in the UK could fail a credit score due to not having enough of a credit history or not appearing on the electoral roll.Fri, 19 Mar 2010 10:58:01 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/ten-million-could-fail-credit-score.htmAs businesses continue to face financial difficulty, business owners should be aware of the different strategies available to resolve company debtThu, 18 Mar 2010 04:15:44 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/my-company-is-struggling-with-debt-what-are-my-options.htmHalf of all university students in the UK expect to graduate with more than £15,000 of debt, according to research.Thu, 18 Mar 2010 02:38:49 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/university-students-expect-to-graduate-with-debts-in-excess-of-15000-pounds.htmIf you declare bankruptcy, this does not automatically mean that you will lose your home especially if you have little or no equity or are renting.Wed, 17 Mar 2010 08:50:08 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/is-my-house-at-risk-if-I-go-bankrupt.htmThe Financial Services Authority said 54,055 people had their properties repossessed during the year, up from 46,945 in 2008.Wed, 17 Mar 2010 08:46:18 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/home-repossessions-rise-by-fifteen-percent.htmBorrowers are struggling to repay much smaller amounts of debt than in previous years, according to one of the UK's biggest debt counselling charitiesTue, 16 Mar 2010 12:16:59 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/debt-laden-borrowers-struggle-to-meet-basic-living-costs.htmMotorists should brace for record high petrol prices this year as the cost of unleaded fuel surges to £1.20 a litre or moreTue, 16 Mar 2010 12:02:48 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/petrol-prices-heading-for-record-high-of-five-pounds-fourty-a-gallon-AA-warns-motorists.htmA record number of people contacted a debt charity last year - but in a quarter of cases their financial situation was so dire that no help was availaMon, 15 Mar 2010 11:15:56 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/debt-charity-sees-record-number-of-calls.htmThe number of people with personal debt problems increased by 26 percent in 2009. The outlook for 2010 does not look any betterThu, 11 Mar 2010 09:21:44 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/will-personal-debt-problems-continue-to-increase-in-2010.htmIf your company is failing because of the weight of historic business debt repayments, pre pack liquidation can write off debt Wed, 10 Mar 2010 12:24:23 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/I-have-got-company-debt-problems-how-can-a-pre-pack-help.htmAlmost half of UK Small and Medium sized enterprises have lost an estimated £5.3bn in debts owed by trading partners who have gone bustWed, 10 Mar 2010 12:05:44 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/SMEs-lose-money-from-insolvent-partners.htmIf you are considering bankruptcy be sure that you include all appropriate debts on your application form.Tue, 09 Mar 2010 09:45:31 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/which-debts-can-be-included-if-I-declare-bankruptcy.htmThe era of free banking may be drawing to a close after Virgin Money said it plans to levy a charge for current accountsMon, 08 Mar 2010 01:40:54 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/virgins-threat-to-free-banking.htmOver a quarter of individuals in debt management plans (DMPs) will have to face making payments for over ten years, according to figures released todaMon, 08 Mar 2010 12:27:28 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/people-are-becoming-slaves-to-DMPs.htmBusiness leaders have called on chancellor Alistair Darling to draw up a clear and credible plan to cut the government's debt in this month's budget.Mon, 08 Mar 2010 11:33:14 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/budget-must-include-credible-plans-for-debt-reduction.htmPoliticians should consider imposing VAT on food, children's clothes and household gas and electricity, a report from a think-tank suggests.Fri, 05 Mar 2010 12:57:13 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/think-tank-calls-for-VAT-increases.htmFor many people, declaring bankruptcy is the best way to deal with a serious personal debt problem. However, the cost often rules out this optionFri, 05 Mar 2010 09:30:35 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/I-want-to-declare-bankruptcy-how-can-I-afford-to-pay-the-court-fee.htmLenders have indicated that 2010 could see homebuyers struggle to secure a loan. But you can improve your chances of a successful applicationFri, 05 Mar 2010 09:15:58 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/ten-of-the-best-ways-to-improve-your-chances-of-getting-a-mortgage.htmIf your company has debt which it cannot afford to pay, you could risk the business being wound up and the directors being held liable.Thu, 04 Mar 2010 02:23:57 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/my-company-debt-cannot-be-paid-what-can-I-do.htmIf you receive a county court judgement this could lead to money being taken directly from your wages and even a charge being put against your house. Wed, 03 Mar 2010 09:30:28 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/I-have-a-county-court-judgement-can-an-IVA-help.htmIf your company has debt which it is unable to pay, its creditors, particularly HMRC, could try to force the closure of the business with winding upTue, 02 Mar 2010 09:18:19 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/I-have-company-debts-including-HMRC-will-pre-pack-administration-help.htmThe level of debts written off because defaulting borrowers will never repay them shot up in 2009, Bank of England figures have shown.Tue, 02 Mar 2010 09:13:06 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/UK-banks-see-surge-in-bad-debts.htmBankruptcy is often the right solution to resolve a serious debt problem but an increase in cost due in April is likely to preclude manyMon, 01 Mar 2010 11:23:13 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/the-cost-of-bankruptcy-set-to-rise.htmIf creditors have taken out a county court judgement (CCJ) against your company, the next step could be a winding up petition.Fri, 26 Feb 2010 09:56:37 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/can-I-stop-a-county-court-judgement-with-pre-pack-administration.htmIf you are struggling to pay your debt it is likely that you will receive a county court judgement (CCJ). This could lead to a charging orderThu, 25 Feb 2010 10:34:59 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/how-will-a-county-court-judgement-affect-my-home.htmThe government has announced plans to make it easier for people in financial difficulty write off their debts in Debt Relief Orders (DROs).Thu, 25 Feb 2010 10:30:25 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/government-changes-to-debt-relief-orders.htmTwo thirds of personal insolvency cases have involved store credit cards, according to the latest survey of insolvency practitioners by trade body R3.Thu, 25 Feb 2010 10:21:15 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/industry-warns-of-store-cards-danger.htmIf your business is unable to pay its debts, a company voluntary arrangement (CVA) could reduce your monthly payments and write off debt Wed, 24 Feb 2010 11:08:31 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/how-can-I-reduce-my-company-debt-with-a-company-voluntary-arrangement.htmFive million Britons are permanently overdrawn, and rising inflation could force more to live on their overdrafts, says product comparison website.Wed, 24 Feb 2010 11:03:10 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/five-million-brits-permanently-overdrawn.htmIf your company is struggling and likely to be wound up, your home could be at risk if you have given personal guarantees of repayment to the bank.Tue, 23 Feb 2010 11:18:53 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/if-my-company-is-wound-up-could-the-bank-force-me-to-sell-my-home.htmAn IVA can protect your property against charging orders and even bankruptcy. However, your home may be at risk if you do not maintain your paymentsMon, 22 Feb 2010 12:58:59 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/what-effect-will-an-IVA-have-on-my-home.htmAn important reform has come into effect for the millions of people who claim tax credits.Mon, 22 Feb 2010 09:43:47 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/more-fairness-for-tax-credit-claimants.htmA former government advisor has called for an investigation into the profit margins of credit card companies.Sat, 20 Feb 2010 10:24:02 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/credit-card-rates-unjustified.htmRetail sales on the UK high street suffered their sharpest monthly drop in 18 months in January as the snow and icy weather deterred shoppers.Fri, 19 Feb 2010 12:52:29 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/retail-sales-suffer-sharp-drop-in-January.htmIf a charging order is issued against you, the associated debt will be secured against your home.Fri, 19 Feb 2010 12:04:11 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/can-I-stop-a-charging-order-with-a-debt-management-plan.htmA winding up petition will stop your company trading unless you take immediate action. By implementing a CVA, winding up action will be stoppedThu, 18 Feb 2010 11:20:38 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/how-to-stop-a-winding-up-petition-use-a-CVA.htmIf you are a homeowner and struggling with debt, your house could be at risk if you do not take the right precautions and chose the right solutionWed, 17 Feb 2010 10:07:34 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/I-have-a-debt-problem-will-I-be-forced-to-sell-my-house.htmIf you need to close your company, there are costs involved which often need to be borne by the directors. Tue, 16 Feb 2010 09:25:02 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/company-liquidation-what-will-it-cost-to-close-my-company.htmCredit card rates are at their highest for 12 years, according to new figures, despite interest rates being at a record low.Tue, 16 Feb 2010 09:19:46 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/credit-card-interest-rates-at-their-highest-for-12-years.htmThere is growing concern over the number of people turning to gambling to survive the recession, a charity says.Tue, 16 Feb 2010 09:04:23 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/concern-grows-over-gambling-to-beat-debt-in-uk.htmEvery day, HM Revenue and Customs petition for the winding up of companies which are unable to pay their taxes. Mon, 15 Feb 2010 12:04:15 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/winding-up-are-the-rules-different-for-high-profile-companies-like-portsmouth-fc.htmTwo local councils have today been criticised by the local government ombudsman (LGO) for their handling of individual bankruptcies.Mon, 15 Feb 2010 11:51:11 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/councils-slammed-over-debtor-bankruptcies.htmPlans by the Insolvency Service to streamline the bankruptcy application process therefore helping thousands of people in debt should not be dismissedThu, 11 Feb 2010 01:03:53 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/plans-to-make-the-bankruptcy-process-easier-should-be-encouraged.htmThe number of homes repossessed by lenders rose by 15% in 2009, to the highest level since 1995, but there were signs of improvementThu, 11 Feb 2010 12:56:52 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/repossessions-at-highest-level-since-1995.htmIf your company is issued with a county court judgement, this will reduce its ability access new credit and may lead to further action Wed, 10 Feb 2010 10:55:36 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/how-will-a-county-court-judgement-affect-my-business.htmSenior credit professionals have slammed a government consultation ending today that could streamline the bankruptcy process.Wed, 10 Feb 2010 10:50:42 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/industry-condemns-bankruptcy-plan.htmOfficial figures show 134,000 people were declared officially insolvent in 2009, a 26% increase on 2008. However the true number likely to be doubleTue, 09 Feb 2010 11:30:32 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/personal-insolvency-figures-are-double-that-reported-by-the-insolvency-service.htmBorrowers in severe debt difficulties are being charged thousands of pounds in interest by a company that has bought their loans.Tue, 09 Feb 2010 11:24:33 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/debt-management-plans-that-keep-adding-interest.htmRoyal Bank of Scotland and Lloyds Banking Group have been criticised by a committee of MPs for failing to lend enough to homeowners and businesses.Tue, 09 Feb 2010 10:58:34 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/lloyds-and-RBS-failing-to-lend.htmThe number of companies closed due to insolvency in 2009 increased by nearly 23% over the previous year with little hope for improvement in 2010. Mon, 08 Feb 2010 10:50:04 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/company-insolvencies-rise-dramatically-in-2009.htmA minimum level of consumer credit debt may be set in law before an order for sale can be issued, under proposals launched by the Ministry of JusticeMon, 08 Feb 2010 10:40:23 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/moj-considers-minimum-debt-to-repossess-once-a-charging-order-is-in-place.htmGetting expert advice about how to resolve a personal debt problem is vital. The internet is a great place to start and act on personal recomendationFri, 05 Feb 2010 11:29:18 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/which-debt-company-should-I-use-to-solve-my-debt-problem.htmThe number of people who were declared insolvent in England and Wales hit a record high in 2009Fri, 05 Feb 2010 11:15:08 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/personal-insolvency-hits-record-high.htmDebt advice charities today denied they were turning away people with debt problems despite claims by MPs they were unable to copeFri, 05 Feb 2010 11:03:32 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/charities-deny-they-are-unable-to-handle-volume-of-debt-inquiries.htmWithout sufficient cash, your business will fail. If your access to additional investment is limited, alternative options to save your business Thu, 04 Feb 2010 12:33:35 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/my-company-is-struggling-what-are-my-options-to-improve-cash-flow.htmHigh unemployment and rising interest rates are expected to drive a 30 per cent spike in the number of people seeking debt management plans this year,Thu, 04 Feb 2010 12:27:51 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/debt-management-plans-to-jump-by-third.htmSmall cash-strapped firms have been forced to turn to friends, family and personal credit cards to fund their business during the recessionThu, 04 Feb 2010 11:10:30 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/cash-poor-companies-turn-to-credit-cards-for-funding.htmMPs described the Government's approach to advising people in debt as a "triumph of bureaucracy over practicality" and urged it to "shake up" its straThu, 04 Feb 2010 10:39:28 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/debt-advice-service-cant-cope-with-leap-in-demand.htmEven those with a poor credit rating can open a new bank account. You just need to understand the right questions to ask.Wed, 03 Feb 2010 01:42:12 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/opening-a-new-bank-account-if-your-credit-rating-is-poor.htmDespite the UK creeping out of the recession last month, 1,995 people are still made redundant every day, according to figures by Credit Action.Wed, 03 Feb 2010 10:25:46 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/1995-people-made-redundant-every-day.htmIf a limited company is wound up, the directors could be liable for its debts if they have allowed the business to trade while it was insolvent. Tue, 02 Feb 2010 06:00:24 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/what-happens-to-the-directors-if-a-company-is-wound-up.htmPersonal loan rates have hit a nine-year high despite the record-low Bank of England base rate.Tue, 02 Feb 2010 05:55:29 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/personal-loan-rates-at-nine-year-high.htmMany people who try to open a basic bank account are wrongly refusedTue, 02 Feb 2010 05:39:30 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/concerns-raised-over-bank-account-access.htmStruggling firms fail to seek third party help early enough, according to restructuring and insolvency group MCR.Tue, 02 Feb 2010 05:29:06 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/firms-not-educated-about-dealing-with-failure.htmTV adverts offering people the chance to sell their unwanted gold by post are paying “shockingly low rates”, an investigation by consumer advice groupTue, 02 Feb 2010 11:08:24 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/beware-the-TV-gold-scammers.htmIf you are in a debt management plan, getting a mortgage is not impossible. But you may need a larger deposit and pay a higher rate of interestMon, 01 Feb 2010 10:51:19 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/can-I-get-a-mortgage-when-in-a-debt-management-plan.htmNew borrowing on credit cards, loans and overdrafts has outstripped the amount being paid back by UK consumers for the first time since June.Mon, 01 Feb 2010 10:46:57 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/demand-for-credit-back-on-the-rise.htmIf your own business gets into financial trouble you could be personally responsible for the outstanding debt and your home may be at risk.Fri, 29 Jan 2010 11:44:47 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/I-am-self-employed-how-can-I-save-my-failing-business.htmThe average Briton held readily accessible cash savings of 2,205 pounds at the end of 2009, little changed from the start of the yearFri, 29 Jan 2010 11:23:49 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/average-briton-has-2205-pounds-of-cash-savings.htmWhere debt payments fall into arrears, creditors are increasingly applying for charging orders which will secure the debt against a propertyThu, 28 Jan 2010 11:42:16 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/will-I-get-a-charging-order-if-I-cant-pay-my-debt.htmAs the economy begins a fragile recovery, winding up petitions will continue to be used as a method of debt collection. However beware the costWed, 27 Jan 2010 01:02:47 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/what-does-it-cost-to-wind-up-a-company.htmA company called the IVA Review Board (IRB) is sending letters to debtors in individual voluntary arrangements (IVAs)Wed, 27 Jan 2010 12:52:23 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/firm-suggests-debtors-should-stop-paying-their-IVAs.htmHomeowners who fall into arrears on their mortgage repayments are set to benefit from greater protection under new proposals from the FSAWed, 27 Jan 2010 12:38:10 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/homeowners-in-arrears-to-get-greater-protection.htmThe recession may technically be over, but there are few signs that consumer spending and confidence will bounce back in a hurry.Wed, 27 Jan 2010 12:14:29 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/the-new-consumerism-frugal-and-cautious.htmNew rules to protect mortgage holders who are in arrears have been proposed by the Financial Services Authority.Tue, 26 Jan 2010 04:53:21 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/new-rules-over-mortgage-arrears.htmA pre paid card can be an ideal solution if you have no bank account or need to open a new account because of a debt problem.Tue, 26 Jan 2010 11:28:08 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/should-I-get-a-pre-paid-debit-card.htmThe number of people over 60 forced to seek debt advice has doubled in just four years, according to figures from Consumer Credit Counselling ServiceTue, 26 Jan 2010 11:10:10 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/more-over-60s-seek-debt-advice.htmLiquidation is used to close a company for good. It is not a complicated process. However steps need to be taken to protect the directors interestsMon, 25 Jan 2010 11:12:15 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/how-can-I-liquidate-my-insolvent-company.htmQuestions have been raised over the quality of advice for people battling with debt after a pensioner’s year-long struggle to get out of the red. Mon, 25 Jan 2010 11:07:09 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/conflicting-debt-advice-offers-no-relief.htmPeople in some of the poorest parts of the country are having benefits paid onto pre-paid cards, but many are not aware of the costs involved.Mon, 25 Jan 2010 10:51:31 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/concern-over-pre-paid-card-costs.htmUsing an individual voluntary arrangement to solve your debt problem will affect your credit rating. Fri, 22 Jan 2010 12:04:11 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/how-will-an-IVA-affect-my-credit-rating.htmThe Insolvency Service is seeking views on a proposal to allow debtors to file for bankruptcy online or by post, as part of a consultation.Fri, 22 Jan 2010 11:58:50 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/bankruptcy-may-be-streamlined.htmThe total amount lost through defaults rose in the last three months of 2009 the Bank's Trends in Lending report said. Fri, 22 Jan 2010 11:33:58 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/default-levels-on-credit-rise.htmBankruptcy can be an extremely effective way of dealing with debt problems. However if you are managing a company there could be serious implicationsThu, 21 Jan 2010 11:38:49 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/If-I-declare-bankruptcy-what-happens-to-my-company.htmTens of thousands of borrowers face a shock jump in mortgage payments after Skipton Building Society plans to raise its standard variable rateThu, 21 Jan 2010 11:34:14 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/mortgage-costs-leap-as-skipton-building-society-lifts-rate.htmThe traditional five year IVA payment period can be avoided and a debt problem resolved immediately if a cash lump sum is made available. Wed, 20 Jan 2010 11:40:41 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/a-full-and-final-IVA-could-solve-debt-immediately-if-a-lump-sum-is-available.htmThere needs to be a sweeping overhaul of how the credit card industry allocates consumer payments, according to proposals by uk cards associationWed, 20 Jan 2010 11:36:10 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/credit-card-industry-needs-to-give-customers-more-control.htmPre pack administration could be used to turn your business around if it is failing under the weight of debt. Historic debt is written off Tue, 19 Jan 2010 12:15:58 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/how-can-a-pre-pack-save-my-business.htmThere has been a huge rise in the amount of money that banks are writing off as bad debts on their credit cards.Tue, 19 Jan 2010 11:52:02 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/credit-card-bad-debt-write-offs-double.htmAn Individual Voluntary Arrangement (IVA) could be the answer to solve your debt problem enabling you to write off up to 50% of your debtMon, 18 Jan 2010 11:10:55 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/can-I-use-an-IVA-to-solve-my-debt-problem.htm11.3 million UK households(44%) are dependent on more than one salary to cover billsMon, 18 Jan 2010 10:40:23 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/increasing-debt-levels-force-4-million-parents-back-to-work.htmIf your company is in financial difficulty a company voluntary arrangement could put a stop to court action such as a winding up petitionFri, 15 Jan 2010 11:38:17 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/how-can-a-company-voluntary-arrangement-save-my-business.htmThousands of households have taken out loans with interest rates averaging 825% during "worst Christmas in a generation" for illegal doorstep lendingFri, 15 Jan 2010 11:25:50 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/loan-sharks-target-poorest-households-with-825-percentage-apr-loans.htmInaccurate information on credit files is preventing consumers from gaining access to credit, the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) has said.Thu, 14 Jan 2010 11:34:23 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/inaccurate-files-restrict-access-to-credit.htmGiven the combination of available cash and low interest rates, I find it surprising that banks seem to be making borrowing difficultWed, 13 Jan 2010 02:14:46 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/are-the-banks-taking-us-for-a-ride-personal-loans-are-more-expensive-than-ever.htmSmall to medium sized enterprises (SMEs) have been forced to turn to bank overdrafts rather than business loans to finance their operationsWed, 13 Jan 2010 02:07:31 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/small-to-medium-sized-businesses-resort-to-overdrafts-for-finance.htmHouseholders who have cranked up the heating over the past few weeks can expect to pay an extra £70 on their January fuel billWed, 13 Jan 2010 01:51:29 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/cold-weather-adds-70-pounds-to-energy-bills.htmIf the current financial position of your business makes trading not viable, there are some very real steps you can take to save the companyTue, 12 Jan 2010 12:29:55 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/company-in-trouble-tips-to-help-you-avoid-winding-up-the-business.htmThe new year is a prime time for consumers to seek out personal loans, often consolidating existing debts from Christmas. In January last year, for exTue, 12 Jan 2010 12:16:50 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/personal-loans-to-soak-up-your-seasonal-excess.htmThe economy may have exited recession in the final three months of 2009, the British Chambers of Commerce said on TuesdayTue, 12 Jan 2010 12:08:05 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/recession-may-have-ended-in-Q4.htmWeeks of arctic weather are not expected to endanger the economy’s anaemic recovery but could push thousands of businesses into failureTue, 12 Jan 2010 12:00:30 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/cold-snap-threatens-recession-hit-businesses.htmBankruptcy may be the best solution for people who are struggling with debt. However they are put off because of they think they will lose their homeMon, 11 Jan 2010 11:45:46 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/if-I-declare-bankruptcy-will-I-lose-my-home.htmMore than 4.5 million people are planning to take advantage of introductory credit card rates by moving more than £3.2 billion between credit cardsMon, 11 Jan 2010 11:39:05 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/great-balance-transfer-cards.htmUp to one million households have borrowed money on a credit card to pay their mortgage or rent over the past year, a charity's study suggests.Mon, 11 Jan 2010 10:50:43 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/shock-at-credit-card-mortgage-use.htmWinding up petitions are being used as a method of debt collection. However once a petition is granted, those owed money may receive no returnFri, 08 Jan 2010 12:51:59 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/will-I be-paid-as-a-priority-if-I-issue-a-winding-up-petition-against-one-of-my-creditors.htmA committee of MPs has warned the government that it will be keeping a "keen eye" on policy on repossessions, in its response to the Pre-Budget ReportFri, 08 Jan 2010 12:36:24 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/mps-keep-keen-eye-on-repossessions.htmUK interest rates have been kept unchanged at 0.5% following the Bank of England's latest meeting.Thu, 07 Jan 2010 12:50:34 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/freeze-on-interest-rates-goes-on.htmThe Ministry of Justice guidelines to help inform people about debt management need to go further to cover the full range of personal debt solutionsThu, 07 Jan 2010 10:38:18 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/I-am-in-serious-debt-which-debt-solution-should-I-use.htmSelf employed business people are personally liable for any debts that their business cannot repay. There are solutions that may be suitableWed, 06 Jan 2010 02:18:21 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/my-self-employed-business-is-in-trouble-what-can-I-do.htmGuidelines on debt management plans have been published by the government to help people facing financial worries better understand their options.Wed, 06 Jan 2010 02:11:53 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/ministry-issues-debt-management-guidelines.htmThe number of people in the UK taking out mortgages to buy a home rose again in November but the appetite for other loans and overdrafts continued to Wed, 06 Jan 2010 12:05:00 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/borrowers-are-picky-about-loans.htmMortgage lenders will not be allowed to repossess homes without a court order or the borrower’s consent, under plans by the Ministry of JusticeTue, 05 Jan 2010 12:09:09 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/ministry-targets-repossession-practice.htmA government scheme that gives households in England £400 off the cost of a new boiler has been launched.Tue, 05 Jan 2010 11:46:09 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/boiler-scrappage-scheme-launched.htmMake a new year’s resolution to save for a rainy day and avoid falling into the debt trap when cash demanding emergencies strike.Tue, 05 Jan 2010 11:22:22 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/make-saving-a-habit-in-the-new-year.htmUnder a new personal, social, health and economic (PSHE) curriculum, children as young as five will be taught how to look after their money to avoid gMon, 04 Jan 2010 09:57:08 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/children-to-be-educated-about-how-to-avoid-debt.htmAlmost one in 10 people went into debt to pay for Christmas and six per cent are still repaying debts from a year ago, says a report.Tue, 29 Dec 2009 10:52:22 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/christmas-debt-torment-for-one-in-ten.htmThe Bank of England won't raise interest rates from a record low until the fourth quarter of next year, according to a majority of 62 analysts polledMon, 28 Dec 2009 08:35:31 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/no-interest-rate-hike-seen-until-fourth-quarter-2010.htmTrade credit insurers paid out a record amount in claims during the third quarter of 2009, figures from the Association of British Insurers reveal.??Mon, 28 Dec 2009 08:22:05 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/credit-insurer-payouts-up-227percent.htmCreditors are imposing modifications on almost all individual voluntary arrangement (IVA) proposals despite the implementation of the IVA protocolThu, 24 Dec 2009 10:14:32 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/protocol-fails-to-halt-iva-modifications.htmWhen times are tough, self employed people get in to personal debt because they borrow in their own name to support their business. Wed, 23 Dec 2009 09:40:06 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/I-am-self-employed-and-have-a-debt-problem-what-can-I-do.htmOne in five parents have borrowed from their children’s savings account to tide them over during the recession, according to new research. Tue, 22 Dec 2009 10:13:49 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/desperate-parents-raid-their-childrens-savings.htmThe Office of Fair Trading (OFT) has decided to drop its investigation into the fairness of bank overdraft charges.Tue, 22 Dec 2009 10:08:11 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/OFT-regulator-drops-bank-charges-case.htmIf your company is in trouble and you are looking for ways of preserving investment cash, a company voluntary arrangement is a cheaper rescue solutionTue, 22 Dec 2009 09:57:29 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/company-voluntary-arrangement-costs-less-than-pre-pack-administration.htmImplementing a debt management plan or an individual voluntary arrangement will have a negative impact on your credit rating. However, doing nothing aMon, 21 Dec 2009 06:02:39 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/will-debt-management-or-an-iva-affect-my-credit-rating.htmBankruptcy is not an option for many business people as this solution will prevent them from continuing to manage their company.Fri, 18 Dec 2009 10:47:52 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/can-I-declare-bankruptcy-and-run-my-business.htmWith an estimated 20,000 new cases of debt repayment problems coming to light each month, should other family members be worried that they will be lefThu, 17 Dec 2009 10:49:29 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/can-I-be-responsible-for-someone-elses-debt.htmParents will spend an average of £442 on Christmas celebrations this year as gift shopping is squeezed in the downturn, according to a survey.Wed, 16 Dec 2009 03:36:37 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/parents-spend-442-pounds-on-christmas.htmThousands of county court judgements are issued to companies in England and Wales every month. Receiving a CCJ will make trading made more difficultWed, 16 Dec 2009 12:44:05 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/what-happens-if-I-receive-a-county-court-judgement.htmMortgage lenders are failing to follow rules designed to help people avoid repossession, according to a damning report published today.Tue, 15 Dec 2009 11:26:38 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/lenders-ignoring-mortgage-repossession-protocol.htmMany home mortgage payments are at an all time low. However properties are still being repossessed at the rate of 3000 a month. Tue, 15 Dec 2009 11:15:42 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/i-have-mortgage-arrears-what-can-I-do.htmWinding up petitions are being used to aid business debt collection because of the serious consequences for a company if they are ignoredMon, 14 Dec 2009 11:12:01 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/what-happens-if-I-get-a-winding-up-petition.htmThe BBC soap opera Eastender has brought the issue of personal debt to the masses through its storyline involving Max and Tanya Branning.Sat, 12 Dec 2009 10:17:01 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/eastenders-gives-the-debt-conversation-mainstream-coverage.htmDebt relief orders were introduced in April 09 to help people on very low incomes resolve their debt problems.Fri, 11 Dec 2009 11:28:20 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/can-I-use-a-debt-relief-order.htmIf your company is in financial difficulty it may be possible to avoid liquidation and rescue the business by setting up a new phoenix companyThu, 10 Dec 2009 01:17:17 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/when-can-I-use-phoenixing-pre-pack-administration.htmBankruptcy is thought of as something to be avoided at all costs. However, it may be useful to solve an unsecured personal debt problemWed, 09 Dec 2009 10:55:09 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/should-I-declare-bankruptcy.htmIf your business is failing due to debt which you are unable to pay a company voluntary arrangement could be the ideal business rescue solution.Tue, 08 Dec 2009 10:37:35 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/when-should-i-use-a-company-voluntary-arrangement.htmIf last week’s ruling about unfair bank overdraft charges had been different the banks would have been liable to repay millions of pounds of fees.Wed, 02 Dec 2009 10:16:56 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/bank-charges-its-either-pay-now-or-pay-later.htmMillions of bank customers seeking billions of pounds of overdraft charge refunds have been dealt a major blow by a Supreme Court ruling.Wed, 25 Nov 2009 10:31:36 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/banks-win-on-overdraft-fees-case.htmThe latest stage of the battle over overdraft charges will take place later this month, with a date now set for a judgement by the Supreme Court.Wed, 18 Nov 2009 10:30:14 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/date-set-for-bank-fees-decision.htmThe recovery in the UK housing market was strong enough to survive the traditional summer slowdown, says the National Association of Estate Agents.Fri, 09 Oct 2009 05:01:07 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/division-over-housing-recovery.htmYour credit rating depends largely on the state of your credit file. The better your credit file, the better your credit rating will be.Fri, 09 Oct 2009 04:47:50 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/how-do-I-get-a-better-credit-rating.htmA new bank account may be required for different reasons. When managing a personal debt problem, a new account is often required to regain controlFri, 09 Oct 2009 04:41:06 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/how-do-I-get-a-new-bank-account.htmHow to declare bankruptcyTue, 06 Oct 2009 04:09:16 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/how-to-declare-bankruptcy.htmHouse prices are being supported by a shortage of property for sale, with Rightmove reporting the lowest stock levels for 18 months.Thu, 01 Oct 2009 05:15:19 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/slump-in-property-for-sale.htmThere are an estimated 90 million old mobile phone handsets in the UK that could be making their owners some extra money in the current economyThu, 01 Oct 2009 05:10:54 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/make-money-from-your-old-mobile.htmA woman has won a landmark legal victory after a judge wrote off her £8,000 credit card debt because she had wrongly been sold payment protectionThu, 01 Oct 2009 05:07:19 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/judge-quashes-womans-8000-credit-card debt-in-landmark-ruling-on-mis-selling-of-payment-protection-insurance.htmWhen a home owner finds that they are no longer able to maintain their mortgage payments they may have to hand back the keys to the property and moveThu, 01 Oct 2009 04:52:10 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/can-I-leave-my-house-and-then-declare-bankruptcy.htmThe outdoor and leisure clothing retailer Blacks is planning to resolve its financial difficulties by agreeing a Company Voluntary Arrangement (CVA)Wed, 30 Sep 2009 03:43:48 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/CVAs-become-increasingly-acceptable-to-creditors.htmIf a company has failed, the Directors may often be left with significant personal debts which they are struggling to repayWed, 30 Sep 2009 03:38:44 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/resolving-directors-personal-debt-problems-with-debt-management.htm-Tue, 08 Sep 2009 12:00:00 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/avoid-house-repossession-what-is-the-pre-action-protocol.htm-Tue, 14 Jul 2009 12:00:00 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/can-you-take-credit-after-individual-voluntary-arrangement-or-bankruptcy.htm-Sat, 04 Jul 2009 12:00:00 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/the-calm-before-the-storm-steep-drop-in-corporate-insolvencies.htm-Fri, 19 Jun 2009 12:00:00 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/bankruptcy-is-a-worryingly-easy-option-for-young-people-in-debt.htm-Fri, 19 Jun 2009 12:00:00 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/what-happens-when-an-Administrator-is-appointed-and-how-are-staff-effected.htm-Thu, 18 Jun 2009 12:00:00 +0000http://www.beatmydebt.com/news-articles/individual-voluntary-arrangement-vs-bankruptcy-which-is-the-right-option.htm