Have you ever been tempted to 'bend the truth' when you've applied for a new bank account?

If you have then you're not alone; the number of people giving false information on a bank account, credit card or insurance application is on the up.

While it can seem like a good idea to leave off a claim or neglect to mention credit issues you've had in the past, it's simply not worth it.

Banks know that people don't always give them the full picture so they do their own research before they give your application the green light.

Checking your credit report is the first step they take and if this says something different to what you've written it's not going to do you any favours. They're not only likely to reject your application but could also report you for fraud!

The safest way to get approved is to check your credit report yourself, find financial deals that you're actually eligible for, and be completely honest from the word go.

Use our Action Plan: How to improve your credit rating to maximise the chance you'll get approved for the products you want.

What else is happening...

Spanish banks are set to receive an EU bailout of around £100 billion

Eurozone ministers decided action was necessary to prop up the country's ailing financial system over the weekend. The exact amount, where it will come from and how it will be divided between the country's banks has yet to be confirmed.

More and more people are shunning banks...

...and looking for less conventional ways to save, invest and borrow.

Social lending sites are seeing roaring trade as a result even though they don't benefit from FSCS protection.

Employers will soon find it easier to get rid of underperforming staff...

... but only if they're willing to pay.

The government plan to change the rules so that 'settlement agreements' can be more widely used as a way to avoid lengthy and expensive employment tribunals.

Young people will soon be financially incentivised to work

At the moment those under 25 aren't eligible for in-work benefits. However, changes being brought in with the introduction of Universal Credit will ensure those that do work are better off than those that don't.

Cash-strapped consumers are taking more risks with their health

That's according to a study by the Food Standards Agency. Rising food costs mean more people are shunning 'use by' dates and pushing the limits on how long they can store leftovers, putting themselves at much greater risk of food poisoning.