Author
Joel Kempson joined the money.co.uk team as a Personal Finance Writer in 2020. He’s our resident expert on wide-ranging topics including car and home insurance, travel money and low-allergen gardening. Joel writes and edits a host of pages and guides for money.co.uk — making sure all of our readers have the information they need to navigate the world of personal finance.
Before his time in financial services, Joel worked in publishing and broadcast media. After graduating from the University of Exeter with a degree in English, Joel began his writing career at encyclopedia publisher DK. There he honed his scribing skills writing about LEGO and comic books as the go-to guy on Batman, Superman and everyone in between. From heat vision to television, Joel next moved to Sky where he wrote summaries and reviews of every show under the sun, as well as interviewing an array of small screen stars.
Joel prides himself on always finding the best deal — not the cheapest, the best. Before joining the staff at money.co.uk, it was only his friends and family who could access a brain brimming with money-saving info, financial services knowledge and cricket statistics. Now he’s here to help you make informed decisions about your money.
When he’s not writing, Joel likes to spend his time playing sport and comparing mortgage interest rates.
What is interest?
Borrowing costs money. A lender will usually charge a borrower a percentage of the money lent, rather than a flat fee. This is called interest. This guide covers the basics of how interest works, what it is and what it means for your finances.
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What are my parental leave and pay rights?
Babies are expensive, but there are ways to make sure a newborn doesn’t break the bank. This guide explains what support you are entitled to and how to make sure you get it.
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A first time buyer guide to buildings insurance
There are a lot of costs to consider when buying your first home, but buildings insurance is one you can’t ignore.
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What is dental insurance?
Dental insurance is a good way to make sure you can afford any dental treatment you might need. We explain how the cover works, who should get it and what to look out for in a policy.
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What is disability travel insurance?
The cost of travel insurance will likely be much higher if you have a long-term medical condition or disability. This guide will explain the cover options available to you.
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Can you get a loan if you are unemployed?
If you are not in regular employment, you will struggle to get a standard loan from a high street lender. A specialist lender may be able to help you, but borrowing may come with higher costs.
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Last minute holiday checklist
Last minute holidays can be a great way to bag a top deal, but there are still a few things you cannot afford to forget. Here is what you need for a safe last minute trip that won’t break the bank.
Read our last minute holiday checklist
Managing debt when living with a disability
We explain how to deal with debt if you have a disability and show you where to get help if you need it.
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What benefits are you entitled to?
This guide will tell you what financial assistance is available, so you can make sure you are paid what you are entitled to.
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What the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme means for you
The UK Government has implemented the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme as part of its measures to combat the economic impact of the coronavirus crisis. This guide explains the ins and outs of the plan.
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What should you expect from the Budget?
The 2021 Budget may have more of an impact on your finances than any in recent memory. In this guide we explore the potential of what will be in the 2021 Budget and how it will affect you.
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What car insurance cover do I need to drive abroad?
Driving overseas can be a great way to travel, but you need to make sure you are covered in case something goes wrong. Here is how to make sure you have the right insurance before you start your trip.
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What is the cost of death?
The costs associated with dying are not a lot of fun to think about, but planning ahead could save you and your loved ones thousands when the time comes.
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How much does a pet cost?
Getting a pet is an emotional decision, but it’s important not to forget about the cost. Here are some key costs to think about so that you can make sure looking after your pet properly won’t be too expensive.
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How to find the right classic car insurance
The right classic car insurance can significantly cut your annual premiums. Whether your vehicle is a vintage classic or a trusty labour of love you can’t bear to replace, this guide has you covered.
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Can I get a debt holiday?
As the coronavirus crisis forces more people into a difficult financial position, you may be finding it tough to meet debt repayments. A debt holiday could be a solution.
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