Author

Matt Fernell photo

Matt Fernell

Financial Content Writer

About the Author

Matt Fernell spent 6 years covering personal finance for money.co.uk.

During his time with us he wrote extensively on car and travel insurance, as well as covering consumer rights, investing and more.

Matt Left money.co.uk in 2019.

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Is it worth getting gap insurance?

Gap insurance can protect the value of your vehicle if you have an accident or it is stolen, but is it worth buying? Here is how to work out if gap insurance is right for you.

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How does gap insurance work?

If you have bought a new car, a gap insurance policy can cover the loss in value if your vehicle is written off. Here is how gap insurance works.

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How to find the right European breakdown cover

Breaking down on holiday is the last thing you want. But if it happens to you it’s important to have the right breakdown cover in place. Here's what you need to know.

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Open palm with broken cigarette

Is giving up smoking the new way to get rich quick?

If you smoke, you're going to be well aware of the health benefits of quitting, but are you fully aware of the difference that giving up smoking can make to your finances?

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Individual sitting down to write a budget to take control of his spending

How to write a budget

Take control of your money and find out what you're spending it on every month. Here is how to draw up a budget to stay on top of your finances.

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Bride and groom kissing in garden

How to make a wedding insurance claim

If you have wedding insurance and something goes wrong on your big day, your policy is there to cover the cost. Here is how to claim on your wedding insurance policy.

More on wedding insurance claims

A beginner's guide to self assessment

The deadline for submitting your online self assessment tax return is approaching fast. Here is what you need to know to file your return on time.

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An interracial couple of newlyweds walks along the shore of a mountain river.

What are the best ways to pay for your wedding?

Your wedding will be an amazing day, but an expensive one. Choosing the right way to pay for your big day could help you come in on budget.

More on ways to pay for your wedding
business man at home on laptop

How do you invest in OEICs?

OEICs offer a way to invest your money in a wide range of assets without the hassle of managing them yourself, here is how to get started.

Find out more about how to invest in OEICs
Business woman at desk

ASU vs income protection insurance

ASU and income protection both pay an income if you can't work, but choosing the right one is vital to protect your household finances. Here is how to choose the right cover for you.

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Woman on an electric bike in the countryside

What is bicycle insurance?

If you cycle regularly, getting the right insurance is vital to keep you and your bike protected. Here is everything you need to know about bike insurance.

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How to insure your pet to travel abroad

If you want to take your pet with you overseas you should make sure they are properly insured. Here is how to find pet insurance that covers your pet abroad.

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Empty road through a village, with small houses on either side of the road.

How to insure your second home

If you own a second home in the UK, you may need specific home insurance to protect it. Here is how to cover your second home.

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Can home insurance cover flooding?

If your home floods, the costs of repairing the damage can be huge, so it pays to have a home insurance policy that can cover the cost. Here is how to find a policy that can cover flooding.

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Man on ladder cleaning gutter

8 ways to cut your home insurance costs

Your home insurance gives you valuable financial protection against things like fire and theft, but you should not pay more than you have to for cover. Here is how to save on your policy.

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large empty house

Can you insure an unoccupied house?

If you own a property that will be left empty, you need a specialist home insurance policy to protect it. Here is how to cover your unoccupied home.

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Close up of a car gauge

What to do if your vehicle breaks down

If you break down on the road it can be scary and stressful, but knowing what to do can help you stay safe while you get help. Here is what to do if your vehicle breaks down.

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couple-in-city-on-bicycles

Can you get insurance to ride your bike abroad?

If you are planning to take your bike on holiday with you, the right insurance policy will keep it protected. Here is how to insure yourself to cycle abroad.

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man is standing next to a car in the middle of the desert.

What breakdown cover is right for you?

Whether you drive every day or only occasionally, breakdown cover gives you peace of mind that help is at hand if something goes wrong.

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8 easy ways to cut your travel insurance costs

Travel insurance could save you thousands if something goes wrong when you are away, but do not pay over the odds for cover. Try these eight ways to keep the cost down.

See how to save on travel insurance
Stressed man with luggage sitting on bench at airport

Does travel insurance cover cancellation?

If you’ve booked a holiday, the last thing you will want to do is cancel it, but sometimes can end up out of your control. If the worst does happen, travel insurance can ease the burden, here is when and how you can get your money back following a cancellation.

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Man skiing down mountain slope

Can you get cover for extreme sports abroad?

If you love doing extreme sports on holiday, make sure you have cover in place before you travel. Here is what sports you can get cover for, and how to find the right policy.

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How to manage your pet insurance policy

Pet insurance is critical for any pet owner, but how do you make sure it’s valid when you need to claim? Here’s everything you need to know about managing your pet cover.

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What is boat insurance?

Whether you have a yacht, narrowboat or dinghy you need to make sure it is protected on water and land. Here we explain everything you need to know about boat insurance.

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Woman on phone at airport

What are your holiday cancellation rights?

If you need to cancel your holiday it is important to know where you stand before you speak to your travel agent or insurer. Here are your rights for cancelling your trip.

When you can - and can't - claim
Travel insurance woman on a beach

Do you need travel insurance for your trip?

If you fall ill or have an accident while travelling the bills can be huge, so it pays to have cover in place. Here are the basics to help you find the right travel insurance policy.

When to take out travel insurance
Eiffel Tower in Paris, France

What is the UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC)?

Find out how the new Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) works, how it differs from the old EHIC, how to get one, what they cost and when you need one.

How the GHIC works
Man standing by van

How does van insurance work?

Understanding what insurance you need if you drive a van is important if you want to get the right cover at the right price. Find out more in our guide.

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Do you need commercial breakdown cover?

If you use your car or van to earn a living, or you manage a fleet of vehicles, keeping them on the road is essential. Here is everything you need to know about commercial breakdown cover.

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Man standing in front of van

Should you get short term van insurance?

Short-term van insurance can be a good option if you only need to insure a van for a short period of time. Here’s what you need to know.

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Make sure your pet insurance pays out

Protecting your pet with a good insurance policy is a great way to help keep them healthy, but making a successful claim is not always guaranteed. Here are the exclusions to look out for.

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Young woman walking bicycle down countryside road in the sun

Do you need bicycle insurance?

Bicycle insurance gives you financial protection if your bike is lost, stolen or damaged or you get into an accident, but is it worth the cost? Here is how to work out if you need bicycle insurance.

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couple cycling side by side along the street

How to claim on your bicycle insurance

If you have bicycle insurance and your bike gets damaged, stolen or you are injured while riding, you can claim to cover the cost. Here is how to make a bike insurance claim.

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Older couple on beach

How to get travel insurance with pre-existing conditions

If you have a medical problem, you may find it harder and more expensive to get travel insurance. Here is how to get cover even if you have a pre-existing condition.

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What is golf insurance?

Golf can be a pricey hobby, but you can protect yourself and your expensive equipment with an insurance policy. Here is how golf insurance works.

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How to get travel insurance as you get older

Your travel insurance premiums tend to increase from the age of 65 onwards, and your cover could become restricted. Here is how to find a policy that gives you the cover you want without paying over the odds.

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man outside working on laptop

How to manage your home insurance policy

Once you have insured your home, you need to keep your cover up to date to make sure it stays valid. Here is how you can manage your home insurance policy.

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Plumber fixing some pipes under a sink.

What is home emergency cover?

If you have a problem in your home that needs fixing straight away, a home emergency policy can get you the help you need. Here is what home emergency cover can protect you against.

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Modern villa with a garden and a pool in sunny weather.

How to insure your holiday home abroad

If you have a second home overseas, you need to make sure it is properly insured. Here is everything you need to know about insuring your holiday home.

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How to get your home winter ready

Make sure your home is ready for the winter months by checking you have the right type of home insurance in place.

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Do you need to insure your boiler?

If your boiler breaks down you could be left without hot water and heating, as well as facing a huge repair bill. Here is how boiler cover can help you get it fixed without it costing the earth.

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What does contents insurance cover?

A contents insurance policy will protect your personal belongings, whether you own or rent your home. Here is what home contents cover can protect you against.

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This is an image of a house in need of repair

What does building insurance cover?

Protecting your home with buildings insurance can save you a great deal of money if something goes wrong. If you’re wondering precisely what buildings insurance covers, this guide has the answers.

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How to claim on your home insurance policy

If your home is damaged or burgled it can cost thousands to put right, but your home insurance could cover the cost. Here is how to make a home insurance claim.

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How to understand credit card charges

Here are the credit card charges you need to know about and how to avoid them.

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How long does it take to get a credit card?

It can take up to 10 working days for your credit card to arrive in the post. But you may be approved for the card on the same day you apply.

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credit card in a portable credit card reader machine

How to use a credit card for interest free purchases

0% credit cards do not charge you interest on your purchases for a set period of time. They're commonly used for buying big, expensive products so you can spread out the cost.

More on using a credit card for interest free purchases

How to apply for a credit card

If you want a new credit card, here is exactly what you need to do to find the best deal for you and apply for it.

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Teacher with two young students

Tax Free Childcare vs Childcare Vouchers: which is best?

The Tax Free Childcare scheme replaced the old employer supported voucher system, but is it any better? Here's a look at what's changed and how it could hit your pocket.

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How to insure yourself to drive someone else's car

If you want to drive a car you do not own, you will still need cover in place. Here is how to make sure you are insured to drive someone else's car.

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What car insurance cover should you get?

You need a car insurance policy to drive on the roads, but you can choose the level of cover you get. Here is how to work out what cover is right for you.

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When does your car need a SORN?

If you have a car you do not drive, you cannot leave it off the road without either insuring it or applying for a SORN. Here is what you need to know about declaring your car off the road.

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What is car insurance?

We all need car insurance to drive, but with so much choice finding the right cover can be tricky. Understanding the basics is vital to finding the best policy.

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Man investing using mobile phone and large monitor

How to start investing in shares

Has your savings rate got you looking for alternative ways to use your hard-earned money? Whether it's for long term growth or to generate income, investing in shares can be a profitable way to use your savings!

More about how to start investing in shares

What insurance do you need for your taxi?

If you are a new taxi driver looking for cover, or a seasoned pro looking for the best policy, here is everything you need to know about taxi insurance.

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Car crash: What to do

Our step-by-step accident guide takes you through what to do at the scene of a road accident to help you sort it out as quickly and easily as possible.

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How to afford car insurance as a new driver

Passing your driving test is a great reason to celebrate, but before you hit the road you need to be insured to legally drive. As inexperienced drivers are often charged high premiums, it pays to do your research before you buy a policy.

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Do you need short term car insurance?

If you only need a car for a few days, taking out a short term insurance policy is an affordable and convenient option — here is how to find the best policy.

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Do I need car insurance when learning to drive?

Before you start learning to drive you will need to make sure you are covered when you practice on the roads. Here is what you need to know.

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What to do if your car suffers flood damage

If your car has been damaged by flood water, you will need to contact your insurance company to see if they can cover the cost. Here is how to claim against flood damage.

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Man in a wheelchair wearing a red jumper and black gilet, opening the door of a car.

How does car insurance excess work?

When you claim on your car insurance, you usually still need to pay some money yourself. This is called your excess. Here is everything you need to know about car insurance excess.

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Woman driving a car with one hand on the wheel and the other on the gear stick.

Can black box insurance save you money?

Black box insurance can be a great way to keep your premiums down, especially if you are a new or young driver. Here is everything you need to know about how it works, and how to find the best policy.

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Which car insurance extras are worth having?

You can pay extra for more features on your car insurance policy to tailor it to your needs, but are all worth the cost? Here is what you need to know to get a personalised level of cover.

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How do you make a car insurance claim?

Your car insurance is there to protect you and your finances. You hope you never have to, but making a claim is a key part of having a policy. This is how to make a claim on your car insurance policy.

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10 easy ways to cut your car insurance costs

Your car insurance is something you have to pay for, but there are plenty of things you can do to reduce your bill. Here are 10 top tips to cut the cost of your car insurance premiums.

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How to manage your car insurance policy

Once you have car insurance you are financially protected when you drive on the roads, but you must keep it up to date. This guide explains how to renew your policy, upgrade your cover and tell your insurer about changes in your circumstances.

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How does a no claims bonus save you money?

Having a no claims bonus is one of the best ways to keep the cost of your car insurance as low as possible. But what is it, and how does it work? Here is how your no claims will save you money.

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Can you put your child on your car insurance?

If your child has just started driving their insurance premiums will be sky-high. One way to help them pay less is to add them to your policy, but it comes with a number of risks.

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Man looking at van with packages

What is commercial van insurance?

If you use a van to make a living, it is vital you get the right protection so that you are covered if something goes wrong. Here is how commercial van insurance works.

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Should I increase my insurance excess?

Increasing the excess on your insurance can mean cheaper premiums, but it will also mean you pay out more if you need to make a claim. We discuss the pros and cons.

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What is breakdown cover?

Whether you drive every day or only occasionally, a breakdown policy gives you peace of mind that help is at hand should something go wrong. Here is how breakdown cover works.

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How to save with multi car insurance

If you have more than one car at home, insuring them all on one policy is a great way to get a discount. Here is how you and your family could save with multi car insurance.

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A buyer's guide to pet insurance

If you want to protect your pet, getting the right insurance policy is essential. Here is what you need to do to find the best cover.

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How to insure your pedigree pet

If you have spent a lot of money on a pedigree dog or cat you will want the right insurance in place, especially as they can be more prone to illness than mixed breeds. Here is how to find the best cover for your pedigree pet.

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How to claim on your pet insurance policy

If your pet needs to see the vet or goes missing, claiming on your pet insurance can help cover the cost. Here is a step by step guide to making a successful claim.

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2 puppies outside playing with a pumpkin.

How to insure multiple pets at once

If you have more than one pet it can be cheaper and easier to insure them on the same policy. Here is how to get the right multi pet insurance for you.

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Woman kissing a dog on the head outside.

Can you get insurance for older pets?

As your pet gets older it may be harder and more expensive to find insurance. Here is what to look out for when searching for pet insurance for older animals.

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Girl with dog

Can you get cover for your pet with existing conditions?

Even If your pet has suffered an illness, you can still find a pet insurance policy to cover them. Here is what cover you can get for your pet's conditions and how to find it.

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How to find the right backpacker travel insurance - Young traveler on railway

How to find the right backpacker travel insurance

If you want to explore the world for a few months you might need a backpacker insurance policy to protect you. Here is how to find the right cover for your extended trip.

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man-hitting-golf-shot

What cover do you need for a golf buggy?

If you own an electric golf buggy or cart, the right insurance policy can protect you if you have an accident. Here is how golf buggy insurance works.

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Teacher painting with kids at table

How does the Tax-Free Childcare scheme work?

The Tax-Free Childcare scheme supports parents' childcare costs and replaced the existing Employer Supported Childcare.

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Your ultimate checklist for a stress free holiday

Your holiday is a time to relax and concentrate on enjoying yourself, so let us help take the stress out of preparing for your trip. Here's everything you need to do before you jet off.

What to do now, so you can relax later

5 easy ways to save money on your water bill

Are you paying too much for your water? There are loads of great ways you can save money on your bills and save water at the same time.

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Claiming disability benefits & financial support

Disability can mean both a drop in your income and an increase in the cost of living. This guide sets out how to claim disability benefits for help with your day-to-day costs.

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How to find a cheap mobile phone deal

Monthly mobile bills might be an outgoing you do not think too much about, but are you paying too much? Keeping in touch does not need to cost the earth, and here is how you can find a mobile deal that will help you save.

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How to find insurance for your exotic pets

If you have a rare or unusual pet, finding the right pet insurance can be more difficult. Here is what you need to know to find the best exotic pet insurance.

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Unlocking your iPhone: what are your options?

If you are thinking of buying an iPhone, choosing the right network now could mean 'unlocking' potential savings on your mobile phone bill. We take a look at the different options currently available.

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How much equity do you have in your property?

Have you ever wondered how much equity you've got tied up in your house? It's a very useful thing to know; here we explain exactly what you need to do to find out!

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What's the best way to buy second-hand tickets?

If you've ever tried to buy tickets for a must-see event, you'll know that if you're not quick you can easily miss out, but don't give up, there are still ways to get the tickets you want.

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Couple comparing paperwork

Insurance - what do you need and what can you live without?

We discuss which insurance policies are essential and which ones you can afford to live without.

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Woman boarding train in station

7 simple ways to cut the cost of your commute

Commuting to and from work is unavoidable and can be expensive so here are a few ways you could cut the cost of commuting.

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Smiling family in ocean

6 ways to protect your holiday if you book without a travel agent

Did you know that the way in which you book your holiday can have a dramatic effect on whether you're protected if something goes wrong? We show you how to make sure you get to go on your holiday one way or another!

How to protect your holiday
Girl on smartphone texting

Can you switch mobile contracts mid-term?

Overpaying for a mobile contract can be frustrating; especially if you are tied into a lengthy contract. Our guide explains when and how you can cancel your contract and if it will save you money.

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Fertility treatment abroad: can you save money?

The sky-high cost of private IVF treatment in the UK might have left you wondering whether you should get fertility treatment abroad. We look at the cost of treatment globally and whether you could be better off elsewhere.

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How to unlock your mobile phone

Tired of missing out on a cheaper mobile deal because your phone is stuck with one network? We explain how to unlock your phone so you can have the freedom to move to any network you like.

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What are OEICs?

OEICs may be an attractive option for new investors, but before you make a decision you need to understand the basics. This guide covers everything you need to know about OEICs before investing your money.

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Concerned couple looking at bills

What happens after you are discharged from bankruptcy?

The day you're discharged from bankruptcy is a new start, all the debts you took into bankruptcy will be gone and you're free to start afresh, but what happens next? Here's how to start getting your finances back on track.

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9 free apps that save you time AND money

Whatever you're up to, there's probably an app that can help you do it cheaper and faster. All of these free apps can either save you time, money or both.

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Young couple outside in garden using laptop

What is mortgage life insurance?

Have you heard about mortgage life insurance, but are uncertain what it is or how it works? Our guide can give you all the information you need to know.

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