>
Meet the team>
Rachel Wait

Rachel 2024

Rachel Wait

Contributing writer

About the Author

Rachel Wait is a regular contributing writer at Money.co.uk. She uses her personal finance expertise to help our readers understand their financial needs and options.

Rachel has spent the majority of her career writing about personal finance for leading price comparison sites and the national press, beginning as a reporter for Shares Magazine in 2007, although she started out writing business newsletters before that, in 2004.

She was Editor and then Managing Editor at Moneysupermarket for over eight years and since 2020, has written extensively on credit cards, pensions, insurance and mortgages for the Mail on Sunday, The Observer, The Spectator, the Evening Standard, Forbes UK, The Sun, as well as other publications.

Expertise

Insurance
Credit cards
Pensions
Mortgages

Education

BA (Hons) English, University of Exeter

hand writing notes and using a calculator

How to Apply for a Loan

Follow this comprehensive step-by-step guide to boost your chances of being approved for a loan.

Read more about how to apply for a loan

Three man in a meeting, 1 on the phone

How are investments taxed?

Learn more about the types of tax you might need to pay on your investments.

Find out how are investments taxed

Tips for Travelling on a Budget

Do you love to travel but need to save money? Follow these top tips for travelling on a budget.

Read more about getting a travel money deal

Bill, invoice, tax man laptop

What missing a single payment can ultimately cost you

What happens if you're late to a payment, or miss one entirely, and how long you have to fix it before the costs start piling up

Best exchange rate for Australian dollars June 2025

Find our best exchange rate for Australian dollars. Get more from your travel money by converting GBP to AUD to find the best rates today.

paperwork calculator

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.

Loans for Peer to peer lending June 2025

Peer to peer lending is also known as P2P or crowdfunding. It matches savers wanting a high return with borrowers needing a low interest rate. Peer to peer is closer to investing than it is to saving.

woman-on-laptop-with-credit-card

Is debit card protection the same as for credit cards?

Purchases made on your credit card offer you some protection, but the rules for debit cards are different. Here is how the Chargeback scheme provides protection for your debit card.

The word loan is spelt over four wooden blocs, with two male figurines placed next to them.

How to borrow money with bad credit

You can get a personal loan with bad credit, but the rates will likely be high. It can be harder to get a loan with bad credit, and it may be worth trying to improve your score before you apply for a loan.

More on borrowing with bad credit

Visa and Mastercard

What is the difference between Visa and MasterCard?

MasterCard and Visa work very similarly to one another. They are payment networks, which process payments when you spend using your credit, debit or prepaid card.

A picture of a man inputting his credit card details online.

Buying and selling with online marketplaces

Thinking about using an online market place? The consumer spending experts at money.co.uk have put together this helpful guide on your rights when buying or selling through sites like eBay, Shpock, Gumtree and Facebook Marketplace.

What's the best way to cash-in spare change?

Whether you have recently unearthed a mine of coppers from the back of your sofa or have been saving loose change for years, cashing it in can give your wallet a welcome boost. Find out the best way to switch your pennies for pounds.

Read more about spare change

Businessman working on his shop on a laptop and phone

13 golden rules for managing your small business finances

Discover the key rules for managing your business finances to improve your chances of long-term success.

Casual business woman using her smartphone in a modern, cool office space

Making Tax Digital for sole traders: your MTD-ready prep checklist

This straightforward guide explains everything sole traders need to know to prepare for Making Tax Digital.

Business partners in a cafe, work together on a screen

Business partnerships in the UK: types, how they work and key pros and cons

Discover how UK business partnerships work, the differences between general, limited and LLP structures, and the advantages and disadvantages of each.

Business partners check their paperwork

How to start a business partnership in the UK – a practical nine-step guide

Step-by-step guide to starting a business partnership in the UK, including how to register, choose a partner and meet legal requirements.

Business Plan Schedule Written on a Notebook

Simple business template with step-by-step guide (plus example)

Write your business plan today with our free step-by-step guide, template and practical example – structured and tailored for any business type.

Man writes in a book. In front of him is an open laptop.

What is a business plan and why every entrepreneur needs one

Crafting a business plan boosts your chances of running a successful business and helps secure funding for your venture. Begin developing your plan today.

Florist shop owner working on their paperwork late in the evening.

How to write a business plan in 10 simple steps

Follow our step-by-step guide to writing a business plan and setting your business up for success.

Online Business Ideas to Dominate the Digital World

From dropshipping to online coaching, discover over 30 successful internet business ideas to get your online venture off the ground.

How To Get Started In Web Development And Design

Ready to work with the web? Discover how to level up your web design skills, learn web development essentials and find out what you could earn building websites

Happy business owner

Choosing the right business structure: seven key factors to consider

We outline the essential issues you should think about when deciding which business structure is right for you.

Businessman working on his laptop

How to do competitor analysis for your small business in seven steps

Understanding your competitors is essential for helping your business stand out in the market.

Are Premium Bonds a Safe Investment or a Waste of Time?

We explore whether investing in Premium Bonds is worth it or whether you’re better off looking elsewhere.

Business partners working together

Partnership bank account: do you need a joint business account?

Setting up a business partnership? Learn whether you need a joint business bank account and how to set one up if you do.

Business owner on tablet in a cafe

Business expenses: what you can (and can’t) claim

Discover what counts as a business expense and how claiming such expenses can lower your tax bill.

Business overdrafts: what they are and how to apply

Learn how business overdrafts work, their benefits and how to apply for one.

Do you need a business bank account? Key rules, benefits and FAQs

Confused about the rules for business bank accounts? This guide explains all you need to know.

Woman taping boxes during moving house

20 things to do when moving house

Moving home is one of the most stressful and financially draining things you can do, so here are our top 12 things to arrange before moving day to make your life easier.

Fashion designer working on her tablet

What is a business credit card and why do you need one?

Discover the benefits of holding a business credit card, how to apply for one, and what to watch out for.

How to get a business loan: your step-by-step guide to approval

Boost your chances of approval for a business loan with our easy-to-follow guide.

10 Small Business Ideas

Entrepreneur checking orders on her tablet

13 practical ways to get finance for your business

Discover the different types of business finance, along with their pros and cons, so you can decide what works best for you.

How do business loans work? Here’s what you need to know

This in-depth guide explains how business loans work, the types of business loans available, and who can apply.

10 Small Business Ideas

Image of someone saving money with apps

The best apps for managing your finances

Money.co.uk has put together a useful guide to help you discover the best apps to help you manage your money, from keeping track of your cash, making money and boosting your credit rating.

Group at restaurant paying by card.

How to accept credit card payments: a step-by-step guide

With card transactions on the rise, it’s more important than ever to understand how your business can accept credit card payments.

Man working on his laptop

Business credit card eligibility checkers: what they are and how they work

Discover the benefits of using an eligibility checker before applying for a business credit card

Small business owner with paperwork and a sleeping baby on his shoulder.

What do you need to open a business bank account in the UK?

Applying for a business bank account? Find out what documents and details you need to provide

Businessman on his laptop

Business financial planning 101: a small business owner’s guide

Discover everything you need to know about the importance of financial planning for your business.

Businessman doing his paperwork

Overcoming cash flow challenges: practical solutions for small businesses

If your small business faces cash flow problems, it’s important to know how to fix them. This guide offers seven solutions to common cash flow challenges.

Businesswoman working on her laptop

Cash flow management: the ultimate guide for small businesses

Find out why managing your cash flow is so important and how to do it.

How to Create an Effective Monthly Spending Budget

Follow our step-by-step guide to creating a monthly spending budget to take control of your finances.

Casually dressed businesswoman sitting on her desk studying paperwork

Invoice factoring explained: how it works and what to consider

If your business relies on invoicing, invoice factoring can provide early access to customer payments, helping to improve cash flow.

A businessman reviews his paperwork

Term loans explained: how they work and when to use one

A term loan lets you repay a lump sum of cash over a fixed term, but is it right for your business?

Businessman sits at a desk and contemplates his paperwork

What is invoice discounting and how does it work?

Discover how you could improve your company’s cash flow by borrowing against your unpaid invoices.

A businessman runs calculations while reviewing paperwork

Business finance explained: how to choose the right funding for your business

Explore the key types of business finance, why they matter and how to find the right funding option for your business needs.

Woman using a digital camera to take photos of cakes.

15 low-cost business ideas with great potential for 2025

You don’t have to be a millionaire to start your own business. Discover 15 of the best low-cost business ideas for 2025.

Should You Focus on Paying Off Debt or Saving Money?

Deciding whether to pay off debt or build a savings pot first isn’t always easy. Here’s what you need to know.

How to Spot Loan Scams and Avoid Them

Discover what loan fraud is and how to protect yourself against loan scams.

Read more about how to apply for a loan

Deli owner taking a credit card payment.

Merchant cash advance explained: a guide for small businesses

A merchant cash advance offers a flexible alternative to a business loan – but is it right for you? Discover the pros and cons in this helpful guide.

Businessman reviewing paperwork.

Invoice finance explained: a simple guide for SMEs and startups

Invoice finance could be an easy way to boost business cash flow if you regularly invoice clients.

Two workers surrounded by large stainless steel vats at a microbrewery.

What is asset finance? Everything you need to know

Discover how your business could access new equipment or vehicles with minimal upfront costs.

Tradesman checking documents while loading his van.

Asset-based lending: what is it and how does it work?

Find out how you could use business assets to help you secure a loan.

Group of young women working on a digital project.

12 innovative startup business ideas for 2025

From running your own virtual reality events to building robotics, check out these innovative startup business ideas.

30 small business ideas for 2025

Keen to set up a small business in 2025? Here’s our pick of the best businesses to start this year.

Tradesman working on his laptop in his studio.

8 practical tips to separate your personal and business finances

Discover how to differentiate your business and personal spending with this essential five-minute guide.

Woman working late at night at her drop-shipping business.

Business credit score: what it is, how to check it and ways to improve yours

Having a good business credit score can help you secure finance and negotiate better deals. Discover practical steps to boost yours today!

Businessman in a hotel room.

What are the key benefits of a business credit card?

A business credit card can be hugely beneficial to your business, but this form of borrowing is not without its pitfalls. Find out what you need to know.

Colleagues working together at a desk.

Should you have two business bank accounts?

Discover the potential benefits and pitfalls of having more than one business bank account.

Owner of a plant shipping business on the phone.

How to choose a business bank account: 7 things to consider

Find out what every company needs to know when choosing a business bank account.

Business woman dealing with orders.

Personal vs business bank accounts: key differences explained

Understand how personal and business bank accounts differ and what to look out for when choosing between the two.

How Much Can You Put in an Isa?

ISAs are a tax-efficient way to save, but it’s important to understand how ISA allowances work.

Find out how are investments taxed

Notepad with VAT written on it. Beside it on the desk is a cup of black coffee a form and a calculator.

What is VAT and how it works: a clear guide for business owners

If you run your own business, make sure you understand when you need to register for VAT and how to submit your VAT return.

Business woman frowning as she reviews paperwork.

Business tax in the UK: 7 key types you need to know about

Confused about business tax? Learn more about the types of tax your business needs to pay and how to make payments.

Business man working on his laptop in his joinery workshop.

What is the VAT registration threshold? A guide for UK businesses

Understand when you need to register for VAT as a business and the consequences if you don’t.

Seamstress working on a jacket.

Pros and cons of being VAT registered: key factors to consider

If you’re considering registering for VAT, be sure to weigh up the pros and cons first.

Man working on his laptop in a cafe.

How to register for VAT: a step-by-step guide for small businesses

Follow our easy-to-follow guide to registering for VAT.

Partners in a ceramics business work together on a laptop.

The 4 main types of UK business structures explained

Starting your own business but not sure which type of business structure to use? Our guide explains all you need to know.

Two business partners discuss their work.

The 7 types of business ownership and the right one for you

Learn about the different types of business ownership in the UK and what you need to consider before choosing the right structure for you.

Business owner works on her laptop.

How to register as self-employed in the UK: a complete guide

If you’re setting up your own business, registering as self-employed is an essential step to getting started.

Electrician checks wiring on a construction site.

How to set up as a sole trader: your practical 9-step checklist

Make sure you understand the rules and regulations that apply when setting up as a sole trader.

How to set up a limited company in the UK: A step-by-step guide

If you’re setting up a limited company, it’s important to understand the rules you need to follow as part of the process.

Irritated business owner reading a rejection email

7 reasons your business loan was rejected (and what to do next)

Discover the most common reasons for business loan rejections and what you can do to increase your chances of success.

Coffee shop owner sitting at desk, giving serious thought to his company's finances

12 types of business loans: expert guide to choosing the right one

Ever wondered how the different types of business loans work? We explain everything you need to know.

Pensive millennial business owner standing by a window and contemplating business finances

Small business line of credit vs loan vs credit card: which is best?

We explain the key differences between business loans, business credit cards and business lines of credit so you can find the right type of funding.

Serious small business owner focusing on his work while checking a business plan

How to get a startup business loan with bad credit in the UK

Qualifying for a startup business loan when you have bad credit is hard - but not impossible.

Thoughtful businessman in suit looking through big office window

What is a secured business loan? Everything you need to know

Secured business loans typically let you borrow a larger sum at cheaper rates than an unsecured loan. But are they right for you?

Two colleagues discuss their work while sitting on a sofa and looking at a shared laptop.

What is market research and why it matters for new businesses

Discover how market research can help you better understand your customers and competition and get to grips with the latest market trends.

Shopkeeper behind his counter ponders his business opportunities.

What is cash flow and why is it important to a small business?

Find out how to stay on top of your cash flow and why it’s a crucial part of running a business.

Small business owner pondering a decision.

Pros and Cons of a Business Savings Account

Opening a business savings account can be hugely beneficial, but it also has its downsides. Find out if it’s right for you with this essential guide.

Older business man reviewing paperwork.

What is business insurance and why is it so important?

Business insurance can protect your company from financial losses if something goes wrong. Here’s how it works.

Start-up team of entrepreneurs discussing a joint project.

Insurance for startups: a guide to protecting your business

All you need to know about buying the right type of business insurance for your startup.

Business craftsman in a joinery shop using a laptop while on the phone.

What type of business insurance do I need?

Understand the various types of business insurance and determine the cover your company needs to stay protected.

A young man in a cafe covers his mouth and looks in disgust at the food in front of him.

What is public liability insurance and what does it cover?

Public liability insurance protects your business if someone sues you due to an injury or damage to their property. Here’s how it works.

Business co-workers reviewing their bank statements.

Your Guide to Business Bank Account Monthly Fees

Opening a business bank account? Discover the ongoing fees you might face and how to limit what you pay.

Small business owner working with a laptop computer behind the counter of a cafe.

What Is a Business Savings Account?

Opening a business savings account allows you to earn interest on any spare cash your business has. Learn more about the different options available.

A businessman puts coins into a piggy bank.

How To Save As a Business

Discover 10 money-saving tips that can boost the financial efficiency of your company.

Should You Pay in Local Currency?

When spending overseas, you might be asked if you want to pay in the local currency or sterling. We explain why choosing the local option can be cheaper.

Read more about getting a travel money deal

Bootstrapping for Startups

Find out how bootstrapping could help get your new business off the ground.

How to Create a Memorable Brand for Your Business

Set your business up for success by following our tips on creating a memorable brand identity.

Small Business Marketing Ideas For Growth

Learn how to best promote your business with these 10 smart marketing ideas for small businesses.

What Is Equity Finance For Businesses?

If you have a new business with little credit history, equity finance could help you get the funding you need. Our guide explains how it works.

How To Protect Your Business from Payment Fraud

Payment fraud is an increasing issue for businesses. Protect your company with these payment fraud prevention tips.

How to Manage Business Debt as a Small Business

Follow these seven steps to help manage business debt and get your business finances back on track.

Managing VAT for Small Businesses

Learn more about which businesses need to register for VAT, the pros and cons of doing so, and how to complete your VAT return.

How To Improve Cash Flow For Small Businesses

Find out how to improve your business cash flow and increase your chances of success.

What Business Tax Relief Are You Entitled to?

Find out how you can qualify for tax relief that could potentially reduce your small business' tax bill.

Bill, invoice, tax man laptop

How to make an invoice

If you’ve set up your own business, knowing how to create an invoice correctly is crucial to ensuring you get paid, as we explain.

Full guide to making an invoice

The picturesque harbour in Mousehole, an old fishing village in Cornwall

How to find cheap UK holiday destinations

With millions of Brits choosing to go on holiday without leaving the country, discover our top tips on how to find cheap holidays in the UK.

Where to go for a cheap UK holiday

Woman sightseeing on holiday in Tallinn, Estonia

Where to go for a super cheap holiday - best destinations

If you’re hoping to get away this year, our guide will help you discover the cheapest places to go on holiday and how to cut the cost of your trip.

Cheapest destinations for holidays named

How to get fee free balance tranfers - woman smiling with credit card

How to get fee-free balance transfers

Fee-free balance transfer credit cards let you move existing card debt to a new credit card without paying a fee. Find out whether this type of plastic could work for you.