Family finance

Money Matters editor Amanda Blinkhorn covers a host of money issues, advice and tips in her engaging, down to earth manner

Mortgage risk assessment

Instead of working out whether or not we earn enough to qualify for a mortgage, lenders are responding to a perceived risk of mortgage default by asking how much we spend and what we spend it on.

New payment methods

I wonder how long it will take for purses and wallets to become as charmingly retro as cigarette cases or leatherette chequebook holders.

New Year budgets

My New Year’s resolution is to make a budget and stick to it. Ok so it’s the same as it is every year, but this year I’m determined to see it through.

Pensions

What is it that compels us to put ourselves through such needless stress and pressure? I think it’s a combination of panic and personality!

Saving money

According to a survey by Ofgem half of us complain about our household bills, but can’t be bothered to switch supplier.

Zombie saving accounts

Now that the storms have calmed down I’ve found a new way to lose sleep – zombies.

A helping hand

Traditionally credit unions have been the sort of institution that people turn to in times of trouble, or when no one else will consider lending them any money.

The name’s bond

‘I love a flutter, but I hate that sinking feeling of throwing money down the drain once you’ve outreached yourself, done an Icarus and crashed and burned’

Credit card conundrum

When it comes to managing our money it really does look as if some of us are beyond help.

Funeral costs

The news that the cost of dying is overtaking the cost of living is just killing me

Household bills

I wasn’t surprised to discover this week that the average British household spends £12,000 a year paying household and personal bills.

ISA information

I’ve always felt slightly annoyed by the fact that finding a decent savings rate is like trying to run a marathon in flip-flops through water!