Banking

In the world of personal banking it is worth shopping around, especially when you find out that the four major high street banks (Lloyds, Barclays, NatWest and HSBC) pay out less than a quarter of a percent in interest to a bulk of their customers. However, with a little searching, higher rates (up to three percent) can be found, mostly offered by internet banks. Newly revised rules mean that switching banks has never been easier, with much more responsibility being taken by banks for a smooth changeover.

Overdrafts are also an area in which choosiness is key: if you regularly go overdrawn then you will need to find a bank that offers low rates on overdrafts, in fact, selective avoidance of the big four banks could net you a rate as low as six percent.

Internet banking offers flexibility as well as better interest rates and other incentives so, as long as care is taken over computer security, this can be an easier option for many.