APR stands for the Annual Percentage Rate of charge. You can use it to compare different credit and loan offers. The APR takes into account not just the interest on the loan but also other charges you have to pay, for example, any arrangement fee. All lenders have to tell you what their APR is before you sign an agreement. It will vary from lender to lender.
If you borrow money at a 5% interest rate for a year, it will cost you 5% of the amount borrowed to do so. This will need to be repaid along with the original money you borrowed.
If you and your partner smoke 10 cigarettes a day, it will cost you £2,400 a year. Over 20 years, you can use that £48,000 paying off bills, your credit card or mortgage.
British Gas, EDF and Npower all have Energy Trust schemes for their account holders in hardship, which award grants to help those struggling to clear gas and electricity debts.
Finding it hard to talk about how you are really feeling? Samaritans is a safe place to turn; it’s anonymous and confidential: 08457 90 90 90 or jo@samaritans.org .
If something is troubling you, Samaritans are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. All chats are completely confidential. You can reach them on 08457 90 90 90 or jo@samaritans.org .
Have realistic expectations of wages when you are applying for jobs. Don’t expect big money when you first start – companies pay more for experience and good skillsets.
Instead of buying Christmas cards, consider donating the same money to charity and tell your friends what you’ve done. This could have a real impact on people who truly need it.
DemoHoHotivator.com shows how small sacrifices now can boost Christmas cash. It shows you the real impact of your daily spending habits.
For small children you can make Christmas presents, such as sock puppets, fairy dust, a box of balloons or a framed photo of you making a snowman together.