Â鶹´«Ã½

November 6 marked the start of Talk Money Week, which suggests that we each do one thing each day to improve our financial situation, either by reducing outgoings or maximising the money coming in.

Our Financial Inclusion team helps Â鶹´«Ã½ Homes tenants carry out benefit checks, apply for benefit, fill in forms, and provide budgeting advice, money saving information, grant information and debt guidance.

They have put together a list of things you might want to try during Talk Money Week, or at any time of the year, to ensure you’re not missing out on anything.

1. State pensioners: if you are receiving your state pension to see if you are entitled to Pension Credit. Apply for Pension Credit before 10 December 2023 to qualify for the second and third Cost of Living Payments (£300 and Â£299) on top of your £300 Cost of Living Pensioner Payment and Winter Fuel Payment
    
2. Check your bank statement: if you are expecting a Cost of Living Payment, check your statement for ‘DWP COL’ or ‘HMRC COLS’ between 31 October and 19 November. If you have not received it by 20 November,
    
3. Reduce your bills: if you are receiving Universal Credit, Pension Credit or other benefits you could qualify for cheaper broadband from your provider or switch to a cheaper provider. Packages start at £10 per month. . Switching could save you up to £202 a year
    
4. Wages checker: are you aged 23 plus and getting the right hourly rate of pay?
    
5.  A grant is a gift of money which you never have to pay back. Could you be entitled to a grant?
    
6. Car insurance is rising by 61%. . Renew your car insurance 24 days before the renewal date to get the most competitive quotes
    
7. Credit card interest can trap us into debt.