Money

High street retailers which offer free returns as some charge up to £50 to send back items

Published

2 hours ago

October 7, 2024

High street retailers which offer free returns as some charge up to £50 to send back items

RETAILERS across the UK are charging hefty returns fees to customers who change their minds on orders.

In some cases, brands are simply passing on courier fees, but other high street names are enforcing a charge for every parcel sent back.

Retailers are charging customers hefty fees to return itemsCredit: Getty

For instance, PrettyLittleThing recently implemented a charge of £1.99 per item returned.

In February, River Island angered customers by introducing a £2 charge to return items ordered online.

The retailer also said it would ban some customer accounts if they made too many returns.

And H&M brought in a £1.99 fee in September last year.

It’s worth noting that most retailers in the UK still allow free returns in store, although not all will let you return goods bought online this way.

Richard Hyman, a retail expert and partner at Thought Provoking Consulting said: “Online retail has always found making money challenging. People may imagine without rents to pay the economics are better. But returns tend to erode margins.

“The cost of dealing with huge amounts of product sent back are huge. Belatedly, retailers are realising they need to start charging and growing number are.”

He added that some retailers are offering free returns for bigger order sizes but that risks encouraging still more returns from oversized orders, which could leave retailers struggling once more.

Hyman says he believes that charging for returns will very soon be the order of the day but points out that very few retailers are actually passing on the entire cost.

He explained: “Most charges fall way below what is a rapidly increasing cost to retailers.”

Delivery charges should be clearly visible on the website, as they form the basic terms and conditions of the sale.

However, an recent investigation by The Sun found that costs and courier charges were sometimes buried in terms and conditions meaning customers might not know about them at point of purchase.

And despite the trend towards charging, there are still lots of high street names that offer free returns.

We’ve rounded up the ones we could find that are totally free, only charge for postage, or only impose a fee if parcels weigh over a certain amount.

Unlock Hidden Discounts at Primark: Insider Tips!

Amazon UK

Amazon says that it offers free returns for most items that are sent back within 30 days as long as they are unused and undamaged.

It adds that most of its sellers do the same. Often, a free returns label is included with your package.

It says that it will issue a refund for a product shipped by Amazon, within a maximum of 14 days and confirm it with an automated e-mail.

YOUR RETURN RIGHTS EXPLAINED

THE SUN’S Head of Consumer, Tara Evans, explains your return rights:

YOUR right to return items depends on where you purchased it and why you want to return it.

If you bought an item online then you are covered by the Consumer Contracts Regulations, which means you can cancel an item 14 days from when you receive it.

You then have a further 14 days to return the item, once you’ve notified the retailer that you want to return it.

If an item is faulty – regardless of how you bought it – you are legally able to return it and get a full refund within 30 days of receiving it.

Most retailers have their own returns policies, offering an exchange, refund or credit.

Shops don’t have to have these policies by law, but if they do have one then they should stick to it.

Argos

Argos offers free returns for most of the things that it sells.

If you’ve changed your mind and need to return an item, you have 30 days from the date of collection or from the date of delivery to return your item(s).

Your item(s) needs to be:

Unused and with all original components
In its original packaging (with the tags if applicable)
In a resaleable condition with security seals intact (where applicable)
With its proof of purchase
With any free items that came with the product

However, if you’re returning a made to order furniture item, you have to pay a non-refundable £25 charge, unless the product is faulty.

Apple

Apple says you can return purchases within 14 days for free. The product must be in its original condition with all of its parts, accessories, and packaging.

Returned products may require inspection. If approved, a refund or exchange will be issued within 10 business days.

If you bought an Apple product from another retailer, you will need to follow that store’s returns policies and procedures.

Asda

Asda has a generous online returns policy, where most things can be returned within 30 days if you change your mind. You need to show proof of purchase.

On top of that, it has a 100-day satisfaction guarantee on George clothing and some George home products.

Fashion and homeware items that do not have the 100-day guarantee and must be returned within 30 days include pierced jewellery, hair accessories, mattresses, and furniture.

Swimwear can be returned for a refund under the Changed Your Mind policy, only when the hygiene seals are in place and have not been removed.

Marks & Spencer

M&S’ standard returns policy is 35 days for both online and in-store purchases, except sale items, which must be returned within 14 days.

Clothing or homeware items can only be returned at main clothing and home stores and outlet items can also only be returned to outlet stores.

M&S says all items need to be in their original condition, which means:

Item(s) should be in an unworn and unused condition
Multi-pack items must all be returned together
3 for 2 items can be returned individually but will be refunded based on the promotional price paid
If the original purchase contained a free item, this item must also be returned
Items with hygiene seals must be returned with the seals intact (swimwear, underwear, duvets, etc)
Beauty products must be returned with their tamper seals intact

Returns that are incomplete, unsaleable or do not meet these conditions may be rejected, with all or part of the original price paid withheld.

ASOS

ASOS says that returns in the UK are free and trackable, as long as you don’t fall foul of its “fair use policy” and you return things within 28 days.

It says that for the small group of customers who consistently take actions that make providing them with free returns unsustainable, it deducts and retains £3.95 from their refund to help cover the cost of getting the goods back.

It says that it uses an objective formula based on shopping behaviour, taking into account whether someone has made particularly excessive returns well beyond the average, as well as the number and value of orders made.

Even if you fall into this group, you still get free returns if:

You keep £40 or more of any order and are a non-Premier customer; or
You keep £15 or more of any order and are a Premier customer.

ASOS adds that some things cannot be returned for health and hygiene reasons including:

Face + Body products if opened, used or the protective seal is not intact.
Underwear if the hygiene seal is not intact or any labels have been broken.
Swimwear if the hygiene seal is not intact or any labels have been broken.
Pierced jewellery if the seal has been tampered with or is broken.
Face coverings if the seal has been tampered with or is broken.

John Lewis

John Lewis says that you can return or exchange an unwanted item for free up to 30 days after you receive it.

The item you’re returning must:

Be unused, with all its labels and tags intact.
Not contain personal data or have been registered with the manufacturer (for phones, computers and other tech products).

Small items can be returned in store at John Lewis, Waitrose, or one of its return locations. For larger items you will need to arrange a return online, with a £29.95 collection fee.

Boots

Boots says you can return any unwanted items free of charge within 35 days for a refund or replacement.

It says it will not provide a refund if goods are not returned in a saleable condition or are damaged (unless they arrived damaged).

Electrical and photographic equipment will only be accepted if complete with all leads, accessories and software. Any software must have its original seal intact.

Unless faulty, medicines, food, personalised gifts or cosmetic products which have been opened cannot be refunded or exchanged.

If you want to return things by post, you will need to download and fill out a returns form, and create a returns label with Royal Mail.

You need to post it yourself as Boots says it cannot accept returns that have been collected by Royal Mail.

Sports Direct

Sports Direct says you can return goods for a refund within 28 days, but you’ll have to pay your own postage.

All items must have not been used, worn, or washed and must in their original packaging with all tags attached.

You can’t take goods bought online into a store for a refund.

Currys

If you purchased from Currys online, you can return your item within 30 days even if you have opened it for inspection.

To obtain a full refund, it must be returned as new and in a resaleable condition.

This means:

You must not use it
It should be in the original packaging
Return it complete with all accessories
The item must not contain any personal data
The item must not have been registered with the manufacturer

Once you have used a product, you can only return it if it is faulty or not as described

If you purchased in store, you can return your item within 30 days in its unopened and sealed packaging along with proof of purchase.

O2

02 says that if you want to return a device or accessory you can return it within 14 days for a refund. If you’d like to exchange it, just complete the return and place a new order.

For hygiene reasons, some accessories (like earphones) are exempt from the 14-day change of mind policy once they’ve been opened.

Very

Very has a 28-day approval guarantee, which means most items can be returned free of charge.

To do this you need to go to the ‘Returns’ tab in My Account online or the ‘My Orders’ tab in the app within the 28-day approval guarantee period.

Next, select the items you wish to return

Choose Yodel store or Post Office and click ‘Get Label’ and follow the steps on screen to generate your code.

Fill in the reason to return code in the box on the advice note for each item you are returning and place the form and all items inside the parcel

Drop your parcel at your selected Yodel store or Post Office and show your code. The returns address label will be printed for you.

Next says that, if possible, customers should return all items in the same parcel.

IKEA

IKEA says that almost all items can be returned within 365 days, even if they’ve been assembled.

However, it says it is unable to offer refunds or exchange for custom made worktops, food or drinks.

If the item weighs less than 10kg and can fit in a parcel of 60x50x50cm or less, it can be returned for free using Yodel.

However, for larger items, unless you’re happy to take them to a store, you’ll need to arrange collection which will cost you £25.

Sainsbury’s

Sainsbury’s says you can return items within 30 days, in their original condition and with proof of purchase, to any of its stores.

The following products are not refundable unless faulty:

Baby food and milk
Chilled and frozen products
Entertainment items where the seal is broken
Photo books, acrylics and canvases bought from the photo shop
Gift cards, e top-ups, lottery tickets, scratch cards and postage stamps

For hygiene reasons, Sainsbury’s doesn’t offer refunds on earrings.

Medicine bought from the shop floor can be returned for a refund or exchange, however it must be sealed, in its original packaging.

Screwfix

Screwfix offers free returns within 30 days of purchase under its moneyback guarantee scheme. There are several ways to return items to Screwfix, including:

In-store: Return items to a nearby Screwfix store
By post: Use the FREEPOST service to return items to a local Post Office
By carrier collection: Arrange a free collection by calling Screwfix on 03330 112 112 or emailing online@screwfix.com

Non-faulty items should be unused and in a saleable condition and with their original packaging. You must make sure you return all component parts and any promotional items or free gifts

House of Fraser

House of Fraser offers free returns within 28 days, but you have to pay for your own postage.

All items must have not been used, worn, or washed and must be in their original packaging with all tags attached.

Personalised items will not be accepted unless the text is incorrect, or the item is faulty

Underwear, swimwear and pierced jewellery cannot be returned for hygiene reasons

Items which deteriorate or expire rapidly, magazines, items that are sealed for hygiene reasons, computer games with the seal broken or any items that have been inseparably mixed after delivery, cannot be returned

Halfords

If you change your mind about your Halfords purchase within 30 days, you can return to any of its 400+ stores.

If you bought your item online, you can send back to the distribution centre for a full refund, but you’ll need to pay for your own postage. For larger items, if you need Halfords to arrange a Courier, you will have to pay £40.

The item must be unused, clean and in its original packaging.

Littlewoods

You can return your Littlewoods orders completely free with Yodel. Just select the order you’d like to return in your account and follow the instructions.

Yodel can only accept parcels under 10kg in weight and with maximum dimensions of 90x60x60cm.

Heavier parcels need to be returned by the Post Office, and you will need to pay for delivery.

JD Sports

Items bought at JD Sports can be returned free of charge either in store or using the note that comes in your parcel.

If you need to arrange a courier, then a £2.50 charge applies.

Matalan

You can return items to Matalan stores free of charge, but you can also send them back using the online returns tool.

The parcel should contain the items you want to return, in their original condition, as well as your original delivery note with the returns section fully completed.

There’s no charge for returning the item, but you do have to pay postage unless the item was damaged or faulty.

To qualify for the refunds policy, all items must be in a re-saleable condition i.e. undamaged, in their original and undamaged packaging, unworn and complete with all tags and labels attached.

Smyth’s Toys

Smyth’s Toys offers free returns both online and by post, within 28 days.

If you want to send things back, it will generate a returns label for you which you can bring to your nearest DHL Service Point. This allows returns for parcels up to 20kg.

For larger items, you need to contact customers services, and charges may apply.

All items must be unused, unopened, and in their original condition and packaging.

In-store returns must be accompanied by a valid Smyths Toys receipt whereas online returns must include your dispatch confirmation email including your order reference (UK) number.

Dunelm

Dunelm’s “Change of Mind” policy allows customers to return products (subject to exclusions) within 28 days of purchase

To get a refund, you must ensure the product is unused and in its original condition (including all packaging, and tags and hygiene and security seals intact) and have your Dunelm receipt or order confirmation.

Certain items are excluded including those that are made to measure, cut to length, perishable, sold as ex-display, or gift cards.

Superdrug

Superdrug allows free returns both online and in store within 28 days.

This excludes the following:

Marketplace Orders
perishable items (e.g. food and baby milk)
medicines
items personalised for you
sealed products which are not suitable for return due to health or hygiene reasons if unsealed after delivery (unless these items were damaged or faulty when delivered to you or have been incorrectly delivered)

To return items by post you need to get a Royal Mail freepost return label, which you can find here. Make sure that you get a proof of postage receipt from the post office.

H&M

If you’re an H&M member, then postal returns are free. However, if you don’t sign up then you have to pay £1.99 per parcel.

Becoming a member costs nothing, so it’s worth doing if you think you’ll want to order something online.

Poundland

You can return most products that you buy through Poundland within 28 days from the date of purchase.

The exceptions to the refund and return policy include:

bespoke, “made to order”, created to your specification or clearly personalised;
sealed for health protection or hygiene purposes, if have received these items and unsealed them;
perishables, such as flowers or fresh food or drink products;
sealed audio, video recordings or computer software, if you have received these items and unsealed them;
pharmaceutical products, if the hygiene sealed packaging has been opened or tampered with;
pierced jewellery items, if the hygiene sealed packaging has been opened or tampered with; and
underwear or swimwear, if the hygiene label has been removed or tampered with.

You need to send returns back to Poundland Digital Unit 5, Dearne Mls, Darton, Barnsley, S75 5NH and you’ll have to pay for your own postage.

Poundland says you should include a note that includes information such as your order number, name, and the items you wish to return within the parcel.

Game

Game offers free returns both online and in store, but you’ll need to pay postage costs if you’re sending something back.

You can’t return things bought online in store for free, either.

You need to return items within 28 days, and you’ll need valid proof of purchase.

Products must also be returned in a resaleable condition.

Do you have a money problem that needs sorting? Get in touch by emailing money-sm@news.co.uk.

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Chancellor Rachel Reeves ‘to ABANDON’ controversial pension tax raid in relief for hardworking teachers & nurses

Published

13 mins ago

October 7, 2024

NewsAdmin

Chancellor Rachel Reeves 'to ABANDON' controversial pension tax raid in relief for hardworking teachers & nurses

LABOUR’s pension tax raid is set the ditched after warnings it would hammer up to a million teachers, nurses, and public sector workers.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves had planned to raise funds by reducing tax relief on those earning £50,000 or more per year.

But Treasury officials reportedly told her any move to cut the 40 per cent tax relief on pensions would unfairly punish state employees on modest incomes, like a nurse earning £50,000 who could face an extra tax bill of £1,000 a year.

One Government insider blasted the idea as “madness,” especially after public sector workers just received a pay rise.

Former Pensions Minister Steve Webb told The Times: “I don’t think this is something that Reeves will want to do, not least because it will infuriate public sector unions just weeks after the government agreed pay settlements with them.”

Union leaders are also understood to have cautioned the Treasury against moving forward with the proposal.

Chair of the British Medical Association pensions committee Vishal Sharma said: “Attacking our pensions in this way would completely reverse this progress by once again taking money away from doctors in a different way.

What was Labour’s pension tax raid?

CHANCELLOR Rachel Reeves was considering reducing pensions tax relief for those earning £50,000 or more annually.

Currently, people receive tax relief based on their income tax rate.

This means basic-rate taxpayers get 20 per cent relief, higher-rate taxpayers get 40 per cent, and additional-rate taxpayers get 45 per cent.

Under the proposed change, high earners would have seen their tax relief reduced to a flat rate, likely lower than 40 per cent or 45 per cent.

But the reduction in tax relief would have meant that higher earners might contribute less to their pensions, as the incentive to save more would be diminished.

“‘Not only would this negate the recent hard-won pay rises but it would likely reignite the recent pay disputes that have been seen across the NHS.”

The plan has been compared to Labour’s earlier disaster of a proposal to bring back a lifetime cap on pension savings, which was ditched during the election campaign after backlash over its impact on junior doctors.

With Labour still desperate to plug a £22 billion hole in the public finances, Treasury officials are now hunting for other ways to rake in cash.

The Government has repeatedly cautioned the Budget on October 30 will involve “difficult decisions” on tax and spending.

A range of options for generating tax revenue have been touted, including increasing capital gains tax.

CGT is a tax on the profit made when you sell or dispose of an asset, like property or shares, for more than you paid for it.

You only pay tax on the gain, not the total amount received from the sale.

There may also be a temptation to make changes to inheritance tax to target the most wealthy.

Predictions for the Autumn Statement

The Sun’s Head of Consumer Tara Evans reveals the top predictions for the Autumn Statement:

Winter Fuel Payments

Chancellor Rachel Reeves has already announced that Winter Fuel Payments will be limited to those receiving pension credit and certain benefits. The benefit is worth up to £300 per year and currently is available to everyone over state pension age and those on certain benefits.

No rises to some taxes

Keir Starmer promised there would be no rises to National Insurance, Income Tax, Corporation Tax or VAT as part of Labour’s manifesto in the election race.

Inheritance Tax

It has been predicted that the Chancellor Racheal Reeves will make changes to inheritance tax rates or thresholds. One suggestion is the potential shortening of the gift period before death for tax exemptions.

Pensions

Pensions featured very high up in the King’s Speech, was this a hint at how high on the agenda it will feature in the budget? Experts say there are a number of options, including reintroducing the lifetime allowance cap. Ms Reeves has previously campaigned to reduce the tax relief that higher earners get on their pensions and to introduce a flat rate of 33% instead. Another possible option is changing the rules around pensions and inheritance tax.

Capital Gains Tax (CGT)

There is speculation that the £3,000 tax-free allowance could be scrapped or there may be an extension of CGT to other assets.

Business Rates

There are rumours of reforms to support small businesses, possibly basing rates on land value.

Fuel Duty

Possible rise in fuel duty, reversing the freeze since 2011 and impacting household costs. The Sun has backed drivers as part of its Keep It Down campaign since the start of 2011.

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Dynamic Planner announces CRM integration with Adviser Cloud

Published

34 mins ago

October 7, 2024

NewsAdmin

Dynamic Planner announces CRM integration with Adviser Cloud

Dynamic Planner has announced a new CRM integration with Adviser Cloud.

Financial advisers who use the new integration will be able to “seamlessly transfer client records easily, efficiently and securely” between Dynamic Planner and Adviser Cloud.

Data is passed between the systems, with Adviser Cloud validating all data, removing the need for rekeying, which minimises manual errors and saves time.

Dynamic Planner chief revenue officer Yasmina Siadatan said: “The Dynamic Planner ecosystem is continuously expanding and today we are pleased to announce another two-way integration, this time with Adviser Cloud. This will be a game changer for anyone using Adviser Cloud and Dynamic Planner, providing a seamless user experience.

“As the latest in our growing suite of strategic partners, this new CRM integration with Adviser Cloud will continue to transform the processes of financial planning firms and drive significant efficiencies. Integrations are fundamental for our clients and we are committed to our long-term strategy of continuously enhancing the flow of information to and from Dynamic Planner as the system of record.”

Adviser Cloud tech lead Ewan Humphreys added: “Our integration with Dynamic Planner is designed to make financial planning simpler and more efficient. Adviser Cloud has always focused on providing intuitive, user-friendly software for financial advisers, and this integration continues that mission by eliminating data rekeying and enhancing workflows. This partnership enables advisers to deliver even better client experiences while saving time and reducing operational costs.”

Adviser Cloud specialises in intuitive and easy-to-use software for IFAs, designed to reduce costs, increase efficiency, and deliver an exceptional client experience.

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Six month warning to nearly half a million people claiming tax credits who risk losing cash

Published

55 mins ago

October 7, 2024

NewsAdmin

DWP issues PIP update to help clear huge payment review backlog

NEARLY half a million people claiming tax credits have been given a six-month warning to ensure they continue to receive benefits.

The warning comes as the government continues to transition all two million claimants on legacy benefits to Universal Credit by the end of March 2025.

The Department for Work and Pensions has issued a six-month warning to those claiming tac creditsCredit: Alamy

Recipients of tax credits do not need to take action until they receive a migration notice letter from the Department for Work and Pensions.

But, once received it’s important to act quickly to avoid having benefit payments cut off.

Legacy benefits – such as Tax Credits, Housing Benefit, Income Support, Jobseeker’s Allowance and Income-Related Employment and Support Allowance – are all being phased out.

All claimants will be moved to Universal Credit in a process known as ‘managed migration’.

Once claimants have received a letter they will have three months to migrate to Universal Credit.

Sir Stephen Timms, Minister for Social Security and Disability at the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), said: “I can testify just how busy life can become in just a short space of time.

“But it is important to plan ahead. I wish to stress this especially if you are in receipt of legacy benefits and thinking about your financial future.

“In April 2025, tax credits will close, which means for thousands of people their old benefits will no longer be paid. Notices are being sent out to help transfer people to Universal Credit and I strongly urge you to respond to your letter when you receive one.

“If you do not, your entitlement will end. You may also lose out on financial protection if you do not respond. The majority of those moving onto Universal Credit will not be worse off than what they claimed previously. There are numerous protections in place, including, if necessary, direct payments to top up your entitlement to what you received previously.

“Not responding to your notice may mean these protections are not in place.”

How does work affect Universal Credit?

The transition to Universal Credit is not automatic so it’s crucial for households to apply for the benefit within three months of receiving their migration notice.

Timms added: “Once you receive your migration notice, regardless of which old benefit you claim, do not delay in responding. The process is quick and easy which will make sure your future benefit entitlement is secured.”

Since July 2022, the DWP has sent nearly 1.14million migration notices.

However, according to the DWP’s latest figures, 284,660 individuals lost their benefits after failing to act on migration notices received between July 2022 and June 2024.

Some 623,310 individuals have since made successful claims for Universal Credit, and another 232,830 are still in the process of transitioning.

The Sun previously revealed that around 171,750 households receiving tax credits, who were sent migration notices between November 2022 and December 2023, have had their benefits stopped.

That’s according to figures from the DWP, provided to anti-poverty charity Z2K via a freedom of information request.

Experts have previously warned that managed migration poses a risk to vulnerable people who face losing money.

Top bosses at charities, including Mind, The Trussell Trust, Turn2Us and the Money and Mental Health Policy Institute, said in 2022 that around 700,000 with mental health problems, learning disabilities, and dementia could struggle to engage with the process.

More than 20 organisations have called on the government to halt managed migration to fix flaws in the system that could cause those at risk to fall through.

MANAGED MIGRATION PROGRESS

In January, the government announced the number of migration notices it plans to send out in the coming financial year.

Before this date, the focus was sending migration notices to households claiming tax credits only.

However, 110,000 income support claimants and a further 120,000 claiming tax credits with housing benefit started receiving their letters in April.

Over 100,000 housing benefit-only claimants were contacted in June.

More than 90,000 people claiming employment and support allowance (ESA) along with child tax credits started being asked to switch in July.

Meanwhile, 20,000 claimants on jobseekers allowance (JSA) will be contacted from September.

The Sun previously reported that, in August, those claiming tax credits who are over state pension age will be asked to apply for either Universal Credit or pension credit.

It was initially planned that those claiming income-related ESA alone would not be moved until 2028.

However, the DWP brought forward plans to move these households to Universal Credit by the end of 2025.

Since September 2024, 800,000 households have begun receiving letters explaining how to move from ESA to Universal Credit.

HELP CLAIMING UNIVERSAL CREDIT

As well as benefit calculators, anyone moving from tax credits to Universal Credit can find help in a number of ways.

You can visit your local Jobcentre by searching at find-your-nearest-jobcentre.dwp.gov.uk/.

There’s also a free service called Help to Claim from Citizen’s Advice:

England: 0800 144 8 444
Scotland: 0800 023 2581
Wales: 08000 241 220

You can also get help online from advisers at citizensadvice.org.uk/about-us/contact-us/contact-us/help-to-claim/.

Will I be better off on Universal Credit?

AROUND 1.4million people on legacy benefits will be better off after switching to Universal Credit, according to the government.

A further 300,000 would see no change in payments, while around 900,000 will be worse off under Universal Credit.

Of these, around 600,000 are expected to get top-up payments if they move under managed migration, so they don’t lose out on cash immediately.

The majority of those – around 400,000 – are claiming employment support allowance (ESA).

Around 100,000 are on tax credits while fewer than 50,000 each on other legacy benefits are expected to be affected.

Examples of those who may be entitled to less on Universal Credit according to the government include:

Households getting ESA who and the severe disability premium and enhanced disability premium
Households with the lower disabled child addition on legacy benefits
Self-employed households who are subject to the Minimum Income Floor after the 12 month grace period has ended
In-work households that worked a specific number of hours (e.g. lone parent working 16 hours claiming working tax credits
Households receiving tax credits with savings of more than £6,000 (and up to £16,000)

But if they don’t switch in the future, they’ll risk missing out on any future increase to benefits and see payments frozen.

Those who move voluntarily and are worse off won’t get these top-up payments and could lose cash.

Those who miss the deadline and later make a claim may also not get this transitional protection either.

The clock starts ticking on the three-month countdown from the date of the first letter, and reminders are sent via post and text message.

There is a one-month grace period after this, during which any claim to Universal Credit is backdated, and transitional protection can still be awarded.

Do you have a money problem that needs sorting? Get in touch by emailing money-sm@news.co.uk.

Plus, you can join our Sun Money Chats and Tips Facebook group to share your tips and stories

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UK house prices rise again nearing record high as interest rates fall, Halifax says

Published

1 hour ago

October 7, 2024

NewsAdmin

UK house prices rise again nearing record high as interest rates fall, Halifax says

UK house prices have risen again, nearing a record high as interest rates decline, according to the nation’s largest lender.

Halifax says prices increased by 0.3% month-on-month in September, matching a rise seen in August.

Northern Ireland continues to record the strongest annual house price growth in the UKCredit: Getty

Year-on-year price growth was 4.7%, the strongest rate since November 2022.

The average house price was £293,399, just shy of a record high of £293,507 set in June 2022.

Northern Ireland continues to record the strongest annual house price growth, with prices up by 9.7% year-on-year, Halifax said.

The average price of a property in Northern Ireland is now £203,593.

Scotland was the weakest performing region, with prices rising by 2.1% over the year to £205,718.

The North West once again recorded the strongest house price growth of any region in England, up by 5.1% over the last year, to sit at £234,355.

London continues to have the most expensive property prices in the UK, now averaging £539,238, up 2.6% compared to last year.

However, this is still some way below the capital’s peak property price of £552,592 set in August 2022.

Overall, across the UK, prices were up 1.6% compared with the third quarter of 2024.

Amanda Bryden, head of mortgages at Halifax, said: “It’s essential to view these recent gains in context.

What is the Bank of England base rate and how does it affect me?

“While the typical property value has risen by around £13,000 over the past year, this increase is largely a recovery of the ground lost over the previous 12 months.

“Looking back two years, prices have increased by just +0.4% (£1,202).

“While improved mortgage affordability should continue to support buyer activity – boosted by anticipated further cuts to interest rates – housing costs remain a challenge for many.

“As a result we expect property price growth over the rest of this year and into next to remain modest.”

Here are the average prices in the three months to September and their annual change, according to Nationwide:

East Midlands – £241,873 up 3.1%
Eastern England – £333,042 up 2.3%
Greater London – £539,238 up 2.6%
North East – £171,338 up 2.4%
North West – £234,355 up 5.1%
Northern Ireland – £203,593 up 9.7%
Scotland – £205,718 up 2.1%
South East – £387,638 up 2.9%
South West – £303,747 up 3.3%
Wales – £224,119 up 4.4%
West Midlands – £255,148 up 3.3%
Yorkshire and Humber – £210,116 up 4.3%

WHAT IT MEANS FOR YOU

The figures published today show that the housing market is proving pretty resilient.

Verona Frankish, chief executive of Yopa, said: “The property market has bounced back following a period of prolonged uncertainty caused by higher interest rates and, whilst they remain considerably higher than many homebuyers will have become accustomed to in recent years, we’re now seeing buyers return with confidence following the base rate cut seen in August.”

The Bank of England (BoE) cut the base rate from 5.25% to 5% in August, before holding them at this rate again in September.

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Amount you need to earn under to claim Pension Credit worth £3,900 every year – plus up to £300 Winter Fuel Payment

Published

2 hours ago

October 7, 2024

NewsAdmin

Amount you need to earn under to claim Pension Credit worth £3,900 every year - plus up to £300 Winter Fuel Payment

IF you’re retired and on a low income, you should check to see if you’re eligible for Pension Credit.

The government says that around 880,000 people are missing out on the retirement top ups, even though they would qualify if they applied.

Pension Credit can be a huge boost in retirementCredit: Alamy

It estimates that the benefit is worth £3,900 each year on average, but for people who have a disability or caring responsibilities the amount could be far higher.

As well as topping up your income each month, Pension Credit also acts as a gateway for lots of other important and valuable benefits.

For instance, this year the new Labour government announced that the Winter Fuel Payment – worth £200-£300 depending on your age – would no longer be universal.

Instead, you need to receive Pension Credit to keep getting the benefit.

Similarly, in 2020, the BBC changed the rules about free TV licenses for over-75s, announcing that only those on Pension Credit will qualify for the perk.

Other benefits that Pension Credit might make you eligible for include: cold weather payments, help with your council tax bills, support for mortgage interest payments, help with NHS costs, and housing benefits if you rent.

Work and Pensions Secretary, Liz Kendall said: “Thousands of pensioners are missing out on Pension Credit worth on average £3,900 per year. That needs to change.

“It’s easier than ever to check if you are eligible, including with our online calculator, and if your circumstances have changed since the last time you looked – I urge you to check again.”

How much is the benefit worth – guarantee element

Pension Credit tops up your weekly income to £218.15 if you are single or to £332.95 if you have a partner.

That typically means that you need to earn less than those figures to qualify for the benefit.

However, DWP says if your income is higher than that, you might still be eligible for Pension Credit if you have a disability, care for someone, have savings or have housing costs.

For instance, you could get an extra £81.50 a week if you get any of the following benefits:

Attendance Allowance
the middle or highest rate from the care component of Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
the daily living component of Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
Armed Forces Independence Payment
the daily living component of Adult Disability Payment (ADP) at the standard or enhanced rate

That means a single person could get a cash top up if they earned less than £299.65 a week.

You could also get an extra £45.60 a week if you get Carer’s Allowance or Carer Support Payments and an extra £66.29 a week if you’re responsible for a child or children. This rises again if you’re responsible for a child with a disability.

Use the Pension Credit calculator to find out if you’re likely to be eligible and to get an estimate of how much you could get.

Savings credit

You could get the ‘Savings Credit’ part of Pension Credit if both of the following apply:

you reached State Pension age before 6 April 2016
you saved some money for retirement, for example a personal or workplace pension

You’ll get up to £17.01 Savings Credit a week if you’re single, which works out as £884.52 a year. If you have a partner, you’ll get up to £19.04 a week, or £990.08.

You might still get savings credit even if you do not get the main guarantee part of Pension Credit.

How to apply

Applications for Pension Credit can be made online, over the phone by calling 0800 99 1234 (Monday to Friday 8am to 6pm), or by printing out and filling in a paper application form. You can also call the claim line to request a form.

You can start your application up to four months before you reach State Pension age. Be warned, your application can only be backdated by three months.

So, it’s worth applying as soon as possible if you think you are eligible. You might get three months of Pension Credit in your first payment if you backdate.

You’ll need the following information about you and your partner:

National Insurance number
information about any income, savings and investments you have
information about your income, savings and investments on the date you want to backdate your application to
bank account details including your bank or building society name, sort code and account number.

Crucial to claim Pension Credit if you can

HUNDREDS of thousands of pensioners are missing out on Pension Credit.

The Sun’s Assistant Consumer Editor Lana Clements explains why it’s imperative to apply for the benefit..

Pension Credit is designed to top up the income of the UK’s poorest pensioners.

In itself the payment is a vital lifeline for older people with little income.

It will take weekly income up to to £218.15 if you’re single or joint income to £332.95.

Yet, an estimated 800,000 don’t claim this support. Not only are they missing on this cash, but far more extra support that is unlocked when claiming Pension Credit.

With the winter fuel payment – worth up to £300 now being restricted to pensioners claiming Pension Credit – it’s more important than ever to claim the benefit if you can.

Pension Credit also opens up help with housing costs, council tax or heating bills and even a free TV licence if you are 75 or older.

All this extra support can make a huge difference to the quality of life for a struggling pensioner.

It’s not difficult to apply for Pension Credit, you can do it up to four months before you reach state pension age through the government website or by calling 0800 99 1234.

You’ll just need your National Insurance number, as well as information about income, savings and investments.

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‘Need to try them!’, shoppers celebrate Home Bargains dupe of beloved M&S chocolate snack scanning at a cheaper price

Published

8 hours ago

October 7, 2024

NewsAdmin

'Need to try them!', shoppers celebrate Home Bargains dupe of beloved M&S chocolate snack scanning at a cheaper price

SHOPPERS are racing to get a Home Bargains dupe of a beloved M&S chocolate snack scanning at a cheaper price.

A savvy shopper posted the dupe in the Food Find UK Official Facebook group, where bargain hunters regularly share new items they discover in supermarkets.

Home Bargain's M&S dupe is scanning at tills for just £1.99 — Home Bargain’s M&S dupe is scanning at tills for just £1.99Credit: Facebook

M&S launched their Outrageously Chocolatey range last yearCredit: Ocado

Home Bargain’s new Elkes Temptations is a dupe of M&S’ popular Milk Chocolate Custard Creams.

The knock-off treats are scanning at the popular discount chain’s tills for only £1.99.

This is just over £1 less than the price at which M&S is selling their chocolatey snack.

Home Bargain fans can choose from a Chocolatey Custard Cream or the sought-after Chocolatey Bourbon Creams.

The caption for the post read: “Found these in-home bargains today they are £1.99 bit cheaper than the M&S ones not tried them yet.”

Hundreds of fellow bargain hunters have left likes and left comments expressing their desire to snap up the tasty treats.

One user cried: “I need these.”

“I need to go on the hunt for these,” another wrote.

A third commented: “Need cause the M&S ones are banging.”

“Thanks so much for sharing,” a fourth added.

‘We need to go NOW!’ Home Bargains shoppers say as sold-out viral Polar Express PJs return, but you’ll have to be quick

Last year M&S made a shock change to its bourbons and custard cream biscuits, as fans revealed the new versions taste like another classic chocolate bar.

The high street retail giant launched the new range from its Food brand, prompting people to pile in with reviews on social media.

The new Marks & Spencer offerings included savoury snacks as well as sweets.

Yet the ones that appeared to get the most responses were the custard creams and milk chocolate-coated bourbon-style biscuits.

The company deliberately fashioned their new treats on long-established “customer favourites”, it acknowledged.

The products had names such as Outrageously Chocolatey Chocolate-Coated Custard Creams and Outrageously Chocolatey Chocolate-Coated Bourbons, both priced at £2.50 per pack.

Comments on the official M&S Instagram channel in reply to the new arrivals included “These are insanely good” and “You have absolutely knocked it out of the park”.

Another fan posted: “These are like TimTams on steroids!”

University of Oxford historian Dr Francis Young said: “The words ‘historic’ and ‘breakthrough’ get bandied about a lot, but in the case of chocolate-covered custard creams we could be looking at something that genuinely changes the world for the better.”

And writer Anna Tuckett posted on X, formerly Twitter: “The rumours were true, this is an improvement on standard custard creams.”

How to save money on chocolate

WE all love a bit of chocolate from now and then, but you don’t have to break the bank buying your favourite bar.

Consumer reporter Sam Walker reveals how to cut costs…

Go own brand – if you’re not too fussed on flavour and just want to supplant your chocolate cravings, you’ll save by going for supermarket’s own brand bars.

Shop around – if you’ve spotted your favourite variety at the supermarket, make sure you check if it’s cheaper elsewhere.

Websites like Trolley.co.uk let you compare prices on products across all the major chains to see if you’re getting the best deal.

Look out for yellow stickers – supermarket staff put yellow, and sometimes orange and red, stickers on to products to show they’ve been reduced.

They usually do this if the product is coming to the end of its best before date or the packaging is slightly damaged.

Buy bigger bars – most of the time, but not always, chocolate is cheaper per 100g the larger the bar.

So if you’ve got the appetite, and you were going to buy a hefty amount of chocolate anyway, you might as well go bigger.

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High street retailers which offer free returns as some charge up to £50 to send back items

Amazon UK

YOUR RETURN RIGHTS EXPLAINED

Argos

Apple

Asda

Marks & Spencer

ASOS

John Lewis

Boots

Sports Direct

Currys

O2

Very

IKEA

Sainsbury’s

Screwfix

House of Fraser

Halfords

Littlewoods

JD Sports

Matalan

Smyth’s Toys

Dunelm

Superdrug

H&M

Poundland

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Amount you need to earn under to claim Pension Credit worth £3,900 every year – plus up to £300 Winter Fuel Payment

Crucial to claim Pension Credit if you can

Money

‘Need to try them!’, shoppers celebrate Home Bargains dupe of beloved M&S chocolate snack scanning at a cheaper price

How to save money on chocolate

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