Latest news with #MartinSLewis
Glasgow Times
4 days ago
- Health
- Glasgow Times
48 medical conditions eligible for Attendance Allowance
Pensioners living with these 48 common health conditions such as arthritis, heart disease, or dementia could be missing out on thousands of pounds in financial support each year, experts have warned. The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) recently revealed that nearly 1.7 million people over State Pension age are claiming Attendance Allowance, a tax-free benefit designed to help cover the extra costs of living with a long-term illness or disability. In Scotland, it's also called Pension Age Disability Payment. Despite the significant financial help on offer — up to £110.40 per week or £441.60 every four weeks — pension specialists say many people still don't realise they qualify. Money Saving Expert founder Martin Lewis has been campaigning to get more people to see if they are eligible. Important. Do you know (or are you) an ill or disabled person of state pension age? Up to 1.1m people are missing out on a NON-MEANS tested min £3,500 a year Attendance Allowance. Pls watch & spread word. Courtesy of @itvMLshow — Martin Lewis (@MartinSLewis) February 22, 2024 "For many older people who are ill or start to face mental or physical disability, life doesn't just get tougher, it gets costlier too," he says. "Add to that the fact people's conditions can make it more difficult to spend the time and energy needed to research possible help. That's why 18 months ago we launched our Attendance Allowance (AA) guide and awareness campaign, and successes have flooded in since. Yet it still remains massively underclaimed, with potentially a million eligible pensioners missing out (source: Policy in Practice). "So whether it's you or someone close to you who may qualify, take 2mins to read what the team and I have put below, starting with some inspiration on the domino effect Attendance Allowance can have (in this case for lower-income pensioners)." The list of conditions that qualify for Attendance Allowance includes 48 common illnesses and disorders. These range from arthritis, back pain and frailty to serious neurological conditions like Parkinson's and multiple sclerosis. Mental health conditions, visual and hearing impairments, and cognitive disorders such as dementia are also included. Spencer Churchill Claims Advice deals with this issue. Their spokesperson says: 'Conditions like arthritis, heart disease, dementia, and Parkinson's are among the most commonly supported under Attendance Allowance — yet too many older people assume they won't qualify or worry that having savings will disqualify them. That's simply not the case. 'We regularly speak with pensioners who've struggled in silence for years, not realising they were missing out on thousands of pounds annually. 'A successful claim for Attendance Allowance can be life-changing — easing financial pressure and helping people maintain independence in their own homes.' The list of conditions, according to Spencer Churchill Claims, includes: Arthritis Spondylosis Back Pain - Other / Precise Diagnosis not Specified Disease Of The Muscles, Bones or Joints Trauma to Limbs Visual Disorders and Diseases Hearing Disorders Heart Disease Respiratory Disorders and DiseasesAsthma Cystic Fibrosis Cerebrovascular Disease Peripheral Vascular Disease Epilepsy Neurological Diseases Multiple Sclerosis Parkinsons Motor Neurone Disease Chronic Pain Syndromes Diabetes Mellitus Metabolic Disease Traumatic Paraplegia Major Trauma Other than Traumatic/Paraplegia Learning Difficulties Psychosis Psychoneurosis Personality Disorder Dementia Behavioral Disorder Alcohol and Drug Abuse Hyperkinetic Syndrome Renal Disorders Inflammatory Bowel Disease Bowel and Stomach Disease Blood Disorders Haemophilia Multi System Disorders Multiple Allergy Syndrome Skin Disease Malignant Disease Haemodialysis Frailty AIDS Coronavirus covid-19 Viral disease - precise diagnosis not specified Tuberculosis Bacterial disease - precise diagnosis not specified Cognitive disorder (other) How to claim Is my pension too high for Attendance Allowance? Unlike many other benefits, Attendance Allowance is not means-tested, meaning it is available regardless of a person's income, savings, or assets. It also doesn't affect a person's State Pension, and claiming it may boost entitlement to other financial help, including Pension Credit, Housing Benefit, and Council Tax Reduction. This is a non-means-tested, tax-free benefit that can make a real difference to someone's quality of life. Whether you need help during the day, at night, or both — if your condition affects your ability to care for yourself, it's worth checking your eligibility. Many eligible people either don't apply or are put off by the lengthy claim form — but support is available through organisations like Citizens Advice, and the potential rewards are considerable.
South Wales Argus
11-07-2025
- Business
- South Wales Argus
Cash warning for Spain, Greece and Turkey this summer
New research asked 3,000 holidaymakers about their experiences with money while abroad - as well as future travel plans - found Spain, USA, Turkey, Greece, and France are the holiday hotspots where Brits are most likely to be tripped up by cash-only scenarios. Two in five (38%) Brits have experienced being caught short of cash while abroad, with Spain, the USA, Turkey, Greece, and France being the top destinations where UK holidaymakers have been caught out. While many of us are used to tapping and paying at home, nearly two in five (38%) Brits admit they've been caught short by trying to rely on cards abroad. Often just when they needed it most. It's a helpful reminder that a little preparation can go a long way in making sure your holiday runs as smoothly as possible. The research highlighted that only a third (33%) had researched how cash reliant their destination was before flying, meaning many could end up being caught short while abroad. Whether it's the food stalls of a Spanish market, a souvenir shop in Greece, or a taxi ride in Turkey, many everyday experiences abroad still demand physical currency. What's the best card to spend abroad? Is cash a winner? Change currency now or when you get there? These and far more summer holiday travel money questions answered in my new podcast below... — Martin Lewis (@MartinSLewis) June 26, 2025 Tesco Insurance and Money Services' research found the top locations where Brits had experienced being caught short of cash: Spain USA Turkey Greece France Austria For many travellers cash is still king and they are simply more comfortable with the certainty carrying cash brings. Well over half (57%) use cash for taxis and tipping, while almost half (48%) say it's just more convenient than cards. For a third (33%), cash is an essential safety net in case of emergencies. A fifth (21%) are motivated by a desire to avoid foreign card charges, or because they know from experience that cash is more widely accepted in their chosen destination. Ban Mahsoub, Partnerships Director, at Tesco Insurance and Money Services says: 'While we're all used to paying with our phones and cards at home, travelling abroad often means going back to basics. Being caught without cash can turn a relaxing holiday into a stressful experience, whether you're trying to buy something at a market or simply pay for a taxi. "The best approach is a 'hybrid wallet', bring your cards, but make sure you've got some local currency too. A little preparation can make all the difference between a smooth trip and an unexpected hassle.' Research showed these were the worst places to be stuck without cash on holiday (Image: Tesco) Amelia Murray, a money expert at Be Clever With Your Cash, agrees: 'There's still a blind spot when it comes to cash. Many people assume that having a fee-free card is enough, but that can be a false economy if you end up using an ATM abroad that charges or get stung by poor exchange rates. 'It's not about carrying wads of cash, it's about being prepared for those moments when a card simply won't cut it.' She suggested packing a 'cash cushion' – a small amount of local currency that could be useful for tipping, local travel, or if holidaymakers end up somewhere that does not accept cards. She also suggested that holidaymakers make sure they understand their card's policy on fees and currency conversion before they travel. To help Brits avoid those holiday cash blind spots, it is worth making a plan for managing your money abroad: Don't leave it until the airport Airport exchange rates are notoriously poor, and exchange bureaus abroad often come with high transaction fees. Sorting your currency in advance not only means you're likely to get a much better exchange rate, but also gives you peace of mind in case you arrive and can't immediately access an ATM or bureau. It also means you won't get caught out abroad without cash when you need it most or stung by unexpected ATM fees. Customers with a Tesco Clubcard are eligible for Clubcard Prices discount on travel money when buying their currency in a Tesco store or online. For even more convenience, Tesco Travel Money also offers home delivery. Double-check the currency It sounds so simple, but always confirm the currency used at your destination, especially if you're travelling to regions where multiple currencies are accepted or if you're crossing borders during your trip. A quick check can save you hassle later. Bring small and large notes if possible Local markets, taxis, and small independent shops often struggle to break large notes, especially for small purchases. Having a mix of smaller bills makes everyday transactions much easier, helps with tipping, and avoids awkward situations. Recommended reading: Withdrawing cash If you don't like the idea of carrying too much cash with you but want to avoid card fees for withdrawing cash abroad, a Multi-currency Cash Passport could be a good option. This is a prepaid travel money card that you can buy in store at Tesco's Travel Money Bureaux or online and load with up to 10 currencies before you go. Don't forget your leftover cash If you have cash left over at the end of your holiday, you could send it to one of Tesco's in-store Travel Money Bureaux and they'll buy it back – even if you bought it elsewhere -. Customers who purchase Tesco's Buy Back Promise when ordering their travel money through them can even return the currency at the rate they bought it, which may save them money.
Glasgow Times
10-07-2025
- Business
- Glasgow Times
Cash warning for Spain, Greece and Turkey this summer
New research asked 3,000 holidaymakers about their experiences with money while abroad - as well as future travel plans - found Spain, USA, Turkey, Greece, and France are the holiday hotspots where Brits are most likely to be tripped up by cash-only scenarios. Two in five (38%) Brits have experienced being caught short of cash while abroad, with Spain, the USA, Turkey, Greece, and France being the top destinations where UK holidaymakers have been caught out. While many of us are used to tapping and paying at home, nearly two in five (38%) Brits admit they've been caught short by trying to rely on cards abroad. Often just when they needed it most. It's a helpful reminder that a little preparation can go a long way in making sure your holiday runs as smoothly as possible. The research highlighted that only a third (33%) had researched how cash reliant their destination was before flying, meaning many could end up being caught short while abroad. Whether it's the food stalls of a Spanish market, a souvenir shop in Greece, or a taxi ride in Turkey, many everyday experiences abroad still demand physical currency. What's the best card to spend abroad? Is cash a winner? Change currency now or when you get there? These and far more summer holiday travel money questions answered in my new podcast below... — Martin Lewis (@MartinSLewis) June 26, 2025 Tesco Insurance and Money Services' research found the top locations where Brits had experienced being caught short of cash: Spain USA Turkey Greece France Austria For many travellers cash is still king and they are simply more comfortable with the certainty carrying cash brings. Well over half (57%) use cash for taxis and tipping, while almost half (48%) say it's just more convenient than cards. For a third (33%), cash is an essential safety net in case of emergencies. A fifth (21%) are motivated by a desire to avoid foreign card charges, or because they know from experience that cash is more widely accepted in their chosen destination. Ban Mahsoub, Partnerships Director, at Tesco Insurance and Money Services says: 'While we're all used to paying with our phones and cards at home, travelling abroad often means going back to basics. Being caught without cash can turn a relaxing holiday into a stressful experience, whether you're trying to buy something at a market or simply pay for a taxi. "The best approach is a 'hybrid wallet', bring your cards, but make sure you've got some local currency too. A little preparation can make all the difference between a smooth trip and an unexpected hassle.' Research showed these were the worst places to be stuck without cash on holiday (Image: Tesco) Amelia Murray, a money expert at Be Clever With Your Cash, agrees: 'There's still a blind spot when it comes to cash. Many people assume that having a fee-free card is enough, but that can be a false economy if you end up using an ATM abroad that charges or get stung by poor exchange rates. 'It's not about carrying wads of cash, it's about being prepared for those moments when a card simply won't cut it.' She suggested packing a 'cash cushion' – a small amount of local currency that could be useful for tipping, local travel, or if holidaymakers end up somewhere that does not accept cards. She also suggested that holidaymakers make sure they understand their card's policy on fees and currency conversion before they travel. To help Brits avoid those holiday cash blind spots, it is worth making a plan for managing your money abroad: Don't leave it until the airport Airport exchange rates are notoriously poor, and exchange bureaus abroad often come with high transaction fees. Sorting your currency in advance not only means you're likely to get a much better exchange rate, but also gives you peace of mind in case you arrive and can't immediately access an ATM or bureau. It also means you won't get caught out abroad without cash when you need it most or stung by unexpected ATM fees. Customers with a Tesco Clubcard are eligible for Clubcard Prices discount on travel money when buying their currency in a Tesco store or online. For even more convenience, Tesco Travel Money also offers home delivery. Double-check the currency It sounds so simple, but always confirm the currency used at your destination, especially if you're travelling to regions where multiple currencies are accepted or if you're crossing borders during your trip. A quick check can save you hassle later. Bring small and large notes if possible Local markets, taxis, and small independent shops often struggle to break large notes, especially for small purchases. Having a mix of smaller bills makes everyday transactions much easier, helps with tipping, and avoids awkward situations. Recommended reading: Withdrawing cash If you don't like the idea of carrying too much cash with you but want to avoid card fees for withdrawing cash abroad, a Multi-currency Cash Passport could be a good option. This is a prepaid travel money card that you can buy in store at Tesco's Travel Money Bureaux or online and load with up to 10 currencies before you go. Don't forget your leftover cash If you have cash left over at the end of your holiday, you could send it to one of Tesco's in-store Travel Money Bureaux and they'll buy it back – even if you bought it elsewhere -. Customers who purchase Tesco's Buy Back Promise when ordering their travel money through them can even return the currency at the rate they bought it, which may save them money.
Glasgow Times
08-07-2025
- Business
- Glasgow Times
Martin Lewis is reporting 30 huge shops to Trading Standards
In a Good Morning Britain briefing, he told viewers that many popular shops, including Selfridges, Harvey Nichols, Joules, Monsoon, Home Bargains, The Range and New Look, were denying their customers basic online consumer rights. Talking about online sales - apart from perishable or personalised orders, where the rules differ - he says: "you have an absolute right to change your mind, and you have 14 days after delivery. "Important, it's after delivery, not after order, in which to tell them you're sending an item back, and 14 days after the point at which you've told them to actually send it back, which means maximum of 28 days. 30 retailers including Selfridges, New Look and The Range are publishing misleading (worse) return rights information on their websites than you legally have. Find which stores to be careful of, and what your rights are. For the full list of stores go to — Martin Lewis (@MartinSLewis) July 7, 2025 "Now, as an aside, if you buy something in store, you have no of return, and there'll be people with jaws dropping over that you have no right to return items bought in store. "Some stores will allow it as part of their returns policy, and if they publish that returns policy, it's part of the contract, but you can't take back goods bought in store unless they're faulty." He continues: "What they're putting on their websites are the their return rights, right if you're buying something in store, but it doesn't apply if it's faulty. Let's give you a few examples of where it's wrong. Let's take Monsoon. Got it written in front of me. Monsoon says, 'send them to us exactly as you receive them in a new and unused condition within 30 days of dispatch'. Well, first of all, it starts at receipt. It doesn't start at dispatch. "For full price items and within 14 days for sale reduced items from the date of dispatch," he corrects. "Online, by law, you've got 14 days to notify them and a further 14 days to send it back. "What they have on their website is wrong. It is not your legal right. "New Look, 'you can return sale items within 14 days'," again, he corrects them, adding in what the policy should be. "No you can notify within 14 days, you got another 14 days to send back." Then he adds another: "The Range: 'you need to return your item to us at our range marketplace partner, within 14 days of receiving'. "No you have 14 days of receiving it to notify as you're sending back, and a further 14 days to send it back. And we found 30 examples. And what's really frustrating here is two of those. I mentioned Monsoon and New Look. "My team and I last did this in 2018 and both of those had it wrong then, and we never found that at the time, and they still wrong now. So we're taking our dossier of evidence and giving it to Trading Standards." Recommended reading: The stores with incorrect returns policies listed: This is the full list, from Money Saving Expert's website. Benefit Boden Bondi Sands Caffè Nero Carluccio's CEX Early Learning Centre Evans (no longer trading) (no longer trading) Freemans Grüum Guinness Harvey Nichols HiPP Organic HMV Home Bargains Hotpod Yoga Hush Jessops Joules Monsoon New Look PerfectDraft Poundland Robert Dyas Ryman Selfridges The Range Victoria's Secret Several retailers referenced outdated policy on their websites, namely the Distance Selling Regulations, which were replaced in 2014 by the Consumer Contracts Regulations 2013.
The Herald Scotland
08-07-2025
- Business
- The Herald Scotland
Martin Lewis is reporting 30 huge shops to Trading Standards
Talking about online sales - apart from perishable or personalised orders, where the rules differ - he says: "you have an absolute right to change your mind, and you have 14 days after delivery. "Important, it's after delivery, not after order, in which to tell them you're sending an item back, and 14 days after the point at which you've told them to actually send it back, which means maximum of 28 days. 30 retailers including Selfridges, New Look and The Range are publishing misleading (worse) return rights information on their websites than you legally have. Find which stores to be careful of, and what your rights are. For the full list of stores go to — Martin Lewis (@MartinSLewis) July 7, 2025 "Now, as an aside, if you buy something in store, you have no of return, and there'll be people with jaws dropping over that you have no right to return items bought in store. "Some stores will allow it as part of their returns policy, and if they publish that returns policy, it's part of the contract, but you can't take back goods bought in store unless they're faulty." He continues: "What they're putting on their websites are the their return rights, right if you're buying something in store, but it doesn't apply if it's faulty. Let's give you a few examples of where it's wrong. Let's take Monsoon. Got it written in front of me. Monsoon says, 'send them to us exactly as you receive them in a new and unused condition within 30 days of dispatch'. Well, first of all, it starts at receipt. It doesn't start at dispatch. "For full price items and within 14 days for sale reduced items from the date of dispatch," he corrects. "Online, by law, you've got 14 days to notify them and a further 14 days to send it back. "What they have on their website is wrong. It is not your legal right. "New Look, 'you can return sale items within 14 days'," again, he corrects them, adding in what the policy should be. "No you can notify within 14 days, you got another 14 days to send back." Then he adds another: "The Range: 'you need to return your item to us at our range marketplace partner, within 14 days of receiving'. "No you have 14 days of receiving it to notify as you're sending back, and a further 14 days to send it back. And we found 30 examples. And what's really frustrating here is two of those. I mentioned Monsoon and New Look. "My team and I last did this in 2018 and both of those had it wrong then, and we never found that at the time, and they still wrong now. So we're taking our dossier of evidence and giving it to Trading Standards." READ MORE: The stores with incorrect returns policies listed: This is the full list, from Money Saving Expert's website. Benefit Boden Bondi Sands Caffè Nero Carluccio's CEX Early Learning Centre Evans (no longer trading) (no longer trading) Freemans Grüum Guinness Harvey Nichols HiPP Organic HMV Home Bargains Hotpod Yoga Hush Jessops Joules Monsoon New Look PerfectDraft Poundland Robert Dyas Ryman Selfridges The Range Victoria's Secret Several retailers referenced outdated policy on their websites, namely the Distance Selling Regulations, which were replaced in 2014 by the Consumer Contracts Regulations 2013.
