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The potential perils of accessing your pension at 55

Reaching the minimum pension age and being able to access your retirement savings might mean new possibilities opening up. You may start thinking about giving up work, withdrawing a lump sum to pursue a goal, or using your pension to boost your regular income. It’s an exciting time, but it’s also important to evaluate your decisions and consider how they …

A couple in their 50s laughing on a boat together.

3 retirement financial shocks that could affect your finances

Those who have retired or are nearing the milestone are consistently overlooking the risk of financial shocks when compared to other generations, a survey published in PensionsAge in December 2024 suggests. According to the report, 43% of over-50s had thought about financial shocks but not included the risks in their retirement plan. A further 32% haven’t considered risks at all. …

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The guide to securing a mortgage with a poor credit score

Finding a mortgage with a poor credit score may seem like an uphill battle, but it isn’t impossible. If you’re an aspiring homeowner but are worried about how your credit report could affect your chances, read on to discover some of the steps that might help. 1. Save a larger deposit As lenders will view you as more of a …

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The cryptocurrency basics you need to know before you consider investing

Even if you’ve never considered investing in cryptocurrency, also known as “cryptoassets”, the chances are, you’ve heard of the term. As more people invest in them, understanding what it means, and the risk associated with investing in these types of assets could be valuable. According to the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), as of August 2024, around 12% of UK adults, …

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Job hopping could be the key to boosting your retirement income

The secret to saving more for your retirement could be regularly switching jobs, figures suggest. In fact, according to FTAdviser in November 2024, those who frequently take new career opportunities have more saved for retirement. For many workers, gone are the days of a job for life. Instead, employees are switching jobs more frequently than ever. Figures from 2024 collected …

A woman in her 60s checking something on her mobile phone.

State Pension: Everything you need to know in 2025/26

For many pensioners, the State Pension provides a foundation to build their retirement income. Whether you’re already claiming the State Pension or it’s still some years away, here’s what you need to know in 2025/26. In the 2025/26 tax year, you can claim the State Pension from the age of 66. However, the age will gradually start to increase from …

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The first-time buyers to securing a mortgage

Preparing to buy your first home can be exciting, but it might also be a milestone you’re feeling apprehensive about. Not only will you be making a large financial commitment, but the process of buying a property can seem complex and filled with jargon. Indeed, according to a survey from Halifax, more than half of under-35s admit they don’t feel …

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How you could take advantage of falling interest rates

Interest rates are expected to fall in 2025. If you’re a homeowner, it could present an opportunity to reduce your mortgage repayments and boost your finances overall. The Bank of England (BoE) increased the base interest rate when inflation was high as a way to slow down the rising cost of goods and services. Between December 2021 and August 2023, …

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How do you become an ISA millionaire? Investment returns could be key

The number of people with at least a million pounds in their ISAs is on the rise. If you want to join their ranks, consistency and investing could be key. An ISA is a tax-efficient way to save or invest. The interest or investment returns added to your ISA won’t be liable for Income Tax or Capital Gains Tax. As …