Money matters

Home ownership is becoming increasingly difficult so what steps should the first-time buyer take to increase their chances of success? Experian offers their first steps guide.

The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), the mortgage regulator, has introduced tough new rules requiring mortgage lenders to thoroughly check that borrowers can afford repayments, both now and in the future before approving applications. To do this they will now need to delve into your personal life and obtain a clear picture of your income and outgoings. As a result, it is feared that many applications will now be declined with many potential borrowers simply failing to meet the strict new criteria. Dean Dunham reveals what you need to know.

If you have received a PPI pay-out from the Lloyds Banking Group (which includes Halifax and Black Horse), Barclays or RBS/Natwest you may have been short-changed and therefore may be in line for a further pay-out. Dean Dunham gives the lowdown.

The big six energy providers (British Gas, SSE, Npower, EDF, Scottish Power and E.ON) have been  in the news over the past two weeks following the announcement that Ofgem (the regulator for the energy market) has referred them for a full competition investigation. So what does this actually mean and how will it affect you? asks Dean Dunham.

People are asking if they can still reclaim payment protection insurance (PPI) premiums. People's Lawyer, Dean Dunham, explains the issues.

Making a will is essential for every family but it can be a costly and complicated business. Rocket Lawyer, an online service, is offering a free seven day trial.

People's Lawyer Dean Dunham answers readers' questions about problems relating the floods from being paid if you can't get into work to becoming homeless.

People's Lawyer, Dean Dunhill, writes that you are almost certainly covered by your insurance and advises what to do if you become a flood victim.

Ever been contacted by a debt collector for a debt that definitely isn't your? You are not alone. People's Lawyer Dean Dunham advises on the step you can take.

Experian CreditExpert discuss why it is important to check your credit score, preferably once a year.

UK consumers have been spending millions buying online this year, but you need to surf with caution, as despite having greater rights when shopping online many consumers are still being fobbed off when trying to return goods. What’s more, a number of household brands are amongst the worst offenders. Here’s a round-up of some of the stories that Dean Dunham has been advising on.

We are all being given a gift this year in the form of additional shopper’s rights to be wrapped up in a new Consumer Rights Act. This new act combines eight separate regulations and pieces of legislation and introduces various new protections for consumers. The aim of this new act is to make it easier for both consumers and businesses to fully understand consumer laws.

Our People's Lawyer, Dean Dunham, expalins what you need to know and do in the current circumatances in which energy suppliers have increased prices.

It’s that time of year again when we are all in a shopping frenzy leading up to Christmas.  It is therefore important that you know your consumer rights. Here’s what you need to know when shopping for goods (nto services) in store and online by People's Lawyer, Dean Dunham.

If you have been sold goods or services  that you did not need, that for some reason you could not use or that you did not know had been sold to you, there is a very good chance that you will have a claim for mis-selling. Our People's Lawyer, Dean Dunham advises on mis-selling of PPI, card protection and energy.

We are hearing more and more stories about parents being presented with big bills due to their children playing games on iPhone/iPad and similar devices.  But what can you do if this happens to you? Dean Dunham advises parents on their rights and how to avoid the situation happening.

If you are planning a holiday for next summer, you may want to think about saving up some money for it. While it could be a number of months away, the earlier you start planning, the more time you have to ensure everything is ready and your finances are up to date.  Forester's Friendly Society offers a few ways you can effectively start to save up for the holiday of a lifetime next summer.

Gym members will be able to cancel their contracts more easily, after the Office of Fair Trading (OFT) struck a deal with LA Fitness, Dave Whelan Sports and gym management firm Harlands Group. Dean Dunham outlines what to look out for before you sign and how to get out if you already stuck in a contract.