Money News

Passengers using Bedford Train Station will soon be able to pick up, drop off and return their parcels as they hop on and off trains. This is thanks to a partnership between Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR) and InPost.

New automated lockers are being installed at Bedford Station and at ten other stations across the GTR network.

With 100 days to go before the 31 January deadline, HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) is reminding customers to complete their tax returns early to beat the Christmas and New Year rush.

Last year more than 2,000 people sent us their tax returns on Christmas Day. Customers should consider submitting their returns early to avoid the stress of a last minute rush. By doing their Self Assessment return now, customers can start planning their festive activities.

Millions of credit card customers could be paying more than they need in interest while missing out on potential benefits by not switching provider. Research from comparethemarket.com shows that nearly half of all UK credit card holders (45%) – equating to around 17 million people nationwide – have never switched their card.

Central Bedfordshire Council’s trading standards is backing a grassroots scheme for a community-based effort against the spiralling number of scams and cons circulating throughout the area.

Friends Against Scams is coordinated by the National Trading Standards Scams Team and promoted by local trading standards teams nationally, and gives people the tools they need to recognise scams and to take steps to make a difference.

The first stage is to take a free,20-minute online training session or attend a presentation which raises awareness of the common types out there, the skills to avoid them and the confidence to spread the word to friends, neighbours and loved ones.

Community groups in Anglia have just two weeks left to apply for a regional grant of up to £10,000 to help local people look after their hearts.

National charity Heart Research UK is urging groups to submit applications for the Heart Research UK and Subway® Healthy Heart Grant before the deadline.

The Grant is available for new and innovative projects that promote healthy hearts and reduce the risk of heart disease in the community.

Over 132,000 people have signed up to the government-backed savings account Help to Save – depositing more than £31.4 million.

The account offers working people on low incomes a 50% bonus on what they save – rewarding them with 50p for every £1 they put away. Over four years, a maximum bonus of £1,200 is available on savings of up to £2,400.

It’s finally summertime; the days are longer, the mornings are brighter, and drinks are colder. Many of us will be buying new items to take us through the summer months, such as sunglasses, new makeup, sun tan lotions, and even a new phone charger to take on holidays.

But how do you know you’re getting the real deal? Buying a bargain is always tempting, but if it seems too good to be true, it probably is. Fake goods may seem a cheap alternative, but many are harmful and could cause injury, sometimes severe.

HMRC is urging customers to renew their tax credits as there are just 7 days to go before the 31 July 2019 deadline.

Local charities and community groups are being encouraged to apply for funding of up to £20,000 from a pot worth over £3 million that has been raised by players of People’s Postcode Lottery.

Whether you are looking to renew your passport, apply for a driving licence or fishing licence, book a driving test or pay a congestion charge or for using the Dartford Crossing, the Trading Standards team is urging residents not to fall victim to copycat Government websites.