Equity release may sound like a great way to unlock some of the value tied-up in your home. But it’s far more expensive than you may have realised, says Merryn Somerset Webb – especially when there’s a cheaper way of doing it.

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Equity release is a very pricey subprime loan

Offsetting your savings against your mortgage could save you hundreds of pounds in mortgage repayments.

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Tax advice of the week: Take out an offset mortgage

Energy suppliers may have taken a chunk out of our bills recently – but we’re still paying far more than a year ago, says Merryn Somerset Webb. So, how can you get the best deal?

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Should you switch energy suppliers?

Capital gains from foreign currency bank accounts will soon be tax free.

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Tax advice of the week: Transfer to a foreign bank account

More divorces are initiated after the Christmas holidays than at any other time of year. And while there’s no such thing as a good divorce, there are ways to make your break up unpleasant rather than downright nasty.

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What to consider before you divorce

Higher-rate taxpayers contributing to pensions should ensure they reclaim the full pension tax relief they’re due.

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Tax advice of the week: Reclaim higher-rate pension tax relief

Another New Year. Another resolution

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How to achieve your New Year resolutions

Avoid all the hassle of reimbursing mountains of employees’ expenses receipts by using a ‘scale rate payment’ instead.

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Tax advice of the week: Do away with expense claims

If you still don’t know what to get for that special someone this Christmas, don’t panic. Merryn Somerset Webb tips five ideas for last-minute gifts that keep on giving.

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Five last-minute Christmas presents

Take advantage of the new seed enterprise investment scheme to save thousands of pounds in capital gains tax.

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Tax advice of the week: Plant a seed