MoneySavingExpert founder Martin Lewis has shared tips to help people save money ahead of Christmas
Martin Lewis has revealed how households can secure a complimentary £240 cash bonus and receive it in time for Christmas. In this week’s MoneySavingExpert newsletter, the site’s founder Mr Lewis detailed several bank account switches currently offering up to £240. He also included additional guidance ahead of Wednesday this week, which marks 100 days until Christmas.
Mr Lewis said: “For most who celebrate Christmas, it is a significant financial event that needs planning and prep, rather than a last-minute grab and dash. So whilst I hate Christmas music in stores in October as much as the next Scrooge, tomorrow (Wed) is exactly 100 days to go, so it’s time for my annual tips to save time, cost and stress. Don’t worry, I won’t go overboard – these are just the key things to be thinking about now if you haven’t started.
“And if you haven’t started, you’re not alone – 31,000 people voted in my social polls a couple of weeks ago and, of those who celebrate, 77% are like you; 18% have done a few little things; and a super-organised 4% have a decent chunk done! So whether you’re a Christmas person, a Chanukah chap like me, or other winter celebrations, I hope these tips will help.”
Examining the various bank account switching offers presently on the market, Mr Lewis said: “Do a free £240 bank switch now and you’ll have the cash in time for Christmas. Some of the most lucrative deals of the year are on right now and starting the switch now means you’ll have the cash in plenty of time to pump up your Christmas coffers. So unless your bank is treating you royally, why not make a bit of cash by moving?”
The £240 sum refers to the Santander Everyday account. To receive the complimentary cash, which ought to be paid by December 15, customers must deposit a total of £1,500 within 60 days – though this can be done in stages and withdrawn whenever you wish – and contribute £200 or more to the linked 8% regular savings account, which can likewise be withdrawn.
Several other accounts with comparable offers were also highlighted. These included the HSBC Bank Account, which has £220 available.
Customers must deposit a total of £2,000, which can be taken out straight away, and spend £500 or more using the debit card within 60 days. The complimentary cash ought to be paid by November 22.
First Direct is providing £210 for those who deposit a total of £1,000, which can be withdrawn instantly, complete five or more debit card transactions and access online banking within 45 days. The funds ought to be paid by October 20.
The NatWest Reward account is providing £200, MSE stated, to those who deposit £1,250 monthly and access the mobile app within 60 days. The cash ought to be paid by October 23.
Finally, MSE highlighted that the Nationwide FlexDirect account was offering £175 to those who deposit a total of £1,000, which can be taken out again, and complete one debit card transaction within 31 days. The money should be credited by October 3, MSE stated.
