MARCH 2008

There are a number of conferences around the country in the next few weeks. Click here to find out whether there is one close to you. Every event is free, and a complimentary copy of the book will be given to each attendee.  The author of the Money Revolution, John Preston, will also be speaking at seminars at Spring Harvest this year. Look out for them under the title "Hope in Debt, Generosity in Plenty".

BUDGET SPECIAL 

Here's a quick Money Revolution comment on the budget.  In one sense, there is little news!  Personal allowances rise in line with inflation, duties on alcohol and cigarettes go up, and there are increased taxes on cars linked with emissions. From an environmental stewardship perspective, this is good news, yet is the Chancellor motivated by the environment, or the extra revenue it will generate??   Welcome news for charities and churches, though, with the transitional Gift Aid relief for three years, sustaining the level at 28p for each pound given under Gift Aid. 

January 2008

The beginning of a new year is a great time to make some changes in your finances. There are lots of guides around to help you do this. Some good ones include the Daily Telegraph which has produced a Money Detox of 12 top tips for a New Year money makeover.  Money Saving Expert also has an excellent five stage review, which can help you save thousands of pounds.
The Church of England has also just launched its "A matter of life and debt" resource, which are for those with particular debt concerns.  As well as practical notes, case studies and places to get further help, prayers are also offered on the site.

December 2007

Christmas is always expensive. For many, it can lead to a Christmas debt hangover, which leads well into the New Year and beyond.  In the run up to the busiest shopping season, MoneyExpert.com produced some figures which suggest that one in 10 adults - the equivalent of 4.4 million - had still not paid off their store and credit card bills from a year ago.
It is time to pause and consider what we spend at Christmas, and why.  It is good to give presents, and it's great to be able to celebrate; but it is easy to go over the top and seek to give ever bigger and better gifts, and have the best ever Christmas.  The real Christmas gift, the birth of Jesus as Emmanuel (god with us), was costly, but not expensive. 

November 2007

It's getting close to Christmas, when many people will be thinking about making some large purchases.  When you do so, consider the long-term cost, and not just the purchase price. When buying a printer for your computer, think about the cost of consumables such as cartridges or toner. A light fitting that looks great on your wall may be on special offer, but how cheap are the bulbs? Whilst depreciation is a major factor in the running cost of a car, fuel economy, insurance group and the banding for car tax can all make a significant difference to how much it costs each month.
Tip : Sometimes low priced "bargains" can end up having expensive running costs!

October 2007

Up your MPG! Driving consistently and smoothly, changing gear at lower revs and avoiding high speeds can increase fuel economy significantly. The Americans refer to the accelerator as the “gas pedal” - a vivid reminder of the impact of a heavy right foot. Driving more slowly may only add a few seconds to your journey, but it may save a significant amount of money. Also, make sure your tyres are not too soft - the more inflated your tires, the better the fuel economy. Why not consider walking or cycling for short distances - and save even more fuel.
Tip : More miles per gallon, less carbon dioxide and just a few seconds more.

SEPTEMBER 2007

A cut in the basic rate of income tax has to be good news, surely? Not if you are a charity, and benefiting from Gift Aid. From April 2008, Charities will receive only 25p for every pound donated under Gift Aid, compared with 28p currently.
Higher rate taxpayers can claim the additional relief from the Inland Revenue (HMRC) at the end of the tax year. From next year, this will rise to 25p for every pound donated, making it very worthwhile to claim. Yet many higher rate taxpayers simply can’t be bothered to claim it. If you don’t want it, then please use the SA Donate scheme outlined on the tax forms to enable this relief to be given away to one of your favourite charities.