MARTIN Lewis has issued a two-month warning to everyone with a bank account as they face losing £200.
The Money Saving Expert said there are simple changes Brits could make now before Christmas to land some great benefits.
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Martin said banks across the UK offer different deals that can see you end up with cash in hand and extra bonuses.
He said: “Before you start planning, consider this: many list every lusted-for item, gifts for all, and a corking meal, then only afterwards consider: ‘How will I pay for it?’
“That’s a recipe for ending up broke. Instead, calculate your budget and ask: ‘What can I afford to spend?’ Christmas is one day – don’t ruin the whole of the next year for it.”
Nationwide FlexDirect is now offering a free £200 – plus an 8% regular saver and a year’s 0% overdraft.
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And newbies who switch to the scheme get access to a savings account, paying 8% interest on up to £200/month, and a year’s 0% overdraft on up to £1,500 (credit-check dependent).
There’s also the option that if you pay in £1,000+ a month, the current account pays 5% interest on up to £1,500 for a year.
There are similar deals with other banks, too.
First Direct 1st Account is offering a free £175, 7% regular saver, fee-free overseas spending and a £250 0% overdraft.
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And a Lloyds’ Club Lloyds account is offering a free £175, plus the choice of a reward from 12 months of Disney+ or six cinema tickets.
It will also offer a Coffee Club & Gourmet Society membership or a magazine subscription.
And, Martin said your money is secure – Financial Service Compensation Scheme guarantees up to £85,000 per person.
It comes after the Money Saving Expert offered tips on how to save cash amid the Netflix price hike.
The streaming giant announced it will now be charging Brits more to watch their favourite shows.
The cost jump will see those on a basic plan start paying £7.99 a month, and those on a premium plan splash £17.99 a month.
This will now see Brits on a basic plan pay another £12 a year increase, and those on a premium plan pay £24 a year more.
But, there are ways to cut costs, Martin revealed.
