The Cost Saver Podcast

By Angela & Asad - Cost-Saver.co.uk

The Cost Saver Podcast gives UK households the data, calculators, and strategies needed to cut energy bills, optimise council tax, evaluate mortgage decisions, and avoid costly consumer traps. Hosted ... more

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FAQs about The Cost Saver Podcast:

How many episodes does The Cost Saver Podcast have?

The podcast currently has 157 episodes available.

The Cost Saver Podcast episodes:

June 12, 2026UK Vehicle Tax & MOT in 2026: The Costly Mistakes Drivers Keep Making
🧮 Try the free tool: https://www.cost-saver.co.uk/toolbox/uk-vehicle-tax-mot-status-checker
From the new EV road tax to MOT slip-ups that void your insurance, here are the vehicle tax and MOT mistakes set to cost UK drivers serious money in 2026.
🔑 Key Takeaways in This Episode:
EVs are no longer tax-exempt; check for the Expensive Car Supplement if your EV cost over £40k.
Don't rely on DVLA digital reminders; set your own calendar alerts for tax and MOT renewals.
Always use the free GOV.UK checker before buying a used car to verify MOT, tax, and write-off status.
There is no MOT grace period; driving without a valid MOT invalidates insurance and incurs heavy fines.
Regularly check your DVLA direct debit and consider paying tax upfront to avoid cancellation risks.
⏱️ Episode Chapters:
00:00 – UK Vehicle Tax & MOT Changes
02:49 – Electric Vehicle Tax & Costs
05:00 – Digital Reminders & Used Car Risks
08:25 – MOT Grace Period & SORN Rules
10:37 – Direct Debit Trap & Car Costs
12:49 – The Essential Free GOV.UK Checker
🔗 Official Resources & Media:
🧮 Free Interactive Tool: https://www.cost-saver.co.uk/toolbox/uk-vehicle-tax-mot-status-checker
📖 Read Full Blog Guide: UK Vehicle Tax & MOT in 2026: The Costly Mistakes Drivers Keep Making on Cost-Saver.co.uk
🎬 Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/e1SCjzALL1I
🎧 Stream this Episode: https://www.cost-saver.co.uk/podcasts/uk-vehicle-tax-mot-mistakes-2026
🌐 Explore 200+ Free Tools: Cost-Saver.co.uk
Hosted by Angela & Asad on Cost-Saver.co.uk.
AI Disclosure: This episode uses AI-assisted narration and is provided for informational and educational purposes only, not financial guidance.
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16min
June 11, 2026Universal Credit Extra Hours: Avoid the 55% HMRC Taper Trap
🧮 Try the free tool: https://www.cost-saver.co.uk/toolbox/universal-credit-worker-hours-calculator
A plain-English guide to how the 55% Universal Credit taper, work allowance and benefit cliffs interact when you take on extra hours. Learn the common mistakes, hidden costs, and how to work out whether more work actually pays.
🔑 Key Takeaways in This Episode:
The 55% UC taper, combined with tax and NI, means you keep less than 40p of each extra pound earned, often from the first pound.
Beware of 'cliff edges' like free school meals or council tax support, where small pay rises can cause significant benefit loss.
Hidden costs (travel, childcare, food) can make extra hours financially unviable; one case showed £1.75/hour net gain.
Timing of paydays within your assessment period is crucial; earning twice in one period can lead to a huge UC taper hit.
Use a dedicated UC Extra Hours Calculator to accurately assess the true financial impact before taking on extra work.
⏱️ Episode Chapters:
00:00 – Introduction to the Taper Trap
03:26 – Understanding Benefit Cliff Edges
06:58 – Real-World Impact: Sarah's Story
08:33 – Common Mistakes and Pitfalls
10:50 – How to Calculate Your True Payoff
12:45 – Alternatives and Key Takeaways
🔗 Official Resources & Media:
🧮 Free Interactive Tool: https://www.cost-saver.co.uk/toolbox/universal-credit-worker-hours-calculator
📖 Read Full Blog Guide: Universal Credit Extra Hours: Avoid the 55% HMRC Taper Trap on Cost-Saver.co.uk
🎬 Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/dpIEcMpLAGY
🎧 Stream this Episode: https://www.cost-saver.co.uk/podcasts/universal-credit-extra-hours-payoff-calculator
🌐 Explore 200+ Free Tools: Cost-Saver.co.uk
Hosted by Angela & Asad on Cost-Saver.co.uk.
AI Disclosure: This episode uses AI-assisted narration and is provided for informational and educational purposes only, not financial guidance.
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16min
June 10, 2026Premium Bonds vs UK Savings: Are You Losing Money to Inflation?
🧮 Try the free tool: https://www.cost-saver.co.uk/toolbox/premium-bonds-return-calculator
An honest look at whether Premium Bonds beat savings accounts in 2026 once you factor in tax, the median return, and the silent drag of inflation. Includes worked examples and better choices for different savers.
🔑 Key Takeaways in This Episode:
Premium Bonds' advertised prize fund rate is a mean average; your personal median return is likely much lower, often 2-3%.
Prioritize filling your Cash ISA allowance (£20,000) before Premium Bonds for predictable, tax-free returns.
Hidden costs include opportunity loss, inflation drag, and the 'lazy money trap' of not reviewing your holdings.
Always run after-tax calculations using a realistic median return (e.g., 3-3.5%) for Premium Bonds, not the headline rate.
Use the 30-minute checklist: check holdings, calculate yield, review ISA/PSA, run calculator, and transfer if needed.
⏱️ Episode Chapters:
00:00 – Introduction to Premium Bonds
01:30 – Understanding Real Premium Bond Returns
05:17 – Hidden Costs of Premium Bonds
07:13 – After-Tax Savings Comparisons
10:13 – Common Mistakes and Better Choices
11:44 – Actionable Steps and Checklist
🔗 Official Resources & Media:
🧮 Free Interactive Tool: https://www.cost-saver.co.uk/toolbox/premium-bonds-return-calculator
📖 Read Full Blog Guide: Premium Bonds vs UK Savings: Are You Losing Money to Inflation? on Cost-Saver.co.uk
🎬 Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/oX1CdfFn2eo
🎧 Stream this Episode: https://www.cost-saver.co.uk/podcasts/premium-bonds-vs-savings-calculator-uk-2026
🌐 Explore 200+ Free Tools: Cost-Saver.co.uk
Hosted by Angela & Asad on Cost-Saver.co.uk.
AI Disclosure: This episode uses AI-assisted narration and is provided for informational and educational purposes only, not financial guidance.
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16min
June 09, 2026Gym vs Home Workout: Uncovering the True Cost Over 5 Years
🧮 Try the free tool: https://www.cost-saver.co.uk/toolbox/gym-vs-home-workout
A frank look at what gym memberships and home workouts really cost UK households over five years, including hidden fees, time costs and the psychological factors that decide whether you stick with it.
🔑 Key Takeaways in This Episode:
Audit your past fitness spending from bank statements to establish an honest baseline for your current costs.
Beyond monthly fees, factor in joining fees, price rises, and travel costs to reveal the true 5-year expense.
Home setups vary from £50 for basics to £3500 for full gyms, but even top-tier averages £42/month over five years.
The cheapest option is the one you consistently use; prioritize adherence over initial cost for long-term value.
A hybrid approach (budget gym + modest home setup) offers flexibility and significant savings over five years.
⏱️ Episode Chapters:
00:00 – Introduction to Gym vs Home Workout
01:12 – Unpacking Hidden Gym Costs
06:05 – Home Workout Setup & Costs
10:55 – 5-Year Cost Comparison
12:21 – Psychology & Lifestyle Factors
15:39 – Finding Your Best Fit
🔗 Official Resources & Media:
🧮 Free Interactive Tool: https://www.cost-saver.co.uk/toolbox/gym-vs-home-workout
📖 Read Full Blog Guide: Gym vs Home Workout: Uncovering the True Cost Over 5 Years on Cost-Saver.co.uk
🎬 Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/bxEWAmX29mo
🎧 Stream this Episode: https://www.cost-saver.co.uk/podcasts/gym-vs-home-workout-true-5-year-cost-breakdown
🌐 Explore 200+ Free Tools: Cost-Saver.co.uk
Hosted by Angela & Asad on Cost-Saver.co.uk.
AI Disclosure: This episode uses AI-assisted narration and is provided for informational and educational purposes only, not financial guidance.
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19min
June 08, 2026Avoiding Common Pitfalls When Using the NI Gap State Pension Top-Up ROI Calculator
🧮 Try the free tool: https://www.cost-saver.co.uk/toolbox/ni-gap-state-pension-top-up-roi-calculator
An ROI calculator makes buying back NI years look like a no-brainer, but the headline numbers hide tax, benefit and eligibility traps. Here's how to use the tool properly.
🔑 Key Takeaways in This Episode:
Always get your State Pension forecast from gov.uk; calculators don't know your full NI record or contracted-out history.
State Pension is taxable income. If low income, buying years might reduce means-tested benefits like Pension Credit.
Call the free Future Pension Centre to confirm which specific years add value and their exact cost before paying.
Prioritize cheap Class 2 years (if self-employed), then post-2016 years. Avoid buying years beyond the 35-year cap.
Be realistic about your life expectancy and consider the opportunity cost of the money spent on top-ups.
⏱️ Episode Chapters:
00:00 – Introduction to NI Top-Up Pitfalls
02:14 – Understanding Your NI Record & The 35-Year Cap
05:28 – Taxation and Means-Tested Benefits Impact
08:12 – Optimizing Year Selection & Life Expectancy
11:57 – The Crucial Role of the Future Pension Centre
13:44 – Your Step-by-Step Action Plan
🔗 Official Resources & Media:
🧮 Free Interactive Tool: https://www.cost-saver.co.uk/toolbox/ni-gap-state-pension-top-up-roi-calculator
📖 Read Full Blog Guide: Avoiding Common Pitfalls When Using the NI Gap State Pension Top-Up ROI Calculator on Cost-Saver.co.uk
🎬 Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/F1w-cURB4ho
🎧 Stream this Episode: https://www.cost-saver.co.uk/podcasts/ni-gap-state-pension-top-up-roi-pitfalls
🌐 Explore 200+ Free Tools: Cost-Saver.co.uk
Hosted by Angela & Asad on Cost-Saver.co.uk.
AI Disclosure: This episode uses AI-assisted narration and is provided for informational and educational purposes only, not financial guidance.
...more
17min
June 05, 2026UK School Run Costs: Stop Wasting £800/Year on Solo School Trips
🧮 Try the free tool: https://www.cost-saver.co.uk/toolbox/school-run-cost-splitter
Discover how to fairly split school run costs in the UK using a transparent, HMRC-approved cost-per-mile framework. Avoid disputes and save money with our free School Run Cost Splitter tool.
🔑 Key Takeaways in This Episode:
Fuel is only about a third of actual car running costs; hidden expenses like depreciation, tyres, and servicing add up significantly.
Use HMRC's 45p per mile Approved Mileage Allowance Payment rate as a fair benchmark for total car costs.
Calculate annual school run costs by measuring distance, multiplying by frequency, and applying the 45p/mile rate.
Tailor expense sharing: 50/50 for co-parents, 20-25p/mile for grandparents, formal agreements for carpools.
Initiate money conversations with data (HMRC rate) and frame it as a fair system for both sides, not a personal accusation.
⏱️ Episode Chapters:
00:00 – Introduction to School Run Costs
02:34 – Beyond Fuel: The True Cost of Driving
04:27 – The HMRC Mileage Rate Solution
05:46 – Calculating and Applying the Framework
07:41 – Adapting for Different Family Setups
09:57 – How to Have the Money Conversation
🔗 Official Resources & Media:
🧮 Free Interactive Tool: https://www.cost-saver.co.uk/toolbox/school-run-cost-splitter
📖 Read Full Blog Guide: UK School Run Costs: Stop Wasting £800/Year on Solo School Trips on Cost-Saver.co.uk
🎬 Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/yfwkAAsI1Uk
🎧 Stream this Episode: https://www.cost-saver.co.uk/podcasts/school-run-cost-splitter-uk
🌐 Explore 200+ Free Tools: Cost-Saver.co.uk
Hosted by Angela & Asad on Cost-Saver.co.uk.
AI Disclosure: This episode uses AI-assisted narration and is provided for informational and educational purposes only, not financial guidance.
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15min
June 04, 2026Interest-Only Mortgage Shortfall: Common Pitfalls and Strategic Solutions
🧮 Try the free tool: https://www.cost-saver.co.uk/toolbox/interest-only-mortgage-calculator
Worried about an interest-only mortgage shortfall? Discover common UK pitfalls, calculation tips, and proven solutions to close the gap before your mortgage term ends.
🔑 Key Takeaways in This Episode:
Calculate your exact mortgage shortfall by gathering current statements and repayment vehicle valuations.
Review your repayment vehicle annually and adjust contributions to avoid underperformance.
Talk to your lender early about options like converting to repayment or making overpayments.
Consider pension contributions or Retirement Interest-Only mortgages for later-life solutions.
Seek independent financial advice for complex options like equity release, which should be a last resort.
⏱️ Episode Chapters:
00:00 – Understanding Mortgage Shortfalls
05:35 – Common Pitfalls to Avoid
09:38 – Proactive Repayment Strategies
12:48 – Later-Life & Last Resort Options
14:51 – Your Mortgage Shortfall Action Plan
🔗 Official Resources & Media:
🧮 Free Interactive Tool: https://www.cost-saver.co.uk/toolbox/interest-only-mortgage-calculator
📖 Read Full Blog Guide: Interest-Only Mortgage Shortfall: Common Pitfalls and Strategic Solutions on Cost-Saver.co.uk
🎬 Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/FvRZz-M1F0Y
🎧 Stream this Episode: https://www.cost-saver.co.uk/podcasts/interest-only-mortgage-shortfall-pitfalls-strategies-2026
🌐 Explore 200+ Free Tools: Cost-Saver.co.uk
Hosted by Angela & Asad on Cost-Saver.co.uk.
AI Disclosure: This episode uses AI-assisted narration and is provided for informational and educational purposes only, not financial guidance.
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19min
June 03, 2026True Cost of UK Car Ownership: The Hidden £5,000+ Depreciation Trap
🧮 Try the free tool: https://www.cost-saver.co.uk/toolbox/car-free-viability-walkability-calculator
Discover the true cost of car ownership in the UK, including hidden fees and common mistakes. Use our car-free viability calculator to see if you can save thousands by going car-lite or car-free.
🔑 Key Takeaways in This Episode:
Calculate your car's true annual cost (fuel, insurance, repairs, depreciation); it's likely much higher than you think.
Focus on total cost of credit for car finance deals, not just monthly payments, to avoid long-term debt traps.
Explore car-lite options like downsizing, going to one car, or using car clubs/e-bikes to save £3k-£5k annually.
Switch car insurance annually and pay upfront to save hundreds, avoiding loyalty penalties and finance charges.
Direct car savings into investments, mortgage overpayments, or an emergency fund to build financial resilience.
⏱️ Episode Chapters:
00:00 – Introduction: The True Cost of Car Ownership
00:53 – Unveiling the True Cost of Car Ownership
02:50 – Common Car Ownership Mistakes
07:50 – Hidden & Unexpected Car Costs
10:51 – Smarter Choices & Car-Lite Living
15:12 – Actionable Steps & Final Thoughts
🔗 Official Resources & Media:
🧮 Free Interactive Tool: https://www.cost-saver.co.uk/toolbox/car-free-viability-walkability-calculator
📖 Read Full Blog Guide: True Cost of UK Car Ownership: The Hidden £5,000+ Depreciation Trap on Cost-Saver.co.uk
🎬 Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/dB4znEtwnEw
🎧 Stream this Episode: https://www.cost-saver.co.uk/podcasts/true-cost-of-car-ownership-uk-hidden-costs-mistakes
🌐 Explore 200+ Free Tools: Cost-Saver.co.uk
Hosted by Angela & Asad on Cost-Saver.co.uk.
AI Disclosure: This episode uses AI-assisted narration and is provided for informational and educational purposes only, not financial guidance.
...more
18min
June 02, 2026UK Car Insurance Groups Explained: Avoid Group 50 Premium Penalties
🧮 Try the free tool: https://www.cost-saver.co.uk/toolbox/car-insurance-group
Discover how UK car insurance groups affect your premiums. Learn about hidden costs, trim levels, security ratings, and use our car insurance group tool to save money.
🔑 Key Takeaways in This Episode:
Always check a car's insurance group and trim level before buying; premiums can vary by thousands over ownership.
Don't assume ADAS or EVs mean cheaper insurance; repair costs for these can significantly increase premiums.
Factor in five years of premiums, not just one, to understand the true total cost of car ownership.
Build your no-claims discount, pay annually, and set a 21-day reminder to shop around before renewal.
Never lie on your insurance application; it's fraud and will void your cover.
⏱️ Episode Chapters:
00:00 – What Are Car Insurance Groups?
02:20 – How Thatcham Research Rates Cars
04:56 – Hidden Costs & Overlooked Factors
08:31 – Buying a Car: Your 5-Step Check
09:41 – Controlling Premiums After Purchase
10:46 – Smart Renewal & Common Pitfalls
🔗 Official Resources & Media:
🧮 Free Interactive Tool: https://www.cost-saver.co.uk/toolbox/car-insurance-group
📖 Read Full Blog Guide: UK Car Insurance Groups Explained: Avoid Group 50 Premium Penalties on Cost-Saver.co.uk
🎬 Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/dFnyo3sYzK4
🎧 Stream this Episode: https://www.cost-saver.co.uk/podcasts/car-insurance-groups-uk-premium-impact-myths
🌐 Explore 200+ Free Tools: Cost-Saver.co.uk
Hosted by Angela & Asad on Cost-Saver.co.uk.
AI Disclosure: This episode uses AI-assisted narration and is provided for informational and educational purposes only, not financial guidance.
...more
16min
June 01, 2026Avoiding Landlord Pitfalls: Key Mistakes That Slash Rental Yields in the UK
🧮 Try the free tool: https://www.cost-saver.co.uk/toolbox/landlord-rental-yield-calculator
Discover the key landlord mistakes that reduce rental yields in the UK and learn how to avoid them. Maximise your buy-to-let profits with proven tips and our rental yield calculator.
🔑 Key Takeaways in This Episode:
Prioritize net yield over gross; always model pessimistic scenarios before investing in property.
Budget £2,500-£4,500 annually for hidden costs beyond mortgage for a standard buy-to-let.
Treat tenants well to reduce void periods and agent fees, saving thousands over time.
Avoid overpricing rent; voids cost more than a slightly lower, market-aligned rent.
Conduct annual portfolio reviews covering mortgages, rent levels, tax, and EPC rules.
⏱️ Episode Chapters:
00:00 – Introduction & Disclaimer
01:22 – Gross vs. Net Yield: The Real Story
03:17 – Pitfalls: Location, Hidden Costs & Rent Pricing
08:48 – Pitfalls: Tax & DIY Management Risks
11:23 – Pitfalls: Tenant Relations & Portfolio Review
13:57 – Key Takeaways for Landlords
🔗 Official Resources & Media:
🧮 Free Interactive Tool: https://www.cost-saver.co.uk/toolbox/landlord-rental-yield-calculator
📖 Read Full Blog Guide: Avoiding Landlord Pitfalls: Key Mistakes That Slash Rental Yields in the UK on Cost-Saver.co.uk
🎬 Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/QXX74hpr78c
🎧 Stream this Episode: https://www.cost-saver.co.uk/podcasts/landlord-pitfalls-mistakes-that-reduce-rental-yield-uk
🌐 Explore 200+ Free Tools: Cost-Saver.co.uk
Hosted by Angela & Asad on Cost-Saver.co.uk.
AI Disclosure: This episode uses AI-assisted narration and is provided for informational and educational purposes only, not financial guidance.
...more
17min

FAQs about The Cost Saver Podcast:

How many episodes does The Cost Saver Podcast have?

The podcast currently has 157 episodes available.