Category: Internet Marketing

• Claiming Pension Credit can also passport pensioners to additional help with housing costs, council tax, and heating bills
• Comes as Deputy Prime Minister and Work and Pensions Secretary write to Local Authorities to boost uptake of pension credit in their local areas

The Department for Work and Pensions is today urging pensioners to check their eligibility for Pension Credit in order to secure this year’s Winter Fuel Payment.

It comes as the government has had to make some difficult decisions to fix the foundations of the economy due to the dire state of the public finances, with the Winter Fuel Payment – worth up to £300 – set to be means-tested and delivered to those on Pension Credit to ensure it is targeted towards those in most need.

Around 1.3 million households in England and Wales will continue to receive Winter Fuel Payments, but the government is determined to boost take-up of Pension Credit to ensure low-income pensioners continue to get this help.

The Deputy Prime Minister and Work and Pensions Secretary are writing to Local Authorities and will join forces with them, older peoples’ charities, and other groups this September for its annual Pension Credit Week of Action.

The government’s Pension Credit awareness drive will help identify households not claiming the benefit, and encourage pensioners to apply by 21 December, the last date for making a backdated claim for Pension Credit, in order to receive the Winter Fuel Payment.

While around 1.4 million pensioners are already receiving Pension Credit there are up to an estimated 880,000 households eligible for the support who are yet to claim.

Work and Pensions Secretary, Liz Kendall said:

The £22 billion black hole in the public finances we have inherited has required us to take difficult decisions, but I am determined to ensure low-income pensioners are supported.

That’s why I urge any pensioner, or their loved ones, to check if they could get Pension Credit.

This government remains completely committed to pensioners which is why we’re protecting the income of over 12 million pensioners through the Triple Lock.

Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves said:

The dire state of the public finances we inherited from the previous government means we’ve had to make some very difficult decisions.

Our commitment to supporting pensioners remains, which is why we are maintaining the triple lock.

We want pensioners to get the support they are entitled to. That’s why I urge all pensioners to check whether they are eligible for Pension Credit.

Energy Secretary Ed Miliband said:

Everyone has paid the price for over a decade of energy insecurity, which is why we are getting on with delivering clean power by 2030, alongside our ambitious Warm Homes Plan.

It is imperative that those eligible get the support they need this winter, which is why the government will do everything it can to roll out Pension Credit, making sure as many people as possible qualify for the up to £300 Winter Fuel Payment.

During the Week of Action, set to commence in September, the DWP and its partners will be tackling some of the myths that may stop people applying, such as how having savings, a pension or owning a home are not necessarily barriers to receiving Pension Credit.

This work builds on last year’s Invitation to claim pilots, where letters and leaflets were targeted at households already in receipt of Housing Benefit, but not claiming Pension Credit in ten local authorities.

This work comes alongside wider plans to ensure economic stability for pensioners by protecting the Triple Lock, improving energy security and keeping energy bills low through the Warm Homes Plan and cutting NHS waiting lists.

Over the next five years over 12 million pensioners will see their State Pension increase by thousands of pounds as a result of the commitment to the Triple Lock.

And the Warm Homes Plan which will support investment in insulation and low carbon heating – upgrading millions of homes over this Parliament. This government’s long-term plan will protect billpayers permanently and reduce fuel poverty.

Pensioners whose weekly income is below £218.15 for a single person or £332.95 for a couple should check to see if they could be eligible. It is worth on average £3,900 a year and can also open doors to further financial help, such as housing costs, council tax, and heating bills, and the Winter Fuel Payment worth up to £300.

And, pensioners who own their own home or have savings or a private pension income could still be eligible – with DWP’s online calculator able to work out how much an individual could get.

Further Information

• Applications for Pension Credit can be made:
  • On the How to Claim page
  • Over the phone by calling 0800 99 1234 (Monday to Friday 8am to 6pm)
  • By printing out and filling in a paper application form
  • For more information visit the Pension Credit GOV.UK page.
• The Winter Fuel Payment is worth £300 for households with someone aged 80 or over. Households with someone aged 66-79 will receive £200.
• We will work with Local Authorities to bring together the administration of Pension Credit and Housing Benefit as soon as operationally possible.
• People who have reached State Pension age before September 23, 2024 and are in receipt of Pension Credit, Income Support, Income based JSA, Income related ESA and Universal Credit, will be entitled to a Winter Fuel Payment – subject to eligibility conditions.
• The regulations to means-test the Winter Fuel Payment will be laid on 22 August 2024. The qualifying week in 2024 for Winter Fuel Payments will be from 16 to 22 September.
• 21 December is the last date for making a backdated claim for Pension Credit, assuming the claimant met the Pension Credit entitlement conditions throughout the previous three months.
• Anyone who is entitled to Pension Credit for at least one day of the Winter Fuel Payment qualifying week will have automatic entitlement to Winter Fuel Payment. There are some exceptions which are detailed on GOV.UK: Winter Fuel Payment: Eligibility – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
• People do not have to do anything extra to backdate their claim. If they make their application online, they will automatically be asked if they would like to backdate it. If they make their application over the phone the advisor will talk them through this.
• Around 1.3 million households in England and Wales will continue to receive Winter Fuel Payments due to some other pensioner households being eligible and expected extra Pension Credit take up due to this reform.

Pension Credit recipients by region (as of February 2024):

The post Are you entitled to unclaimed pension credit? appeared first on MoneyMagpie.

Original source: https://www.moneymagpie.com/make-money/are-you-entitled-to-unclaimed-pension-credit

Google rolled out a significant update to Google Analytics 4 (GA4), allowing users to compare their performance with other businesses in their industry.

Why we care: This new feature will provide valuable context for advertisers trying to understand their performance relative to their peers, potentially informing strategic decisions and goal-setting.

How it works.

• Users can access benchmarking data if their property has the “Modeling contributions & business insights” setting enabled in Admin > Account Settings.
• Benchmarks are refreshed every 24 hours.
• The summary displays:
  1. Your trendline.
  2. Median in your peer group.
  3. Range in your peer group (25th to 75th percentile).

Key features.

• Customizable peer groups: Users can select from various categories to find the most relevant comparison group.
• Data privacy: Google assures that benchmarking data is encrypted, protected and aggregated to maintain privacy.
• Wide range of metrics: Covers acquisition, engagement, retention and monetization.

The big picture. This update addresses a long-standing need in the analytics community for comparative data, allowing businesses to gauge their performance more accurately within their industry context.

What’s next. Users are encouraged to check their GA4 accounts for this new feature and explore how it can enhance their analytics insights.

Original source: https://searchengineland.com/google-analytics-4-benchmarking-data-446142

Home Business Magazine Online

Air compressors are invaluable tools in various industries and home workshops, providing the power needed for countless tasks. However, when an air compressor isn’t installed properly, it can lead to a cascade of problems, ranging from diminished performance to costly repairs and even safety hazards. Recognizing the signs of a botched installation is key to addressing these issues promptly and ensuring your air compressor operates safely and efficiently. If you suspect your installation was subpar, it’s wise to look into “air compressor repair near me” to find qualified professionals who can diagnose and rectify the problem.

The Importance of Proper Air Compressor Installation

Before diving into the warning signs, let’s emphasize why proper installation is paramount. An air compressor is a complex system with various components working together to generate and deliver compressed air. When installed correctly, these components function harmoniously, ensuring optimal performance, energy efficiency, and longevity. Conversely, a botched installation can disrupt this delicate balance, leading to many problems that compromise the compressor’s effectiveness and lifespan.

Common Red Flags

Excessive Noise and Vibration

One of the most noticeable signs of a poorly installed air compressor is excessive noise and vibration. If your compressor sounds like a jet engine or shakes violently during operation, it’s a clear indication that something is amiss. This could be due to improper mounting, loose connections, or inadequate vibration isolation. Ignoring these signs can not only be a nuisance but also lead to premature wear and tear on the compressor’s components.

Frequent Tripping of Circuit Breakers

If your air compressor consistently trips the circuit breaker, it’s a strong indication of an electrical issue. This could be caused by using the wrong wire gauge, improper grounding, or overloading the circuit. Electrical problems can be dangerous and should be addressed immediately by a qualified electrician.

Moisture in the Air Lines

Moisture contamination is a common problem in air compressor systems, and it can stem from incorrect installation of air dryers or moisture separators. Excessive moisture can lead to rust and corrosion in air tools and equipment, as well as affect the quality of the finished product in certain applications. Inspecting the air lines for signs of moisture and ensuring the proper functioning of air treatment components is essential.

Low Air Pressure or Inconsistent Output

If your air compressor struggles to maintain the desired pressure or delivers inconsistent airflow, it could be due to leaks in the system, a malfunctioning pressure switch, or inadequate pipe sizing. These issues can significantly hamper productivity and lead to frustration, especially in industrial settings where reliable air pressure is crucial.

Overheating

An air compressor that overheats is not only inefficient but also at risk of damage. Overheating can be caused by inadequate ventilation, clogged air filters, or a malfunctioning cooling system. If you notice your compressor running excessively hot, it’s crucial to investigate the cause and take corrective action to prevent costly repairs.

How to Fix Installation Issues

If you’ve identified signs of a botched installation, don’t despair. There are several steps you can take to address the issues and restore your air compressor’s optimal performance. Here’s a breakdown of some common fixes:

• Consult the Manual: Always refer to the manufacturer’s installation manual for specific guidelines and recommendations. This document provides valuable information on proper mounting, piping, electrical connections, and maintenance procedures.
• Check for Leaks: Inspect all connections, hoses, and fittings for leaks. Even small leaks can significantly impact air pressure and efficiency. Use soapy water to identify leaks and tighten or replace any faulty components.
• Verify Electrical Connections: Ensure that the electrical connections are secure and that the correct wire gauge is used. If you’re unsure, consult an electrician to verify the wiring and grounding.
• Inspect Air Treatment Components: Check that the air dryer or moisture separator is functioning correctly and that the air filter is clean. Replace any worn-out or damaged components.
• Consider Professional Help: If you’re not comfortable troubleshooting and fixing the issues yourself, don’t hesitate to seek professional assistance. A qualified air compressor technician can diagnose the problems accurately and provide effective solutions. Searching for “air compressor installation near me” or “air compressor repair near me” can help you find local experts.

Preventing Installation Problems

The most effective way to sidestep the frustrations and expenses associated with a poorly installed air compressor is to prioritize getting it right from the very beginning. This involves a multi-pronged approach, starting with careful selection of the right compressor for your specific needs and intended application. A compressor that is too small will struggle to meet demand, while one that is too large will waste energy and money.

Once you’ve chosen the appropriate compressor, meticulous adherence to the manufacturer’s installation guidelines is paramount. These instructions are not mere suggestions; they are carefully crafted to ensure optimal performance, safety, and longevity of your equipment. Cutting corners or taking shortcuts during installation can lead to a lot of problems down the line.

Investing in high-quality components, such as piping, fittings, and electrical connections, is another crucial aspect of a successful installation. Inferior components are more prone to leaks, corrosion, and other issues that can compromise the compressor’s efficiency and lifespan.

If you lack the experience or confidence to tackle the installation yourself, seek the expertise of a qualified professional. While professional installation may incur an upfront cost, it can save you significant money by preventing costly repairs and ensuring that your air compressor operates at peak efficiency from day one.

Conclusion

Proper air compressor installation is not just a matter of convenience; it’s essential for safety, efficiency, and longevity. By being aware of the warning signs of a botched installation and taking proactive steps to address any issues, you can ensure that your air compressor operates at its best, saving you time, money, and frustration in the long run. Remember, when in doubt, don’t hesitate to consult with air compressor repair Chicago services to get your system back on track. Investing in a professional air compressor installation is an investment in your peace of mind and the longevity of your equipment, ensuring it remains a valuable asset for years of reliable service.

The post Warning Signs Your Air Compressor Installation Was Botched (And How to Fix It) appeared first on Home Business Magazine.

Original source: https://homebusinessmag.com/growing-a-business/upgrading-equipment/botched-installation-signs-look-air-compressor/

• Claiming Pension Credit can also passport pensioners to additional help with housing costs, council tax, and heating bills
• Comes as Deputy Prime Minister and Work and Pensions Secretary write to Local Authorities to boost uptake of pension credit in their local areas

The Department for Work and Pensions is today urging pensioners to check their eligibility for Pension Credit in order to secure this year’s Winter Fuel Payment.

It comes as the government has had to make some difficult decisions to fix the foundations of the economy due to the dire state of the public finances, with the Winter Fuel Payment – worth up to £300 – set to be means-tested and delivered to those on Pension Credit to ensure it is targeted towards those in most need.

Around 1.3 million households in England and Wales will continue to receive Winter Fuel Payments, but the government is determined to boost take-up of Pension Credit to ensure low-income pensioners continue to get this help.

The Deputy Prime Minister and Work and Pensions Secretary are writing to Local Authorities and will join forces with them, older peoples’ charities, and other groups this September for its annual Pension Credit Week of Action.

The government’s Pension Credit awareness drive will help identify households not claiming the benefit, and encourage pensioners to apply by 21 December, the last date for making a backdated claim for Pension Credit, in order to receive the Winter Fuel Payment.

While around 1.4 million pensioners are already receiving Pension Credit there are up to an estimated 880,000 households eligible for the support who are yet to claim.

Work and Pensions Secretary, Liz Kendall said:

The £22 billion black hole in the public finances we have inherited has required us to take difficult decisions, but I am determined to ensure low-income pensioners are supported.

That’s why I urge any pensioner, or their loved ones, to check if they could get Pension Credit.

This government remains completely committed to pensioners which is why we’re protecting the income of over 12 million pensioners through the Triple Lock.

Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves said:

The dire state of the public finances we inherited from the previous government means we’ve had to make some very difficult decisions.

Our commitment to supporting pensioners remains, which is why we are maintaining the triple lock.

We want pensioners to get the support they are entitled to. That’s why I urge all pensioners to check whether they are eligible for Pension Credit.

Energy Secretary Ed Miliband said:

Everyone has paid the price for over a decade of energy insecurity, which is why we are getting on with delivering clean power by 2030, alongside our ambitious Warm Homes Plan.

It is imperative that those eligible get the support they need this winter, which is why the government will do everything it can to roll out Pension Credit, making sure as many people as possible qualify for the up to £300 Winter Fuel Payment.

During the Week of Action, set to commence in September, the DWP and its partners will be tackling some of the myths that may stop people applying, such as how having savings, a pension or owning a home are not necessarily barriers to receiving Pension Credit.

This work builds on last year’s Invitation to claim pilots, where letters and leaflets were targeted at households already in receipt of Housing Benefit, but not claiming Pension Credit in ten local authorities.

This work comes alongside wider plans to ensure economic stability for pensioners by protecting the Triple Lock, improving energy security and keeping energy bills low through the Warm Homes Plan and cutting NHS waiting lists.

Over the next five years over 12 million pensioners will see their State Pension increase by thousands of pounds as a result of the commitment to the Triple Lock.

And the Warm Homes Plan which will support investment in insulation and low carbon heating – upgrading millions of homes over this Parliament. This government’s long-term plan will protect billpayers permanently and reduce fuel poverty.

Pensioners whose weekly income is below £218.15 for a single person or £332.95 for a couple should check to see if they could be eligible. It is worth on average £3,900 a year and can also open doors to further financial help, such as housing costs, council tax, and heating bills, and the Winter Fuel Payment worth up to £300.

And, pensioners who own their own home or have savings or a private pension income could still be eligible – with DWP’s online calculator able to work out how much an individual could get.

Further Information

• Applications for Pension Credit can be made:
  • On the How to Claim page
  • Over the phone by calling 0800 99 1234 (Monday to Friday 8am to 6pm)
  • By printing out and filling in a paper application form
  • For more information visit the Pension Credit GOV.UK page.
• The Winter Fuel Payment is worth £300 for households with someone aged 80 or over. Households with someone aged 66-79 will receive £200.
• We will work with Local Authorities to bring together the administration of Pension Credit and Housing Benefit as soon as operationally possible.
• People who have reached State Pension age before September 23, 2024 and are in receipt of Pension Credit, Income Support, Income based JSA, Income related ESA and Universal Credit, will be entitled to a Winter Fuel Payment – subject to eligibility conditions.
• The regulations to means-test the Winter Fuel Payment will be laid on 22 August 2024. The qualifying week in 2024 for Winter Fuel Payments will be from 16 to 22 September.
• 21 December is the last date for making a backdated claim for Pension Credit, assuming the claimant met the Pension Credit entitlement conditions throughout the previous three months.
• Anyone who is entitled to Pension Credit for at least one day of the Winter Fuel Payment qualifying week will have automatic entitlement to Winter Fuel Payment. There are some exceptions which are detailed on GOV.UK: Winter Fuel Payment: Eligibility – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
• People do not have to do anything extra to backdate their claim. If they make their application online, they will automatically be asked if they would like to backdate it. If they make their application over the phone the advisor will talk them through this.
• Around 1.3 million households in England and Wales will continue to receive Winter Fuel Payments due to some other pensioner households being eligible and expected extra Pension Credit take up due to this reform.

Pension Credit recipients by region (as of February 2024):

The post Are you entitled to unclaimed pension credit? appeared first on MoneyMagpie.

Original source: https://www.moneymagpie.com/make-money/are-you-entitled-to-unclaimed-pension-credit

Google rolled out a significant update to Google Analytics 4 (GA4), allowing users to compare their performance with other businesses in their industry.

Why we care: This new feature will provide valuable context for advertisers trying to understand their performance relative to their peers, potentially informing strategic decisions and goal-setting.

How it works.

• Users can access benchmarking data if their property has the “Modeling contributions & business insights” setting enabled in Admin > Account Settings.
• Benchmarks are refreshed every 24 hours.
• The summary displays:
  1. Your trendline.
  2. Median in your peer group.
  3. Range in your peer group (25th to 75th percentile).

Key features.

• Customizable peer groups: Users can select from various categories to find the most relevant comparison group.
• Data privacy: Google assures that benchmarking data is encrypted, protected and aggregated to maintain privacy.
• Wide range of metrics: Covers acquisition, engagement, retention and monetization.

The big picture. This update addresses a long-standing need in the analytics community for comparative data, allowing businesses to gauge their performance more accurately within their industry context.

What’s next. Users are encouraged to check their GA4 accounts for this new feature and explore how it can enhance their analytics insights.

Original source: https://searchengineland.com/google-analytics-4-benchmarking-data-446142

Google rolled out a significant update to Google Analytics 4 (GA4), allowing users to compare their performance with other businesses in their industry.

Why we care: This new feature will provide valuable context for advertisers trying to understand their performance relative to their peers, potentially informing strategic decisions and goal-setting.

How it works.

• Users can access benchmarking data if their property has the “Modeling contributions & business insights” setting enabled in Admin > Account Settings.
• Benchmarks are refreshed every 24 hours.
• The summary displays:
  1. Your trendline.
  2. Median in your peer group.
  3. Range in your peer group (25th to 75th percentile).

Key features.

• Customizable peer groups: Users can select from various categories to find the most relevant comparison group.
• Data privacy: Google assures that benchmarking data is encrypted, protected and aggregated to maintain privacy.
• Wide range of metrics: Covers acquisition, engagement, retention and monetization.

The big picture. This update addresses a long-standing need in the analytics community for comparative data, allowing businesses to gauge their performance more accurately within their industry context.

What’s next. Users are encouraged to check their GA4 accounts for this new feature and explore how it can enhance their analytics insights.

Original source: https://searchengineland.com/google-analytics-4-benchmarking-data-446142

Are you facing debt with a long-term illness and wondering how you’ll manage your money? Ongoing health issues often mean you end up dealing with unpredictable expenses like travelling to appointments, hospital parking, and prescription charges.

It can be challenging both mentally and physically, and can lead to more stress when you’re already feeling the pressure. These financial extras, as well as time off work and a reduced income, can make falling into debt more likely.

If you’re dealing with a long-term illness and are worried about debt, read our advice on what you can do to deal with your financial situation.

• Look at how you can manage your finances
• Check your statutory sick pay entitlement
• Use smart ways to reduce your spending
• Claim an income tax refund
• Consider ways to increase your income
• Try reducing your rent or mortgage payments
• Get free advice to deal with debt with a long-term illness

Look at how you can manage your finances

Create a simple budget to make sure your essential living expenses and care costs are taken into account. You can use our free budget template to get started.

Your budget will help you manage your incomings against your outgoings, so you can concentrate on your health instead of worrying about money. It’s also a good way to discover where you could benefit from saving cash.

Check your Statutory Sick Pay entitlement

Some people don’t know that you can get Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) for up to 28 weeks if:

• You’re in work, but can’t attend because you’re ill
• You were earning an average of at least £123 per week or more in the two months before you couldn’t work

That means you’ll still get paid a specified amount while you’re off work, paid into your bank account the same way you would usually get your wages.

The current entitlement is £116.75 per week for up to 28 weeks. If you’re struggling to keep up with bills or repayments while off work, this kind of entitlement could ease some of the pressure.

Some employers have their own sick pay schemes, so double check with your HR department what you’re entitled to. If you don’t have an HR department, ask your manager, or check your contract.

Use smart ways to reduce your spending

Even if you’re already on a tight budget, there are loads of ways you can cut back and save smartly. Use an Ofgem approved switching service to find better deals on your utility bills, look out for free evening and weekend call offers from your phone provider, and find out how to save money on your TV packages.

When it comes to your food shop, you could switch to own brand products or start shopping at a better value supermarket. Cheaper food doesn’t mean losing out on taste!

Claim an income tax refund

If you’ve had to stop working due to long-term illness, or have reduced hours because of it, you might be able to get a refund of some of the income tax you’ve paid.

It’s worth contacting HMRC to check if you’re entitled to some money back.

Consider ways to increase your income

We’re not talking about getting another job or going back to work when you’re not ready, because your health must come first. If you’re off work long-term because of your illness, or have a low income as a result, there may be some benefits you’re entitled to.

Use the StepChange benefits calculator to check what you could be missing, and look into any pensions, savings or investments you might have. This’ll help to make sure you’ve got as much money coming in as possible.

Try reducing your rent or mortgage payments

If you’re on a low income and renting, you can apply for a council tax discount. If you’ve got a mortgage, contact your lender or insurance provider to see if you have insurance in place that covers your payments while you’re ill.

You might have mortgage payment protection, critical illness cover, or income protection insurance to help you cover payments. However, bear in mind that any insurance pay-out could affect state benefit claims you make.

Get free advice to deal with debt

If you’re struggling to pay your bills, use the Stepchange online Debt Remedy tool here for advice and practical solutions to deal with your debt, or give their advisors a call.

They will talk through your finances and give you free and impartial debt advice, as well as recommend a debt solution tailored to your situation.

Also, sign up to our free debt help emails here. They will support you as you work to pay off your debts and get better.

The post How to deal with debt with a long-term illness appeared first on MoneyMagpie.

Original source: https://www.moneymagpie.com/make-money/how-to-deal-with-debt-with-a-long-term-illness

Google rolled out a significant update to Google Analytics 4 (GA4), allowing users to compare their performance with other businesses in their industry.

Why we care: This new feature will provide valuable context for advertisers trying to understand their performance relative to their peers, potentially informing strategic decisions and goal-setting.

How it works.

• Users can access benchmarking data if their property has the “Modeling contributions & business insights” setting enabled in Admin > Account Settings.
• Benchmarks are refreshed every 24 hours.
• The summary displays:
  1. Your trendline.
  2. Median in your peer group.
  3. Range in your peer group (25th to 75th percentile).

Key features.

• Customizable peer groups: Users can select from various categories to find the most relevant comparison group.
• Data privacy: Google assures that benchmarking data is encrypted, protected and aggregated to maintain privacy.
• Wide range of metrics: Covers acquisition, engagement, retention and monetization.

The big picture. This update addresses a long-standing need in the analytics community for comparative data, allowing businesses to gauge their performance more accurately within their industry context.

What’s next. Users are encouraged to check their GA4 accounts for this new feature and explore how it can enhance their analytics insights.

Original source: https://searchengineland.com/google-analytics-4-benchmarking-data-446142

Are you facing debt with a long-term illness and wondering how you’ll manage your money? Ongoing health issues often mean you end up dealing with unpredictable expenses like travelling to appointments, hospital parking, and prescription charges.

It can be challenging both mentally and physically, and can lead to more stress when you’re already feeling the pressure. These financial extras, as well as time off work and a reduced income, can make falling into debt more likely.

If you’re dealing with a long-term illness and are worried about debt, read our advice on what you can do to deal with your financial situation.

• Look at how you can manage your finances
• Check your statutory sick pay entitlement
• Use smart ways to reduce your spending
• Claim an income tax refund
• Consider ways to increase your income
• Try reducing your rent or mortgage payments
• Get free advice to deal with debt with a long-term illness

Look at how you can manage your finances

Create a simple budget to make sure your essential living expenses and care costs are taken into account. You can use our free budget template to get started.

Your budget will help you manage your incomings against your outgoings, so you can concentrate on your health instead of worrying about money. It’s also a good way to discover where you could benefit from saving cash.

Check your Statutory Sick Pay entitlement

Some people don’t know that you can get Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) for up to 28 weeks if:

• You’re in work, but can’t attend because you’re ill
• You were earning an average of at least £123 per week or more in the two months before you couldn’t work

That means you’ll still get paid a specified amount while you’re off work, paid into your bank account the same way you would usually get your wages.

The current entitlement is £116.75 per week for up to 28 weeks. If you’re struggling to keep up with bills or repayments while off work, this kind of entitlement could ease some of the pressure.

Some employers have their own sick pay schemes, so double check with your HR department what you’re entitled to. If you don’t have an HR department, ask your manager, or check your contract.

Use smart ways to reduce your spending

Even if you’re already on a tight budget, there are loads of ways you can cut back and save smartly. Use an Ofgem approved switching service to find better deals on your utility bills, look out for free evening and weekend call offers from your phone provider, and find out how to save money on your TV packages.

When it comes to your food shop, you could switch to own brand products or start shopping at a better value supermarket. Cheaper food doesn’t mean losing out on taste!

Claim an income tax refund

If you’ve had to stop working due to long-term illness, or have reduced hours because of it, you might be able to get a refund of some of the income tax you’ve paid.

It’s worth contacting HMRC to check if you’re entitled to some money back.

Consider ways to increase your income

We’re not talking about getting another job or going back to work when you’re not ready, because your health must come first. If you’re off work long-term because of your illness, or have a low income as a result, there may be some benefits you’re entitled to.

Use the StepChange benefits calculator to check what you could be missing, and look into any pensions, savings or investments you might have. This’ll help to make sure you’ve got as much money coming in as possible.

Try reducing your rent or mortgage payments

If you’re on a low income and renting, you can apply for a council tax discount. If you’ve got a mortgage, contact your lender or insurance provider to see if you have insurance in place that covers your payments while you’re ill.

You might have mortgage payment protection, critical illness cover, or income protection insurance to help you cover payments. However, bear in mind that any insurance pay-out could affect state benefit claims you make.

Get free advice to deal with debt

If you’re struggling to pay your bills, use the Stepchange online Debt Remedy tool here for advice and practical solutions to deal with your debt, or give their advisors a call.

They will talk through your finances and give you free and impartial debt advice, as well as recommend a debt solution tailored to your situation.

Also, sign up to our free debt help emails here. They will support you as you work to pay off your debts and get better.

The post How to deal with debt with a long-term illness appeared first on MoneyMagpie.

Original source: https://www.moneymagpie.com/make-money/how-to-deal-with-debt-with-a-long-term-illness

Google rolled out a significant update to Google Analytics 4 (GA4), allowing users to compare their performance with other businesses in their industry.

Why we care: This new feature will provide valuable context for advertisers trying to understand their performance relative to their peers, potentially informing strategic decisions and goal-setting.

How it works.

• Users can access benchmarking data if their property has the “Modeling contributions & business insights” setting enabled in Admin > Account Settings.
• Benchmarks are refreshed every 24 hours.
• The summary displays:
  1. Your trendline.
  2. Median in your peer group.
  3. Range in your peer group (25th to 75th percentile).

Key features.

• Customizable peer groups: Users can select from various categories to find the most relevant comparison group.
• Data privacy: Google assures that benchmarking data is encrypted, protected and aggregated to maintain privacy.
• Wide range of metrics: Covers acquisition, engagement, retention and monetization.

The big picture. This update addresses a long-standing need in the analytics community for comparative data, allowing businesses to gauge their performance more accurately within their industry context.

What’s next. Users are encouraged to check their GA4 accounts for this new feature and explore how it can enhance their analytics insights.

Original source: https://searchengineland.com/google-analytics-4-benchmarking-data-446142