Several hundreds of pounds for a couple of hours work

Independent financial comparison site moneyfacts.co.uk has found that people offered hundreds of pounds for a couple of hours work would jump at the chance, but that they won't spend the same time researching their finances to save.

The most popular financial product to switch is credit cards, to take advantage of zero per cent interest free payment periods, but even bigger savings can be made by comparing utility companies and insurance products at the time of renewal.

Andrew Hagger, head of news and press at Moneyfacts.co.uk, urges: "Whilst you're sitting in front of your PC saving money by switching your credit card, invest a bit more time and see where else you can save.

"So rather than just being a rate tart on your plastic, why not be an energy and insurance tart as well? Institutions rely on consumer apathy to boost their profits, so why not make 2008 the year to line your own pockets instead?"

A three-bedroom detached house with a buildings re-build value of £150,000 and contents cover of £50,000 cost £304.23 to renew compared with the £188.01 which the householder found online, saving over £10 per month.

28/01/2008 12:29:15