UK money news stories - 19 March 2025

Santander branch closures

The popular high street bank has announced it’ll be closing 95 branches - almost a quarter of its network - and will reduce the services or hours at more than 50 sites by June. Here’s what you need to know.

The end-of-tax-year ISA battle has begun!

We’ve started seeing ISA providers ramp up their rates to try and attract savers’ cash before the end of the tax year. In the past few days we’ve seen Plum boost its rate to 5.02% while Trading 212 has pushed its rate up twice to a joint market-leading 5.25%. If you’re looking for a new provider, we’re keeping on top of the top rates in our ISA best buy tables. 

‘A fundamental right’: UK high street chains and restaurants challenged over refusal to accept cash

Popular businesses, including Gails, Itus and Zizzi, are being challenged over their cash-free status. Campaigners say it’s ‘completely unacceptable’ to refuse cash when so many people rely on it for day-to-day spending and are calling for new laws to force retailers to accept it.

'Ageist' digital banking and bills are making life harder, claim over-60s

Over half of over 60s say they feel frustrated when told to access services, like banking, utilities and telecoms, online rather than over the phone or in person. While some of us prefer the digital way, charity Age UK say it’s creating significant barriers for older people who aren’t as comfortable with technology. 

Nine in 10 councils in England to levy maximum council tax increase

With awful April just around the corner, most households will be charged the maximum council tax increase for the third year in a row. Some 88% of 153 local authorities in England will increase council tax by 4.99% next month, the highest level allowed without a local referendum.