UK money news stories - 22 December 2025

Watchdog accuses HMRC of deliberately ‘degrading’ phone services

MPs have publicly accused the taxman of running down its phone line on purpose in an attempt to push more people online. They didn’t hold any punches, saying after an ‘all time low’ of the previous year, HMRC’s customer service had gone to plumb new depths in 2023/2024.

TSB bank switch offer: up to £160 + £30 & NOW TV

TSB’s introduced a brand new switching deal which offers up to £160 when you switch to its current account. You can also get £30 cashback and an extra freebie if you stick with the account. Here’s how it works.

Could the £100 contactless payment limit be scrapped? 

With food inflation soaring, the financial regulator is considering letting banks and other providers set their own contactless payment limit. But experts say it could lead to people losing more money if their card is stolen. 

Waitrose revamps its free hot drinks scheme

The supermarket’s switched up its hot drinks scheme, making it easier than ever to get a free tea or coffee. Here’s what’s changed.

Nationwide £100 member bonus: Will you get a Fairer Share payment?

For the last two years, Nationwide has given customers a £100 cash bonus when they meet certain criteria. To be in with a chance of getting the cash this year (if the rules stay the same) here’s what you need to do. 

Surprise mobile mid-contract price rises banned

Mobile, broadband and pay TV companies won’t be able to increase prices in the middle of a customer’s contract out of the blue, following new rules from the regulator. But Citizens Advice says the move still falls short of a full ban on mid-contract rises.

How 12.5m Nectar points worth nearly £63,000 have been stolen from readers in the past year

Hundreds of customers have reported millions of Nectar points being stolen but Nectar won’t explain how it’s been happening. But it’s left many questioning the lack of security on Nectar cards.