Comparing deals

The financial sections of the newspapers often print tables comparing different accounts.

You can also look on the financial pages of CEEFAX.

Or there are various web sites that offer to help you compare current accounts. They include:

Independent Financial Advisors

Some financial advisors will help you find the best current account. They usually do this by looking at your finances as a whole.

A financial advisor who sells certain types of investments must be registered with the The Financial Services Authority or FSA - an independent body which regulates the industry.

FSA Consumer Helpline: 0845-606-1234 (local call rates).

Or their website: Financial Services Authority

There are also industry associations which independent financial advisors pay to join.

Tel: 0117-971-1177

Or try the IFA Network. Telephone: 01625-253000

COMPLAINING ABOUT BANKS

The Banks abide by a voluntary code called the Banking Code which is drawn up by an industry body called the British Bankers Association. The BBA publishes several factsheets for consumers.

Or tel: 0207-216-8800

If you have a complaint about a bank you need to contact the Office of the Banking Ombudsman

Office of the Banking Ombudsman

Consumer helpline: 0845-766-0902

The Independent Banking Advisory Service is a voluntary organisation which may be able to help you with your complaint about a bank.

The Independent Banking Advisory Service

Or tel: 01487-843444/843848

Another pressure group which may be able to help is the Consumers' Association

The Consumers' Association

Or telephone the Consumer Service Team: 0645-830-240

DEBT AND INDIVIDUAL VOLUNTARY ARRANGEMENTS (IVA)

Citizens Advice Bureau - The number for your local advice centre can be found in the telephone directory.

Association of Business Recovery Specialists - 020 7831 6563 (The body that represents licensed insolvency practitioners)

National Debtline - 0808 808 4000 (Offers free money advice)

Consumer Credit Counselling Service: 0800 1381111 (Also offers free money advice)