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What the rise in interest rates means for you

We help you understand why interest rates have gone up and how this might affect your finances.

15 May 2023Jade Harvey 2 min read
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Image by Oliver Cole on Unsplash

See what you could save

Personalised credit card and loan offers could save you hundreds of pounds in interest.

Check your offers

In February 2022, the Bank of England raised interest rates from 0.25% to 0.5% – this was the second time interest rates went up in less than three months.

At over 5.4%, inflation (how much things go up in price) is the highest it’s been for 30 years. The Bank of England uses interest rates to control inflation – usually, the higher the rate of inflation, the lower you can expect interest rates to be.

So even though milk and bread might feel expensive, it might be cheaper to borrow money on a credit card.

However, interest rates have been at an all-time low during the pandemic, which means inflation has soared. When the rate of inflation rises too quickly, the Bank of England raises interest rates in an attempt to slow it down and keep the cost of living stable.

The rise in interest rates means the cost of borrowing could go up. Banks are now likely to try and take advantage of rising interest rates by passing on this increase to people borrowing money, rather than those saving money.

This means that you could see an increase in mortgage, credit card and loan rates, but won’t necessarily see much more of a return on your savings.

How can you protect yourself against rising interest rates?

  • Shift your balance. If you’re paying interest on your credit card, shifting your balance to a balance transfer card could save you hundreds of pounds in interest. Some offers on ClearScore give you up to 31 months of 0% interest for a 1.5-3% balance transfer fee.

  • Pay nothing on purchases. If you’re planning on buying something big, getting a new card with a 0% interest rate purchase card could be a smart move before interest rates rise more. These cards let you spread the cost of new purchases over an interest-free period. See if you’re pre-approved for one.

  • Don’t pay the standard variable rate on your mortgage. Mortgage rates are going up, but there are still some great deals out there. If you’re on a standard variable rate (SVR), then you might be able to save by remortgaging.

  • Activate your new affordability score for instant access to improved offers that could save you money – you just need to link your bank account. It’s completely safe and secure, and you can unlink at any time.

Be sure about your credit choices** – make sure you’re not paying more interest than you need to be. Check your personalised credit card and loan offers today.

  1. What’s the current UK interest rate?
  2. How does inflation affect interest rates?
  3. What this means for you
  4. How can you protect yourself against rising interest rates?

Jade Harvey Image

Written by Jade Harvey

Copywriter

Having worked as a financial copywriter for the past several years, Jade is dedicated to helping you feel clear, calm and confident about your credit choices.