Articles by Tim Leonard | Top Ten Reviews

With over 20 years’ experience in the financial services industry, Tim has spent most of his career working for a financial data firm, where he was Online Editor of the consumer-facing Moneyfacts site, and regularly penned articles for the financial advice publication Investment Life and Pensions Moneyfacts. As a result, he has an excellent knowledge of almost areas of personal finance and, in particular, the retirement, investment, protection, mortgage and savings sectors.

Articles by: Tim Leonard

Are mortgage points worth it?

By Tim Leonard last updated 19 January 21

How To Buying mortgage points can be tempting when you're arranging a mortgage loan, but how do you know when are they worth it?

Do wills have to be notarized?

By Tim Leonard published 18 January 21

Feature Having a notarized will is not a must, but a self-proving affidavit can help smooth the path through probate once you're gone.

IRS delays the start of tax season 2021 until February 12

By Tim Leonard published 16 January 21

News Stimulus payment preparations see tax season 2021 pushed back as taxpayers are urged to file electronically.

Biden outlines third stimulus check plans, including $1,400 payments

By Tim Leonard published 15 January 21

News The President-elect wants the third stimulus check to pay much more than before and proposes further unemployment and housing help too.

Only 4 in 10 Americans could pay a $1,000 bill without borrowing - could you?

By Tim Leonard last updated 13 January 21

News With just 39% of Americans confident they could comfortably cover an unexpected four-figure expense, here's how you should prepare for unexpected bills.

Owning a home is cheaper than renting in two thirds of the US, but should you buy in 2021?

By Tim Leonard published 11 January 21

News Record low mortgage rates make it cheaper to own a home than rent in 63% of US counties, giving hope to home buyers in 2021.

This epic eyeglasses discount saves you 60% on frames at GlassesUSA

By Tim Leonard last updated 11 January 21

Deal Make use of these GlassesUSA discounts and get 60% off eyeglasses and 25% off contact lenses right now.

Stimulus Check 2 payments have started - how and when will you get your check?

By Tim Leonard published 4 January 21

News As the second round of $600 direct payments roll out, here's everything you need to know about Stimulus Check 2.

Stimulus check 2 could start next week - here’s what you need to know

By Tim Leonard published 22 December 20

News A second round of direct payments has finally passed Congress, with the $600 stimulus check 2 potentially starting roll-out in a matter of days.

Stimulus check 2 likely on hold until 2021 - here’s all you need to know

By Tim Leonard published 7 December 20

News Approval for a stimulus check 2, the second round of direct payments, will probably now have to wait until President-elect Biden is inaugurated in January next year.

Credit card debt falls for first time in 8 years - here’s how to keep your debt in check

By Tim Leonard published 3 December 20

News Surprise findings show Americans reduced their credit card debt by $879 in 2020. Here's why, and how you can better manage your debt too.

Walmart MoneyCard review

By Tim Leonard last updated 18 November 20

Review Walmart MoneyCard is a prepaid debit card that will handsomely reward customers who regularly shop at Walmart, but requires care if you want to avoid fees.

How to get cell phone finance

By Tim Leonard published 17 November 20

How To If you're hoping to buy a new phone this Black Friday, but not sure how it's best to pay, finding out how to get cell phone finance is a must.

Mortgage rates jump on COVID-19 vaccine hope - here’s why you need to refinance now

By Tim Leonard published 12 November 20

News Homeowners are urged to refinance quickly as optimism over the economy pushes mortgage rates higher.

Stimulus payment text scam alert: here's the message to look out for

By Tim Leonard published 5 November 20

News Warning over scam text message that aims to trick people into revealing bank details in return for their stimulus payment.

How to find the right auto loan for you

By Tamsin Oxford, Tim Leonard published 5 November 20

Feature Learn how to find the right auto finance package for you, your budget and your credit score.