MoneySavingExpert Martin Lewis has compiled a list of freebies available to UK consumers, including cash incentives, free products, and money-saving resources. The offers span bank switching bonuses, free wine, water-saving products, and opportunities to receive goods in exchange for feedback. Many of these opportunities are time-sensitive, requiring prompt action to take advantage of them.
Bank Switching Incentives
One of the most significant freebies highlighted by Martin Lewis involves switching bank accounts. Several major UK banks offer cash incentives to new customers who use the Current Account Switch Service.
HSBC £125 Cash Bonus
HSBC launched a £125 cash perk for new customers in the UK. This offer is available to all new customers who sign up through the Current Account Switch Service. The switching process takes seven working days, during which all direct debits and standing orders are moved automatically, the old account is closed, and any payments to the old account are auto-forwarded.
Virgin Money Wine Offer
Virgin Money offers 15 bottles of wine to new switchers, claimed to be worth £180, along with a 2.02% AER variable interest rate on up to £1,000 in the account. This offer is described as one of the top freebies available, though it requires switching banks to qualify.
Other Bank Switching Offers
Several other banks offer cash incentives for switching, including Barclays, Co-op, First Direct, Lloyds, Nationwide, NatWest, and TSB. While specific amounts are not detailed in the provided information, these banks are listed as offering free cash to new customers.
M&S Bank Credit Card Offer
M&S Bank offers a £40 cash incentive to new customers who are accepted for their credit card. In addition to the cash bonus, successful applicants receive 18 months of guaranteed 0% interest. This offer is available to those who apply and are accepted for the credit card.
Water-Saving Products
Water companies across England and Wales offer thousands of free water-saving products to help consumers reduce water usage and prevent pipes from freezing. These freebies include:
- £20 showerheads
- Water pipe protectors
- Tap protectors
Over 345,000 free water-saving products are available through these programs.
Freebies for Feedback
The "Freebies for Feedback" system allows participants to receive free goods in exchange for testing products and writing reviews on various websites. According to Martin Lewis' website, participants can receive a variety of items, including:
- Make-up
- Crisps
- Body butter
- Cat litter
- Irons
While there is no guarantee of receiving specific products, the system is recommended as a viable way to obtain free goods.
App-Based Freebies
Several app-based hacks can provide free products:
- A hack that provides a free bar of Lindt chocolate worth £2
- A hack that provides a carton of Jord Oat Milk worth £1.80
Audiobooks and Books
Information is available on hacks to access thousands of audiobook titles. Simple methods include borrowing free e-books from libraries, along with other tricks for obtaining physical books at no cost.
General Freebie Resources
Martin Lewis' MoneySavingExpert website is highlighted as a primary resource for freebies, with a dedicated freebie forum that is constantly updated. Other recommended sites include:
- magicfreebiesuk.co.uk
- latestfreestuff.co.uk
Direct Company Contact
Consumers can contact companies directly about products they like via email or letter. If successful, companies may send free samples or coupons in response.
In-Store Promotions
New product launches often feature free samples in stores. Additionally, consumers can ask store staff if they have any free samples available to try before purchasing.
Conclusion
The freebies available through Martin Lewis' recommendations cover a wide range of categories, from financial incentives to consumer products. Many offers are time-sensitive, requiring consumers to act quickly. The primary methods for accessing free products include bank switching, signing up for credit cards, participating in feedback programs, using app-based hacks, and directly contacting companies. For the most current information, consumers should refer to Martin Lewis' weekly online newsletter and MoneySavingExpert website.