Child trust funds
Do you have a child born between 2002 and 2012? Time to cash in, as some now-teenagers could have hundreds of pounds to their names. In 2005, the Labour government introduced the Child Trust Fund: a long-term savings account automatically set up for children (which would later be replaced by junior ISAs).
The state contributed to these until the initiative ended, but many lay dormant and remain untouched today – meaning that some children could have up to £1,000 sitting in the bank. Visit the HMRC website to find out the provider and balance of your child’s fund. gov.uk/child-trust-funds
Flight delays and cancellations from trips long past
A bad experience six years ago might mean more than a stressful memory. In fact, EU compensation law means you could be up £540. Your journey must have been scheduled for some time in 2012 (2013 if you’re in Scotland) or later, and either delayed by over three hours or cancelled.
Some airlines might try to sidestep paying out based on their own small print, but an increasing number now adhere to the law without much fuss. To apply for compensation, contact your airline directly. If you’re not sure how long a delay was, flightstats.com has that information.