PayPal delays nearly wrecked my business

Troubleshooter helps an online trader who has experienced problems with the payments service

Royal Mail can no longer be trusted

From the outside, it would appear that managers at Royal Mail are unwilling or unable to confront the problem of dishonest or lazy staff

MP refers Ofgem to Parliamentary Ombudsman

Mark Todd says regulator failed in its investigation of overcharging by npower

Energy supplier bows to pressure to improve bills

nPower overhauls the way customers are billed after campaign by Times Money and consumer groups

A Question of Money

DB writes: I am trying to get the proceeds of my matured fixed-rate bond, £51,689, returned to me but Barclays are stonewalling me

Fame & Fortune: Karren Brady

The 40-year-old new vice-chairman of West Ham United says she’s worked too hard for her cash to gamble with it

Brought to book over unwanted hotel room

Protect yourself from future recessions

It’s been a tough year but there could be more pain to come. We explain how to keep your head above water

Beware bank salesmen in shiny suits

When the going gets tough, be your own boss

Redundancy has given many people the chance to set up their own business. Plan carefully to ensure success

Laura Carstensen, Competition Commission

Far from being a grey-suited lawyer, the new deputy chairwoman of the watchdog is a 'super-mum' who has six children

Second-hand car dealers top list of consumer gripes

Complaints about TVs and laptops also on the rise, says Consumer Direct

On the bright side: Clothing store White Stuff

Let us know about the last time you experienced service with a smile.

Barclaycard to launch rewards scheme

Experts say that the provider's Freedom scheme could 'revolutionise' the cashback market

A Question of Money

MC writes: Can you help me sort out this three-way muddle between myself, NatWest bank and Barclaycard?

Record rise in cost of cover

According to the AA, household and motor insurance premiums are increasing at their fastest rate in 16 years

Fame & Fortune: Simon Johnson

The former International Monetary Fund chief economist has a new ally in his battle with Wall Street – Barack Obama

Card firms snub nearly 50% of new applicants

The UK Cards Association says that 48% of applications were turned down in 2009, compared with 42% in 2008