Personal Finance: Loose Change

IN AN attempt to counter popular opinion that private medical insurance is expensive and only really necessary for cosmetic surgery, the Association of British Insurers has produced an eight-page consumer guide that has received the Plain English Crystal Mark, proving its commitment to clear and precise language. It covers the purpose of PMI, how to choose the right cover, how to claim and what affects premium increases and gives information on how to complain. Call the ABI on 0171-216-7440.

AGE CONCERN has produced a new free guide, Planning for the Future, which covers the financial and personal issues involved in getting older. It offers guidance on wills, funerals and the personal and financial details needed to obtain probate and sort out the details of an estate. Call 0800- 7310652 for a copy or contact your local Age Concern group.

THERE IS always a chance that the Government will clamp down on some of the current tax planning opportunities, especially the potentially exempt transfers that allow lifetime gifts to escape tax if they are made more than seven years before death. Independent financial advisers David Aaron Partnership, of High Street, Woburn Sands, MK17 8SD, has produced the Smart Investors' Guide to the Uses of Trusts, a 32-page guide showing how different types of trust can best be used to meet different objectives. The Aaron Trust Card is a one-page flowsheet showing which trusts are best for giving money to children and grandchildren. Until 12 July both are available to Independent readers for pounds 2, including p&p.