DEAR JOHN.

Byline: John Husband

Q WE were given Premium Bonds as a wedding present in 1957 but have won nothing. How many prizes have there been since the first draw in 1957?

A THERE have been more than 133 million tax-free prizes worth pounds 8.5billion. There are also over pounds 25million in unclaimed prizes - many owed to those who forgot to forward their address when they moved. You can check your numbers on the Premium Bond prize checker on the National Savings web site: www.nsandi.com.

Q I RECEIVE Pension Credit but if I raise money from my home with an equity release plan will it affect this?

A IF you are in an "assessed income" period this benefit will be unaffected. The assessed income periods usually last up to five years after that you have to submit your financial details to see if you're eligible for the next period. If your capital exceeds the limits imposed at that time your entitlement may be affected. You need to take specialist independent advice.

For your Free guide to releasing money from your home call FREE on 0800 064 70 75.

Q WE complained to our bank about the mis-selling of an endowment policy. They denied liability claiming it had been sold on an execution only basis. What does this mean?

A THIS is when a customer asks us to sell a specific named investment product without being prompted or advised by the firm. In that case customers are responsible for its suitability. For advice on endowment mis-selling call PMI on 0800 0183751.

A HOW can my deposit account earn me more?

A THERE are several attractive options depending the risk you are happy to take. For a free guide call 0800 544 644.

Thanks to my team of independent financial advisers- John Stewart of PMI and Rachel Twigg of the Hammond Consultancy. For independent advice send an SAE to Your Money Independent Advice Bureau, Daily Mirror, One Canada Square, Canary Wharf, London E14 5AP. Please give your age, income family circumstances, mortgage and details of any savings and pension plans and your home phone number. Or email us at [e-mail] marking your e-mail advice.