CHESTER, England, December 18, 2012 /PRNewswire/ --

• Basic rate taxpayers need a rate of 3.39 per cent to gain benefit in real terms, increasing to 4.51 per cent for higher rate taxpayers
• Only 35 savings accounts now beat inflation

Today's announcement by The Bank of England that The Consumer Price Index (CPI) remained stubbornly high at 2.7 per cent, will be a cold blow for savers and means searching for the best savings rates is vital to ensure they are maximising their returns, according to MoneySupermarket.

To beat inflation, basic rate tax payers will need an account paying at least 3.39 per cent to gain benefit in real terms from their savings, increasing to 4.51 per cent for higher rate tax payers, and 5.41 per cent for 50 per cent tax payers.

For basic rate tax payers there are only four Fixed Rates Bonds, and 16 regular saver accounts that beat inflation. For higher rate tax payers only seven regular saver accounts beat inflation. On tax-free ISA accounts, only 10 easy access ISAs and five fixed rate ISAs beat inflation.

Kevin Mountford, head of banking, at  MoneySupermarket.com, said: "Today's news that inflation has remained high at 2.7 per cent after last month's increase is a further blow to savers and struggling UK households, and is a bitter pill to swallow for those planning to make savings goals a big part of their New Year resolutions for 2013.

"It is important savers don't give up or get put off, and prepare to switch if they are not currently on the most competitive deal. There is a significant difference between the average and top paying rates, and moving to a better deal can go a long way to help savers limit the impact of inflation on their pots.

"Only a handful of savings accounts currently beat inflation. As we approach the start of Tax Year end season, for savers, using products such as Cash ISAs to take advantage of the tax free benefits is a must. However, even if you cannot find an account that beats inflation, consumers need to make sure they are on the best deals possible. Savers should also consider looking at alternative products such as offsetting savings against mortgage borrowing, peer-to-peer lending, or structured savings products."

Notes to Editors

MoneySupermarket.com compares (at 29^th November 2012)

SOURCE moneysupermarket.com