Speaking on This Morning, Martin told drivers not to throw away their pay and display parking tickets after using them.
He said: “So you pay for your pay and display parking ticket, put it on your windscreen, and then leave. Job done.
“Err not quite – these days it’s increasingly common for parking firms and councils to use cameras to monitor parking, not people, and that means even weeks after the date you can find a parking fine or invoice in the post.
“Having recently heard of cases where people have struggled to prove they’ve paid, I’ve checked out how long afterwards you can still be contacted.
“Most firms will do it within 45 days, though some even longer, and the maximum time they can chase legally is six years.
“So I’ve a new warning rule of thumb. Keep your pay and display tickets for two months at least.
“Why not keep an envelope in your car to put them in as you go, then when it’s filled empty it into a drawer at home. You could also take a photo of them before you throw them out so that way if you’re chased later than expected you do have some proof.”
As well as issuing his warning, Martin advised viewers of a way to clear debts of less than £3,400.
Recommending a new balance transfer card, he said: “I know I talk about balance transfer cards a lot – it’s when you shift debt from an old card to a new one at 0 per cent for a one-off fee – then all your repayments clear the debt rather than just servicing the interest.
“But last week, Halifax’s 33months 0 per cent balance transfer card which charges for a one off fee of 0.59 per cent added £20 cashback to it.
“So for anyone shifting under £3,390 of debt, the cashback is bigger than the fee, so you’re actually PAID and shifting the debt not only cuts the interest but repays a smidgeon too.
“Yet don’t just apply for it in hope – what really matters is whether you’re accepted – Martin’s ‘Balance transfer credit card’ guide includes an eligibility calculator which shows your acceptance odds for most top cards so you can home in on the cards most likely to accept you, minimising applications on your file.
“Plus remember to always follow the Balance Transfer Golden Rules:
1. Repay at least the monthly minimum or the bank can end the 0% deal
2. Clear the card in full by the end of the deal or the rate rockets to 18.9 per cent rep APR.
3. Never withdraw cash or spend on the card as it’s not at the 0 per cent rate.”
Martin’s tips come after he explained what to do if you find an unsigned credit card – and surprisingly, you should never hand it in.
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