Where should I put the money I’ve withdrawn from Northern Rock?

The best-paying instant access account is Manchester Building Society’s Premier Postal account, offering 6.26 per cent on deposits of more than £1,000.

I couldn’t get through to Northern Rock on the phone and the website crashed. I just want an account where I can go and get my money

The Post Office offers the best returns on a branch-based account. Its Instant Saver account pays 6 per cent on balances of more than £500.

Aren’t there better rates than this?

Anglo-Irish Bank pays 6.9 per cent on its one-year bond. Birmingham Midshires pays 6.91 per cent on its one-year bond.

I didn’t withdraw my money on Friday. But now I’ve seen the queues I’m beginning to panic.

Your savings should be safe because the Government has guaranteed all deposits. But experts say that it is often wise to keep smaller chunks of savings in several banks and building societies rather than investing it all in one account.

The share price of other banks has plummeted. Is this a sign I should take my savings out?

No. Financial experts say the share price falls reflect the uncertainty in the market, but there is nothing to suggest that money deposited in these institutions isn’t safe.

Where will my money be safest?

Savers have been flocking to National Savings and Investments (NS&I) as it is the only institution that offers a cast-iron guarantee to return your savings in full. All other banks and building societies are covered by an insurance scheme that guarantees to repay £31,700 of your savings.

Can’t I just keep my money under the mattress?

Yes, but as well as causing you discomfort at night, your money will lose value. Basic-rate taxpayers need to earn 4.75 per cent interest and higher-rate taxpayers need 6.33 per cent just to keep up with inflation.

What else can I do with my money?

A £7,800 contribution will be worth £10,000 in your pension pot after the Government tops it up.

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