How to

How to plan your money

As Winston Churchill famously said: “Those who fail to plan, plan to fail.” - Review your spending pattern – compare income each month against your spending.

Written by Ian J Hart FCSI IMC, Chartered Wealth ManagerPublished Reviewed

As Winston Churchill famously said: “Those who fail to plan, plan to fail.”

  • Review your spending pattern – compare income each month against your spending.

  • Work out what you can save from your wages – set aside a regular amount to build up an emergency pot.

  • Set up a regular standing order to top up your ISA when you get paid – even a small amount will build up over time.

  • Pay off any high-interest credit card debt – the interest rate on borrowing varies; pay off the most expensive first.

  • Define specific targets – e.g., build an emergency fund in 3 months, save for a nice holiday in 12 months.

  • Measure progress to the goal – monitor growth monthly – review your regular amount.

  • Ensure each stage is achievable – if not, adjust your budget to reflect changes in life.

  • Be realistic with time frames – if not, adjust your goals.

Information, not advice. This guide is general information to help you understand your options. It is not personal advice and not a recommendation to buy, sell or hold any investment. If you are unsure what is right for your circumstances, consider taking regulated financial advice. The value of investments and any income received from them can fall as well as rise, and investors may receive back less than they originally invested. Past performance is not a guide to future returns.

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