Budgeting in the current climate: how can I get my spending under control? Q I’m finding it difficult to budget at the moment to the constant changes to prices, interest rates and so-called expert opinions on what’s going to happen. How can I budget better and try get both my spending and saving under
Can you explain all about multi-claim protection cover? Q My friend recently had a heart attack, he did not have health insurance and is now struggling with both his health and finances. This has prompted me to start researching insurance cover, such as Income Protection, Cancer Cover and Specified Illness Cover. The cover that sounded
Top reasons for carrying out a robust review of your finances right now.. Q Is it time to carry out a financial review? A Having just emerged from the Covid pandemic, with a degree of optimism, Europe was returned to a state of uncertainty and fear last year. The grim first year anniversary of President Putin’s
Q I began paying into a pension last year and I contribute a regular monthly amount. I have noticed the current value is less than the contributions made. I have some questions about this. Firstly, why is this? Is it likely to continue this year or beyond? Should I stop my contributions until things settle
Q I’ve heard switching my tracker mortgage to either a long-term fixed rate or to a new provider might increase my chances of getting a better interest rate on my mortgage. Is it advisable to switch to a fixed rate now? A Unfortunately, there is no simple answer to this question and queries such as this
“Hey SEFS! We’ve worked hard and built us a good business. It’s not massive but we’re very proud of it and want to pass it to our children. What’s the best way to do that?” Though it can be analysed in various ways, there are two key (and very much intertwined) broad objectives that
I have a Tracker Mortgage and the interest rate just keeps rising. What should I do? The European Central Bank (ECB) has been raising interest rates amid rising inflation. Last summer, the base borrowing rate was at 0%. Today, the base borrowing rate is 2.5% with growing speculation more rate hikes are inevitable. While initially
Q I took your advice and fixed my mortgage but I’m still struggling financially after the recent interest rate increases as I left it late to fix. I need to supplement my income and I heard about renting out a few rooms in my house tax free. Can you please tell me more? A Sorry to
Income protection – why you should consider taking it out Q I am lucky to have a good job and get paid reasonably well, but I don’t get paid when I’m off sick. I constantly worry about being unable to pay my rent if I’m out of work for a prolonged period due to
All about the Small Gift Exemption – what you need to know “My father wants to give my children money towards college for when they’re older but I heard there may be a tax implication. Is the correct and if so, how can I mitigate against it?” Yes, you can maximise the amount you