Six things to sort, in order
The whole of personal finance, taught in the order that matters. Learn one step, and come back when you’re ready.
- 1
Know your number
Decide what you’re saving for, and by when. Everything else follows from the monthly figure.
Savings goal planner → - 2
Step away from interest
If anything you have charges interest, such as a card, an overdraft or a loan, clearing it comes first. Then make sure you won’t need it again.
Budgeting and tax → - 3
Build a cushion
Three months of essentials in an account you can reach, so a surprise bill never means borrowing. It won’t be the top rate, and that’s fine.
Easy access accounts → - 4
- 5
Start investing for the long term
Money you’ll need within about five years belongs in savings. For longer, choose a wrapper, check a fund and pay in monthly. Capital at risk.
Investing → - 6
Pay your zakat, and write it down
Pick a date, an approach and a scholar you trust, then do the sum. Keep a note, because next year you’ll have forgotten how you did it.
Zakat calculator →
Education, not advice. Rates, rules and terms change, so check with the provider or gov.uk before you decide.
Capital at risk. Investments can fall as well as rise, and you could get back less than you put in. Past performance is no guide to the future. Nothing here is a recommendation to buy any fund or platform.