From managing daily expenses to planning for major life events, financial stability is important to navigating life's ups and downs with confidence and resilience. According one UK study, adults are feeling more financially comfortable compared to a year ago. However, 41% of those respondents also described their financial situation as struggling.1 That's a lot of individuals that need a boost. Thankfully, there are things that can be done to improve long-term financial security.
This article includes tips, suggestions, and general information. We recommend that you always do your own research and consider getting independent tax, financial, and legal advice before making any important decision.
Read on as we explore what financial security means and why it’s important, plus offer tips for a more robust financial future.
Financial security is a state of stability where an individual has sufficient funds to meet basic necessities, handle unforeseen expenses, and reach long-term financial goals. To achieve it, there are some factors that need to be in place.
Consider these elements that help paint a picture of financial security:
It would be hard to overstate the importance of financial security. It's a cornerstone of overall well-being and provides benefits such as:
Achieving financial security requires proactive steps and consistent habits. From debt management to planning for retirement, here are six tips to help build a more secure financial future.
Taking control of finances begins with understanding where money is going. This involves creating a budget and diligently tracking spending.
Not sure how to start a budget? Begin by calculating net income, then listing all expenses. Don't forget those occasional costs like birthdays or car maintenance.
Next, set financial goals — they should be clear and achievable. Some common financial goal examples include building an emergency fund, paying off borrowing, or saving for a deposit on a house. Allocate funds accordingly, prioritising essential needs and savings goals.
To track spending, use budgeting apps or create a budget spreadsheet. These tools can help monitor expenses, identify areas for potential savings, and show how spending can align with overall financial goals.
High-interest borrowing, such as credit card balances or certain loans, can hinder financial progress. By paying this off, individuals can free up funds for other purposes and accelerate their journey toward financial security.
These strategies can help to pay off borrowing effectively:
Unexpected expenses can disrupt even the most carefully planned budget. Luckily, an emergency fund is a financial safety net that protects against these unforeseen events.
Here’s how to build an emergency fund:
Retirement might seem distant, but planning for it early is important for long-term financial security. Starting your retirement planning early allows you to make gradual lifestyle adjustments that can significantly impact your future. Giving your savings more time to accumulate, even with modest contributions, can help you potentially reach your retirement goals with less aggressive saving strategies later in life. Getting ahead of retirement planning can help you to enjoy the present while building a secure financial future.
"What is my credit score?" is a question individuals should be asking regularly. A credit score is a numerical representation of creditworthiness, playing a vital role in securing loans, renting property, or obtaining a mortgage.
While many resources are available to help individuals manage their finances, seeking personalised guidance from a financial adviser may be helpful. They can provide expert advice tailored to individual circumstances, particularly for complex matters like, retirement planning or estate planning.
Financial advisers can also help identify personal goals, develop a customised plan, and navigate challenging financial decisions.
PayPal's Pay in 3 offers a flexible way to manage purchases — allowing shoppers to split payments into three budget-friendly, interest-free instalments.* By spreading costs over time, individuals can make larger purchases or handle unexpected expenses without feeling immediate financial strain.
Pay in 3 is an unregulated credit agreement, so you will have fewer protections under this agreement than you would under a regulated credit agreement. Carefully consider whether the purchase is affordable and how you will make the repayments. Be aware of the possible impact of using Pay in 3 and of missing payments, including making other borrowing more difficult or more expensive.
Learn more about PayPal’s buy now, pay later payment options.