Declutter your finances

If you have spare time on your hands, why not take the opportunity to get your finances in order? Whether you want to be smarter with your savings or find a better credit card deal, do it all from the comfort of your own home

Spreadsheet your spend

Writing down everything you spend in a month can be a real eye-opener and can make it easier for you to set saving goals, too. Noting it all down on paper is a simple option, but there are also some great money management apps that you can download to your smart phone. Money Dashboard (www.moneydashboard.com) allows you to connect all of your online accounts and group your spend into useful categories. Free to use.

Register for online banking

Online banking can be a huge help – particularly as banks continue to disappear from our high streets. You can view your balance, make payments and instantly check whether payments have been taken out of your account. Register online through your bank’s website then download the app to your phone.

Reorganise your bank accounts

If you’ve had the same bank account for years, it could be time to reassess if it’s still suitable for your needs. Most banks have details of the accounts they offer online, allowing you to research and compare before committing. Consider whether you’d benefit from things such as free overdrafts, or accounts that link your current account, savings and credit card, so it’s all easily accessible in one place.

Take advantage of balance transfer deals

If you use your credit card for shopping online and are currently paying interest on a balance, it’s worth looking into the deals available. While 0% transfer deals are a really good option, some credit cards offer a long interest-free period on the balance transferred, but a short interest-free period on purchases. These types of deals are best if you just want to pay off the debt and not use the card to shop. Check how much you’ll be charged for the transfer and always pay off the balance before the interest-free period ends.

Write a Will

Make sure yours is up to date, or put one in place if you haven’t already. Online Will-writing tools and DIY options may work out cheaper but writing yours with the help of a solicitor will give you more protection. Make sure your Will writer is a member of the Institute of Professional Will Writers (www.ipw.org. uk), which is the regulatory body for the industry.