Archive note — December 2021. This was a 2022 new-year checklist. The original tax-year figures, pension-access ages, bank-switch offers, sick-pay rates and insurance-price claims are not current guidance and have been removed. Use the ideas as prompts, then check the rules and products that apply now.
1. Review family protection
Consider who depends on you, your debts and cover already in place. Life insurance, Critical Illness Cover and Income Protection have different purposes and policy conditions. Our Life Insurance Planning Guide helps frame an adviser conversation; it does not calculate a recommended amount.
2. Review banking arrangements
Check account fees, access and service against your needs. Switching times and incentives can change; verify current terms with the provider before acting.
3. Make a debt plan
List balances, rates and priority payments. If repayments are difficult, seek free debt guidance rather than assuming a general example fits your circumstances. MoneyHelper explains where to find support.
4. Review insurance renewals
Compare cover, limits, exclusions and excesses as well as price. This archived checklist does not offer current car, home, pet or mobile-phone insurance quotes through IM-Insured.
5. Check recurring payments
Review direct debits and subscriptions against what you still use, taking care not to cancel essential services or protection inadvertently.
6. Review your will
Consider whether your wishes and circumstances have changed. The effect of a will depends on the relevant law and individual situation; seek qualified legal advice where needed.
7. Revisit your budget
Record income, essential spending, debts and a realistic allowance for irregular costs. Generic percentage rules are not suitable for every household.
8. Check pension arrangements
Contribution rules, tax relief and access ages can change. Review current scheme information and seek regulated or impartial guidance before making a decision.
9. Check savings options
ISA rules and annual limits are tax-year-specific. Refer to current GOV.UK ISA guidance rather than the figures in a 2022 article.
10. Review illness-related income needs
Consider employer sick pay, savings and existing cover. Income Protection and Critical Illness Cover differ; benefit amounts, waiting periods and exclusions depend on the policy. See our Income Protection guide.
For currently advertised personal protection, start a protection enquiry. It begins adviser follow-up, not an instant quote or guaranteed policy.
