As the UK weather turns grey and the summer holidays fade into memory, September marks a return to reality for many. Alongside the back-to-school rush and return to work routines, it’s also the perfect time to reset your finances and re-establish control before the holiday season creeps up. 

Whether you’re starting your financial journey or reviewing your current plan, there’s no better time to make meaningful changes. The value of time and compounding means the earlier you act, the more powerful your financial decisions become. 

Related: Mathematically, NOW is Always the Best Time to Start a Financial Plan 

Step 1: Review Your Accounts and Budget

Start with a financial health check: 

• Track your monthly income and expenses 

• Identify unnecessary subscriptions or spending habits 

• Evaluate your savings rate 

Tip: Use the 50/30/20 rule: 50% for needs, 30% for wants, and 20% for saving/investing. 

If the numbers don’t add up, focus on reducing discretionary spending and reallocating funds to high-priority goals. 

A financial planner can help ensure that your budget aligns with your life goals, giving you support through both financial and personal challenges. 

See also: The Benefits of Having a Financial Adviser 

Step 2: Set Clear Financial Goals

Every strong financial plan starts with a clear vision. 

Ask yourself: 

• Where do I want to be financially in 1, 5, or 25 years? 

• What are my non-negotiables and where can I compromise? 

• Is becoming debt-free a top priority? 

Tip: Break long-term goals like retirement or home ownership into smaller, manageable milestones. Even small monthly contributions can have big long-term impacts. 

Setting SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) helps direct your financial behaviour and track progress over time. 

Step 3: Check Your Credit Reports

Your credit score is a foundation of financial wellbeing. Lenders, landlords and sometimes employers use it to assess your reliability. 

Why check it now? 

• It ensures accuracy before the year-end financial rush 

• You can correct errors before they impact major decisions 

• You stay informed about your credit health 

Tip: Check your credit report from all major agencies (Experian, Equifax, TransUnion) at least annually. 

Step 4: Speak to a Financial Adviser

Financial planners do more than build budgets. They: 

• Help align your goals with your financial realities 

• Provide personalised advice for saving, investing and protecting your wealth 

• Stay by your side throughout major life changes 

Book a 15-minute no-obligation call with a professional adviser today to get started. 

Why September is the Smartest Month to Start Planning 

• Summer spending is done; you have a clear picture of where you stand 

• There’s time to make meaningful changes before the holidays 

• You’ll maximise compounding by acting early in the financial year 

The greatest gift you can give yourself? Financial peace of mind. 

Explore more tips in Adam Walkom’s book: Plan for Happy – A Step-by-Step Guide to Growing Your Money. Available on Amazon or reach out for a complimentary copy. 

FAQs 

Q: Why should I review my finances after summer?
A: It’s the ideal time to assess your financial health after summer expenses and reset before the end-of-year period. 

Q: What’s the 50/30/20 budget rule?
A: 50% of income goes to needs, 30% to wants, and 20% to savings/investments, a simple guide to balanced budgeting. 

Q: How can a financial adviser help?
A: Advisers provide tailored financial plans and ongoing support, helping you make informed decisions about spending, saving, and investing. 

Adam Walkom