JANUARY/FEBRUARY: Get your Finances into Gear for 2026
T he start of a new year often brings a sense of possibility, especially in Greyton, where life tends to find a gentler rhythm after the festive season. January and February are ideal months to shift from holiday mode into planning mode, giving your finances a thoughtful reset for the year ahead. Here’s a practi- cal money checklist to help you get into gear for 2026. 1. Take stock of your financial position Begin with a clear snapshot of where you stand. Review your income, expenses, savings and outstanding debt. Understanding your cash flow helps you spot leaks, prioritise savings and feel more in control from the outset. 2. Plan for tax efficiency early Good tax planning isn’t a last-minute exercise. With the financial tax year ending on 28
4. Check your estate planning is up to date Wills, beneficiary nomi - nations and powers of attorney are easy to overlook but vital to review regularly. Family changes, asset growth or shifts in residency can all affect whether these documents still reflect your intentions. 5. Set clear intentions for the year ahead Money is a tool, not a goal. Take time to think about what you want 2026 to support, whether that’s travel, supporting loved ones, stepping back from work or simply greater peace of mind. Clear intentions make financial decisions far easier. If you’re unsure where to start, a meeting with a qualified financial planner - now or later in the year - can help you create a clear, person- alised roadmap.
February 2026, early in the year is the perfect time to assess whether you are maximising contributions to retirement funds and tax-free savings accounts, and to plan ahead for provisional tax if you’re self-employed or running a business. Small, consistent contributions made well before tax yearend can have a powerful long-term impact. 3. Reassess your investments Your investments should reflect both your goals and your tolerance for market ups and downs. If your personal circumstanc- es have changed, or if market volatility has made you uneasy, it may be time to rebalance or rethink your strategy.
Staying aligned with your long- term plan is often more important than reacting to short-term noise.
A little planning in January and February can set the tone for a calmer, more confident 2026. Getting into gear early often makes all the difference!
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THE GREYTON POST
JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026
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