Your New Year money resolutions

5 financial New Year resolutions you can do through First Rate Credit Union

1. Set up payroll saving and never miss it
   Choose a small amount to come straight from your BAE Systems pay into your credit union savings. Start with an amount you can keep doing every payday. Increase it later when it feels easy. The credit union has a long history of members saving through payroll deductions.
   Link:Savings

2. Build a winter and emergencies fund
   Create a simple “Emergency” pot and feed it by payroll deduction. Use it only for real life problems, like car repairs or a boiler bill. The credit union calls out common winter costs and using fair loans to spread essential costs if needed.
   Link: Getting ready for winter

3. Consolidate expensive debt into one clear repayment
   If you have credit cards or several debts, ask about a debt consolidation loan. The aim is one repayment, one end date, and less interest. First Rate’s own example explains why minimum card payments can run for decades, and why a structured loan can cut the cost and timeline.
   Link: Could you save £38,000?

4. Improve your credit score with five simple habits
   Do these basics for 30 days: register on the electoral roll, keep card use low, pay on time, and check your report for errors. If you are rebuilding, ask about a Credit Builder Loan. First Rate explains the steps and how their credit builder approach works.
   Link: Improve your Credit Score

5. Put spare cash where it earns member returns
   Move “spare” money you are not spending this month into your credit union savings. Review it once a month, not daily. First Rate explains how credit union dividends can compare with bank interest, and why dividends are paid back to members.
   Link: Why Dividends can be better