Your friendly guide to saving and investing
Ready to take charge of your financial future?
Our guide is here to help make saving and investing a breeze. Whether you're eyeing that shiny new car or dreaming of owning your first home, or maybe even just preparing for that rainy day, we've got you covered.
What are you saving for, and when do you want your money?
What's your savings goal?
Got something specific in mind? Maybe it's a well-deserved holiday or sprucing up your living space.
Short-term goals like these usually take around 5 years or less to achieve.
Or you're thinking bigger and long-term? Like saving for your retirement or your little one's college fund. Those goals usually require 5 years or more of saving.
What’s your budget for saving or investing?
How much can you afford to put away?
OK, let's crunch some numbers. Take a good look at your monthly expenses and figure out how much you can comfortably put aside.
Paying the bills, filling up your car, and keeping the fridge stocked can all eat up a chunk of your income. You could look for ways to cut your monthly outgoings by seeking cheaper alternatives or substituting pricey take aways and dinners out by making your own.
Which option will suit you best?
Which option suits your goal?
Now that you know how much you can save or invest and what you're saving for, it's time to pick the best savings or investment method for you.
Here are some of your options:
Regular savings account
It's like a piggy bank that earns you interest. You'll have a guaranteed lump sum waiting for you when you need it.
The annual tax-free Personal Savings Allowance is £1,000 (£500 for higher rate taxpayers) for savings income or interest.
Cash ISA
Similar to a savings account, but with a tax-free perk. Ideal for shorter-term savings goals and getting that lump sum.
Investment ISA
This option lets you put your money in a mix of assets like stocks, bonds, and property.
You can currently invest up to £20,000 per tax year in an Investment ISA, less any amounts you’ve paid into other types of ISA.
Keep in mind that the value can go up or down, so it's a longer-term game and you could get back less than you pay in.
Other long-term investments
There are plenty of options for those who can wait it out. Some invest in the stock market, while others promise a guaranteed sum after a set period.
Our friendly guides to ISAs and Junior ISAs can walk you through all these options
Ready to get started with an Investment ISA?
Check out our range of options and you could get on the path to a future to look forward to.
Tax treatment depends on your individual circumstances and tax law may change in the future.
Scottish Friendly doesn't provide advice. The information provided should help you decide if a saving or investment plan is suitable for you. If you're not sure whether a saving or investment plan is suitable, you should contact an independent financial advisor for advice. Advisers may charge for providing such advice and should confirm any cost beforehand.