Summer is over, the days are getting shorter, and with fall comes the final stretch of the year. Many of us spent more during the warmer months – on vacations, iced coffees, or simply the little joys of everyday life. That’s completely fine; after all, we live in the here and now. At the same time, it’s worth looking ahead: What financial topics are coming up before the year ends, and how can we approach them with ease?
Back to School & Family Expenses
For parents, the start of the school year often brings a wave of costs: school supplies, field trips, childcare expenses. Sometimes it’s also about first allowances or opening a bank account for the little one. These moments are a great opportunity to talk with kids about money – and to take a fresh look at your own financial habits. In December, we’ll be offering a workshop on talking about money in partnerships and families, where allowance and financial independence will also be on the agenda.
Fall and Winter Fixed Costs
Fall is the season for repairs and maintenance: heating systems, boilers, and the switch to winter tires. It’s also the time when annual passes for public transport, gym memberships, or museums and other cultural venues are renewed or purchased. Planning for these fixed points means fewer surprises later. Switching energy providers can also pay off, especially before heating season kicks in.
Before you know it, Christmas, New Year’s, and other festivities are just around the corner. Expenses for these often change from year to year and are easy to underestimate. Setting aside even a small weekly amount now can make December a lot less financially stressful.
New Season, New Savings Goal
Fall is a great time to set a fresh financial goal. That could be a first small savings target, a cushion for the holidays or an upcoming trip, or simply a little extra for something joyful in everyday life. Or maybe the goal is to strengthen your emergency fund so you can move through the coming months with more ease.
It’s also worth taking a look at interest rates, savings plans, and insurance. Are there better offers for your savings? Do ETF plans need adjusting? You don’t have to have the perfect answers—what matters is making conscious choices about how your money can support you.
Health & Wellbeing
Health-related appointments are another piece of annual planning. Preventive checkups, dentist visits, or therapy sessions may bring extra costs. But some of these are covered by health insurance or employers, so it’s worth checking the details.
Your personal wellbeing also deserves space. A small financial cushion at the end of the year can be used to treat yourself. Fulfill a wish, enjoy some time off, or simply enter the new year more relaxed. If it’s possible, do yourself that favor.
Our Reminder: Financial planning doesn’t have to be stressful or complicated. It’s not about perfection! It’s about small steps that give you a sense of security and self-determination. And each of us starts from a different place, whether living alone, with a partner, with or without kids.
Fall is the perfect time to step back, take stock, and make intentional choices: What matters most to me—now and for the rest of the year?