One money expert is offering five quick wins to spruce up your finances this January. This includes using the ‘stranger test’ to getting to know your credit report
With research revealing that one in four Brits pledged to better manage their money as their 2025 New Year’s resolution, the experts at MoneySuperMarket are offering five quick wins to spruce up your finances this January. Many individuals frequently turn to social media platforms like Reddit for tips on enhancing their financial situation. However, it’s crucial to seek out expert advice that will genuinely make a difference.
In light of this, Kara Gammell, Personal Finance Expert at MoneySuperMarket, has provided her top tips for kick-starting your financial boost – from using the ‘stranger test’ to getting to know your credit report.
Review subscriptions
“A quick audit can make a big difference,” says Gammell. She recommended searching your email inbox for phrases like ‘trial ending’ or ‘renewal’ to uncover forgotten subscriptions, and apply the ‘use it twice’ rule: if you haven’t used it at least twice in the past month, it’s probably not worth keeping.
Cancelling subscriptions you no longer need can also help reduce your risk of fraud and identity theft at the same time as save you money,” she said.
“The fewer active accounts storing your personal details, the less exposed you are to potential security issues.”
Master the 24-hour rule
January sales can be hard to resist, so keeping a few simple hacks in mind can help you avoid overspending and start the new year debt-free, according to Gammell. She said: “If you’re tempted by a bargain, try the 24-hour rule: pause for a full day before making the purchase to give yourself time to think.”
The expert added: “Another trick is the ‘stranger test’: imagine a stranger holding the item in one hand and the cash equivalent in the other. For example, if it’s a £300 leather jacket, which would you rather take?
Research shows most people would actually choose the money, and considering the technique would only take you about 10 seconds, it could definitely be worth it financially.
Untangle old financial ties with former flatmates
Research from MoneySuperMarket found that nearly eight in ten Brits have shared a home with a flatmate at some point, yet almost everyone (94%) is unaware that joint financial products, like shared bank accounts or utility bills, can link your credit score to theirs.
“That means if your housemate misses payments or racks up debt, lenders could see you as a higher risk – even if your own finances are spotless,” said Gammell, The safest bet? Keep your money and accounts separate.
She added: “Don’t panic if you’ve already set up a joint account or loan, it’s easier than you think to fix. You can check who you’re connected to in just a few minutes with a free tool like MoneySuperMarket Credit Monitor.
“Simply look at the ‘financial associations’ section of your credit report – it lists anyone whose credit history could impact yours. If you spot an old flatmate or ex-partner, and you no longer share any accounts, ask the credit reference agencies to remove the link by requesting a financial disassociation.
“It’s an easy step that helps make sure your credit score reflects your own financial habits – not someone else’s.”
Get to know your credit report
Kara recommends: “Think of your credit report as a snapshot of your financial life – from active accounts and credit cards to loans you might have forgotten about. Checking it regularly can help you spot accounts that could be closed or any issues that need flagging and it’s a smart way to avoid unpleasant surprises down the line.
“The good news? You can review your credit report for free online in just a few minutes using tools like MoneySuperMarket Credit Monitor. It’s quick, easy, and gives you a clearer picture of where you stand financially.”
Get a grip on your spending
Budgeting doesn’t need to feel overwhelming and January is the perfect time to start. Kara says: “A budgeting app can take care of most of the hard work, giving you a clear picture of your spending with minimal effort.
“Setting one up takes just a few minutes and can help you stay on top of bills, reduce the risk of missed payments, and keep your finances on track for the year ahead.”
