Guides

UK Personal Finance Guides

In-depth articles on the questions that matter most — written to HMRC 2025/26 rates with worked examples so you can understand the numbers, not just look them up.

Income Tax
How Much Tax Will I Pay on My Salary?
Income tax bands, NI rates, the £100k–£125k 60% trap, and worked examples at £30k, £50k and £100k for 2025/26.
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 Property
How Much Stamp Duty Will I Pay?
SDLT bands, first-time buyer relief, the additional property surcharge, and regional differences for Scotland (LBTT) and Wales (LTT).
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 Mortgages
How Much Can I Borrow for a Mortgage?
Income multiples, stress testing, deposit and LTV explained. Understand exactly how lenders calculate what they'll offer you.
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 Investing
ISA vs Pension: Which Is Better?
The higher-rate taxpayer decision, tax relief mechanics, withdrawal tax comparison, and when each wrapper wins.
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 FIRE
What Is the FIRE Movement?
Financial Independence Retire Early explained for a UK audience. The 4% rule, your FIRE number, Lean vs Fat FIRE, and ISA/pension strategy.
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 Tax & Pay
Is Salary Sacrifice Worth It?
Worked examples at £35k and £60k show exactly how much income tax and NI you save — and when salary sacrifice can actually work against you.
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 Property
How Much Stamp Duty Will I Pay in 2025?
SDLT rates from April 2025, FTB relief, additional property surcharge, and all three UK nations — with worked examples for every buyer type.
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 Tax & Pay
Salary Sacrifice vs Pension Contributions
Salary sacrifice saves NI as well as income tax. Relief at source doesn't. A precise comparison at £35k and £60k showing the exact monthly difference.
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Take-Home Pay Stamp Duty Mortgage Affordability ISA vs Pension FIRE Calculator Pension Contribution Salary Sacrifice Rent vs Buy All 23 calculators →
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Written and reviewed by Sanjeev Yoganathan
BSc Actuarial Science · 10+ years in insurance, pricing and financial services