What I’m Doing Now (So You Can Do It Too)

A midlife woman’s practical checklist after this year’s Budget.

This Budget offered a few crumbs, a couple of perks, and a handful of stealth taxes quietly creeping up behind us. Here’s what I’m personally doing — calmly, sensibly, and with one eyebrow firmly raised.

1. Checking My Pension Contributions

I’m looking at my pension setup now, not in 2029 when the salary-sacrifice cap kicks in and suddenly costs me more. If you’re working and contributing through salary sacrifice, check how much you’re putting in and whether you need to adjust your long-term plan.

2. Reviewing My Savings & Investments

Dividend and savings tax is going up. If you have ISAs, savings pots, or rental income, take a moment to:– check how much tax you’ll owe next year– move more into ISAs if possible– review whether any accounts need switching. Small tweaks now save big headaches later.

3. Reworking My Monthly Budget (Boring but Essential)

Yes, energy bills may drop by around £150 next year. Lovely. But with tax thresholds frozen, the overall picture is still tight. I’m reviewing:– utilities– subscriptions– groceries– travel– any creeping costs. Not glamorous, but necessary.

4. Keeping an Eye on Housing

If you rent: pay attention. This Budget barely touched housing and older single women are still the most vulnerable group. I’m checking my tenancy terms– watching for any rise– planning ahead for next year’s market

5. Planning for Rising Everyday Costs

Even with inflation easing, prices remain high. I’m tightening the essentials and planning for another 6–12 months of elevated costs. Don't panic, just be realistic.

6. For Anyone on Benefits – Double-Checking Entitlement

PIP and UC will rise with inflation, but that just keeps things stable. If you rely on these, make sure your claim is up-to-date and that you’re receiving everything you’re entitled to. Mistakes happen more than people realise.

7. Keeping My Expectations Low (But My Voice Loud)

This Budget didn’t prioritise midlife women — again. I refuse to be quiet about it. I’m watching closely, asking questions, and staying vocal. Silence has never served us.

8. Taking Stock of My Work Life

The minimum wage is rising, but age discrimination isn’t disappearing overnight. I’m checking:– training– side-income options– career moves– whether self-employment can be boosted. Midlife women are flexible and capable — that’s our power.

9. And Finally… A Little Self-Compassion

Everything is harder when the government hands out lip service instead of real solutions. I'm taking a breath, doing what I can control, and ignoring the rest.