Financial Planning Matters Blog – Your Financial Insights

Explore our blog for in-depth articles on investment strategies, budgeting tips, tax planning, and more. Stay informed and make smarter financial decisions with expert insights.

Niall O'Connor Niall O'Connor

Does Ireland Need a New Savings and Investment Account?

Ireland already has a wide range of regulated investment products. The real barriers to investing are complexity, taxation and a lack of confidence. A new Savings and Investment Account may help, but it cannot replace meaningful reform of Ireland’s investment tax system.

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SinΓ©ad Purcell SinΓ©ad Purcell

Where Are You on the 7 Levels of Financial Freedom?

The 7 Levels of Financial Freedom is a simple framework that shows how your financial confidence and independence can grow over time. From β€œjust getting by” to full financial independence, everyone’s journey looks different - but the next level is always within reach, with the right plan to get there.

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SinΓ©ad Purcell SinΓ©ad Purcell

Budget 2026 Ireland: What It Means for Your Financial Plan

Ireland’s Budget 2026 is made up of small gains rather than big wins, with a mix of modest tax reliefs, a few targeted supports, and continued investment in housing and public services.

At Financial Planning Matters, we’ve looked beyond the headlines to highlight the changes that affect you most, and what they mean for your financial plan.

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SinΓ©ad Purcell SinΓ©ad Purcell

Understanding Your Payslip: A Simple Breakdown

Payslips can be confusing, but they don’t have to be. This guide breaks down the key parts of an Irish payslip - gross pay, PAYE, PRSI, USC, pensions, and net pay - so you can understand exactly how your salary is calculated and what lands in your bank account each month.

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SinΓ©ad Purcell SinΓ©ad Purcell

Whole of Life Cover: When β€˜Forever Insurance’ Makes Financial Sense

Whole of Life insurance isn’t necessary for everyone - but in certain circumstances, it becomes essential. This specialised insurance can be a powerful financial planning tool, providing peace of mind and lasting financial security. Let’s explore in detail why this type of cover might make perfect financial sense for you.

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SinΓ©ad Purcell SinΓ©ad Purcell

Wealth Extraction for Directors: Make the Most of Your Business Success

Building a successful business is only half the battle. For many company directors, the real challenge is extracting wealth from the business without losing it to heavy taxes. Our new guide, Wealth Extraction for Directors, explores smarter, tax-efficient strategies to turn company profits into personal wealth.

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SinΓ©ad Purcell SinΓ©ad Purcell

Growing Skills, Building Confidence: Financial Planning Matters & BeatTheBank.ie x Coerver Coaching

At both Financial Planning Matters and BeatTheBank.ie, we’re all about helping families make smart, simple decisions that protect their future. That’s why this summer, we were proud to team up with @coervercoachingleinster to support a brilliant 5-week grassroots football programme at Divine Word National School in Marley Grange.

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SinΓ©ad Purcell SinΓ©ad Purcell

Additional Voluntary Contributions (AVCs): What You Need to Know

Additional Voluntary Contributions (AVCs) are one of the smartest ways to boost your pension savings and cut your tax bill. Here’s what you need to know about how AVCs work, the benefits they offer, and how they could strengthen your retirement plan.

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SinΓ©ad Purcell SinΓ©ad Purcell

Income Protection in Ireland: Why It Matters and How to Get Covered

If illness or injury stopped your income tomorrow, how would you cope? Income protection insurance replaces up to 75% of your salary if you can't work – and it's more affordable than most people realise. Here’s what you need to know, plus a free guide from Financial Planning Matters.

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SinΓ©ad Purcell SinΓ©ad Purcell

Family Protection Insurance Ireland: Securing Your Loved Ones' Financial Future

Raising a family in Ireland today comes with real financial pressure β€” from mortgage costs to childcare and everything in between. This guide breaks down the key types of family protection insurance available in Ireland, including life cover, income protection and mortgage protection. Learn how to safeguard your family’s financial future with affordable, tax-efficient cover tailored to your needs.

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SinΓ©ad Purcell SinΓ©ad Purcell

Budgeting for First-Time Buyers in Ireland: What You Need to Know

Buying your first home is one of the biggest financial milestones you'll reach, but it’s also one of the most complex financial decisions. Between saving for a deposit, securing mortgage approval, and navigating grants and hidden costs, there’s a lot to consider.

To help you plan your budget and maximise savings, here’s a step-by-step breakdown of what first-time buyers in Ireland need to know.

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SinΓ©ad Purcell SinΓ©ad Purcell

FPMS.ie Jargon Buster: Simplifying Financial Terms

Let’s be honestβ€”finance can feel like a different language.
Between pensions, investments, and taxes, there’s enough jargon to make anyone’s head spin. At Financial Planning Matters, we believe financial planning shouldn’t feel intimidatingβ€”so here’s our straight-talking guide to the terms you’ll actually come across.

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Emma Mulligan Emma Mulligan

Money Matters: Closing the Gender Gap in Financial Confidence

Financial empowerment isn’t just about wealthβ€”it’s about security, independence, and choice. This International Women’s Day, we’re breaking down five key financial pillars every woman should focus onβ€”from closing the gender pay gap to building long-term wealth and protecting your future. Let’s take charge of our financial confidence together.

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