Looking forward to Christmas!

By Sanjay Badhan of Swindon-based Future Planning.

What does Christmas 2020 mean for you in your business? 

A busy yet fun time where we wind down for the year and prepare for a busy January and tax year end to help clients make the most of allowances reducing how much tax they pay - allowing for growth. We also try to have a fun Christmas do, however, this year may be different.

In your business when do you start talking or planning Christmas? 

November, definitely. October is still very busy with helping clients in their usual requirements of buying their first home and moving home, investment and pension planning.

Will your business be operating differently during Quarter 4 2020? 

It is a shorter quarter. Providers close early, Accountants and solicitors close early so we have a window where we are able to wind down and enjoy the festive period. However January is a very fast start with everyone wanting to get their finances in order. 

Are you planning any events in Quarter 4, virtual or real world? 

A Christmas meal, however, who knows quite what this will look like?!

Have you got any milestones to share with us? 

Only a few weeks ago,  my fiancée and I decided to wed at short notice abiding by COVID19 rules. It was a smaller ceremony, however, lots of fun was still had by all and the weather was fantastic too! So happy we decided to do this when we did.

Have you employed any new staff recently? 

We have two new starters – Craig and Edi! They started with us on 21/09/2020. Craig joins us having previously worked elsewhere and Edi lives in Oxfordshire, joining us as an apprentice.

Have you faced some challenges which have changed things for you? 

COVID was a challenge for us as with many others. I was able to spend more time with my partner, dogs, on the home renovation and on the business (rather than just in it). I realised that not everyone copes as well working from home and actually camaraderie with friends in the office is vital for a balanced working life.

How are you feeling generally about business in your community at this time? 

Cautiously optimistic. A lot depends on what measures the Chancellor announces to support small businesses. We have a national reach with helping clients (and international for some) as well as local. 

However, the community needs supporting and it's more important than ever to use local trades and businesses. This helps us all to stay social and support people we know. 

Any special offers you’d like to mention? 

We offer a free consultation so if you have any type of financial query, whether it is tax planning, whether you have a mortgage query, retirement, estate planning or business orientated then we are happy to have a chat and offer pointers – no hidden strings. 

And finally: 

While traditionally people may focus only on Christmas in December, those that jump the gun and choose to focus on their finances and improving their position are likely to be in an even better place sooner. 

We help people know what they need to do to improve their position, plan for tax savings and grow their money  – so their goals and dreams can happen even sooner and bigger!

For more information visit https://futureplanningwm.co.uk/