Anyone wanting to save money urged to adopt ‘use it twice’ rule

Research has shown that one in four Brits have made a New Year’s resolution to  better manage their money in 2026.

With this in mind, experts at MoneySuperMarket are offering five quick wins to boost your finances this January.

While many people often turn to social media platforms like Reddit for financial advice, it’s essential to seek out expert guidance that will genuinely make a difference.

In response to this, Kara Gammell, Personal Finance Expert at MoneySuperMarket, has shared her top tips for kick-starting your financial boost.

From adopting the ‘use it twice’ rule to getting to know your credit report, check out her recommendations below.

Review your subscriptions

“A quick audit can make a big difference,” says Gammell. She suggested 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. “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 fewer active accounts storing your personal details, the less exposed you are to potential security issues.

Adopt the 24-hour rule

January sales can prove irresistible, but Gammell suggests a few straightforward strategies to help prevent overspending and begin the new year without debt.

She advised: “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.”

Another trick the expert suggested is the ‘stranger test’. She explained: “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?”

Studies indicate most individuals would actually opt for the cash, and given the technique takes roughly 10 seconds, it could prove financially beneficial.

Sever old financial connections with previous housemates

MoneySuperMarket research discovered 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 Kara, The safest bet? Keep your money and accounts separate.

She continued: “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 familiar with your credit report

Kara recommends thinking of your credit report as a ‘snapshot of your financial life’. She says: “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.”

Keep an eye on your spending

“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.”