Time to take a new broom to those untidy finances

A young executive and three couples of varying ages and circumstances gain expert help in realising their resolutions to make more of their money

Most of us will already have forgotten those well-meaning New Year resolutions we vowed to stick to only a few days ago. But even if we're not in the habit of adhering to resolutions, there are some - the financial kind - which should be kept.

Most of us will already have forgotten those well-meaning New Year resolutions we vowed to stick to only a few days ago. But even if we're not in the habit of adhering to resolutions, there are some - the financial kind - which should be kept.

January is a good time to reassess your finances by taking a close look at your debts and investments. Ask yourself whether you could get a better rate of interest by shifting your savings to another account; whether you should sell those windfall shares you've been hanging on to for years; and whether you should be reviewing your will. And if you haven't already sent off your tax return, you need to do so by the end of the month to avoid an automatic £100 fine, so you should certainly start working through your accounts now.

The Independent on Sunday has assembled a panel of independent financial advisers to offer readers tips on how to meet different financial objectives. Their advice is given below.

* Panel: Donna Bradshaw, director, Fiona Price & Partners, 020 7611 4700; Michael Owen, director, Plan Invest, 01625 429217; Vivienne Starkey and Kay Lowe, partners at Equal Partners, 020 7867 0038.