What’s in our resource centre
Find the right resource for your financial needs—articles, worksheets, calculators, and videos updated weekly for South Africans.
Learning Resources
Guide to Personal Finance
This comprehensive guide explores personal finance fundamentals, helping you build budgeting skills and understand essential concepts such as saving, spending, and setting realistic money goals. Ideal for beginners and anyone looking to brush up on their financial basics.
Budget Planning Worksheet
Use this downloadable worksheet and calculator to plan your monthly budget, track expenses, and set aside savings for both short-term needs and future emergencies. Designed for easy use at home or on the go.
Budgeting Basics Video
Watch our short video explaining the basics of creating a personal budget, breaking down each step so you can follow along and apply these principles to your own finances. Accessible for all experience levels.
Key Terms
Financial Glossary
Browse essential financial terms to boost your money knowledge and confidence in everyday decisions.
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Personal budget plan
BasicsA plan that outlines expected income and expenses over a period, helping you manage spending and save for future needs. Used to guide financial decisions and track progress.
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Emergency savings fund
SavingsMoney set aside for emergencies or specific goals, kept separate from regular spending. Emergency funds can provide financial security during unexpected events.
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Monthly living expenses
SpendingEveryday costs for needs and wants, including housing, food, transport, and entertainment. Tracking expenses helps you stick to your budget.
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Credit rating score
CreditA score or rating that reflects your history of managing debt and paying bills. Lenders may use it to assess your ability to repay loans or credit.
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Financial wellness level
WellnessA measure of your overall financial health, including savings, debt, and ability to handle financial surprises. Financial wellness supports long-term security.
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Total household income
IncomeAll sources of money received, such as salaries, freelance earnings, or benefits. Understanding income is key to setting a realistic budget.
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Consumer finance awareness
AwarenessBeing informed about financial products, rights, and risks. Helps you make decisions that protect your money and avoid common pitfalls.
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Retirement savings plan
PlanningSetting aside money regularly for retirement, with the aim of supporting yourself when you stop working. Includes pension funds and other savings plans.
Practical tips for financial wellness
Create a realistic monthly budget
Start your financial journey by setting clear budgeting priorities. List your must-have expenses, such as rent and groceries, then allocate money for savings before spending on extras. Review your costs monthly to track progress and spot areas for improvement.
Make saving automatic and simple
Automating savings helps you build a habit. Set up automatic transfers to a separate account each payday. Review your weekly spending to identify where you can save a little more without major lifestyle changes.
Understand your credit rating
Keep your credit healthy by monitoring your accounts for errors or missed payments. Request your credit report annually to check for accuracy and understand your credit rating, which impacts your financial opportunities.
Plan for emergencies
Start with a small emergency fund—just one month’s expenses is a good first step. Add to it over time, and review your progress each year to ensure you’re covered for unexpected events or costs.