EAST Hampshire residents with New Year money problems following the big spend over Christmas are being advised that Citizens Advice can help sort out their finances.

And while January is often associated with tight budgets and debt worries, research reveals that in the New Year people take stock of their money situation and plan their finances long-term.

The research also found that last year January and February were the busiest months of the year for queries about finances, with someone viewing online advice pages every three seconds in January.

The charity is expecting demand to reach its peak on January 12 - after people visited twice as many online advice pages about issues around money, insurance and pensions on the same day in 2016.

As well as going online, people contact Citizens Advice every 11 seconds with more in-depth questions around debt and money.

Citizens Advice services across the country are expecting to help as many as 2,400 people every working day in January with queries about their finances.

People are most likely to seek advice on personal pensions, bank accounts and credit referencing, while those with debts need help with council tax arrears, credit card debts and debt relief orders.

Gillian Guy, Chief Executive of Citizens Advice said:

“Although debt worries can be more acute in January people are also taking stock of their finances and thinking about the future.

“It doesn’t matter what your earn - whether you are on minimum wage or have a comfortable salary - everyone can benefit from reviewing their finances.

“Considering your overall financial situation can help you find a solution for urgent problems, and start planning your finances so that you are better prepared for tomorrow and more financially secure in the long term.

“If you’d like to understand more about how your circumstances affect your money options or are struggling with debt, Citizens Advice can give you the information and advice you need to find a way forward.”

For more information and contact details visit the Citizens Advice East Hampshire webpage www.citizensadviceeasthampshire.org.uk