The article discusses the costs associated with funerals in Ireland, highlighting the wide range of expenses from €2,000 to over €10,000. It emphasizes the importance of planning ahead to alleviate financial strain on bereaved families. Gallagher's research indicates that many people underestimate funeral costs, and Jonathan Roche-Kelly advises considering these expenses in advance. The article also outlines financial support options, such as Additional Needs Payment and Death Benefit Insurance offered by credit unions, to help cover funeral costs. Citizens Information provides guidance on who is responsible for funeral expenses if no financial provisions are made.

The article provides advice on how to avoid unnecessary spending during Black Friday sales. It emphasizes the importance of making a list of needed items, being cautious of misleading sales prices, and conducting research to ensure genuine discounts. Consumers are advised to be wary of retailers flouting pricing laws and to consider the likelihood of future sales. The article also highlights the benefits of using secure payment methods, such as Revolut's disposable virtual cards, and stresses the importance of checking return policies and consumer rights when shopping online.

Financial advisor Leah McMahon emphasizes the importance of financial honesty in relationships, highlighting its role in building trust, preventing debt, and fostering healthy communication. She advises that financial contributions should be proportional to income and encourages open discussions about financial goals and challenges. John Lowe from moneydoctors.ie supports this view, stressing the need for open dialogue and honesty about financial matters, even when it involves revealing money secrets. Both experts agree that financial transparency is crucial for relationship stability and stress reduction.

The article discusses strategies for parents to gift money to their children without incurring significant tax liabilities under Ireland's Capital Acquisitions Tax (CAT) rules. It highlights the tax-free threshold of €400,000 for gifts or inheritances from parents and suggests methods like 'drip-feeding' inheritance and using inter-family loans to optimize tax efficiency. The small-gift exemption allows for annual tax-free gifts of up to €3,000 per individual, which can be strategically used to build a fund for future home purchases. The article also touches on future planning with inheritance tax considerations, recommending the use of 'Whole of Life' insurance policies set up as 'Section 72 Life Insurance' to offset potential tax liabilities.

The article discusses common spending triggers that lead to impulsive buying, such as emotional, social, and time-based factors. Financial advisor Leah McMahon from Castle Capital Financial offers strategies to manage these triggers, including setting a budget, tracking spending, and using the 72-hour rule to curb impulsive purchases. The concept of a 'fun fund' is introduced to allocate a portion of income for guilt-free spending. The article emphasizes the importance of being aware of spending habits and making conscious efforts to control expenditure.

Investing requires careful consideration and preparation, including paying down high-interest debt and establishing an emergency fund. John McNicholas from Everlake advises that long-term investments, such as pensions, offer significant benefits like tax relief. Diversification is key to managing risk, and investors should align their portfolios with personal goals and values. Proper research and a disciplined approach are essential for successful investing.

The article discusses the rising costs of holiday experiences such as Santa visits and pantomimes in Ireland, highlighting specific price increases in Cork, Dublin, and Limerick. Financial expert Paul Merriman advises families to manage these costs through early budgeting, prioritizing key experiences, and taking advantage of discounts and promotions. He emphasizes the importance of planning and setting up a dedicated holiday fund to alleviate financial pressure during the festive season.

The article discusses the importance of early estate planning to efficiently manage inheritance tax liabilities. Marc Westlake from Everlake emphasizes utilizing capital acquisitions tax thresholds and establishing family trusts to minimize tax burdens. Glenn Gaughran from the Independent Trustee Company highlights the significance of pension pots in inheritance planning, advising on the tax-efficient transfer of approved retirement funds. The article underscores the need for regular review of estate plans to adapt to changing tax rules.

The Irish government's €2.2bn cost of living package offers short-term financial relief through one-off payments, such as additional child benefits and energy credits, but lacks long-term strategies to reduce living costs. Despite tax changes benefiting workers, rising expenses in childcare, insurance, and energy persist, with Ireland facing some of the highest mortgage rates in the eurozone. The budget is criticized for its failure to address these enduring economic challenges, leaving families to cope with high costs in various sectors.

The article explores whether it's worth paying more for high-end candles and perfumes, comparing brands like Jo Malone with local producers such as Milis and La Bougie. It highlights the rise of 'dupes' and the impact of ingredient costs and climate change on prices. Fiona Young of Milis emphasizes natural, non-toxic ingredients, while Lucy Hagerty of La Bougie focuses on botanical aromatics. The piece suggests that while designer items have a market, word-of-mouth remains a powerful advertising tool.