First Wage is an independent UK publication that explains money and work for people in their first years of adult life. This page describes how our guides are researched, written, updated and corrected.
How we research our guides
We base our guides on official and regulator sources, such as GOV.UK, HMRC, MoneyHelper, the Financial Conduct Authority, Acas and Citizens Advice. Each guide ends with a “Sources and further reading” section so you can check the original information yourself.
Keeping information up to date
Tax rates, thresholds, benefit rules and product terms change. Every guide shows a “Last updated” date. We review figures when new rates are announced, for example at the start of a tax year or after a Budget, and we update guides when we find something out of date.
Worked examples
Many guides use worked examples with named people, jobs and figures to show how rules and numbers play out. These are illustrative scenarios we create for clarity, not accounts of real individuals, and each guide that uses them says so at the top.
How we use tools
We use software tools, including AI-assisted drafting, as part of our writing process. Our editorial team is responsible for what is published, and guides are checked against the official sources listed in them.
Independence and how we are funded
Our guides are written to be useful on their own, whether or not you ever use a product we mention. Some links may earn us a commission, and we may show advertising. This never changes what we write. Read our Affiliate Disclosure for details.
Corrections
If you spot an error or something out of date, email hello@firstwage.co.uk with the page and what needs fixing. We review every report and correct confirmed mistakes as soon as we can.
Not financial advice
Our guides are general information, not personalised financial, tax or legal advice. For decisions that depend on your circumstances, speak to a regulated adviser or a free service such as MoneyHelper. See our Financial Disclaimer.