Finishing university is a huge step — but for many graduates, it’s what comes next that can feel truly overwhelming. Suddenly, you’re expected to know how to set up council tax, register with a GP, read a payslip, and maybe even sort out your own bin collection day. Welcome to life admin.
If you’re thinking “why didn’t anyone teach us this?” — you’re not alone. The truth is, many graduates feel unprepared for the practicalities of adult life. But don’t panic. Life admin isn’t about knowing everything at once — it’s about learning the basics, knowing where to look, and taking things one step at a time.
Here’s a simple guide to the essentials of independent living, designed for graduates just starting out.
1. Setting Up Your First Home
Whether you're renting with friends, moving into a studio flat, or staying with family while you job-hunt, setting up a home involves more than just unpacking boxes. Here’s what to consider:
Utilities:
Gas, electricity, and water need to be registered in your name (or someone else’s in your household). If you're moving into a new property, find out who the current suppliers are — then call to set up an account and provide your meter readings.
Council Tax:
Most graduates are no longer exempt from council tax. If you’re living in a shared house, the bill usually covers the whole property, not per person — but it still needs to be paid. Check your local council’s website to register and see if you’re eligible for any discounts.
TV Licence:
Watching or recording live TV — or using BBC iPlayer — legally requires a TV licence. You can pay annually or monthly, and it applies per household, not per person.
Contents Insurance:
It’s not mandatory, but insuring your belongings (especially laptops, phones or bikes) can give peace of mind. It’s usually inexpensive and can save you from expensive replacements later.
2. Registering with Key Services
When you move somewhere new — even temporarily — it's a good idea to register with local services:
GP (Doctor):
You’ll need to register with a GP surgery in your local area. This is important for getting prescriptions, referrals or access to mental health support. It’s usually done online through the surgery’s website.
Dentist:
If you’re hoping to use NHS dental services, register early — waiting lists in some areas can be long. Routine check-ups are recommended every 6 to 12 months.
Voting:
If you’ve moved address, make sure you're registered to vote. You can update your details at www.gov.uk/register-to-vote — it only takes five minutes.
3. Managing Your Post and Admin Paper Trail
If you’ve moved house, redirecting your post is a smart move — especially if you’re expecting important documents or bank cards. The Royal Mail offers a redirection service that can last 3, 6, or 12 months.
Once settled, it helps to create a basic admin system for yourself. You don’t need a filing cabinet — just somewhere to store digital copies of:
- Your tenancy agreement
- Payslips
- Tax documents (P45, P60)
- Utility contracts
- Insurance policies
- Student loan information
Use a secure folder on your laptop or cloud storage, and label documents clearly. You’ll thank yourself later.
4. Understanding Payslips and Income
Your first job means your first payslip — and probably your first moment of wondering where half your salary has gone.
A standard UK payslip will show:
- Gross pay: What you’ve earned before any deductions
- Net pay: What you actually take home
- Tax and National Insurance (NI): Mandatory deductions based on your earnings
- Student loan repayment: If you’re earning above the threshold
- Pension contributions: If you're enrolled in a workplace scheme
Always check that your tax code is correct (most graduates should start on 1257L), and query anything that doesn’t look right.
If you're self-employed, things work differently. You’ll need to register with HMRC and complete a self-assessment tax return each year. Keep a record of your income and expenses throughout the year to make this easier.
5. Getting to Grips with Food, Cleaning and Routine
It might sound basic, but one of the biggest lifestyle adjustments after university is managing your own home environment every day.
Meal Planning:
You don’t need to become a gourmet chef. But planning a few basic meals per week will save money, reduce waste, and improve your wellbeing. Start with easy staples — stir fries, pasta dishes, soups — and build from there.
Cleaning:
A little goes a long way. Create a simple cleaning routine (bathroom, kitchen surfaces, floors) and stick to it. Use a shared rota if living with others — and don’t underestimate the joy of a clean space.
Laundry:
Separate lights and darks. Don’t overload the machine. And for the love of socks, learn what should and shouldn’t go in the tumble dryer.
Routines:
Structure is your friend. Try to keep regular waking hours, especially if you're job-hunting or freelancing. Create a weekly planner that includes admin tasks, social time and rest.
6. Knowing Your Rights as a Tenant
If you’re renting, it’s important to know the basics of your rights and responsibilities.
- You should receive a tenancy agreement in writing before you move in.
- Your deposit must be protected by a government-approved scheme (check with your landlord or letting agent).
- The property must meet safety and legal standards — for example, smoke alarms and a working boiler.
- You’re entitled to at least 24 hours’ notice before a landlord visits.
- You can usually only be evicted with proper legal notice — not just told to leave.
If you're unsure or feel something’s wrong, organisations like Shelter and Citizens Advice offer free, confidential guidance.
7. Time Management and Mental Clarity
One of the hidden burdens of life admin is decision fatigue. When everything is new — and important — it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.
Take control by writing things down. Whether it’s a weekly to-do list or a digital calendar, keeping tasks visible helps reduce stress and create momentum.
You don’t have to do everything in one day. Spread tasks out across the week, and tick things off as you go. Small wins build confidence — and gradually, you’ll start to feel more in control.
Also, don’t be afraid to ask for help. Friends, family, or even online forums can provide support, reassurance, or practical tips you didn’t know you needed.
Final Thoughts
No one is born knowing how to run a household, manage documents, or navigate bureaucracy. Life admin is a skill — and like all skills, it gets easier with practice.
Being an adult doesn’t mean having it all sorted. It means learning, adapting, and taking responsibility at your own pace. The more you engage with life admin now, the more confident, calm and capable you’ll feel in the months and years ahead.
So take it one task at a time. Bookmark the websites you need. Ask the questions you think might be silly. Because living independently isn’t about perfection — it’s about progress.