iThis applies across the UK
Saving money and increasing income
Some weeks and months can seem much longer than others when you are short of money. Here are some budgeting tips that may help your money last until payday.
We know that this can be a lot harder for some than for others. If you are:
- Running out of ways to pay your bills and heat your home: Don't wait to get free and impartial debt help
- Really struggling: Read our guide to getting emergency help with money for food
Checklist:
- Find out if there are any cheaper deals in your area
- See if you can get help with a 'social tariff'
- Check your bill to avoid paying extra fees
- Make sure you are getting the most out of the services you are paying for
- Be cheeky and ask for a better deal
- Make the most of free services
Make a budget
Listing your living costs will give you a clearer view of how much you need each week or month.
Making a budget is the first step to dealing with money worries. Do try to be realistic about what you need to spend. But if you spot some areas where you can spend less, that will be a big help.
Watch our budgeting video guide
Avoid payday loans
If you are stuck, you might think about getting a pay day loan to tide you over.
It might help in the short-term. But it can end up costing you much more in the long term. This applies to any type of high-cost credit. It could leave you much worse off.
Money worries?
Find out how we can help you.
Get help now
Keep a spending diary
A spending diary can not only help you track what you spend each day, but help you to think back about how you were feeling at the time you spent more than you meant to - and spot patterns you need to break.
Boredom might give you the urge to go shopping during your lunch break. You can avoid this happening by reading a book, playing a game, or listening to a podcast instead.
Use cashback and loyalty points instead of spending more
Do you use cashback websites? You may have some available credit on your account that you can trade in for cash. If possible, try trading the cashback in for a specific retailer or chain. This'll often give your cashback an extra boost.
Do you have a card where you collect points while shopping? Now's the time to see if you can use these points to reduce your food shopping or other living costs.
Plan your meals until payday
Take a look at what food you currently have in the cupboard and freezer. How many meals can you make out of this food? Would buying some cheap staples such as pasta and rice make these ingredients stretch further?
You should never go without food or proper meals to pay off debt or keep to a budget. If you're already cutting back on food or worrying that you might have to cut back more, please get in touch with us.
Have fun for free
When living on a budget, you may wonder how you can see friends and have a healthy social life without spending lots of money. Try to think of ways you can spend quality time with your favourite people for free. You could:
- Check your council website and Facebook groups for free events in your local area
- Invite your friends around to your house for movies and snacks
- Find a nature trail and go walking with your loved ones
Avoid payday loans
If you have to wait a while until payday, it can be tempting to turn to your overdraft or take out a payday loan. These products can end up costing you much more in the long term. You may even find yourself relying on credit to pay for your living expenses each month.
If you're on a debt solution, taking credit out is likely to be against the terms of your agreement. If you're considering taking out credit, please speak to your debt solution provider who can review your situation.
I'm always struggling between paydays. What can I do?
If money is always tight between paydays, this is a sign you may need help with money. We can help you by putting together a budget can help you understand your finances. It can also help you spot opportunities to save money on your living costs.
If you're trying to pay off debt, you may benefit from free debt advice. Our online debt advice can help you put together a personal action plan. It'll also recommend a debt solution that'll benefit you
Related articles
- Coping with the rising cost of living
- Money advice: How to maximise your income
- Making a budget
- How to get emergency help with money and food
- Get free debt help
