Budgeting tools & savings tips

Written By Guest User

Simple Budgeting Tools

  • 50/30/20 Rule
    Break your income down into:

    • 50% Needs – Rent, food, bills, transport

    • 30% Wants – Dining out, entertainment, subscriptions

    • 20% Savings & Debt Repayment – Emergency fund, overpayments, credit cards

    Great for: People who want a quick structure to follow without tracking every penny.

  • Zero-Based Budgeting
    Every pound has a purpose — give every bit of income a job (e.g. rent, groceries, childcare, savings) until your balance is £0.

    Great for: Those who want full control and visibility of their spending.

    3. Envelope Method (Digital or Cash)
    Set aside a fixed amount for each category (groceries, fuel, kids) in separate envelopes or banking pots. When it’s gone, it’s gone.

    Great for: Preventing overspending and building discipline.

    Free Budgeting Tools You Can Try

    • MoneyHelper Budget Planner – A UK government-backed online budgeting tool

    • Emma / Snoop / Money Dashboard – Apps that sync with your bank and track spending

    • Banking Pots or Jars – Use Monzo, Starling, or traditional savings accounts to divide your money into goals

    Smart Saving Tips

    1. Pay Yourself First
    Set up an automatic transfer to savings the day you get paid — even if it’s just £10 a week.

    2. Round-Up Savings
    Use apps or banking features to round purchases up to the nearest pound and save the spare change automatically.

    3. Challenge Yourself
    Try a no-spend day each week or the 1p savings challenge (save 1p on day 1, 2p on day 2, up to £3.65 — saving £667.95 in a year!).

    4. Cut Subscriptions
    Review your monthly direct debits — are you still using every subscription? Cancel or downgrade where possible.

    5. Bulk Buy & Meal Plan
    Save time and money by buying non-perishables in bulk and planning meals to reduce food waste.

    Need Support?

    Our financial wellbeing workshops and 1-1 support can help you create a personalised budget and saving plan that works for your life.

    Contact us to book a session or download your free budget planner.

Guest User
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