Budgeting tips

How to be good with money in tough times

• Open your bank statements - it's vital you know what's going in and out of your accounts...you could spot potential savings to be made. 

• Work out a budget and review it regularly - when times are tough, keeping track of your spending is vital. And remember you need to review your budget in line with changes to your incomings/outgoings. Try our handy budget planner to help you identify all your monthly expenses.

• Be honest - when working out your budget and try to include everything you spend - even that late night takeaway!

• Cut non-essential outgoings - rather than going out for an expensive meal at a restaurant, why not invite friends round for a home-cooked meal?

• Don't skimp on protection - now is a great time to put a little effort into finding the best deal possible for life's essentials...like insurance. But shop around carefully and don't put cost before quality cover.