Take Control
Household budgeting
It is a good idea to review your household budget on a monthly basis.

The Household Budget Planner is a simple way to help you:
  • Look at what money you have coming in
  • See how that money is being spent
  • Separate your debt repayments from your essential living costs
  • Highlight non-essential spending
  • Identify any potential problems
  • Pinpoint areas where you are able to make savings
Once you have completed the Household Budget Planner, you can look to make changes that will have a positive impact on your situation, such as:
  • Generate additional income – let your employer know you are interested in overtime, get a part-time job, or get a lodger (ensure you get permission from your mortgage lender)
  • Look for areas where you can cut back on your non-essential spending
  • Be sure you always get the 'best value for money'
  • Consider switching to cheaper utility/service providers
  • Search for a lower rate credit card and transfer your balance but beware of any costs/fees
  • Check comparison websites for all purchases
  • Use discount vouchers and money-off coupons
  • Make the most of free public services, such as free internet access at your local library
  • Switch to 'own brand' supermarket products

Useful links and information