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Tips for Managing your Finances

Get help with the cost of living 

If you don’t have enough money to live on, you might be able to get help to afford essentials like bills and food. This includes the Household Support Fund and cost of living payments. 

Use a budget planner tool 

This can be useful to help you understand what you’re earning and spending and where you might be able to cut costs.  

Get help if you’re struggling to pay bills 

If you're struggling to pay energy bills, rent and council tax, you might be able to get help with these or to top up your prepayment meter. The help you can get depends on, how you pay for your energy, the type of energy you use and if you claim benefits. 

Check what benefits you can get 

If you’re struggling with the cost of living, check if you can claim benefits or increase your current benefits. You might be able to claim certain benefits even if you work, have savings, or own a home. 

Consider your options if you want to borrow money 

Research what’s on offer and get advice. Work out your budget before you borrow to make sure you can afford the repayments. 

Watch out for scams 

·        Don’t click on or download anything you don’t trust 

·        Make sure you have a strong password for your email accounts that you don't use anywhere else. 

·        Pay by card to get extra protection if things go wrong 

·        Some scammers try to get your personal information – for example, the name of your primary school or your National Insurance number. They can use this information to hack your accounts. 

·        If you’re buying something on a site you haven't used before, spend a few minutes checking it – start by finding its terms and conditions. Check to see reviews of the company. 

Useful websites and support services: 

·        StepChange Debt Charity - Free Expert Debt Advice. 

·        Citizens Advice 

·        Tackling Financial Insecurity Together | Turn2us 

·        Free budget planner: Budget Planner | Free online budget planning tool | MoneyHelper 

·        Support for gambling: GamCare - The leading provider of support for anyone affected by problem gambling in Great Britain