Top Tips for Budgeting

Be clear about where your money is going. Take a long hard look at your finances, work out all your income and your spending, and look at whether there's any room to cut back or make savings.

Be realistic about what you can afford. Work out how much you can spend and stick to it.

Use standing orders and direct debits to meet regular outgoings such as rent/mortgage, utility bills, and council tax. Arrange for payments to go from your bank account just a few days after your wages have been paid in.

Try and save something every month, especially for planned spending like holidays and Christmas. Set up a standing order to a savings account. You'll be surprised how quickly you will forget you are saving!

Credit

If you can pay for goods outright, don't be persuaded to take out credit unless it really does work out cheaper or better meets your budgeting plans.

Always try and pay at least 10% of your credit card balance every month.

If you are taking out new credit - whether buying a house, a new car or getting a loan - think carefully about how you would manage the repayments if interest rates start to rise, or if you suddenly find yourself out of a job. This is especially important in the case of mortgages and secured loans where your home is at risk.

What seem to be good credit ideas can have hidden costs. Reduced monthly minimum payments result in larger total payments. Interest free credit has to be paid off in full before the free interest period expires.

Spend time shopping around before borrowing. Research what's on offer and get advice. Never borrow money on the spur of the moment. You will be paying the price for years to come if you don't think it through.