Stay on top of your finances

Don't know where it all goes?

Take a closer look at what you're spending by keeping a spending diary. Write down everything you spend in a notebook for at least a month. Use a spending tracker app on your phone - there are plenty of free ones available.

This will show you where your cash is going. Once you can see this clearly, set yourself a budget using a budget planner and stick to it. Make small cuts to your day-to-day spending- you could save you money in the long run. It all really does add up.

Money-saving tips

There are many different ways to save money - it's just about finding the right ones that suit you.

Take a look at the MoneyHelper site from the Money and Pension service. In the meantime, here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Make your own packed lunch.
• Walk or cycle twice a week.
• Cancel unused memberships.
• When shopping try using own brands and use your loyalty cards.

Stop living month to month

If you run out of cash by the time payday rolls around track your spending and plan how to cut costs. Prioritise your spending so you meet the essentials like your mortgage, rent or bill payments. Here are some tips to help you budget beyond payday:

• Use direct debits or standing orders to pay your monthly bills.
• Set yourself a budget and stick to it.
• Save for unexpected expenses.
• Set up different bank savings accounts for different types of spending.