MONEY

Whatever money you have to live on, the chances are it never goes far enough. If that sounds like you, it might help to work out a budget plan of what your income is and what you spend.

INCOME EXPENDITURE

Wages

Benefits

Tax Credits

Grants

ema/alg

Other Income

        
Housing costs
Rent/mortgage
Council tax
Water rates
Regular bills
Insurance
Housekeeping
Food
Phone
TV Licence, rental
Laundry
Cleaning
Personal items
Other
Entertainment
Cigarettes, alcohol
Sweets/snacks
Clothes
Travel
Christmas/birthdays
Loan repayments
Miscellaneous
       
Total         Total        

If your income is more than your expenditure, then what's left over is for you to spend as you like, or to put aside towards a holiday or unexpected expenses.

If your expenditure is more than your income you need to take action. Money problems don't go away if you ignore them, they just get worse. Get help from CAB or Castlegate who will be able to suggest ways you can budget better, or manage your debts. See money problems for more information about dealing with debt.

Mon£y Management - it you are battling with bills or confused about credit you can improve your money skills with free training from CAB (either one to one or in a group). Help with childcare costs are also available. Call them for available times.