Budgeting on a Low Income: Here’s How You Make It Work

(All posts may contain affiliate links. Please see my disclosure policy)

(image credit)

We’ve all reached the end of the month with a huge hole in our bank account. When you’re bringing up a family on a low wage, it happens time and time again. Today, I’m going to help you break the cycle. The key here is to free up some cash, and give you some breathing room at the end of each month! It might just help you save for a family holiday, or just let you treat the kids once in awhile. Trying to make ends meet is a relentless and stressful pursuit. I’m here to make things just a little easier for you. Let’s take a look at your options.

Find out what you’re entitled to – If you’re living on a low income, there are plenty of resources out there to help you. Start with the simple and obvious government welfare options. There are provisions to help you with your monthly allowance. You will often find help through income support, housing welfare, or energy grants in the winter. There are also government schemes to help you with internet access and cellphones. Visit freegovernmentcellphone.net to find out more about these options, and see if you qualify.

Cut down utilities – Remember, our main goal here is to reduce your outgoings as much as possible. So far, we’ve helped lower your costs through government help systems. Now, we’re going to reduce the cost of your bills and payments. Energy bills, like electricity, gas, and water often make up the bulk of these costs. Start by switching to a cheaper deal if possible. It always pays to swap your provider, and secure a cheaper service. You can also get on the phone and negotiate a better rate in many cases. Lastly, simply work to cut down your energy use. Think green, and you’ll save money!

Cut down car and travel expenses –Any modern family finds themselves pouring a lot of their monthly budget into the car. It’s expensive to buy and run a car, and it will leave a big dent in your finances. There are plenty of ways to help cut down these costs. First of all, consider how often you use the vehicle. Could you make other arrangements? Could you walk, cycle, or carpool with another family? Secondly, think long and hard about the car itself. Could you downgrade, and cut the costs of running it?

Smart shopping –Regular readers know that I’m obsessed with coupons, discounts, and savings. They might seem like small savings, but when you add them up across the month, it’s a huge figure! By shopping smart, you’ll save yourself a fortune. Always search for a coupon or discount when shopping online. Try to use online cashback websites that reward you for using certain shops. Buy only what you need for the month ahead, and avoid frivolous expenses early in the month. Cut back on those spontaneous purchases, and make a strict plan!

Working with a small income is all about making those small savings wherever possible. Good luck!