Practical money support for everyday situations — budgeting, debt help, cost of living, extra income ideas and guidance on paid services. Find support by county or browse the topics below.
This guide is for general information only. It is not financial advice. Free debt help is available from charities and public bodies. Always check fees, terms, and eligibility before using a paid service.
Select your county for local context, free support options and guidance on making extra money in your area.
A budget does not need to be complicated. Start by writing down what comes in and what goes out. The MoneyHelper Budget Planner is free and walks you through every category.
Simple budgeting methods include the 50/30/20 rule (50% needs, 30% wants, 20% savings or debt), the envelope method and zero-based budgeting where every pound is allocated a purpose.
If your outgoings exceed your income, focus on reducing fixed costs first — rent, council tax, energy and debt payments — before cutting variable spending.
Free debt help is available from charities in the UK. StepChange and National Debtline provide the same debt solutions as paid companies — debt management plans, IVAs, Debt Relief Orders and bankruptcy advice — at no cost to you.
If you are struggling to make minimum payments, are using one credit card to pay another, or are worried about missed bills, contact a free debt adviser now. The earlier you get help, the more options you have.
If you are struggling with energy bills, ask your supplier about the Warm Home Discount and register for the Priority Services Register. This is free and gives you extra protections.
Council Tax Reduction can significantly reduce your bill if you are on a low income. Apply to your local council. Single-person households automatically get a 25% discount.
Social broadband tariffs from major providers start from under £15 per month for households on Universal Credit or certain benefits.
The Household Support Fund is available through local councils for households struggling with food, energy and essential costs. Check your local council website for current eligibility and how to apply.
Food banks, community fridges and surplus food apps can help reduce the food bill. The Trussell Trust network covers most areas of the UK — a referral from Citizens Advice or a GP is typically needed.
Extra income can come from flexible local work, selling unwanted items, online platforms or renting out assets. Before starting, check how additional earnings will affect any benefits you receive.
If you earn more than £1,000 from self-employment or selling in a tax year, you need to register with HMRC and complete a Self Assessment return. GOV.UK provides clear guidance on this.
Many paid financial services are available but it is important to check before you pay. Always verify FCA authorisation at register.fca.org.uk, read independent reviews, understand fees and cancellation terms, and check whether free services offer the same help.
For debt management, budgeting help, benefits checks and grants searches, free services from charities and government-backed organisations are available and comprehensive.
Where can I get free debt help in the UK?
StepChange, National Debtline and Citizens Advice all provide free, expert debt advice across the UK. You do not need to pay for debt help.
How do I find local money support?
Use the county links on this page to find support in your area. Your local council website is also a good starting point for hardship funds and household support.
What is the Household Support Fund?
The Household Support Fund is money given to councils by the government to help households struggling with food, energy and essential costs. Eligibility and the form of support vary by council. Check your local council website.
How do I check which benefits I am entitled to?
Use the free benefits calculator at entitledto.co.uk or the Turn2us benefits calculator. Citizens Advice can also check your entitlement for free.
Do I need to pay for financial advice?
For most everyday money questions — budgeting, debt, benefits, grants — free help is available from charities and government-backed services. Regulated financial advice from an FCA-authorised adviser may be needed for investments and pensions.
Budget Planner for your county
Available for all 15 counties — select your county above.
Debt Help in your county
Available for all 15 counties — select your county above.
Help with Bills in your county
Available for all 15 counties — select your county above.
Cost of Living Support in your county
Available for all 15 counties — select your county above.
Make Extra Money in your county
Available for all 15 counties — select your county above.
Side Hustles in your county
Available for all 15 counties — select your county above.
Local Grants and Charitable Support in your county
Available for all 15 counties — select your county above.
Benefits and Entitlements in your county
Available for all 15 counties — select your county above.
Credit Score Help in your county
Available for all 15 counties — select your county above.
Paid Money Services in your county
Available for all 15 counties — select your county above.
Get personalised money guidance
Ask Fin is an AI money companion. Ask it anything about budgeting, debt, savings or income — no jargon, no judgement.
Try Ask Fin — £4.99/monthGeneral guidance only, not regulated financial advice.
This guide is for general information only. It is not financial advice. Free debt help is available from charities and public bodies. Always check fees, terms, and eligibility before using a paid service.