How to make a budget that actually works
A simple, honest budget is the first step out of debt. How to build one in half an hour.
Start with money in
Add up everything that comes in each month: wages, benefits, pensions, maintenance, anything regular. Use what actually lands in your account.
Then money out
List your priority bills first, then everyday living costs like food, travel and phone, then everything else. Look at bank statements so nothing gets missed.
Find the gap
Money in minus money out tells you what's left for non-priority debts. If it's negative, you're not alone, and a free debt adviser can help you look at options.
Check you're getting everything
Many people miss out on benefits or discounts they're entitled to, such as council tax reductions or social tariffs for energy and broadband. A benefits check is part of the free tier in the app.
Go step by step with Debt Confident
The app turns this into a plan: what to do first, what to say, and what to write. Free to download.
More guides
- Priority debts: which bills to pay first
- Breathing Space: 60 days' protection from creditors
- Debt Relief Orders (DROs): who can get one
- Bailiffs (enforcement agents): your rights
- Debt letters: what they mean and what to do
- Bankruptcy: the basics
- Free debt advice: where to get it
General information for England and Wales, not regulated debt advice. Figures checked 21 September 2026. For advice about your situation, contact a free debt adviser.