Start by listing your household’s monthly income, including wages, benefits and any regular extra income. Next, record essential costs such as rent or mortgage payments, council tax, utilities, food, transport and insurance, then add non-essential spending and regular debts. Compare your total income with your outgoings, checking bank statements and bills so your figures reflect what you really spend. Set realistic limits for flexible spending, identify potential savings and assign any remaining money towards an emergency fund or debt repayments. Review the household budget planner each month and adjust it when your income, bills or circumstances change.