Start by writing down your household’s regular monthly income after tax, including benefits or other reliable payments. List essential costs such as rent or mortgage, Council Tax, utilities, food, transport and debt repayments, then add flexible spending and annual bills divided by 12. Subtract your total spending from your income to see whether you have a surplus or shortfall. Set realistic limits for non-essential spending and, if possible, allocate some surplus to an emergency fund or specific savings goal. Review the planner each month and update it when your income, bills or circumstances change.