Start by asking: what money comes into the household each month, and which costs are essential, flexible or occasional? Include rent or mortgage, bills, food, travel, subscriptions, debt repayments and annual expenses divided into monthly amounts. Then ask whether your income covers essentials, what could be reduced, and how much you can realistically put towards an emergency fund or other goals. If debts are difficult to manage, consider free guidance from a charity such as Citizens Advice or StepChange before making major changes.