Adrian Nichols from local debt advice firm Evesham Debt Advisors writes for the Observer
IT MAY not feel like it yet, but spring is just around the corner!
So as the season changes, it’s also the perfect time to warm up to the idea of a financial spring clean!
Don’t worry, you won’t need to don your marigolds for this!
Start with a good old-fashioned clear out. When you flick through interiors magazines, you have to wonder what these people do with all of their ‘stuff’.
What they don’t say in their articles is that the owners of these pristine homes are taking snaps of their unwanted items and uploading them onto e-Bay.
Selling unwanted clothes, furniture and other knick-knacks couldn’t be easier and it can bring in some extra pennies to pad out your wallet.
When was the last time you sat down with an Excel spreadsheet and punched in all your monthly expenses?
Doing this exercise can be a real eye opener! In one column, enter all of your monthly expenses, as honestly as possible.
Don’t ‘guestimate’ things like petrol and food, take the time to work it out properly.
You’d be surprised how much more we spend on food and petrol or even take away coffee!
Add in your monthly income and work out what’s left over.
If you’re not comfortable with the amount that’s left over, start to plan where you can skim the fat and work towards a healthier, more sustainable family budget.
Just two tasks you can set yourself to kick-start some small changes in your financial lifestyle.
If you’re struggling and need some help, why not pop into our free Debt Advice Clinic in Merstow Green, Evesham
Get 30 minutes personal advice with a financial expert from 9.15 am-4.15 pm every Wednesday and Friday.
It is a walk-in service, but you can reserve an appointment by calling 01386 760 000 (free from most mobiles) or 0800 472 5050 (free from a land line) or by e-mailing [email protected]
Further free budgeting advice or debt advice is also available from Step Change Charity, South Worcestershire CAB and the Money Advice Service
