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Tips for managing your money

As the cost of living increases, many people are finding it harder to manage their household budget.

Our financial and employment support team are here to help anyone in the Armed Forces community that is struggling.

Consider the list below for ways you could increase your income and reduce your expenditure.

A person checking their financies on a laptop

Check you’re getting what you’re entitled to

Check you’re getting the benefits, tax credits or Universal Credit that you’re entitled to. Use an independent benefits calculator such as entitledto.co.uk and contact HMRC to check you’re paying the right amount of tax.

Our team is just a phone call away

Call us on 0808 802 8080. Lines are open from 8am-8pm every day.

Apply for a grant from a charity

Did you know that the Royal British Legion can provide financial assistance to eligible persons?

Our Cost of Living Grants Programme is designed to assist people who need help in a quick and easy way with everyday essentials such as kitchen appliances, clothes, and energy costs.

You can also search for grants from other charities and organisations on the Turn2Us website.

Early benefit payment

If you have no money, you can ask for your first benefit payment early - you can usually ask to get your first payment early while you’re waiting for either a decision on your application or your first payment. This is called a 'short-term benefit advance'. Be aware that you will need to pay this back which is deducted from future payments.

Check if you’ll receive a Cost of Living payment

The government will send you a Cost of Living payment if you get certain benefits, for example, Universal Credit, PIP or Attendance Allowance or are over State Pension age and get Winter Fuel Payments. You can get as many cost of living payments as you're eligible for.

Household Support Fund

Contact your local authority to check if you can apply to the Household Support Fund, which aims to help households in most need with food or energy bill vouchers or even essential kitchen equipment in certain circumstances.

Speak to your energy company

It’s not possible to shop around for energy deals due to the current energy crisis. But if you're struggling speak to your energy company and ask if they offer hardship grants or special tariffs.

Child Maintenance

Ask for child maintenance or see whether the maintenance you are getting can be increased.

Non-dependents

Grown-up children or other relatives living in your home? Make sure they are paying enough towards the household expenses.

Got unwanted items?

Sell items you don't need or want anymore through reputable online selling websites.

Cut down on waste

Turning things off at the wall rather than leaving them on stand-by, turning the tap off while you brush your teeth, turning the thermostat down a degree, and insulating your home can all reduce the amount of energy and water you use.

Spread council tax payments

Instead of paying over 10 months, with a two-month break, it might be better for you to pay smaller instalments over 12 months.

Discretionary Housing Payments

Discretionary Housing Payments might be available from your local authority if you’re struggling to pay your rent.

Healthcare costs

Check if you’re eligible to receive free prescriptions or for help with dentists, opticians, or hospital transport costs on the NHS website.

Help with school costs

You might be able to get help with some of the costs of sending your child to school, including school meals, transport and uniform.

Food banks

If you don't have enough money to buy food, there may be a local food bank which can provide you with a food parcel. Contact a local support service or advice agency for a referral.