How do I track my spending?
Record every expense for a month using an app, spreadsheet or notebook, then review the patterns.
Tracking spending shows you where your money really goes, which is the first step to controlling it. You can use a spreadsheet, a budgeting app, your bank's tools or a notebook.
Choose a method you will actually keep up.
Start simple
Record every purchase for a month, or review your bank and card statements. Group spending into categories such as housing, food, transport and fun.
Review
Set a regular time each week to check totals. Look for categories that are higher than expected.
Act on it
Pick one or two areas to reduce and set limits. Revisit your tracking regularly.
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