How to get better at saving money

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Reading time 4 minutes
At a glance:
Do you want to become better at saving?
Take this quiz to understand what type of saver you are.
Once you know what type of saver you are, use our tips to improve your saving habits.

What type of saver are you?

Answer the questions below and add up your score to find out.
1
It’s payday, how do you feel?
Option A
Just in time. I'll get myself something new. 
Option B
Is it payday again? I'll top up my savings.
Option C
Phew! I can check my balance safely again.
2
You get an unexpected bill, how do you pay for it?
Option A
I'll pay it from my wage, tight month ahead.
Option B
I'll use my savings.
Option C
I'd rather not have to, but I'll stick it on a credit card.
3
You've been invited on a last-minute trip away, what will you do?
Option A
Sign me up, you only live once. 
Option B
I didn't plan this into my budget, so I'll stay home.
Option C
Hmm, I'll have to pass, can't afford it.
4
It’s near payday and you're under budget, what do you do?
Option A
Result, cracking weekend ahead.  
Option B
I'll stick the remainder into my savings account.
Option C
I don't really have a budget, so carry on as normal.
5
Your favourite brand just announced a sale, how do you react?
Option A
Time to stock up, I love a sale!  
Option B
I'll avoid it, I shouldn't get new things.
Option C
I'll get a couple of bits, but I'll use buy now pay later.
6
It's halfway through the month, time to check your balance?
Option A
Eeesh, spent more than I thought! I'll have to take it easy until payday.  
Option B
No surprises, I'm still on budget.
Option C
I'll check it later, no need to worry about it yet.
7
How do you feel about your future finances?
Option A
I'm thinking about the next couple of months, but not much further.
Option B
It's a little worrying, but I've got savings to help.
Option C
I try not to think about it, seems like it's impossible to clear my debt, never mind try to save.
Results A

Mostly A: Impulse spender

You’re living month to month, without any saving habits. You’re not alone, one in ten people don’t have any savings to fall back on.

Even before the rising living costs, it can be hard to stick to a budget and give up things you want. But don’t worry, you can start saving without having to make big changes to your lifestyle.

Tips for impulse spenders

Pay yourself spending money - use a separate current account, then set up a standing order on payday with how much you’ve got budgeted per month. Then you can enjoy it on things you want, guilt-free.
Build an emergency fund - Emergencies might mean you struggle for the rest of the month. Try to save a small amount of money for sudden emergencies, like an unexpected bill. Set up a standing order on payday to go straight to your savings, and you may not even notice it’s gone!

Don’t be too hard on yourself, either. Saving can start slowly, with a little bit every month.
Chill out before you checkout - If you like shopping, try waiting before you buy. Make a list of the things you want, then check if you still want them in two or three weeks. You might find many potential purchases lose their appeal over time.
Results B

Mostly B: Strict saver

You’ve got a regular and consistent savings habit – but you might be a little concerned about the future.

Even comfortable savers are feeling the impact of rising livings costs and finding they might have to dip into their savings more often.

Tips for strict savers

Get a mix of saving options - You’ve got great saving instincts already – but there might be opportunities to get even more for your money. 

Finding out about different savings account types could help you get the most from the money you put away each month.
Track progress against your targets – Tracking how close you are to reaching your savings goals can keep you motivated.
Remember why you save - Savings can be a way to enjoy yourself – as well as plan for the future. Allow some room in your budget for guilt-free spending like a holiday, or an occasional treat.
Results C

Mostly C: Credit cruncher

You might not be able to save – or may not enjoy saving. Falling back on credit can be a tricky habit to get out of. But don’t worry, you can start small and simple!

Plan how you’ll take steps – even small ones – to get yourself in a position to start saving.

Tips for credit crunchers

Cut the costs that are in your control – A very small change to your spending habits can help you feel more in charge. Then you can build on the habit.
Check your balance often - Try checking your balance at the start of every week or even daily. This can help you decide whether next weekend is cheap and cheerful, or if you can afford to save a little.

Use our budget calculator to help manage your money.
Take control of credit - If you’re using a lot of different types of credit, it might be worth writing down everything you owe altogether. Out of sight, out of mind can be risky when it comes to borrowing money, so try get a clear picture and start to pay it off.
 
If you’re worried about being able to clear your debt, StepChange and our Citizens Advice Bureau partnership can offer free and impartial advice.
The content on this page is for reference. It is not financial advice.
For help with money issues, try MoneyHelper.