What’s the difference between gross and disposable income? When you’re trying to get a handle on your finances, it’s easy to get confused by the terms flying around, especially when it comes to your income. But what do the terms ‘gross income’, ‘net income’ and ‘disposable income’ actually mean, and more importantly, which one tells…
When the cost of everyday essentials keeps rising, it’s easy to feel like your money simply doesn’t stretch far enough anymore. If you’re struggling to cover food, bills or rent, you’re not alone. Many households across the UK are facing exactly the same challenge. This guide will explain why the cost of living has become…
What is disposable income? Wondering what the meaning of disposable income is? You might have heard this term but not been completely sure what it actually refers to or why it matters. Put simply, disposable income is the money left over once you’ve paid your taxes, priority debts, and essential expenses like rent, mortgage, bills,…
What should I do if I get a vet bill I can’t afford Few things are more worrying than facing an emergency vet bill in the UK when your pet suddenly becomes unwell or injured. Pets are part of the family, and naturally, you want to do everything possible to keep them healthy. But veterinary…
What should I do if I can’t afford to fix my boiler? A broken boiler can quickly become more than just an inconvenience. For many households, if your boiler is broken, it’s an emergency. Without heating or hot water, daily life feels harder, especially in colder months. When it happens unexpectedly, the cost of repair…
Why am I ashamed I had to ask my parents for money? It’s not easy to say the words out loud: ‘I had to ask my parents for money’. Even thinking about it can bring up a wave of shame, guilt or embarrassment, especially if you’ve always tried to be independent or are used to…
Am I in debt? Debt can creep up on you. What starts as the odd missed payment or reliance on credit cards to get through the month can quickly turn into something harder to manage. If you’ve found yourself asking ‘how do I know if I’m in debt?’ – you’re not alone. The reality is,…
What to do if you can’t afford a car repair When your car breaks down, the financial impact can be immediate and significant. For many people, a working vehicle isn’t a luxury – it’s essential for getting to work, picking up kids, or just getting to the shops. So when the mechanic says it’s going…
What to do if you’ve fallen behind on your gas bill If you’re late paying a gas bill, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, especially when money’s already tight. But whether it’s a one-off late payment or you’ve built up gas bill arrears over time, you do have options. From short-term fixes to longer-term support, this…
What to do if you’re always anxious about your finances Feeling anxious about money is more common than you might think. With bills, debts, and everyday costs rising, many people experience constant money anxiety that makes it hard to focus or sleep. While there’s no instant fix, there are practical coping mechanisms that can help…
Skipping bills to buy food When the cost of living rises faster than your income, everyday choices can quickly turn into painful decisions, and few feel harder than deciding between choosing food over bills. Many people in the UK are now in this position, or waking up to the reality that they can’t afford food…
Should I pay a debt collection agency? Getting a letter or phone call from a debt collection agency can be unsettling. You may not even recognise the name of the company contacting you, which can make the situation even more confusing. A common question people have is simply ‘Do I need to pay a debt…