The Money Pages Read about the latest personal finance news, features and opinion. The Money Pages also offers advice on banking, debt, insurance, investments, retirement and savings. 
Research from TalkTalk found a large percentage of people struggle to manage the money they have coming in, while 43 per cent admitted they let cash ‘slip through their fingers’ on a regular basis.
The research found that the average Brit spends £86 each month on things that they don’t really need at all. As a result more than half end up cutting out the treats about 12 days after payday as thoughts turn to lasting out until their next pay.
Over a fifth said they never shop around to get the best deal or make sure they are getting the best value for their money.
The study also found 45 per cent don’t feel they live within their means, with women more likely to feel they are bad with money, finding it harder than men to make sure their wages lasted the whole month.
Despite poor financial planning the research revealed that many have good intentions and if they have any money left at the end of the month they were twice more likely to save it rather than spend for the sake of it.
TalkTalk has enlisted the help of consumer champion Mrs Moneypenny to show families how to cut costs.
SuperScrimpers star Mrs Moneypenny’s top tips:
1. Online first for the best deals. Buying online offers enormous time and cost benefits. TalkTalk’s Digital Price Index (DPI) shows it is consistently cheaper to buy online.
2. Say goodbye to paper bills. If you haven’t already, try switching to online billing which can often save you money.
3. It’s best to flex. Some providers offer flexible monthly TV channel add-ons so you only pay for what you want, when you want it.
4. Bundling deals. Research shows you tend to get the best value when you buy your phone, broadband and TV together. The same is true for other services as some companies reward loyal customers by reserving privilege deals just for them.
5. The early bird catches the worm. Check if your provider offers a discount for making early payments.
6. Family and friends discounts. Making sure you’re on the same networks as your nearest and dearest is key when it comes to clinching the best deals.
7. Blockbuster value. Family cinema trips are becoming pricier these days so why not check if your TV provider has a Box Office – you’ll find the best TV providers often have the latest Hollywood films, on the same day as DVD release.
8. Try before you buy. Before you jump straight in to a new service, check if there is a free period which would allow you to test it out for free before you part with your hard-earned cash.
9. Make the most of added extras. It’s worth checking your package to make sure you’re taking full advantage of any added extras which are included.
10. Watch the pennies. Keep track of smaller purchases so you can see where you might be able to save. Holding on to receipts or even keeping a money diary for a few weeks can be a really great way to help identify areas where you can cut back.
