Is anyone else not able to save every month?

[leafygarden]

So many unexpected expenses this month that have to be paid. I'm in my 50s and trying to save as much as possible in the next 5 years or so to boost a very small workplace pension. And this month the amount into savings looks like a big fat zero.

I guess that is what comes of having 3 teenagers still at home. I will try and think positive that at least we do not have major debts to contend with as well.

Some months I only manage £10 into savings.
Are any of the teenagers able to work?

Snap op

Unexpected car bill plus trainers needed for dc and riding boots etc plus instalment for school trip so wiped out £350 I was earmarking for saves this month

At the moment every month there seems to be unexpected stuff.
After depleting our contingency account last year in one month due to needing three new kitchen appliances that broke down within weeks of each other and a car break down we are struggling to build it bak up again right now.

Just keep thinking it will get easier.
Managed £50 into savings so far this month and hop I don't have to dip into it

Same here OP, also in 50s and pension provision not the greatest. Also teenagers at home who seem to eat money. I managed to save £40 last month, this month have saved £180 but still a few weeks till payday so can see myself having to dip into that before then.

I signed up to the plum thing at the start of the year, and by them just taking a few pounds each week, often rounding up on what I spent - I have saved nearly £200 and I haven't noticed the difference.

I try and put a bit away each month, but I'm glad I've tried plum. There are others out there, but I found it helpful.

@madrose - what is plum? - sounds like a worthwhile plan

@Yogawoogie - 14 year old has a paper round at weekends, 18 year old has just started new job and will pay something towards keep and eldest is leaving home in August

To be honest - pay for youngsters under 25 is pretty bad.

We put money away every month for xmas and a holiday but regular savings for a contingency just doesn't happen.

I also have little or no money to save, but I keep a standing order going into my savings account come what may. I find it's easier to adjust this up or down rather than get into the habit again once it's broken. Currently putting £10 a month in but when I had a bit more coming in I saved £50/£100 and hope to get back to that again.

@leafygarden - I downloaded it as an app. You have to give permission for it to have access to your account, and this has to be renewed every so often. I get a text saying what they are going to withdraw and it's a few pounds and it's amazing how it adds up. They other month I had to withdraw some to avoid going into my overdraft and it was there immediately. Also it has helped me to keep a better eye on my account and I'm being more careful. HTH.

Cheers - I'll have a look at that