Soa

Maizy

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Ineedaname

Hi Maizy

Obviously a Judge would prefer to see that you will be able to manage once you are BR, so it's preferable not to show a negative surplus.

Any chance you could reduce the landline and groceries a bit? Remember the Old Style Board has loads of hints and tips at reducing grocery budget and generally living on less.

I don't see anywhere else you could cut back to be honest and I know you've trimmed it to the bone.

Hopefully if you get this additional TC element then you'll only need to find another £20 or so which just means a few less packets of crisps for the kids and no more supermarket ready meals.:D

Maizy

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Ineedaname

I understand. If the bonus isn't a guaranteed amount then your OR might not take it into consideration, except that you may need to show it to bring that minus under control, lol. I certainly wouldn't deal with that minus by cutting back alone as if the OR does then take the bonus in you could show a surplus - make sense?

I would check your phone bill careful for a few months, perhaps you are ringing quite a few 0845 numbers at this time? Remember, they are still charged even in free time. Just have a look at the itemised bill (probably only available online if your provider is like mine and saving on paper) and see what you actually do get charged for. Maybe it's the odd 'chat' to a mobile number that is adding things up?

I've said this before I'm sure, but you've come such a long way this year, not far to go now. You have a lovely new home where you feel settled and are far more in control of your finances and life than you have been for years. BIG pat on the back for all the hard work and achieving so much.:A

Maizy

Makes total sense Inan, cant tell you what a help you've been this year. See what happens during BR and hopefully when the judge stamps the forms, we shall feel some sort of relief rather than living in limbo land.

NeverAgain_2

If you want to bring the expenses down a little on paper, cutting the groceries by £50 or £100 would do it.

Showing £400 is still plenty for a small family.