Looking to reset your bank balance after Christmas, New Year and the January sales? Read on for advice from short-term direct loan supplier Moneyboat.
A recent survey found the majority of New Year’s resolutions include a financial goal. Seventy per cent say saving more is their main priority, while many also plan to spend less or reduce expenses in 2026. And considering that one in six of UK adults have no savings at all, many of have little financial breathing room. In the same boat? Here’s five ways to build a small emergency savings pot in just 30 days.
Ring-fence a portion of your income
A short-term emergency fund doesn’t need to be large to be effective. Setting aside even a modest amount can help cover unexpected bills, avoid borrowing for essentials, and also provide a sense of day-to-day security. One starting point is to set a fixed amount to ring-fence on payday. This can involve moving money to a separate savings “pot” or bank space, treating savings like any other bill, or automating transfers so the money is saved before it can be spent. Even setting aside £1–£5 per day can create a meaningful pot over 30 days.
Apply the 50-30-20 rule
The 50-30-20 rule is a budgeting structure that can help free up room for emergency savings. Fifty per cent of your income should be allocated for your needs, 30% for wants, and 20% for savings or debts. Using this structure for just one month can help identify spare funds and tighten discretionary spending. And even if 20% isn’t possible, using the rule as a benchmark helps guide more mindful financial decisions throughout the month.
Cut or pause discretionary expenses
Small, temporary changes can quickly build up. For 30 days, why not pause subscriptions that are rarely used, switch premium services to lower-cost or free alternatives, reduce takeaways or spontaneous purchases, or review travel, food, and entertainment costs for quick wins. Focusing on just two or three easy-to-trim categories can unlock funds without feeling overwhelming.
Plan ahead for expected costs
Many of us struggle because we don’t prepare for known upcoming expenses. Creating a simple 30-day plan helps toanticipate costs such as birthdays, travel, or bills, spread expenses across the month, and prevent surprise costs from eating into savings. This planning approach makes room for an emergency pot by reducing unplanned spending.
Reduce general household costs where possible
Small, practical reductions can add up within a month. For example, think switching to supermarket own-brand items and use price comparison tools. You could also batch cook to avoid food waste, lower your energy usage with simple habit changes. Then there’s free or low-cost activities rather than paid options. The goal is not to cut everything, but to identify a few realistic areas where costs can be reduced and redirected into the emergency fund.
