What is the Budget Checker, and why should I complete it?

The Budget Checker is a simple online tool that helps you show how much money you get and how much you spend.

It is used by trusted organisations to understand your money situation and help you get the right support or advice if you need it.

When you fill it in, you share things like:

  • how much money do you earn

  • how much do you spend

  • if you are having any money problems

This helps them see if you need help and what kind of support would be best for you.


How to complete your budget check?

  1. Log in to Lightning Reach and create a profile. 

  2. Click on the Budget Checker from “My dashboard”. 

  3. Follow the instructions to tell us about your income and spending habits. 

  4. View your personalised list of support. These are schemes we think can help your financial situation.

A few organisations might need a referral from a support worker or someone who is helping you. If you don't currently have anyone helping you with this, your local Citizens Advice or Age UK branch should be able to help.