Start by listing essential outgoings and matching them to your Universal Credit payment date, then check whether cheaper energy, mobile or broadband deals are available, including social tariffs. Ask your council whether you can apply for Council Tax Reduction, and check GOV.UK for help with NHS costs, childcare and other support, as eligibility varies and is not automatic. Your local council or a benefits calculator such as entitledto can help identify support you may have missed. If an unexpected cost arises, check the rules for a Budgeting Advance carefully, as it is repayable from future payments.