How do I budget with a low income in South Africa?

Budgeting for a low income in South Africa can be a challenging task, especially if we consider all the increases in the cost of living we're still trying to manage. This includes the increase of interest rates and the massive increase we saw with the price of electricity in 2023. We're still trying to cope because mostly, salaries have not been able to keep up with these increases we have seen. As a result? People are increasingly turning to credit to bridge the gap between their salaries and their expenses. 

However, the good news is, with careful planning and discipline, it definitely is achievable to budget with a low income in South Africa. 

1. Track your income and expenses 

To effectively track your income and expenses, it is important to create a detailed budget that outlines every aspect of your monthly financial flow. Begin by listing your monthly income sources, whether it be from a salary, side hustle, or any other source. Next, categorise your expenses into essential costs such as rent, groceries, utilities, transportation, and any other recurring bills.

By having a clear understanding of where your money is coming from and where it is going, you can better manage your finances and make informed decisions about where to allocate your funds. This level of organisation and awareness is crucial for successfully budgeting with a low income in South Africa.

Want to download a FREE customisable budget template to help you track your income and expenses? 

2. Cut out unnecessary expenses

Consider evaluating your monthly spending habits to identify areas where you can trim unnecessary expenses. This could involve reducing the number of times you eat out, cancelling unused subscriptions, or finding alternative, more affordable forms of entertainment. By being mindful of where your money is going, you can make smarter choices that align with your budgeting goals.

Read: 6 Expenses you should cut down on to save money

3. Pay up or reduce your debt

Dealing with debt can be a major obstacle when budgeting with a low income in South Africa. It's essential to prioritise paying off any outstanding debts to free up more of your income for essential expenses and savings. Start by assessing your current debt situation, including credit card balances, personal loans, or any other outstanding obligations. Consider creating a repayment plan that works for you. This could either be:

1. The Debt Snowball Method:
   With this method you list all your debt starting with the smallest to highest. Pay as much as you can on the smallest debt, while making minimum payments towards all your other debt. Once you've paid up the smallest debt, start tackling the next smallest debt. Do this until you've paid up all your debt. 

2. The Debt Avalanche Method:
   With this method, you list all your debts from the highest-interest debts to the lowest. You then make minimum payments on all your accounts while putting extra money towards the debt with the highest interest rate. Once that debt is paid off, you then move on to the next highest interest rate debt, and you do this until all your debt is paid up.

4. Avoid taking on more credit

This should be a top priority when budgeting with a low income in South Africa. While it may be tempting to rely on credit cards or loans to make ends meet, this can lead to a cycle of debt that becomes increasingly difficult to break free from.

Remember, taking on extra credit or taking out another loan just adds another expense to your list of your expenses that you already are struggling to afford. 

5. If you are able to, start saving towards an emergency fund

Having an emergency fund is crucial when budgeting with a low income in South Africa. Setting aside money for unexpected expenses like medical emergencies, car repairs, or even sudden job loss can provide you with a financial safety net and peace of mind.

Start by setting a realistic savings goal and consistently contribute to your emergency fund, even if it's just a small amount each month. With Meerkat's savings solution, you can start saving from as little as R25 per month. Over time, your emergency fund will grow, giving you a sense of security and stability in times of uncertainty. Remember, every little bit counts, and having a financial cushion can make a significant difference in navigating through life's unexpected challenges.

6. Go under debt counselling

If you are feeling buried under the weight of debt, and despite trimming every possible expense, find yourself unable to save due to insufficient funds to cover your current expenses, seeking debt counselling with Meerkat could be the solution you need. It's also a way to eventually be debt free in South Africa if you are currently struggling to pay off your monthly debts. 

What is debt counselling?

Debt counselling is a formal debt solution designed to assist individuals who are struggling to manage their debt repayments. When you enter debt counselling, a registered Debt Counsellor will assess your financial situation by looking at your income and expenses, once they determine that you are unable to pay all your debt, they will then work out an affordable repayment plan for you. This is possible because they negotiate with your creditors on your behalf to reduce the interest rates on your loans. 

The process involves consolidating all your debts into one affordable monthly payment, which is distributed to your creditors. Debt counselling also provides legal protection against legal action from creditors, giving you peace of mind while working towards becoming debt-free.

It is important to note that debt counselling is a regulated process in South Africa and can only be facilitated by registered and accredited debt counsellors. With debt counselling, you can take control of your finances, reduce financial stress, and work towards a debt-free future.

Let us contact you to see how we can help you achieve a debt-free future!

Who is Meerkat?

We're a financial services provider committed to empowering South Africans to do MORE with their money. Already, we've helped thousands of people like you get out of debt.