More than a third of British adults are struggling to make it through the month without running out of money, according to recent research. Nearly 38.8% of people report not having enough cash between paydays, while one in five say they are out of money by the middle of the month. This situation reflects growing financial stress across the UK, driven by rising living costs and high inflation. A credit card company, Aqua, reported a sharp increase—over 300%—in online searches related to "money anxiety," showing how widespread the concern has become. Many people are finding it difficult to manage their finances due to rising expenses and lifestyle creep, which occurs when spending increases in line with higher incomes. Some individuals are trying to cope by creating better budgets, while others are taking on extra work or side jobs. Almost a quarter (23.4%) of Britons have a side hustle or freelance work, and 11% have a second job to supplement their income. Additionally, 25.6% regularly rely on savings or investments to get through the month, though nearly 30% say they don’t save anything at all on average. For those who do save, the average monthly amount set aside is £152. People in cities like Liverpool, Manchester, and Plymouth tend to save more than those in Southampton, Sheffield, and Norwich. Duncan Fortune, head of commercial at Tesco Bank, says the start of September offers a good opportunity to review personal finances, especially with the back-to-school season and the end of summer. He encourages people to track their spending, reassess essential expenses like rent, bills, and food, and look for ways to cut costs on subscriptions or contracts. Fortune also highlights the importance of balancing savings with day-to-day living costs. He notes that 21% of Brits admit they struggle to find the right balance between saving and spending on everyday needs and other financial goals. Meanwhile, a third of people prioritize experiences and treats over building their savings. As the winter months approach, these financial challenges may become even more pronounced, making it crucial for individuals to plan and manage their money wisely.