We all find it difficult to find that extra bit of cash to set aside for the future. The trick is to find ways to help us save money, now and in the future. The calculators below might help you discover them.

Want to keep on top of your spending?

How much do you spend each month on unplanned items? We wouldn't want you to give up all your little treats - after all, we want you to live for today as well as plan for tomorrow. But the cost of the odd cup of coffee, magazine, taxi, or takeaway can soon add up. And setting aside the cost of just a few of them over a couple of months and years, will help you to start saving.

Launch budget calculator

Just how big is the big deal with pensions?

To provide you with an incentive to save for the kind of lifestyle you would want in retirement, the Government will help you save in a pension scheme. For further information about how the incentive works, and the different kinds of scheme available, we suggest you look at:

Launch 'Tax relief on pension contributions'

The author of this page is 'Directgov' the website of the UK government for its citizens.

How will saving make a difference?

To see how your savings, enhanced by the allowances given by HM Revenue and Customs, adds up over the years, and how much difference it can make, just tap in some figures into the calculator below. Remember to use amounts you think you could afford to save.

Launch pension calculator

To find out more about the calculator and how it works please read the 'Notes to be read alongside the calculator'. These are to be found under the calculator tool.