The tool, launched by Citizens Advice Scotland (CAS) and supported by the Scottish Government, hopes to help provide instant support and tips to those financially hit by the coronavirus pandemic.

The tool is free and anonymous, with CAS describing it as a “one-stop shop” of financial support options – with the centre helping to save clients an average of £380 in council tax payments last year.

It’s also hoped the tool can help minimise the stress of finding support through search engine browsing, by bringing together all the information and support together in one place.

How can the tool help you?

Myles Fitt, Head of Financial Health at Citizens Advice Scotland, has outlined some of the ways the Money Map tool can help you maximise your cash at this time:

•       Make sure you’re not overpaying on bills – A simple way to reduce your monthly outgoings can be by performing a simple price comparison on your bills, such as energy payments. The Money Map tool signposts users to websites that will help you discover what you can save by switching providers.

•       Set a budget – This can be on a monthly, weekly or even fortnightly basis to suit your needs. A budget can help you get a true picture of your money and plan for the future. Money Map can point you to helpful resources for setting a budget, which can help you work out what you need and where possible savings could be made.

•       Check you’re using the correct tax code – Make sure you check your current tax code to ensure you’re not paying too much in relation to your current financial situation. For example, if you are on a lower income, you are entitled to a different tax code and required to pay less tax. Money Map highlights how you can check your tax code and any entitlement to tax reliefs.

•       Gain access to all the grants you’re entitled to – Grants enable families, students and individuals to boost their income or reduce the cost of everyday payments such as fuel payments or transport costs. Money Map points you in the right direction to access these.

•       Check to see what Council Tax you should pay – By checking if you’re exempt from council tax or eligible to pay less, you can save money on paying this bill. The Money Map tool will point you in the direction of where you can check your eligibility. Last year, support from the CAB service saved clients an average of £380 in council tax payments.

•       Ensure you receive benefits you’re entitled to – The Money Map tool will guide people to the appropriate online benefit checkers to make sure users are getting all the support they’re entitled to which can help meet specific needs like housing, childcare, disability and illness payments.

•       Make the most of the Money Map tool – It’s there to help you. By using the bespoke list function, users can save the support options that are of most use to them so they can ensure they maximise their money as much as possible.

You might be surprised how much money you could be entitled too, even if you are employed
Access accurate, up-to-date information from trusted sources on everything from help with your Council Tax to financial grant options
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— Citizens Advice Scotland (@CitAdviceScot) March 5, 2021

What has been said about the tool?

 Communities Secretary Aileen Campbell said: “COVID-19 has impacted many people’s incomes and we know financial uncertainty is a source of worry for many people.

“This Money Map Tool provides information and support, helping people identify which benefits and grant support they may be entitled to.

“The Scottish Government is investing £330,000 to support the promotion of this online support service which signposts people to specific sites that can help them strengthen their financial position.

“The free, easy to use and anonymous website brings all information into one place, and can help people boost their income from sources such as grants or saving tips.

“I would encourage anyone concerned about money matters to use this service.”

Derek Mitchell, Chief Executive at Citizens Advice Scotland, said: “We know how frustrating it can be searching endlessly online for support that is suited for you, our tool rounds up all the most helpful online sources and signposts people to where they can access and activate relevant help.

 “The tool is open for absolutely anyone who is looking to boost their income or cut their cost of living. Whether that’s through access to grants and benefits or through lower bills, our Money Map can point people in the right direction.”

Full information and access to the tool can be found here.