Solo living leaves people with far less disposable income, lower investing rates and weaker financial safety nets.

But why does being single cost so much more? In this episode of Mouthy Money, we count the costs of the “single person financial penalty”.

With insights from Hargreaves Lansdown’s Helen Morrissey, we look at what singles (and couples) can do to protect their financial futures.

*On this episode*

▉ Singles have far less disposable income because costs can’t be shared.

▉ Thin monthly margins make saving and investing feel risky.

▉ Lower savings mean less protection against redundancy or illness.

▉ Talking about money improves financial resilience — even if you’re single.

▉ Divorce, separation, and bereavement can suddenly trigger the same penalty.

▉ Relying on a partner’s pension is risky if circumstances change.

▉ Cohabiting without legal protections can lead to major financial losses.

▉ Everyone should plan for retirement as an individual first.

*Let us know what you think?* Does the single person financial penalty affect you?

*Chapters*

00:00 – The single person financial penalty explained

01:40 – Why living alone costs so much more

03:15 – Disposable income gap: £23 vs £280

05:20 – Safety nets, job loss, and financial vulnerability

07:20 – Why singles invest less (and fear risk more)

10:20 – UK savers vs investors: pensions and misconceptions

13:55 – Breakups, divorce, and becoming single later in life

16:05 – Pension complacency and cohabitation risks

18:15 – How to plan like a financially independent adult

MOUTHY MONEY

*Our substack* mouthymoney.substack.co.uk

*Get in touch* ⁠⁠editors@mouthymoney.co.uk ⁠⁠

DISCLAIMER

This video is produced for general informational purposes only. It should not be construed as investment, legal, tax, mortgage or other forms of financial advice. If in any doubt about the themes expressed, consider consulting with a regulated financial professional for your own personal situation. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Investments can go down as well as up and you may get back less than you started with. Investments are speculative and can be affected by volatility. Never invest more than you can afford to lose. For more information visit ⁠⁠⁠www.fca.org.uk/investsmart⁠. Please note, video captions are auto-generated and may not be 100% accurate.