Nothing left after paying EMI? Here's how to save money in 3 steps while clearing debt, shared by finance coach

Equated Monthly Instalment ( EMI ) might seem like the easier way out to balance your finances, but it might not always be the case. Multiple EMIs at the same time can often strain your monthly budget more than you think. Many complain about not having enough to save after clearing out their monthly EMI bills. So what is the solution here? Self-claimed personal finance expert Aruna Keerthy shared the simple trick to ensure saving while paying off your debt in just three steps.

"There’s nothing left to save after my EMIs.” If that sounds familiar, don’t start by blaming yourself for not saving enough," read the Instagram post by Aruna Keerthy.

Keerthy addressed the common problem of many in today's world- EMI vs savings. She shared, “If you earn a decent salary but still feel nothing left after EMI, don't just tell yourself to save more.”

She shared three simple steps to repaying debt while building wealth, starting with creating a "breathing room."

The popular content creator added, "Start with three things." She urged people to cut down on their negotiable expenses for the period.

"Number one, look for one or two expenses you can reduce or pause," she explained.

The expert further suggested that one should avoid opting for newer EMIs as the crucial second step. "Number two, stop taking on new EMIs while you are clearing your existing debt," she said.

The final step in the debt -free journey is around building healthy habits around any surplus amount. "Number three, whenever an EMI or expense ends, redirect that money straight into savings instead of increasing your lifestyle. Even ₹ 2,000 or 3,000 a month can become your starting point," she suggested.

Keerthy also shared how an increment in monthly salary can be directed towards building wealth. "If you get a salary hike or bonus, decide in advance that a portion of it goes towards debt repayment or savings before your lifestyle gets upgraded."

"You don't need a perfect budget. You need a little breathing room to start saving and clearing your debt consistently. Remember, money is a tool; use it wisely, build healthy money habits and let it support the life that truly matters to you," she advised.

Disclaimer : This story is based on social media contenet and is intended educational purposes only. The views and recommendations made above are those of individual expert and not of Mint. We advise investors to check with certified people before making any investment -related decisions.

Sneha Biswas specialises in covering entertainment and pop culture, with a specialisation on Bollywood, Hollywood, OTT platforms, K-pop, K-dramas, and major developments in the US entertainment industry. She believes in telling stories that balance speed with substance, and in making entertainment journalism contextual, culturally aware, and reader-first rather than purely reactive.<br><br> With over six years of experience in digital media, Sneha currently serves as a Deputy Chief Content Producer at Live Mint. She has spent more than three and a half years with the HT Group and returned to the organisation in February 2025, joining Live Mint to uplift the entertainment section.