Over Half of Over-55s Turn to Apps for Better Budgeting

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A new study commissioned by debt resolution specialists DCBL finds that 51% of UK adults aged 55 and over now use mobile or online tools to manage their finances—debunking the myth that personal finance apps are only for younger users.

Key findings include:

  • High engagement: 76% of respondents in this age group say they would proactively manage accounts via an app or portal if offered by their bank.
  • Control and clarity: 84% of those aged 65+ report that digital tools help them feel in control of their money.
  • Real-time insights: 21% of over-65s use apps to view upcoming payments and terms, while 12% check outstanding balances at a glance.
  • Trust in apps: 53% of people 55+ trust mobile apps more than SMS, email, phone calls, or letters for making payments; even among those 65+, 34% named apps their most reliable channel.

In response to these trends, DCBL has launched a new customer app featuring a simple interface for debt repayment and budgeting. The app also offers direct access to support teams via phone, email, WhatsApp, or live chat—so customers can choose their preferred communication method.

DCBL Group Strategy Director Lee Samuels-Camozzi said:

“These findings shatter long-held beliefs that only young people use technology to organise their lives and finances. Our latest research reveals that older generations are engaging with tech in greater numbers to manage their finances. It highlights the importance of having the option available to them. It means that people can get information at the push of a button at any time of the day or night. Technology now touches almost every part of our lives and every generation has some level of digital literacy.

“By offering self-serve options like an app, we can see customers are more likely to engage with us, update their billing information, and pay their outstanding balances at a time that suits them.

“We understand that some still prefer to use more traditional means to communicate about payments, which is why we maintain traditional channels like telephone and physical letters, while using innovative new technologies like WhatsApp and our own smartphone app. The more we support our customers to better manage their money, the faster we can help to take the stress out of debt.”

The DCBL app is now available on the App Store and Google Play.

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