The Beforepay Beat

Explore budget-friendly Australian holiday destinations, travel tips, sample itineraries, and planning advice.

Australians cut back on spending in April 2025, with significant drops in utility bills and fitness expenses, according to the Beforepay Cost of Living Index.

How to reduce your phone bill and save on internet costs in Australia. Simple tips and negotiation strategies to lower your costs.

Explore safe and affordable loan options if you're on Centrelink with bad credit. Understand what to avoid, and alternatives to support your finances.

Budgeting on Centrelink? Learn practical tips to manage your money, align with your payment cycle, and access tools to stay on top of bills and expenses.

Are no credit check loans safe for pensioners on Centrelink? Learn what they really mean, what risks to watch for, and explore safer alternatives.

Need emergency cash while unemployed? Explore safe loan options, what to avoid with payday lenders, and where to get financial help.

Wondering if you can get a loan on Centrelink with bad credit? Learn how lenders assess risk, what to avoid, and explore safer alternatives.

Explore your options for pay advances in Australia. Learn how different services work and how to choose a solution that fits your financial needs.

Need your tax refund faster? Learn how tax advances work and how Beforepay offers a safer, more transparent way to access your refund early.

Thinking of using BNPL? Learn the pros, cons, and when a flexible cash solution like Beforepay might be a better choice for essential expenses.

Understand how pay on demand services work and how Beforepay provides flexible, ethical access to your earned income before payday.

Looking for a MyPayNow alternative? Compare options and learn how Beforepay Pay Advnace offers a simpler, more ethical way to manage cash flow.

Learn simple, actionable tips to cut your utility bills in Australia. Start small and track your progress for significant savings over time.

Struggling with a low or no credit score? Learn how to rebuild or establish credit with practical steps like paying bills on time and reducing debt.

Australians prioritise health and fitness, driving an 8.3% increase in daily average spending for the category in March 2025.

What exactly is a credit score, and how can you improve yours? Let’s break down different ways you could improve your credit score.

Discover side hustles perfect for extroverts who love connecting with people and thrive in social, customer-facing, or performance-based roles.

Discover side hustles perfect for extroverts who love connecting with people and thrive in social, customer-facing, or performance-based roles.

Learn 8 effective tips to balance your side hustle and full-time job, manage your time, and avoid burnout for a healthier work-life balance.

Australians face rising living costs in February 2025 with increases in fuel, utilities, and shopping expenses, according to Beforepay's Cost of Living Index.

Learn how a side hustle can help you save, pay off debt, and build financial security for a brighter future.

Practical budgeting tips for shift workers and gig economy workers to handle irregular income, reduce stress, and plan for the future.

Australians prioritised health in January 2025, with fitness spending up 27.4% YoY despite a post-holiday spending dip.

Learn how to uncover hidden costs in your monthly expenses and take control of your budget with these actionable tips and tools.

Personal loan or pay advance? Understand the pros and cons of each and find out which financial tool can help you achieve your financial goals.

Unexpected expenses after the holiday? Learn practical tips and tools to manage January costs, stay on budget, and plan for a financially stress-free year.

Avoid common financial mistakes in the new year, like ignoring debt or overspending on holidays.

December 2024 Beforepay Cost of Living Index sees a sharp 11.1% month-on-month increase in daily average spend; 13.6% year-on-year.

Start 2025 on the right foot with these 5 financial resolutions, including quarterly check-ups, alternative income streams, and more.

Read about Beforepay's top financial tips, borrowing insights, and customer reviews of 2024. See how Beforepay helped Australians on their financial journeys!

November 2024 Beforepay Cost of Living Index shows steady spending with a slight month-on-month decline in the lead-up to Christmas.

Learn how frequent use of buy now pay later services can impact your loan applications and explore alternatives to support your long-term financial health.

Discover three budget-friendly tips to save on Christmas celebrations. Create memorable holidays without overspending.

Beforepay finished among the top brands in the online customer service and lending innovation categories at this year's awards.

Discover affordable gift ideas under $50 for children, partners, friends, and family that are thoughtful for any occasion.

A 7.1% drop in petrol and auto expenses drove an overall month-on-month decrease in daily average spending for October 2024.

Australians spent $66 on Christmas 2023, fuelled by lower petrol prices, according to the December 2023 Cost of Living Index.

Considering a loan? Ask yourself these six crucial questions to ensure you make a well-informed decision and avoid financial pitfalls. Read our guide for essential insights.

Discover practical tips on how to stay ahead with your loan repayments. Learn strategies to manage payments effectively and reduce financial stress.

Learn how interest works, its impact on loans and savings, and how understanding it can help you make smart financial decisions and manage your money better.

Australians increased their daily average spending by 1.5% in September 2024, driven by higher expenditures on entertainment and utilities.

Understand the differences between travelling alone or joining a tour, when planning their holiday. Discover which option is better for your needs and preferences.

Learn how to plan your holiday based on the budget you’ve set aside. Understand where you can save and explore strategies to find better deals. Discover tips on saving money on necessities so you can enjoy your holiday without worrying about your budget.

Beforepay Cost of Living Index shows 7.3% drop in average daily spend for August, down to $65.74 from $70.55 in July following mid-year sales.

Learn how to create a savings plan that works for you by setting clear financial goals, assessing your current situation, and managing your income. Discover a solid strategy that will guide you towards financial stability and help you achieve your goals.

Household spending surged 12.1% in July to $70.55, up from $62.91 in June, according to new figures from the Beforepay Cost of Living Index.

Take a look at some budget-friendly meal ideas that could help you save on time and money.

Take a look at examples of some major purchases and the different ways they might impact the things you consider when lodging your tax return.

Feel confident when lodging your tax return with these tips to stay on track and avoid penalties.

Beforepay Cost of Living Index reveals daily average spending jumps 3.7% as Australians splurge on durable goods during the end of financial year.

Learn 36 practical ways for how to save money to help you boost your savings. From tracking expenses to negotiating bills, this article covers it all!

Consumer spending shows a significant decrease of 4.09% month-on-month in May 2024 from an average of $63.28 to $60.69 per day, according to the Beforepay Cost of Living Index.

How does the federal budget really impact our daily lives? Read on to find out and for tips for how to navigate any changes.

Consumer spending rebounds as the daily average spend jumps 5% month-on-month to $63.28 in April 2024, according to the Beforepay Cost of Living Index.

Beforepay released the March 2024 Cost of Living Index today, reveals consumer spending decreased by 0.82% month-on-month in March.

Pay advances can serve as a reliable safety net when you find yourself facing unexpected expenses. Debunk these common myths about pay advances!

Explore 8 easy ways to keep your holiday budget-friendly! From smart spending to local eats, enjoy your vacation without the financial stress.

March 2024 Beforepay Beat highlights: Learn about debunking common homeownership myths and steps to help you increase your salary.

Ready to buy your first home? Don't fall for these common myths! Discover the reality about being a homeowner with our tips and insights.

Navigate personal loans confidently with our guide for first-time borrowers. Explore tips on determining loan amounts, and finding the right option.

Get ready to return to work after maternity leave with our organised guide, including checklists for 30 days and 1 week before your return.

February sees 4.6% uplift in spending with a twist in Valentine's day habit, according to the February 2024 Beforepay Cost of Living.

Learn how to talk about money in a relationship. Navigate financial discussions with tips for open communication and building a strong partnership.

February 2024 Beforepay Beat highlights: Learn how to spot a romance scammer and self-care and financial independence on a budget.

Boost income with career development and skill training! Get tips on setting goals, finding mentors, overcoming challenges, and enhancing job skills.

Discover the pros and cons of joint bank accounts vs. separate finances. Find balance in managing money as a couple with our helpful insights.

Discover budget-friendly ways to spend Valentine's Day with these affordable ideas! From picnics to stargazing, celebrate love without breaking the bank.

Australians tighten their belts after the holidays with 10.2% spending decline in January, according to the latest Cost of Living Index.

January 2024 Beforepay Beat highlights: Learn budgeting hacks for back to school and cheap holiday hacks to keep your wallet happy.

Discover budgeting tips for saving on a low income in Australia. Learn to manage spending, access government assistance, and build financial resilience.

Budget wisely for back to school costs with these tips, from early planning to discounts and finding smart ways to save on essentials.

Plan your next wallet-friendly getaway with these cheap holiday destinations in Australia and tips for budgeting and money-saving travel strategies.

Explore profitable side gigs in Australia! Find freelance jobs, part-time opportunities, and flexible work for extra income. Start your side hustle today.

Dive into our A-Z financial resolutions for easy steps toward confidence and control, from emergency savings to meal prepping.

November 2023 Beforepay Beat highlights: Learn about a quick hacks to help you stick to your Christmas budget and Ideas for making some extra cash over the holidays.

Daily spending increased by 2.8% in November 2023 according to the Beforepay Cost of Living Index.

Stick to your 2023 Christmas budget and manage your end of year spending with these smart money tips.

Consumer spending declines 1.01% in October 2023 accroding to the Beforepay Cost of Living Index.

October 2023 Beforepay Beat highlights: Learn how to keep yourself safe online and why green cars have the cheapest car insurance.

Explore situations where insurance is useful, the range of claims you can make, and the potential savings it can bring to your financial security.

Choosing the right insurance can feel overwhelming. Here are 6 steps to help you understand what insurance is, types of coverages and key terms.

Daily average spending down 1.3% in September 2023 as petrol prices rise, according to the Beforepay Cost of Living Index.

Looking for cheap petrol near you? Here are 7 apps that could help you save the next time you plan to fill up.

September 2023 Beforepay Beat highlights: Common signs something might be a scam and tips for staying safe when shopping online.

We sat down with Beforepay’s Chief Technology Officer, Rajini Carpenter, to break down what cybersecurity is and tips for keeping your information safe!

Daily average spending declines 4.9% in August 2023, according to the Beforepay Cost of Living Index.

From anti-virus protection to zero-day exploits, learn key cybersecurity terms to protect yourself from online scams and threats when using the internet.

August 2023 Beforepay Beat highlights: Simple and stress-free ways to make extra cash, and things you could rent out to make some extra money.

Beforepay has been highly commended in the Finder Customer Satisfaction Awards 2023, rated by real customers with real experiences.

Explore simple and creative ways you could make extra money, from growing your savings to starting a side hustle.

Daily spending rose by 10.6% from $58.88 in June 2023 to $65.13 in July 2023, according to the Beforepay Cost of Living Index.

Beforepay newsletter: Tips to help you navigate job loss

Explore strategies, resources and support to overcome the challenges of job loss and navigate career transitions effectively.

Daily spending rose by 6.1% from $55.49 in May 2023 to $58.88 in June 2023, according to the Beforepay Cost of Living Index.

June 2023 Beforepay Beat highlights: Unlock early access to your tax refund, and tips to get the most out of your tax return.

May 2023 Beforepay Beat highlights: The importance of an emergency fund, cost of living in April, and how to send more money overseas with Beforepay and Western Union.

See what support services and resources are available to help you manage your money and financial well-being.

Learn how you could maximise your tax return with these 7 things you can do when you lodge your tax return this year.

Why wait weeks for your tax refund? Get your tax refund sooner with a Tax Refund Advance through Beforepay and H&R Block Australia.

Spending fell in May 2023, with the average daily spending for Australians down 5.7% from $58.84 to $55.49, according to the Beforepay Cost of Living Index.

Get a head start on your taxes with our guide on preparing for your lodge tax return. This article provides tips to make the process easier.

April saw a 2.9% month-on-month increase in the daily cost of living, up to $58.84 from $57.17 in March, according to the Beforepay Cost of Living Index.

Learn why having an emergency fund is crucial and how it can benefit you. Find out tips and strategies to start saving for unexpected events.

How to send money overseas and find the best international money transfer service, with tips from Western Union.

April 2023 Beforepay Beat highlights: Grocery items costing more and how you could save, cost of living drops in March, and tips for managing rising rent.

March saw a 1.8% month-on-month decrease in the daily cost of living, down to $57.17 from $58.23 in February, according to the Beforepay Cost of Living Index.

Why grocery shopping has become expensive amid the rising cost of living, and things you can do to save money on your groceries.

Are you feeling the pressure of the rental crisis and rising rent in Australia? Learn 8 practical ways to save money and ease the cost of living stress.

March 2023 highlights from The Beforepay Beat: How to feel confident about your finances, tips to keep your debt under control, and utilities prices driving up the average daily cost of living.

These 6 simple practices could help you make informed decisions about your financial future and provide ways to get better at managing your debt.

February saw a 2.5% month-on-month increase in the daily cost of living, up to $58.23 from $56.83 in January, according to the Beforepay Cost of Living Index.

Highlights from the February 2023 edition of The Beforepay Beat newsletter: Tips to boost your salary, in-demand skills and a snapshot of spending on Valentine's Day!

The average daily cost of living has fallen by 8% month-on-month from $62.02 in December 2022 to $56.83 in January 2023, a 1.6% increase year on year.

Learn how you can access financial support for education, including what you need to know about HELP loans, as well as alternative study loan options.

Find out how you might be able to increase your salary, from asking for a pay rise and navigating salary negotiations to upskilling to boost your earning potential.

Take on our 7 Day Savings Challenge to boost your savings and start positive money management habits that you can take into the year ahead!

Australians saw a surge in spending on Boxing Day, with the average person spending $448.38. In December 2022, the daily cost of living for the average Australian increased by just 2.5% to $62.02.

Rising energy prices could mean higher electricity bills. See how much Aussies spend on their electricity bills and how you could save money on yours.

Highlights from the November/December 2022 edition of The Beforepay Beat newsletter: Introducing Beforepay's new Compare and Save platform.

New data shows the daily cost of living for the average Australian in November 2022 increased by only 1% over the month to $60.48. This represents an increase from $59.78 in October 2022 and from $60.23 in November 2021.

Thinking about how to keep your finances in check over Christmas and New Year? Stick to your budget and save with these money tips!

Highlights from the October/November edition of The Beforepay Beat newsletter: 9.2% increase in utility bills leads jump in daily spending for October 2022, bank fees costing Australia billions (and how to avoid paying them!), and the history of the piggy bank!

Rising utility prices and grocery bills are consuming Australian wages as new Beforepay data shows the daily cost of living increased 1.6% to $59.78 in October 2022 from $58.81 in September.

Bank fees are costing Australians billions of dollars ever year. Here are some common bank fees to be aware of and ways to avoid paying them and save.

5 steps to enhance your financial wellbeing, manage stress, and build confidence in managing your money effectively.

Australia's daily spending drops 29% in September but is up 1.6% annually. Money insights, tips and more in the latest edition of The Beforepay Beat.

Daily spending for the average Australian dropped 29% in September 2022 to $58.81, from $83.27 in August, according to the Beforepay Cost of Living Index.

If you’re looking for ways to save money amid inflation and rising costs, reviewing your subscriptions might be a good place to start.

The rising cost of living sees daily spending jump 25% to $83.27 in August 2022. Money insights, tips and more in the latest edition of The Beforepay Beat.

Australia's daily spending jumps 25% in August 2022, to $83.27 per day. This is a daily spending increase from $66.46 in July 2022.

A comparison of Pay On Demand™ and credit cards reveals why more people are choosing Pay On Demand™ as the ethical, customer-friendly way to access cash.

The daily cost of living for the average Australian jumped 18.2% in July, to $66.46 per day. The figure is drawn from the Beforepay Cost of Living Index.

Find out more about the Beforepay newsletter - your source for the latest tips and updates to help you stay on track and in control of your finances!

Make your tax refund go further with these smart and creative ways to spend or save what you get back from your tax return.

Prepare to lodge and maximise your tax return with these tips we’ve pulled together with help from the tax experts, H&R Block.

Financial decisions can feel big and overwhelming. Learn about what is financial stress and how to navigate it to help you take back control of your finances.

Understanding financial terminology can be confusing. Get up to speed on money terms from A to Z to help you take back control of your finances.

A look at how the rising cost of living is impacting everyday working Australians, and money management tips to help.

How simple, everyday habits can help you improve your financial literacy, manage your money better, and take back control of your finances.

The Easter long weekend is just around the corner. Check out these planning tips to help you make the most of your budget and time this long weekend.

Budget planning and money management are useful life skills. Here are 10 easy ways to save money every day to help you take back control of your finances.

Financial decisions can feel big and overwhelming. Learn how to handle big money decisions to help you take back control of your finances.

The weekly grocery shop can be daunting and overwhelming for some. Here are our tips and tricks to cut down your weekly grocery shopping costs to help you take back control of your finances.

Still using Excel spreadsheets to do your budget planning? Here are four steps you need in your life for building a budget to help you take back control of your finances.