5 Ways to help you stick to your budget

Did you know that Aussies are estimated to spend $30 billion this Christmas?

Between gifts, parties and getaways, we understand that it can be a tricky time of year for managing your budget and spending. Let’s help you stay on track and in control!  

In this edition of The Beforepay Beat:

• Quick hacks to help you stick to your Christmas budget
• Pay only what you need – fees to watch out for when spending this festive season
• Ideas for making some extra cash over the holidays 

MONEY TIPS

5 Ways to stick to your budget

Ever gone into a store for one thing and left with ten? Those unplanned purchases can add up quickly! 

Having a budget (and sticking to it!) can help you keep your finances under control, especially during this busy time of year. 

To give you an idea, here are a few easy, practical things you can try to help you manage your end-of-year expenses.

1. Clean out your inbox: Consider unsubscribing from stores you rarely shop from to avoid being tempted by any deals. 
2. Don’t make it easy to shop: Consider removing your card details if they’re saved on your computer or mobile phone to avoid impulse buys!
3. Time your shopping: If you celebrate with gifts or are just keen to get into the sales, do your research and plan your shopping to take advantage of the best deals.
4. Find discounted events: If you’re planning on travelling consider using websites like Eventbrite or Fever UP to find free and cheap activities. 
5. Take advantage of budgeting tools: Use free budgeting templates or apps like Beforepay to keep track of your spending. 

For more tips on how to manage your Christmas budget, check out our latest blog!

Learn more

In 2014, a family in Canberra set a Guinness World Record for the largest LED Christmas lights display, which cost $2,500 to run for a month. 

The display included 3D images of three Christmas gifts made up of 1,194,380 lights. But it wasn’t all just for show – the record-winning display helped raise money for the local charity, SIDS and Kids ACT. 

(Source)

Common card fees to watch out for this Christmas

Depending on where you shop and how you manage your payments, you may find that there are extra fees and charges that can come with your credit and/or debit cards. 

Being aware of these fees, so you can be mindful about avoiding them, might help you save in the long run, as well as minimise your Christmas debt. 

Some common card fees to watch out for include: 

• Payment surcharges: May be charged on credit cards by some small businesses, online retailers and restaurants on public holidays and weekends. 
• International transaction fees: Typically around 3%, may be charged by credit cards and potentially debit cards on purchases from international retailers.
• Interest charges: May be charged to you by your credit card provider if you’re only able to make the minimum payment. 
• Overdrawn fees: Usually around $15 and are charged by your bank when you use more money than you have available to use in your account. 

Learn more about other fees to watch out for. 

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Start budgeting to stay on track with your spending

When it comes to planning for Christmas and end of year getaways it can be common for additional costs to unexpectedly jump out. 

Don’t forget you can use Beforepay’s free budgeting tool to help you plan ahead and stay on track with your Christmas spending! 

We make it simple to get started to make it easy while saving you time. 

1. See where you’re spending money now. 
2. Customise your spending categories and budgets. 
3. Monitor your spending to stay on track with your budgeting goals. 

Sign up or log in to the Beforepay app now to start budgeting for Christmas!

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Boost your budget with ways to make extra money these holidays

Need a little extra jingle in your pocket this holiday season? We've got you covered.

Explore opportunities that match your skills and schedule—whether it's offering services or snagging a Christmas casual job. It's the perfect way to give your budget a boost! 

Here are some ideas to help get you started:

• Review products online: Join product testing programs or platforms like Amazon Vine to review items 
• Seasonal customer service roles: If you have spare time, and are able, you could look for Christmas casual jobs on sites like Indeed or Seek
• Rent your space: Rent out extra storage using sites like Store At My House or Spacer
• Sell gift boxes: If you’re crafty, you could make and sell personalised holiday gift boxes on Etsy or Amazon handmade.

For more ideas on making extra money during the holidays check out our latest blog.

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• Worried about the summer heat spiking up your electricity bill? Use Beforepay’s Compare and Save tool to see how much you could potentially save on your utility bills. 
• Heading away for the summer? See our tips about picking the right insurance for you. 
• For support with your finances see our list of resources on our website.
• Need help with your Beforepay account? Visit our Help Centre or contact our Customer Support team at support@beforepay.com.au.