Planning

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Keep on top of what you spend

Managing your accounts

The first step when you start budgeting and tracking your cash is making sure you have access to your accounts. The easiest way is with online banking. You can see your different accounts at the same time, check your balance, transfer money and set up standing orders easily.

If you bank with HSBC and don’t already have an online account, find out more about our Internet Banking service.

You can also check your balance or see your last 6 transactions on your mobile phone by text using HSBC’s Money Mobile service. It’s handy if you’re thinking of buying something but can’t remember how much is in your account. More on HSBC Money Mobile

If you have a compatible smartphone you can see the Internet Banking site optimised for your screen using HSBC’s Mobile View

Keeping track of your money is easier if you have a routine.

Tips for tracking your cash

Once you organise your finances and work out a budget, it becomes much simpler to keep track of your cash. These ideas can help you get things set up.

  • Set aside time each week: Keeping track of your money is easier if you have a routine – say, half an hour every Saturday morning spent checking your finances.
  • Use Direct Debits: Many companies will give you a discount if you pay bills by Direct Debit and using Direct Debits means you needn’t worry about forgetting to pay.
  • Check your account regularly to be sure you have enough to cover any payments. If you need some financial flexibility, you might want to make use of your overdraft (if you have agreed one with us). We can send out text alerts when you’re nearing your overdraft limit.
  • Pay all your bills on the same day: If you know that most of your Direct Debits are set up to pay on the same date it’s easier to budget for the rest of the month.
  • Note down your spending: This helps you work out where your money is going. You might use a spreadsheet on your computer, or you could use an app on your mobile phone – that way you’ll have it handy whenever you make a purchase.
  • Check you're not overspending: A quick way to get an idea of your incomings and outgoings is to compare your current balance with the same date the previous month. And if you're relying on an overdraft or credit, it's probably time to economise.

When you have a routine for checking your accounts and paying bills, and are aware of what else you’ve spent, it’s much easier to stay in control of your finances.

 

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Everyone's circumstances are different and what applies to one person may not be right for someone else. The suggestions above are based on a general assumption of each planning event and they are not intended to provide advice or recommendation on your individual financial needs.

* Lines are open 8am to 6pm, Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays).
To help us continue our service, and in the interest of security, we may monitor and/or record your call.