Start by listing everything that you spend money on each month and how much you spend. Add up the list to get your current total budget. Once you have that information you can start creating your ideal budget. Look for ways that you can cut your spending in each category, so you can start saving for the things your want.
2) Spend within your budget
Sometimes it’s hard to stick to a budget but it’s the first step to help you save. Always spend within your limit. If you see something you like, wait until you have enough saved to pay for it or can make payments realistically and on time. Set your budget and stick to it.
If you’re over 18, having an IMB Visa Debit card can be handy+. It’s versatile like a credit card and can be used widely but only lets you spend the money you have in your account.
3) Use your own financial institution’s ATM
A bit of forward planning can save you on those annoying $2.00 direct charge ATM fees. Plan ahead and withdraw money before you head out when you may not be able to find your own financial institution’s ATM. Or withdraw extra money via eftpos using the ‘CR’ button at the supermarket with your groceries for a night out to avoid unnecessary ATM fees. Alternatively if you aren’t close to your own financial institution’s ATM get a little more money when you are to last until you can get access to one.
4) Don’t put your money where your mouth is
Mobile phones can be expensive to run especially if you’re not on a plan and like talking to your friends. Avoid spending ages chatting on your mobile phone especially in peak times unless your plan covers the minutes. Many mobile phone operators have free off-peak times or free periods between phones on the same provider. Save your money for seeing your friends not just speaking to them.
5) If you have a student card – use it!
From train tickets to ferry trips, book stores and even the zoo, many things these days have discounts for students. Museums, music gigs, movie tickets and gym memberships to name a few more. Make sure you carry your student card on you at all times and don’t be afraid to ask if places have a student discount. They aren’t always advertised. If you never ask, you’ll never receive.
1) Create a budget
Start by listing everything that you spend money on each month and how much you spend. Add up the list to get your current total budget. Once you have that information you can start creating your ideal budget. Look for ways that you can cut your spending in each category, so you can start saving for the things your want.
2) Spend within your budget
Sometimes it’s hard to stick to a budget but it’s the first step to help you save. Always spend within your limit. If you see something you like, wait until you have enough saved to pay for it or can make payments realistically and on time. Set your budget and stick to it.
If you’re over 18, having an IMB Visa Debit card can be handy+. It’s versatile like a credit card and can be used widely but only lets you spend the money you have in your account.
3) Use your own financial institution’s ATM
A bit of forward planning can save you on those annoying $2.00 direct charge ATM fees. Plan ahead and withdraw money before you head out when you may not be able to find your own financial institution’s ATM. Or withdraw extra money via eftpos using the ‘CR’ button at the supermarket with your groceries for a night out to avoid unnecessary ATM fees. Alternatively if you aren’t close to your own financial institution’s ATM get a little more money when you are to last until you can get access to one.
4) Don’t put your money where your mouth is
Mobile phones can be expensive to run especially if you’re not on a plan and like talking to your friends. Avoid spending ages chatting on your mobile phone especially in peak times unless your plan covers the minutes. Many mobile phone operators have free off-peak times or free periods between phones on the same provider. Save your money for seeing your friends not just speaking to them.
5) If you have a student card – use it!
From train tickets to ferry trips, book stores and even the zoo, many things these days have discounts for students. Museums, music gigs, movie tickets and gym memberships to name a few more. Make sure you carry your student card on you at all times and don’t be afraid to ask if places have a student discount. They aren’t always advertised. If you never ask, you’ll never receive.