Recommending Actions Based on a Bank Statement 1. Rearrange the timing of payments around income APRIL APRIL
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Where possible, large regular payments should be scheduled for just after income has come into the account, to reduce the risk of going overdrawn.
The Nolan mortgage of €1,550 leaves the account on the 25th, before their salary arrives at the end of the month.
Moving the mortgage repayment to just after payday would reduce how far the account goes overdrawn, and lower the overdraft interest they are charged.
2. Reduce discretionary spending
Cutting back on non-essential spending frees up money for bills and savings.
In February the Nolans spent €585 on concert tickets, a restaurant and Dublin Zoo.
Cutting this spending would have left the account in credit instead of closing at (€462.23).
3. Set up a standing order to savings A regular transfer to a savings account lets a household build up funds to prepare them for any future need.
The Nolans have no savings in either month. Even by planning to save €100 per month when their salary is paid would add up to savings of €1,200 over a year.
4. Switch providers to reduce bills
Reviewing bills and switching to a cheaper provider reduces outgoings every month.
The Nolans pay €90 for Sky TV & Broadband. Switching and saving €20 per month would save €240 over the year.