Debt free charts

A great way to stay motivated when working toward a goal is visuals. Keep up that momentum in saving money, or paying down debt with a colour as you go chart. There are tons of places that have free printable of these, including the one linked. You can choose from a range, print and put somewhere you’ll (HAVE TO) see everyday to help keep your eye on the prize. The link I’ve included has both paid and free charts, and they’re in USD ($), so may need some modifying. There are tons of uk and customisable ones on Etsy, but you will have to pay for those!

Left: my homemade overdraft repayment chart (sadly not filled). Right: chart available on Etsy

https://debtfreecharts. com (US)

For myself, I looked through all these but since my main money goal is overdraft, I ended up making my own colour-as-you-go. I used graph paper I had anyway, so still didn’t spend anything. I can’t wait to see mine all coloured in!

Bank review

Most high street banks will offer free appointments to have a review and discuss your current financial situation, savings goals, debt repayments or anything relating to your money.

Like I said it’s free, but there’s a catch, alas, as always! Basically in this instance they will try and sell you products-so best to keep this in mind when you go into it. If you’re the kind of person who can’t say no, maybe avoid. For instance, when I discussed wanting to pay down my overdraft, I was offered a loan (kind of the opposite of the point for me, but there you go).

Since I am the kind of person who doesn’t feel bad saying no, off I went. I spent an hour and it was really useful for me, mainly because at the time most of my financial products were at the same bank.

It’s always a good first step to get a clear idea of what your current situation looks like. To get the best handle on your spending, use the service at the bank that holds your current account. They can break down for you subscriptions, standings orders, direct debits and payments so you are in a better position to budget accordingly (or cancel some you really don’t need anymore!)

For different people, different things will work better. If going in person to you’re bank is too overwhelming, many high street banks will offer online support. This can be either personalised reports, advice of FAQs you can dig into, and apply to your situation.

I should say that many also offer phone line support but if I have to be put on hold listening to musac, I suddenly become murderous. But if that works for you, got for it, you sociopath.