Here are five quick money tips that can make a difference:

1. Check whether Inland Revenue owes you money

Free money! Well, it’s your money, but Inland Revenue is holding onto it for you. Search the unclaimed money database and see whether there’s anything you can claim. In March 2024, there was more than $475 million in unclaimed money.

2. Find a cheaper power provider

Powerswitch is an independent website that will tell you which electricity provider is best for your household. Have a previous power bill on hand so you have your details ready to enter, answer questions, and you’ll find the best-value offers from all the power companies.

3. Find a digital tool to help you manage your money

Many of the major banks have apps or tools designed to help you save and grow your money. See what’s on offer and what could work for you. For example: ASB has the excellent ‘Save the change’ setting that rounds up your transactions and saves the difference. ANZ has a quiz that generates tips for improving your financial wellbeing. And Westpac has CashNav which categorises your transactions to help you budget. Or consider blockbuster apps like MyBudgetPal or PocketSmith.

4. Set up account alerts and get rid of overdrafts

If you have an overdraft, you’ll be stung for fees. You’ll pay interest on any overdraft balance and a fee for an unarranged overdraft. At some banks you’ll even pay a fee of around $3 a month to have an overdraft facility available, even if you never use it. Instead, set up account alerts to let you know if your balance falls below a certain point. Then you can move some money over. Alerts are free, so a definite win for your budget.

5. Cancel one subscription

Can you find just one subscription to cancel? Run your eye over your bank account for the past month and see if you can spot a regular payment that’s not giving you value for money.