Giving you the lowdown on anything you want to know about managing your money. Don't forget to check back, as we'll be updating these hints and tips regularly. The current top tips are...
How do I budget and manage my money?
It's a really easy thing to do. You could keep a diary to help keep an eye on your money – just make a list of all the money going into your account, and then another list of everything you spend. Your recent bank statements will help you. Check your statements regularly to make sure your budget is up to date.
What is a current account, and why do I need one?
A current account is an everyday bank account to keep your money safe and help you handle it on a day-to-day basis.
It enables you to pay in the money you receive, such as your pocket money or wages from a Saturday job, and take out money, when you need some cash or to pay for things.
How do I keep track of my money?
There are lots of ways. You can get a balance (a figure showing you exactly how much you have in your account) from any HSBC cash machine (ATM), using your cash card. You can choose to view your accounts online with Personal Internet Banking, and from statements (we'll send you them every 3 months), which list every single time you pay money in, or take it out. We recommend you check your transactions regularly.
All you need is your HSBC Bank sort code and account number, your date of birth and your HSBC Bank security number. Your security number is a 6-10 digit number chosen by you, which you may have set up when you opened your account, or already used to identify yourself to us over the phone. If you don't have a security number, call us on 08457 400 004 (or textphone 18001 08457 125 563) or +44 1142 031106 from outside the UK to set one up now.*
How do I use my cash card?
It's easy - after you've opened your account, you'll get two things separately in the post - your cash card and PIN (four-digit Personal Identification Number). To get money out, just go to any HSBC cash machine, put your card into the slot, and type in your PIN when you're asked to do so on-screen.
If you don't like the PIN we send you, change your PIN to a more memorable number of your choice at any HSBC Bank cash machine in the UK. Keep your PIN a secret and don’t tell anyone what it is. Never ever write it on your card.
Don't pay for taking out cash
You can withdraw cash from hundreds of HSBC cash machines around the country, day or night. All HSBC cash machines are free to use, but be careful when using other cash machines. Some of them, especially those in shops, charge you a fee for taking out cash. Even if it's just a tenner! Don't worry though, if the machine is going to charge you a fee, it will display a message telling you how much it will be before you finish. You can then cancel and avoid the fee!
What if I lose my cash card?
Don't worry - no one can get your money out unless they know your PIN. But make sure you tell us as soon as you realise it's missing so we can cancel it and send you a new one. Call us on 08456 007 010 (textphone 18001 08457 125 563). Lines are open 24 hours every day, and calls may be recorded.
What if someone might know my PIN?
Tell us immediately and we'll cancel it and send you a new one.
Tips to help you take charge of your money
- Make sure you review your budget regularly. If something changes - for example, if you have a birthday coming up and you know you'll get some more money, or if one of your friends has a birthday and you know you're going to need to buy them a present, you'll need to take it into account.
- Sometimes it's easier to put in a monthly amount for things such as birthdays, Christmas, or holidays so you won't forget them.
- If you haven't got enough money to cover what you're spending, see where you can make savings.
*Lines are open 8am to 10pm every day (except Christmas day, Boxing day and New Years day). To help us continually improve our service and in the interests of security, we may monitor and/or record your telephone calls with us.
