5 tips to avoid falling into debt

Just one click, and you’ve ordered the latest new clothes. But while you’re enjoying your new look, the bill lands in your mailbox. It’s tempting to choose the “Buy now, pay later” option when you place your order. But be careful: high interest rates mean you can go into debt faster than you think, and if you pay too late, you will be hit with annoying late fees.

1. Only take out loans for essentials

Sometimes taking out a small loan seems like a simple solution. But watch out: this can quickly lead to an excessive debt. Never take out a loan to pay outstanding bills or to settle existing debts. You should only take out a loan for something essential, such as education or training.

2. Open a savings account for a rainy day

Unlike in most European countries, taxes in Switzerland are not deducted directly from your salary. It therefore makes sense to create a savings plan and set up a special savings account for taxes and other eventualities. You can then regularly pay a fixed amount of your income into this account and only use this money for those moments you need it. With the financial assistant in the UBS key4 banking app, you can define your own savings goals and make sure you achieve them.

3. Set up direct debits with E-Banking

It sounds simple, and it is: use E-Banking and its many useful features. With the financial assistant in the UBS key4 banking app, you always have control over your money, your expenses and your account balance. Set up eBill or direct debit for recurring payments such as health insurance premiums, mobile phone, rent and household bills. If you wish, you can get push notifications about outgoing expenses. Check out the preview feature to see how much money you’ll have left over after deducting recurring costs at the end of the month – or even how much money you’ve spent compared to the same month last year.

4. Compare prices and save

Sometimes you really want something – and that’s okay. You should still compare prices online and sometimes just wait patiently until the item is in the sale. When shopping in the supermarket, it can help to write a shopping list, take note of all promotions in advance and pay attention to what you actually need. It’s also a good idea to register with bonus programs and regularly check digital vouchers in the relevant apps.

5. Find help as early as possible

If you should get to a point where you start going into debt and need help creating a savings plan, visit a budget or debt advisor as soon as possible – they can help you reduce your debt.