10 Easily Forgotten Expenses

According to a study, it appears most Australians can’t tell the exact amount they spend on expenses. As a result, they usually forget to include some into their budget. The following are the easily forgotten expenses on a regular basis.

1. Annual physical

We are supposed to have an annual physical and go to the dentist 2x a year for checkups and regular cleanings. There are other regular tests or preventative screenings you should also get, depending on your age.

2. Medication

The medication cost can really use up your budget if your family use a lot of medicines. The government has programs, such as the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) and Medical Safety Nets, for help.

3. Haircuts

Men’s haircuts are way cheaper than women’s and can be had for $10-$20. Unless they’re maintaining a short hairstyle, women tend to pay more for a simple wash and trim. How much more depends on the style and extras.

4. Babysitter

You need a break from looking after your kids time and again. Babysitters are lifesavers that can keep you sane.

Typically, when you hire a babysitter, you want to treat them well as you’d like them to come back and sit for you repeatedly. You’re putting them in charge of your kid’s safety, so paying the right price for their service is essential.

5. Pet Care

Australia has one of the highest rates of pet ownership in the world. About 62% of Australian households own pets. There are an estimated 24 million, or more, pets in Australia.

Australians spend the most on:

  • dogs — estimated $1,475 each, annually
  • cats — estimated $1,029 each, annually.

This is on average, where some pets will cost more than others.

7 Things You Should Know About Leasing A Car - Pretty Penny Loans

6. Car insurance & registration

All registered vehicles, except trailers, in Australia is required by law to a minimum insurance — the compulsory third party personal injury (CTP Greenslip) insurance. Every car with a current registration sticker has this insurance as vehicles cannot be registered without this certificate.

CTP insurance covers everyone involved in a motor vehicle accident for medical and disability costs that result from the accident — except the driver who caused the accident.

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7. Oil change

Along with regular car inspection, do not forget to include oil change in your budget calendar. Before an oil change, most cars today can go much farther than 5,000 kilometres (or every 3 months). Usually, it’s between 8,000 and 12,000 kilometres, or up to 16,000 kilometres.

Some newer vehicles have oil monitoring systems to remind you when it’s time to change your oil. You can check your car’s owners manual for recommendation from the manufacturer.

8. HVAC maintenance

Maintaining your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) should be a regular thing. With extreme temperatures these days, a preventative maintenance schedule is essential for all HVAC equipment. Work this into your budget in spring or fall.

9. Pest prevention

Pest prevention is easier than cure. Controlling pests and preventing their return needs knowledge as well as great products. Look for professional solutions for your pest control or search for DIY tips and guides online.

10. Taxes

Don’t let taxes sneak up on you, whether you’re a business owner or a freelancer. Always set aside for your taxes from your salary each month. Use a registered tax agent when lodging your tax return and skip the stress.

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Tell Cigno Loans how much you want to borrow. By analysing your bank statement, they’ll figure out what kind of loan is best suited to you (i.e. unsecured loans, or emergency loans).

You will need to provide your bank statements for at least the last 90 days before you apply online.

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Disclaimer: Please be aware that Cigno Loans’ articles do not replace advice from an accountant or financial advisor. All information provided is intended to be used as a guide only, as it does not take into account your personal financial situation or needs. If you require assistance, it is recommended that you consult a licensed financial or tax advisor.

NOTIFICATION OF MISCONDUCT BY CIGNO AUSTRALIA

Ordered by the Federal Court of Australia

The Federal Court of Australia has found that Cigno Australia Pty Ltd (Cigno Australia) and BSF Solutions Pty Ltd (BSF Solutions) have breached the law by engaging in unlicensed credit activity and charging prohibited fees.

In the period from July 2022 to 3 October 2023, over 100,000 consumers have been lent a total of $34 million, and charged fees of over $70 million, under the ‘No Upfront Charge Loan Model’ operated by BSF Solutions and Cigno Australia. At no time has either BSF Solutions or Cigno Australia held an Australian Credit Licence.

The Court also found that Mark Swanepoel (director of Cigno Australia) and Brenton James Harrison (director of BSF Solutions) were involved in these breaches of the law.

With effect from 24 May 2024, the Court has granted permanent injunctions preventing Cigno Australia and BSF Solutions from:

  • demanding, receiving or accepting fees or charges, including amounts of loan principal, from consumers in relation to credit provided under the ‘No Upfront Charge Model’; and
  • engaging in further credit activity pursuant to the ‘No Upfront Charge Loan Model’, including by entering into new agreements with consumers, for so long as they do not hold an Australian Credit Licence.

Cigno Australia was ordered by the Court to, by 5th July 2024, send written communications to consumers who between July 2022 and December 2022 entered into agreements with Cigno Australia and BSF Solutions under the ‘No Upfront Charge Loan Model’.

The Court will later determine whether (among other things) Cigno Australia and Mark Swanepoel ought to pay a pecuniary penalty in respect of this conduct, and whether Mark Swanepoel should be restrained from carrying on a business engaging in credit activity.

Cigno Australia, BSF Solutions, Mr Swanepoel and Mr Harrison intend to appeal the decision of the Court and have filed an application for leave to appeal. If the appeal is successful, some or all of the orders of the Federal Court of Australia may be set aside.

Where can you get more information?

Where to go for further support

You can access legal advice in your state at: Free legal advice – Moneysmart.gov.au.

If you are experiencing trouble with debt, or money worries in general, contact:

  • the National Debt Helpline on 1800 007 007 or online chat (9:30am to 4.30pm, Monday to Friday).

If you need someone to talk to, contact:

  • Lifeline on 13 11 14 (24 hours) or their crisis support online chat or
  • Beyond Blue on 1300 22 46 36 (24 hours) or their webchat