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7 great ways to use extra cash

Don't flush away your extra cash. Whether it's a tax refund or annual bonus, here are 7 ways you can keep your money, and 3 ways you shouldn't.

What to put your spare cash into

1. Pay off your credit cards debt

It isn't the most glamorous way to spend your money, but it'll save you from financial troubles later. Credit card debts have high interests levels and are extremely hard to get rid of if you're only paying the minimum. If you have extra cash, use it to pay off the credit card debts.

You don't have to wait for a windfall to pay off your credit cards. Consider a balance transfer from HSBC.

2. Invest

If you're new to investing, you can choose products like mutual fund systemic investment plans, also known as SIPs, fixed deposits and so on. Mutual funds give you a wide range of funds to invest in, depending on your risk-taking capacity. Fixed deposits have lower risks compared to most other investment tools and you'll still be slowly building a nest egg for the future.

3. Learn a new skill

Go back to school for another degree, learn a new language or a new qualification. All of these things will open up your career prospects, giving you a higher potential salary in the future.

Find out more about the value of education

4. Get creative

Now's your chance to unleash your inner artist. Learn to sing, dance, paint or play an instrument. These skills might not unlock your earning potential but they could open up a whole new way of experiencing and understanding the world. Having a way to express yourself creatively is great for your mental wellbeing, not to mention a lot of fun.

5. Travel

Travelling is a great way to experience other cultures and learn about ourselves at the same time. It can create lifelong memories but it can also be quite expensive. Having a lump sum that you can use towards a travel budget can help you take that trip you've always dreamed of.

Visit our card offers page for all the latest travel related offers and get maximum savings on your expenses. You can also consider the HSBC Cashback Credit Card. It gives 10% cashback on all dining and grocery spends up to INR1,000 per billing cycle. It also gives unlimited 1.5% cashback on other spends.

6. Fix up your home

Travelling is great, but so is having a nice place to call home. If you own a home, consider making some renovations and upgrades. If you rent, think about replacing any furniture that is past its prime or switch out appliances for more energy-efficient ones. Even something as simple as changing the curtains or putting on a fresh coat of paint can go a long way.

7. Get fit

Consider this the overall investment since physical health affects every aspect of your life. Things like gyms memberships, personal trainers, meal plans and dietary consultations can be expensive, but you'll often save some money if you pay upfront. The best part is you'll be healthier and have a place to get your sweat. A healthier today means a wealthier tomorrow.

What not to spend it on

1. Fashion

Fashion isn't forever. Outside of a few work outfit choices, any money you spend on clothes or jewellery only has a temporary value and isn't an investment. A new bag or the latest top might make you happy for the moment, but it won't last long.

2. Getting a pet

This isn't to say you shouldn't get a pet. Maybe you always wanted a critter friend in your life. But it shouldn't depend on getting extra cash.

Pets aren't a one-time purchase, they continue to cost you money day after day for years. If the reason you can afford a dog is because you got a big tax refund, how will you afford it when the dog gets sick and needs a vet? Or will you be able to put your pet in a kennel when you're away? And remember, adopting is always better than buying.

3. Nothing at all

It can be tough deciding what to do with the extra cash, but as long as it sits in your bank account there's a real danger of spending it all bit by bit on things that don't mean much. Don't waste your resource, do a little research and see what your money can do for you.

Save more with an HSBC Cashback Credit Card

Get 10% cashback on all dining, food delivery and grocery spends. Unlimited 1.5% cashback on all others spends.

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