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As teenagers embark on their journey toward adulthood, it's crucial to equip them with essential life skills, and one of the most important skills is managing their finances responsibly. Perhaps they are about to start their first job or are looking to save up for something special. Opening a bank account for teenagers can be an excellent way to introduce them to the world of personal finance, teaching them valuable lessons about money management, budgeting, and saving. In this blog post, we'll provide you with a step-by-step guide on setting up a bank account for your teenager, empowering them with financial independence.   Step 1: Research and Choose the Right Bank We suggest looking for accounts that offer zero transaction or setup fees, attractive interest rates, online banking options and branch support for when you want to have a chat to a real person! Here at Horizon, we offer an account that is specifically for teenagers, the Teen Saver account. For kids wanting to focus on savings, take a look at our Youth Reward Saver account.   Step 2: Gather Required Documentation Before contacting the bank, it’s important to ensure you have all the necessary documents. This typically includes identification documents that verifies your full name, date of birth and home address. For example, this could include a passport/birth certificate, Medicare card and a letter addressed to the teenager at their home address from school etc. For more information on identification documents required, reach out to us for clarification.   Step 3: Visit or contact the Bank If you can, pop into the branch with your teenager or, if they’re comfortable, send them in independently. They will need to be there! Encourage them to take an active role in the process by asking questions and engaging in the conversation. This will help them develop a sense of ownership and responsibility towards their finances. The Horizon Bank team can help set up online banking, a debit card and answer any questions you might have. We have branches in Wollongong, Ulladulla, Albion Park, Thirroul, Bega, Merimbula, Moruya, Bermagui, Nowra and Berry.   Step 4: Educate them on Financial Literacy Make sure your teenager understands the basics of money management. Teach them about budgeting, saving, and the importance of responsible spending. Encourage discussions around long-term goals, such as saving for a car or something they have their eye on, to provide a sense of purpose and discipline.   Setting up a bank account for teenagers is an invaluable step towards fostering financial independence and responsible money management. By empowering our teenagers with their own accounts, we equip them with the necessary tools to make informed financial decisions and set them on a path towards a secure future. If you have any questions or want to learn more, reach out to Horizon Banks's friendly local team.

Want to know how Horizon Bank is giving back to the local community? Horizon Bank’s Community Grants Program has created a meaningful impact by helping those with positive initiatives make them happen. Through our grants program, we strive to provide opportunities for individuals and organisations that need assistance to create beneficial impact. From providing vital equipment that aids in air, land and sea rescues to green energy installations as well as accessibility solutions for those with disabilities — we are proud of the transformative efforts these projects have instigated within the communities they serve.   About the Program In creating the Horizon Bank Community Grants Program, our mission was, and is, to provide funding opportunities to organisations that provide lasting benefits to the local communities in which we operate. To date, we have put over $50,000 in funding back into our communities via some very worthwhile projects. Applications for grants are opened to the public once a year and announced via our website, newsletter and social media channels. To meet eligibility criteria, it is important for there to be project sustainability. Organisations must demonstrate how a grant will make an ongoing positive impact to the lives of those in their community. Volunteers at Bega District Rescue Squad help to keep our community safe Earlier this year, a grant application was submitted by Kevin from the Bega District Volunteer Rescue Squad. Since 1975 this team of volunteers has been providing timely rescue responses in motor vehicle accidents, search and vertical rescue. Kevin approached Horizon Bank about acquiring funding via a grant to purchase an LX Ram C and a LX Ram Claw and had their grant application approved. This equipment enhances the operational capabilities for Bega District Rescue Squad in the extrication of casualties in motor vehicle accidents when every moment matters. Due to the ever-changing construction of motor vehicles it is important that rescue equipment is up-to-date to ensure that the best possible outcomes are achieved. Do you know of an organisation that could benefit from funding opportunities? Horizon Bank Community Grants open for applications once a year. To learn more about the program, click here. To stay updated to when applications open, make sure you are following us on Facebook and Instagram.

Travelling? Make it easier with Horizon Bank's Low-Fee Credit Card. With the Canstar five-star rating, you can be sure that you’re getting the best value for your money when travelling! Our low-fee credit card offers competitive interest rates and reliable backup when abroad, giving you peace of mind while on holidays or business trips. Take advantage today and get more freedom in your travels and make life simpler by taking control with Horizon Bank's Low-Fee Credit Card. For business travellers and those who frequently travel for pleasure, it can be difficult to keep track of your expenses and make sure you’re getting the best value for your money. Horizon Bank understands that and offers its customers a low-fee credit card with a Canstar five-star rating, ensuring that you get the most out of your travels without breaking the bank. Benefits of Low-Fee Credit Cards Horizon Bank's Low-Fee Credit Card comes with a number of benefits that will make travelling easier and more affordable. First, by eliminating costly foreign transaction fees, you can access hundreds of locations worldwide without worrying about ATM withdrawals. Additionally, this card offers competitive interest rates so you can save money on travel expenses while abroad. When travelling abroad, security is always a concern. With Horizon Bank's Low-Fee Credit Card, you get added protection against fraud and theft with multi-layered security measures such as chip technology and secure encryption software that keeps your information safe from hackers. The card also includes 24/7 fraud monitoring so you can rest assured that all transactions are being monitored closely for any suspicious activity. Make every journey hassle-free with Horizon Bank's Low-Fee Credit Card! Don’t wait any longer - take control today and start making life simpler while travelling smarter with our low-fee credit card. To learn more, enquire online today or pop into one of our local branches, located along the NSW South Coast. Horizon Bank has a branch network spanning the NSW South Coast and Illawarra. Horizon Bank branch locations: Albion Park, Bega, Bermagui, Berry, Merimbula, Moruya, Nowra, Thirroul, Ulladulla & Wollongong.

This article provides you with handy tips for sending money overseas. All great information you need to be ready with before you start. Use A Reputable International Money Transfer Service There are different services and apps out there that offer money transfer services. To ensure you are using a reliable and secure service, ask your bank if they can transfer money overseas. Horizon is able to send money overseas via a Telegraphic Transfer (TT) payment through Convera. In most cases a TT is the quickest way to send funds abroad, and is a reliable way to send funds to a bank account internationally. Whilst we can typically deliver funds to beneficiary banks in 2-3 business days, beneficiary banks can sometimes take up to 5 business days to credit those funds to the applicable beneficiary account. Sending a TT in the beneficiary’s currency is usually more cost effective and helps ensure the funds are credited more quickly, as the payment can go “straight through”. Stay On Top of Exchange Rates If you have some time before needing to send a payment, check exchange rates before you proceed with the money transfer to maximise your dollars. Within Horizon’s Online Banking, you will be shown the exchange rate (provided by Convera) for the currency you are choosing to send. The exchange rate is refreshed to the current rate at the time the transfer is submitted. If sending money to a European country, you will need an International Bank Account Number (IBAN). Double-check any details you enter before confirming your transfer to avoid any mistakes. It is a requirement to obtain the recipients full name, street address, mobile number and account number as well as the recipient’s bank details. Make Sure You Have The Correct Details If sending money to a European country, you will need an International Bank Account Number (IBAN). Double-check any details you enter before confirming your transfer to avoid any mistakes. It is a requirement to obtain the recipients full name, street address, mobile number and account number as well as the recipient’s bank details. Transfer limits If you are making transfers from your bank, be sure to check your transfer limit. You may need to get in touch and request a temporary limit increase to complete your international transaction. If you’re looking for a convenient, secure way to transfer money overseas then get in touch with us about our telegraphic transfer service. We’re here to make the process easy and provide a great experience. Horizon Bank has a branch network spanning the NSW South Coast and Illawarra. Horizon Bank branch locations: Albion Park, Bega, Bermagui, Berry, Merimbula, Moruya, Nowra, Thirroul, Ulladulla & Wollongong. *Please note that TT's are sent via a network of correspondent, intermediary and/or beneficiary banks, which sometimes levy a small handling charge on your payment. Any such fees, and payment delays, are out of our control.** Horizon Bank has appointed Western Union Business Solutions (Australia) Pty Ltd (ACN 150 129 749; AFSL 404092) trading as Convera (“Convera”) to assist it in fulfilling certain foreign exchange and payment services, including telegraphic transfers. These services are provided to you by Horizon Bank. Fees and charges may apply, please refer to the terms and conditions and Fees and Charges Schedule issued by Horizon Bank. This communication has been prepared solely for informational purposes and does not in any way create any binding obligations. No representations, warranties or conditions of any kind, express or implied, are made in this communication.

What is home equity? Home equity is the portion of your home's value that you own outright, free and clear of any loans. It grows as you pay off your home loan and home values appreciate. So, if you have been in your home a few years, chances are good that the home equity has grown too. That growth could mean an opportunity to refinance your loan. Let’s explore this further. Loan refinancing Loan refinancing typically involves taking out a new loan with better terms than your existing loan and using it to pay off the balance of the old loan. The new loan may have a lower interest rate, which could save you money every month on your mortgage payment. Or, it may have a shorter term, which could save you money over the life of the loan by pay it off more quickly. How to calculate equity When it comes to personal finance, one of the most important concepts to understand is equity. Equity is the portion of a property's value that is owned by the homeowner, and it can have a significant impact on a family's financial stability. Calculating equity is relatively simple: it is simply the difference between the property's current market value and the outstanding balance on the mortgage. For example, if a home is worth $200,000 and the mortgage balance is $150,000, the equity would be $50,000. Families with high levels of equity are typically better positioned to weather financial challenges, such as job loss or medical bills. Furthermore, equity can be used as collateral for loans, making it an important asset for many homeowners. What is LVR? Loan to Value Ratio (LVR) is a financial term used by lenders to express the ratio of a loan to the value of an asset purchased. The asset is usually a property, and the loan is usually a mortgage. Lenders use LVR to assess the risk involved in lending money, as it represents the amount of equity that the borrower has in the property. A high LVR means that the borrower has less equity and therefore more risk, while a low LVR indicates that the borrower has more equity and less risk. In order to calculate Loan to Value Ratio, simply divide the loan amount by the value of the property. For example, if you are looking at purchasing a property worth $500,000 and you have a deposit of $100,000, your Loan to Value Ratio would be 80%. This means that you would have 20% equity in the property. Factors that influence equity There are a number of factors that can influence the equity in your home. The most important factor is the value of your property. If your home is worth more than you owe on it, then you have equity. However, if you owe more than your home is worth, then you have negative equity. Another important factor is the amount of money you have paid into your mortgage. The more money you have paid, the more equity you will have. Additionally, the length of time you have been paying into your mortgage can also influence equity. If you have only been making payments for a short period of time, then you will have less equity than someone who has been making payments for a longer period of time. Finally, the interest rate on your mortgage will also impact equity. A higher interest rate will mean that more of your payments will go towards interest, rather than principal, and as a result, you will build equity more slowly. Ways to increase equity in your home If you're looking to increase the equity in your home, there are a few things you can do. One is to make sure that your home is well-maintained and updated. This means keeping up with necessary repairs, painting the interior and exterior of your home on a regular basis, and making any other cosmetic upgrades that may be needed. Another way to increase equity is to pay down your mortgage as much as possible. This will reduce the amount of interest you're paying and increase the portion of your home that you own outright. Finally, you can try to increase the market value of your home by making strategic improvements that will appeal to buyers. These could include adding another bedroom or bathroom, or updating the kitchen or flooring. By taking these steps, you can help to increase the equity in your home. If you are thinking about refinancing your home loan, be sure to consider the costs of refinancing, such as application fees and closing costs, before making a decision. Horizon Bank is here to help you with your banking needs. Visit us at a local branch or online to learn more about our refinancing options. Horizon Bank has a branch network spanning the NSW South Coast and Illawarra. Horizon Bank branch locations: Albion Park, Bega, Bermagui, Berry, Merimbula, Moruya, Nowra, Thirroul, Ulladulla & Wollongong.

Did you know that electric and hybrid cars produce significantly fewer emissions than traditional petrol or diesel vehicles? If you're looking to reduce your carbon footprint, switching to an electric or hybrid car is a great way to do it. In this blog post, we'll take a look at the benefits of electric and hybrid cars. What is a carbon footprint and how can electric and hybrid cars help reduce it?The carbon footprint is the total amount of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases that are emitted by an individual, organisation, event, or product. Greenhouse gases are released when fossil fuels such as coal and oil are burned. They contribute to the Earth's greenhouse effect, trapping heat in the atmosphere and causing the Earth's temperature to rise. Electric and hybrid cars can help to reduce an individual's carbon footprint because they produce zero emissions. In addition, electric and hybrid cars are often more fuel-efficient than traditional fuel-powered cars, meaning that they require less fuel to travel the same distance. As a result, electric and hybrid cars offer a cleaner and more efficient way to travel, helping to reduce our impact on the environment. How do electric and hybrid cars work?Electric cars are powered by batteries that store electricity, which is then used to run the car's motors whereas hybrid cars have both an electric motor and a fuel engine. The electric motor is used for low-speed driving, while the fuel engine is used for higher speeds. Both hybrid and electric cars use regenerative braking to help charge the batteries. When the brakes are applied, the car's kinetic energy is converted into electrical energy, which is then stored in the batteries. What are the benefits of owning an electric or hybrid car?Hybrid cars and electric cars are becoming increasingly popular as people look for more efficient and environmentally friendly ways to travel. There are a number of benefits to owning an electric or hybrid car! They produce no emissions They’re more fuel-efficient than traditional petrol or diesel cars They’re often cheaper to maintain Electric cars also have the potential to save you money on fuel costs, as you’ll only need to charge your battery rather than buying/refilling petrol or diesel. Hybrid cars offer a compromise between electric and traditional petrol or diesel cars, as they still run on petrol or diesel but also have an electric battery that helps to power the car and reduce emissions. Ultimately, the decision of whether to buy an electric or hybrid car depends on your personal circumstances and preferences, but there’s no doubt that they offer a number of benefits over traditional petrol or diesel cars. Consider your daily driving habitsIf you have a long commute or frequently drive on the highway, a hybrid car may be a better option since it can run on petrol if needed. Electric cars are best suited for metropolitan driving, where there are plenty of charging stations available. Think about your budgetHybrid and electric cars tend to be more expensive than traditional petrol or diesel-powered vehicles, but with fuel prices fluctuating rapidly they may save you money in the long run. Do your researchTest drive a few different models before making your final decision. Reach out to experts, friends, family or peers who have experience with electric and hybrid vehicles. With so many options available, it's important to find the right car for you. Horizon Bank has a Green Car Loan that offers competitive rates and terms to help you finance the purchase of a new or used hybrid or electric vehicle. The Green Car Loan from Horizon Bank is a great option for those who are looking to finance a green car. The loan offers competitive rates and terms, making it easy to get a car loan for a new or used hybrid or electric vehicle. Get in touch with your local branch today and let us help you get behind the wheel of your new car! Horizon Bank has a branch network spanning the NSW South Coast and Illawarra. Horizon Bank branch locations: Albion Park, Bega, Bermagui, Berry, Merimbula, Moruya, Nowra, Thirroul, Ulladulla & Wollongong.

Horizon Bank aims to support local organisations and initiatives that make a difference in the South Coast community. We have recently launched the Horizon Bank Community Grants Program in line with our continued commitment to supporting those who make our region a great place to live, work and raise a family. We're pleased to announce grants of up to $5,000 are available to local community groups, incorporated not-for-profit organisations and registered charities working in the areas of environment, arts, health and wellbeing, youth, education and sport. Community grants have the power to make a real difference in the lives of those who need it most. We're delighted to be able to play a role in supporting the amazing work being done by these local organisations. What impact will the Horizon Bank Community Grants have on the South Coast community? Grants provide much-needed support and funding to local organisations, helping them to achieve their goals and improve the lives of those living in our community. When these goals are achieved, they can have a transformative effect on our community, allowing us to thrive and grow together. By investing in the well-being of our local area, we are strengthening the bonds that connect us all and ensuring that we continue to support each other, now and in the future.   How does the Horizon Bank Community Grants Program work? At Horizon Bank we recognise the importance of supporting our local communities and improving quality of life for all residents. Our Community Grants Program aims to provide funding and resources to community groups, non-profit organisations, and registered charities that are working to achieve various goals in their local area. Whether you’re working on initiatives related to education, healthcare, arts, sport or the environment, our grant programs can provide you with the support you need. We evaluate grant applications based on a variety of criteria, including the project's impact and alignment with our organisation's values and the positive and sustainable impacts it will bring to the community. If you’re looking for ways to contribute to your community and make a positive difference in your local area, we encourage you to apply for one of our grant programs within the designated application periods. Application periods are open for four weeks at a time. What do I need to do to apply for a Community Grant from Horizon Bank? To apply for a Community Grant from Horizon Bank, you must first access the online application form. Your application must be submitted during the specified application opening time and before the designated deadline in order to be considered. Candidates must fall into one of the following categories in order to qualify: community groups, incorporated not-for-profit organisations, or registered charities. To be eligible to apply for a grant from Horizon Bank, you will need to demonstrate that your organisation meets all of the relevant criteria. This includes showing that your group is an official community group, non-profit organisation, or charity that is incorporated and registered according to local laws and regulations. You will also need to include information about your project or cause, including its purpose, goals, and projected outcomes. Additionally, you must provide details of your organisation’s plan, demonstrating your ability to manage grant funds effectively. The project will need to benefit a community on the South Coast; such as the Bega Valley, Eurobodalla, Shoalhaven or Illawarra. If you can demonstrate these qualities along with meeting all other eligibility requirements, you could be a strong candidate for a grant from Horizon Bank.   What happens now? We’re so excited to be able to give back to the community through our Community Grants program and see all the exciting things that can grow from it! If you have a project that you think would benefit from some additional funding, we encourage you to apply today. It takes 15-20 minutes to apply and you could be on your way to making your vision a reality. Visit Horizon Bank online to apply now. We look forward to hearing from you! Applications are currently closed, check back here for updates.  About Horizon Bank Horizon Bank is a customer owned financial institution serving the communities of the South Coast since 1964. Horizon has a branch network spanning the South Coast with locations at: Merimbula, Bega, Bermagui, Moruya, Ulladulla, Nowra, Albion Park, Wollongong and Thirroul.

It's important to be mindful of your banking choices and ensure that they align with your personal values. Banks can provide both great convenience and peace of mind, but it's important to do your research before signing up. Whatever route you choose, be sure to take the time to understand what makes the bank tick - so you can feel good about where your money is going. Here are a few tips on how to make sure you're banking with integrity. Figure out what's important to you When it comes to your money, it's important to align your values with your banking. Find a bank that shares your commitment to things like social responsibility, environmental sustainability and ethical business practices. There are a number of ways to figure out what's important to you. Start by thinking about the causes and issues that you care about most. Then, research banks and credit unions that have policies and programs in place that support your values. Consider the day-to-day convenience of things like online and mobile banking, ATMs, and customer service when making your decision. By taking the time to align your values with your banking, you can ensure that your money is working for you – and for the world. What to look for in a bank Personal banking is more than just a place to keep your money – it’s a personal relationship that should align with your values. The same goes for business banking. When you’re looking for a bank, here are some things to consider to make sure your values are aligned: Does the bank have a personal relationship with its customers?This is important for both personal and business banking. You want to be able to trust your bank and feel like you’re more than just a number. Does the bank support local community, businesses and causes?If you value supporting your community and local businesses, you’ll want to make sure your bank does too. What are the bank’s environmental policies?If you care about reducing your carbon footprint, you may want to choose a bank that offsets its carbon emissions or invests in renewable energy. What are the bank’s social responsibility policies?If you want to make sure your money is going towards making the world a better place, look for a bank that donates to charitable causes or has a focus on social responsibility. Find a bank that aligns with your values When it comes to banking, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. The best bank for you will depend on your unique financial needs and goals. By doing your research and taking the time to find a bank that aligns with your values, you can ensure that your money is being used in a way that supports your beliefs. Here are a few tips to help you find a banking institution that matches your world view: Do your research - Start by identifying which banking values are most important to you. Ask around - Talk to your friends, family, and colleagues to see if they have any recommendations. Read reviews - Once you've narrowed down your options, read online reviews to get a sense of what other customers think about the banks you're considering. The benefits of banking with a values-aligned institution There are many benefits to banking with a values-aligned institution. When you bank with an institution that shares your values, you can be confident that your money is being used in ways that align with your beliefs. This gives you a greater sense of control over your finances and helps you to support causes that are important to you. This can make banking feel more personal and supportive, rather than just transactional. If you are looking for a bank that shares your personal values, Horizon Bank may be the perfect fit. Check out Horizon's values and see if they resonate with you. We offer a variety of products and services to meet your needs, as well as a commitment to community involvement. Contact our local team today to learn more about how we can help you achieve your financial goals. Horizon Bank has a branch network spanning the NSW South Coast and Illawarra. Horizon Bank branch locations: Albion Park, Bega, Bermagui, Berry, Merimbula, Moruya, Nowra, Thirroul, Ulladulla & Wollongong.

Are you looking for a different way to save for retirement?A Self-Managed Super Fund (SMSF) may be something you should consider as a way to plan for retirement. You can choose your own investments and manage your own super fund. This gives you more control over your future and allows you to make the most of your retirement savings. What is a self-managed super fund (SMSF)?A self-managed super fund (SMSF) is a type of superannuation fund where the members are also the trustees. This means that the members have control over the investment decisions made and are responsible for complying with the relevant legislation. SMSFs can be established by up to four trustees, who can either be individuals or corporate trustees. The trustees must also be members of the fund. One of the benefits of an SMSF is that it offers flexibility in terms of investment options. Trustees can choose to invest in a wide range of assets, including shares, property, and managed funds. This can provide greater control over the retirement savings and allow the fund to be tailored to individual needs. Another advantage of an SMSF is that it may offer cost savings compared to larger superannuation funds. This is because SMSFs have lower administrative costs and can benefit from economies of scale. Ultimately, an SMSF can provide greater control and flexibility when it comes to retirement planning.   How do self-managed super funds (SMSFs) work? A self-managed super fund (SMSF) is a trust fund established for the purpose of providing retirement benefits for its members. It is managed by its members, who are also trustees of the fund. SMSFs are unique in that they allow individuals to have direct control over their retirement savings. As such, SMSFs are subject to stringent regulations designed to protect the interests of members. One of the key requirements of an SMSF is that it must have a compliant investment strategy. This means that the trustees must consider factors such as how the fund will generate income and how it will grow over time. Additionally, SMSFs must maintain detailed records and comply with reporting requirements. While this may seem like a lot of work, many people find managing their own super fund is a rewarding experience. What are the benefits of self-managed super funds (SMSFs)?Self-managed super funds have become increasingly popular in recent years and for good reason. SMSFs offer a number of benefits that traditional super funds simply can't match. SMSFs give you a high degree of control over your investments. With an SMSF, on the other hand, you have the final say over where your money is invested. This means that you can tailor your portfolio to your unique financial goals and risk tolerance. In addition, SMSFs typically charge lower fees than traditional funds. This is because you're not paying for expensive fund managers or other middlemen. As a result, more of your money stays in your pocket, where it can compound over time and grow into a sizeable nest egg. SMSFs offer greater flexibility when it comes to withdrawals and benefits. This flexibility can be especially beneficial if you need to access your funds for unexpected expenses or opportunities. All things considered, it's no wonder that self-managed super funds have become such a popular choice for savvy investors. Things to consider before setting up an SMSFThere are a few things to consider before setting up a self-managed super fund (SMSF). First, you need to be sure that you are able to meet the SMSF administration requirements. This includes: maintaining records; preparing financial statements; and lodging tax returns. You also need to have an understanding of investment strategies and SMSF fund rules. Additionally, you need to be comfortable making decisions about your own finances and investments. If you’re not confident in your ability to meet these requirements, it would be best to seek professional advice. Another thing to consider is whether you have enough money to comfortably invest in an SMSF. This type of fund typically requires a larger initial investment than other types of super funds. Finally, you need to be aware of the risks involved in investing in an SMSF. As with any investment, there is always the potential for loss. Contact us todayLook to Horizon Bank to open a Self-Managed Super Fund Saver account. Get in touch with one of our friendly local team today. Horizon Bank has a branch network spanning the NSW South Coast and Illawarra. Horizon Bank branch locations: Albion Park, Bega, Bermagui, Berry, Merimbula, Moruya, Nowra, Thirroul, Ulladulla & Wollongong. Note: The article above is not financial advice. You should consider your own financial circumstances. Before acquiring the financial product, you should consider whether or not the product is appropriate for you. You may wish to seek financial advice from a professional financial adviser. A Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) is available from any Horizon branch. You should consider the relevant PDS in deciding whether to buy or hold the products.

Are you tired of getting your bank statements in the mail? Switching to online statements can save you time and money. You’ll no longer have to worry about losing or misplacing your bank statement, and you’ll also help the environment by reducing paper waste. Plus, online statements are more secure than paper statements. You won’t have to worry about your personal information going missing from your mailbox. Sign up for online statements today and start enjoying the benefits! Are you still receiving your bank or credit card statements in the mail? If you are, you're missing out on a lot of benefits by not switching to online statements. In this post, look at the benefits of making the switch. Switching to eStatements is easy. Simply log in to Online Banking from a desktop computer, go to Accounts Options > eStatements option > select online statement then click ok. 5 Reasons To Switch To Online Statements  1. Get your statements faster – you’ll get an email notifying you as soon as they’re available For many people, paper statements are a thing of the past. Thanks to online banking, you can now view your statements anytime, anywhere. In fact, online statements are becoming the norm for many banks and financial institutions. E statements are more environmentally friendly than paper statements, and they're often more convenient for customers. With online statements, you don't have to worry about losing or misplacing your statement. And if you need to access your statement quickly, you can find it right in your E statement list in Online Banking. So if you're tired of waiting for the mailman to deliver your statement, switch to online statements today. 2. Secure statement delivery When you are registered for e statements, you will receive an email notifying you that your statement is ready to view in Online Banking. Your statement is not delivered by email. Your statement is securely delivered and waiting for you in Online Banking which is more secure than having paper statements sitting in your mail box. 3. Easy access - access your statements from anywhere, anytime from Online Banking on your computer In today's fast-paced world, it can be difficult to keep track of your finances Thankfully, we offer electronic statements, which allows you to access your bank statements from anywhere, at any time. This can be incredibly convenient if you're constantly on the go. All you need is an internet connection and you can check your bank balance, view recent transactions, and more. Plus, electronic statements are typically much easier to organise than paper statements as they are displayed in date order. This becomes useful around tax time if you need to check your statements to check the calculation for how much interest you’ve earnt. If you're looking for a way to streamline your finances, switching to electronic statements is a great option 4. Stay organised and keep track of your finances by downloading all your past statements Many people choose to go electronic with their statements these days. This means that you will be able to access your past statements with only a few clicks. It is very important to keep track of all your finances and spending, especially if you are running a business or organising an event. Electronic statements can help you do just that. Not only will you be able to see your spending for the month in one place, but you will also be able to see any discrepancies right away. 5. Help the environment by reducing paper waste One of the simplest ways you can help the environment is to reduce paper waste by switching to online statements. Online statements can be viewed and downloaded as PDFs from within Online Banking, so make the switch today and help the environment by reducing paper waste. If you're still receiving your bank or credit card statements in the mail, it's time to switch to online statements. Online statements offer a lot of benefits over paper statements, including security, convenience, and organisation. Contact us today for assistance making the switch, or alternatively follow the easy steps at the beginning of this article. Switch to E statements and start enjoying the many benefits. Frequently Asked Questions 1. Why are e statements better? E statements are fast, secure and the environmentally friendly option. 2. Can you get bank statements online? Yes you can! You must first be registered for Online Banking. You can apply to register online or get in touch with us for assistance. 3. How do I change from a paper statement to an online one? Switching to eStatements is easy. Simply log in to Online Banking from a desktop computer, go to Accounts Options > eStatements option > select online statement then click ok. Horizon Bank has a branch network spanning the NSW South Coast and Illawarra. Horizon Bank branch locations: Albion Park, Bega, Bermagui, Berry, Merimbula, Moruya, Nowra, Thirroul, Ulladulla & Wollongong. The content in this article has been prepared by Horizon Bank for general information only and it is not intended to be professional advice. It does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. You should seek your own legal, accounting, financial or other professional advice where appropriate, and consider the relevant General Terms and Conditions before deciding whether to acquire any products or services offered by Horizon Bank and/or its affiliated partners. We do not recommend any third party products or services referred to in this article unless otherwise stated and we are not liable in relation to them. Any links to third party websites are for your information and we do not endorse any content on those sites. Horizon Credit Union Ltd ABN 66 087 650 173 AFSL and Australian Credit Licence Number 240573 trading as Horizon Bank.