How to Track and Manage Subscriptions using Notion

Keeping track of various subscriptions can become a complex and overwhelming task. Notion, the all-in-one Workspace, provides a powerful solution for organizing and Managing subscriptions, allowing you to have a clear overview of your expenses and billing cycles. In this article, we will explore the steps to effectively track and manage subscriptions using Notion.

Setting up a Subscriptions Database

The first step is to create a dedicated database to store all your subscription information. In Notion, you can easily create a new database by selecting "New" and then choosing "Database" from the drop-down menu.

Once the database is created, customize the properties (or columns) based on the information you want to track. You may consider including properties such as Subscription Name, Provider, Billing Cycle, Cost, Renewal Date, and any other relevant details.

Adding Subscription Entries

To add a new entry, click on the "+" button within the database view. Fill in the necessary information for each subscription, including the name, provider, billing cycle, cost, and renewal date. Notion allows you to add additional details, such as payment methods or cancellation policies, in the description field.

Categorizing Subscriptions

To easily distinguish between different types of subscriptions, you can create a category property in your database. This property can be used to group subscriptions into categories like Streaming Services, Software Subscriptions, Gym Memberships, or any other category that suits your needs. Categorizing your subscriptions helps in quickly filtering and finding relevant information.

Sorting and Filtering

Notion offers powerful sorting and filtering options to help you organize and view your subscriptions in a way that suits you. You can sort your subscriptions by renewal date, cost, or any other relevant property. To apply filters, click on the "Filter" option in the database view and specify your desired conditions, such as sorting only active subscriptions or those with a specific billing cycle.

Tracking Payment Dates and Renewals

Notion allows you to set Reminders for renewal dates or payment due dates, ensuring that you never miss a Deadline. To set a reminder, hover over the respective subscription entry, click on the ellipsis button (three dots), and select "Remind me". Choose the desired date for the reminder, and Notion will send you a notification on that day.

Visualizing Subscription Statistics

Notion's powerful visualizations feature allows you to gain insights into your subscription spending patterns. By selecting "Create Linked Database" in your subscription database, you can create a separate database to visualize statistics and charts. This new database can be specifically designed to summarize your subscription expenses, provider-wise spending, or any other relevant Metrics you want to track.

Collaborating and Sharing

Notion's collaborative features make it easy to share your subscription database with others, allowing you to collaborate with family members, roommates, or colleagues. Grant them access to the database by clicking on the "Share" button and providing their email addresses. You can assign permissions to control their level of access, allowing them to view, edit, or comment on the database.

Integrations and Automations

Notion can be further enhanced by integrating it with other apps and services. By using tools like Zapier or Integromat, you can automate certain tasks within your subscription management workflow. For example, you can set up an automation that adds a new subscription entry whenever you receive an email confirmation from a provider.

Conclusion

Managing and tracking subscriptions can be a daunting task, but Notion simplifies the process by providing a flexible and customizable platform. With the ability to create a dedicated database, categorize, sort, filter, and visualize your subscriptions, Notion becomes the go-to solution for Subscription tracking and management. By leveraging its collaborative features and integrations, you can ensure that everyone involved stays updated and informed about your subscription expenses.