Now that we’ve welcomed a new year, we must also begin welcoming new saving habits. Setting reasonable resolutions isn’t always the easiest, which is why we wanted to offer some simple ideas to start. Begin promoting your financial positivity by picking one or two of these savings resolutions to implement for the rest of the year!
Make extra mortgage payments
Making your minimum payments on what you owe is completely fine. However, try stepping up your game by increasing the amount you pay towards your mortgage. We understand you can’t make extra payments each month, but when you can, put your cash towards that. You can even utilize a financial calculator to help!
Open a new savings account
We offer savings accounts that match your needs. Opening a new account will help you allocate money to a specific purpose. For example, one savings account could hold your normal funds while another is specifically for emergencies. Figure out what will work for you best and divide your money accordingly.
Save more for retirement
Until retirement hits, many people don’t think about putting plenty of funds towards it in their 20s and 30s. However, if you wait to save until you’re older, you won’t be able to have enough funds. Start thinking about how much you will actually need when the time comes to retire. A good rule of thumb for your 20s is to save 10% of your pre-tax income. When you come to your 30s and begin saving, you’ll need to save 15-20%. If you start saving in your 40s, 30% will be the number to save.
Track your spending
Many don’t realize the positives of tracking how much is spent each month. Knowing how much money you make and where it goes every month will help you budget better. This will help you realize where you are spending too much and find ways to save!
Build an emergency fund
If you don’t have an emergency fund, this should be your first item on your resolutions list. The unexpected happens, well, unexpectedly. Don’t get caught off guard without the money to fix your problem. A new HVAC system or car can be needed out of the blue, and you’ll want to be sure you’re prepared for random expenses. If you already have an emergency fund, great! But, you’ll want to work on growing it. That 500-1,000 dollars you have saved for emergencies won’t be enough to buy that used car you need when yours quits.
Only pick one or two of the above items to implement this year. Once you’ve locked down your resolution, begin thinking which one you’ll pick for the next year. With these ideas in mind, you’ll be able to get closer to your financial goals sooner than expected! If you need help growing your funds, contact us – we’d be happy to provide a solution for you.
Peoples Bank & Trust Co.
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