As 2015 gets into full swing, now is a great time to consider your finances for the year. Have you made a budget? Are you tracking your spending? Saving money?
For help with these questions and more, we asked CSU lead faculty Sonya Rogers, Ph.D., for some advice on finances. As January is Financial Wellness Month, we culled together these tips for you.
- Research and read a good book about financial savings so you can prepare a flexible and real budget for you and your family.
- When budgeting, ensure that you have enough money to pay for the most important necessities, but set aside some money for emergencies that may “pop up” to avoid a panic attack.
- Get some tax advice early on and save everything such as receipts, bills, etc.
- Cut back on expenses and save money. From discounts to coupons to small change, it all adds up to a penny saved is a penny earned. Walk and save money on fuel. Cook a simple dinner instead of eating out frequently.
- Pay off debts. Avoid those nagging bill collectors, guilt and worry by clearing as much as you can during the next few months. However, make sure you know just how much you really owe before you tackle them. Paying them off will help ease many issues and lead to financial wellness.
- Network for a better career option. Most everyone wants a better paying job, and now is the perfect time to look.
- Consider CSU certificate programs that can help you get a promotion.
- Make sure to keep track of all spending no matter how small the amount. That $3.50 for coffee every day adds up and can drain your finances quietly.
- See a financial manager if the whole process seems too overwhelming. Generally, these advisors can give you a plan and direction to work with your means.
- If you have children, teach them the value of money and educate them about saving and budgeting.
Do you have any tips that help you? Let us know in the comments below if you have any other advice. We would love to hear your ideas!
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