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The fifth and final step in developing an effective spending plan is to commit to manage your system for the long term. The key to any successful spending plan is to get into the habit of managing a system that works for you. Track expenses regularly Pay bills regularly Balance your checking (spending) account monthly… Read more »

Send in rebates and use coupons Drive sensibly to save on gasoline Brown-bag it Don’t go grocery shopping when… Install a programmable thermostat/use ceiling fans Make saving a habit: Payroll direct deposit Save one year’s raise Holiday Club account Automatic Withdrawal Any other tips? Share on our Facebook Page!

Pay down debt Refinance loans for better rates/lower payments Bundle insurance with one company Shop around for insurance and credit (annually) Use credit cards wisely Only charge what you can pay in full Eliminate late payment fees; pay on time Understand terms and conditions of each card Pay Down Debt: There are a couple of… Read more »

Medical emergencies Holidays Vacations Repair bills Auto accidents Lack of emergency fund This list represents just a few of the situations that can “throw a wrench” in your plan. Creating an emergency fund can be intimidating when you look at the ending amount needed.  Don’t look at that number.  Look at how much you can… Read more »

Continue to track expenses Find places to save (spending leaks) Analyze and revise plan Does your plan fit with your goals? What are some examples of changes you can make if expenses exceed income? Share on our Facebook Page

How does your cash flow? Goal: Match income with expenses If income > expenses, save more! If expenses > income, make changes Matching income with expenses is the step that many people don’t make time for, but it’s important to do if you wish to make the most of your resources and achieve your goals…. Read more »

As a family of four (mom, dad and 2-teenage boys), it would be so much easier if I could just setup our spending plan and ‘tell’ the others “this is what it is; now follow it”. But it doesn’t work that way and sometimes starting the conversation with others is the hardest part- especially after… Read more »

The little things add up… Once you start tracking your expenses, you’ll figure out where your money is really going. Then you can identify your spending leaks. Activity Where Does Your Money Go

The 2nd step of building a spending plan is to determine your monthly expenses. Expenses can be broken out into three groups: Fixed (mortgage/rent, car payment) Flexible (food, utilities, clothes, gifts) Periodic (insurance, taxes) What are additional examples of fixed, flexible and period expenses – not listed here- that are part of your budget? Please… Read more »

Our posts this month is following the guidance of the five basic steps outline below.  It is important to remember that as you begin your plan, be flexible. Make adjustments as you go along. It can take several attempts to determine the categories and amounts that work  for your particular situation. Step 1: List all… Read more »