Dealing with our personal finances can be a sore subject. We avoid them like the plague when we know we won’t like what we see. If we like where we are headed, we tend to forget all the work that got us there. Dealing with your finances should always be an ongoing project. We’ll cover some of the highlights that can help you make sense of your money.
Make decisions that will save you money! By buying a cheaper brand than you normally purchases, you can have extra money to save or spend on more needed things. You have to make smart decisions with your money, if you want to use it as effectively as you can.
Replace old incandescent light bulbs with CFL light bulbs. This kind of bulb will help you reduce your electric bills significantly. CFLs also last considerably longer than most older-styled light bulbs. Also, you will be saving money not having to constantly buy new bulbs.
Keep your credit rating high. More and more companies are using your credit rating as a basis for your insurance premiums. If your credit is poor, your premiums will be high, regardless of how safe you or your vehicle are. Insurance companies want to be sure that they will be paid and poor credit makes them wonder.
Keep track of debit card purchases. Always make a note on paper or your phone as soon as you swipe that card so that you do not forget. Debit cards are very convenient, but also make it easy to overspend a budget, and unless you keep a record it is way too easy to overdraw a bank account without realizing it.
The opportunity to sign up for a direct deposit program should always be taken. Not only does direct deposit save the consumer time in trips to the bank, it usually saves him or her money, too. Most banks will waive certain monthly fees or offer other incentives to encourage their customers to take advantage of direct deposit.
One of the best ways to improve your finances is to purchase the generic brand of products. The next time you are in the supermarket, purchase the store brand cereal, which can taste just as good as the higher priced, marketed brand. This can save you a lot of money when projected out over the year.
If you are attending a sporting event, try to look for the signs that lead you to free parking. Even though this may require you to walk a few extra blocks, it can save you up to 20 dollars during the night. Saving small amounts over time can really add up as they can be treated just like profits.
If you are self-employed, don’t forget to deduct your insurance premiums on your taxes. The premium amount you deduct will reduce your adjusted gross income and you can use it even if you do not itemize your deductions. This can save you quite a bit come tax time, so don’t forget about it.
During the years, financial problems might arise even when you plan carefully. It is always smart to know the late fees associated with late rent payments, and the absolute final day payments are due before late charges accrue. Read your lease in full before signing it to ensure that you are not surprised something later on.
Our finances need to be dealt with on a regular basis in order for them to stay on the track that you set for them. Keeping a close eye on how you are using your money will help things stay smooth and easy. Incorporate some of these tricks into your next financial review.