Life is all about the little things, right? It’s all the little things that add up to be big things. Nowhere is that more evident than in your personal financial picture. Over-spending a little here or there ends up making a big pile of debt. On the other hand, saving a little more can make a huge positive difference in the long run. If you’re not able to make big changes right now, it doesn’t mean that you can’t make a few little changes. Try one or all of the following and we bet you’ll see a big difference from these little changes.
- Increase your contribution rate to your retirement plan at work. 1% may not sound like much, but it will be when you’re ready to retire, especially if your employer offers a matching program. Like calculators? Try the one Vanguard offers to see how much more you’ll have if you adjust your contribution rate.
- Increase the payment you’re making on your credit card debt. If you have credit card debt, it’s like an anchor keeping you away from financial independence. You can’t afford to only make the minimum payment. Start increasing the amount you’re paying on your credit card by however much you can afford, even if it’s only an extra $20 per month.
- Start a Roth IRA. If you qualify, start making a monthly contribution to a Roth IRA. The income in retirement is tax free! If you’re not sure if you qualify, give us a call and we’ll walk you through it or get in touch with your tax professional.
- Increase your college savings contribution. You’ve heard it over and over again – college is expensive! If it’s important to you that you help your child afford college, you better be saving now since time is one of your biggest assets. Increase your contribution incrementally. Even a $25 per month change makes a difference!
Don’t wait another month or another year to make an easy change to improve your financial situation. Do it now! Pick one of these (or all of them!). You’ll feel good about making a positive difference now, and you’ll feel even better later!
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