Plus, read below on how to download your copy of our FREE 35-page interactive eBook to help guide your finances!
Surprise! It’s another new year. Like clockwork, we associate the new year with self-improvement or starting something new. While the thought of bettering ourselves is intriguing, it tends to bring on a wave of stress and anxiety. Why? It’s not that the want to isn’t there…it’s the how to that gets us. Moreover, the lack of knowledge of resources or tools available to help us keep New Year’s resolutions doesn’t help either.
We can help.
We’re committed to simplifying your banking experience and, by doing so, reducing the stress that comes with dealing with finances and keeping yourself “out of the red.” Your credit union is comprised of people who share similar financial goals and challenges who also want to keep New Year’s resolutions.
Tip the scale in your favor. When making this year’s list of resolutions and goals, keep these 5 tips in mind. You might just see your waistline shrink while your savings expands.
How Your Credit Union Can Help You Keep Your New Year’s Resolutions
Get a grip on finances.
Knowing where your money is going gives you more confidence, and as a result, you can control it better. If keeping better track of where your money is going is part of your new year’s resolutions, use online and mobile banking and e-Statements to keep track of your money. Use MoneyDesktop™ (accessible through online banking) to sort purchases and deposits into categories. You can identify areas you might want to reassign funds for a better purpose – like saving and paying off high-interest loans (or swapping a few fast-food purchases each month for a basic gym membership).
Get a better, higher-paying job by improving your credit history.
Believe it or not, your finances, credit history and ability to get a better job are all linked. Some companies prefer to pull a credit report on potential employees, especially when cash is involved. If you’re paying bills on time, you’re not only improving credit; you might also show an employer you’ll show up to work on time and make smart on-the-job decisions. Help yourself by setting up automatic loan and credit card payments or use Bill Pay –free services or you.
Monitor your credit report.
Don’t assume the information on your report is correct. According to a study completed by the Federal Trade Commission, one in four consumers have an error on their credit report, affecting their credit score. A score lowered by just a few points could make a difference in the rate or limit you receive, affecting your payment. Did you know all three credit bureaus offer Georgia residents three free credit reports per year? Some even offer free credit monitoring. Apps like Credit Karma are also available and easily accessible on your smart device.
When you feel better, your wallet does, too.
When you’re taking better care of yourself, chances are, you will do the same for your finances. Long-term goals, like living a longer, healthier life, naturally flow into other daily life decisions, and finances are no exception. Eating healthier could mean more meals at home. Because of this, you’re likely to spend less. Planning a little time each morning or a workout might mean swapping an expensive drive-thru visit for a home-brewed cup of coffee. Simple choices like these get easier with time, so pick one habit to break or make today.
Use us!
Set up an appointment with one of our Certified Credit Union Financial Counselors to go over your wishes. Tell us what your goals are; we’ll review your finances and pair you with a product or service to help you keep your new year’s resolutions and beyond.
You can also use FREE services, like eAlerts and online banking, to help you keep track of your balance or automatic transfers to make saving a breeze. Or, if you need help separating funds for specific purchases or goals, a special savings account just might be your best option.
In case no one has told you, you can do this. Don’t allow yourself to get overwhelmed by focusing too much on the big picture. Which steps or tips did we mention that you can implement right now to help yourself get started? Start there and let us help you when you need a little bit of encouragement.
DOWNLOAD: Use this FREE interactive guide to help set you down the path of financial success!