Various Ways To
Save
Pay yourself first.
If you wait to see
what's left over, you are less likely to save.
Determine in advance how much money you plan to keep
on deposit each month. If you receive a raise,
increase the amount of money deposited into your
savings account.
Take
advantage of bank technology.
Consider automatic
payroll deductions or automatic transfer from checking
to savings. Arrange to have a specific amount
transferred to your savings account every pay period.
Pay your
bills on time-and pay more than the minimum amount.
Although 97 percent
of Americans pay their bills on time, some consumers
find themselves paying late fees. Alleviate the hassle
by scheduling time once a month to pay bills, and put
them in the mail with enough time to get to the
creditor.
Determine
needs versus wants.
Do you need to eat
out every day for lunch? Do you need that gourmet cup
of coffee in the morning? By bringing your lunch to
work a couple days a week, you can save hundreds of
dollars a year. Shop around. There are thousands of
options for financial services products. Be selective,
and get the best prices, services, convenient
locations and lowest fees for credit cards, bank
accounts, mortgages and CDs.
Consider
investments.
For long-term goals,
such as saving for a home or retirement, look into
bonds, mutual funds, real estate and stocks. Consult
your local bank. Ask which package of bank products
and services would best suit your needs. Your banker
is the best source of information about accounts and
interest rates available at your bank.
Consult your local bank.
Ask which package of
bank products and services would best suit your needs.
Your banker is the best source of information about
accounts and interest rates available at your bank.
By The ABA Education Foundation
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