Start by decluttering. Do you have papers everywhere? This can be a daunting task, depending on how much you have saved. Make two piles, one for ‘trash’ and the other for papers you want to ‘keep.’ Your ‘trash’ pile should be shredded to keep your private information safe. File your ‘keep’ pile neatly. However, if you really want to get these papers out of the way, try scanning them and storing them on an external hard drive. Keeping your files organized digitally is a great way to find what you need fast and cut down on all that clutter. Think about signing up for eStatements to cut down on paper too.
When we talk about decluttering, we don’t just mean paper. Take a look at your monthly bills. Do you owe a small amount of money on something you can easily pay off? Pay it! Are you living paycheck to paycheck? Evaluate your expenses and see where you can cut back.
Take some time to review your insurance and bank account. If you have life insurance, review your coverage and beneficiaries. Are you getting the best deal when it comes to auto and homeowners insurance? Don’t forget your checking account, is yours free? Make the switch. Sikorsky Credit Union has many different options.
It’s also tax season. After your taxes are done, it’s a good idea to reevaluate your withholdings. If you owed money this year, maybe try withholding a little bit more so you aren’t in the same situation next year. Get a large return back? Maybe it would be helpful to get some of that back throughout the year instead.
Lastly, review the goals you set at the beginning of the year and see where you stand. Have you made any progress reaching your financial goals? Nothing is set in stone, now is the time to make adjustments. We all know a lot can change in a short period of time, if your goals have changed make a new plan. If you can allocate more towards your current goals, do it. The best thing you can do is to always keep moving towards your goals, no matter what they are.