When you’re in college or have recently moved out, it’s easy to waste your money on meals out or a trip to the bar.
Do not deal with a broker you are considering investing with. Check a broker’s references and listen to what they are not being open with you. Your experience is also helpful when picking a shoddy broker.
With the recent downturns in the economy, diversifying your savings across different areas is a smart move. Spread that money to different accounts such as checking, savings, stocks, gold and other high-interest bearing accounts. Look for new ways to invest your money, and make sure you keep it safe.
If you own stocks that are earning fair sums of money, let it sit for a while. You can watch your stocks that are underperforming and think about moving some of those around.
Be mindful of IRS income taxes. If you owe money, file just before the due date which is April 15.
Put money in your savings account every month by setting up a direct transfer from checking to savings. This is a great technique which forces you to put aside a little bit of money each month. This is a great way to get money saved up for future plans, such as a family vacation or a wedding.
Replace older incandescent light bulbs with CFL light bulbs. This kind of bulb will help you save the environment money on your electric bill. CFL bulbs also last a much longer than a normal bulb would. You will end up purchasing fewer bulbs that don’t need to be replaced as often.
Eating less from restaurants or fast food joints can save you money over the course of a year. You will save a lot of money by preparing meals at home.
If you are looking to improve your credit report, it is a good idea to have between two to four active credit cards. If you have only one credit card, building up your credit score will be a long process. Do not get more than four credit cards if you want to stay in control of things. If you want to build credit, keep two cards and don’t add others unless necessary.
Credit Cards
Credit cards can be a fantastic alternative to a debit card. If you apply and are approved for a credit card, use it to buy everyday items, such as gas and groceries. Most credit cards offer some kind of rewards, and it could be in the form of cash back.
To gain financial stability, you need to have a savings account that you contribute to on a regular basis. The savings money should only be used for emergencies, college costs or major expenses, like a down payment on a house. Contribute what you can every month, even if it is very small.
Try making presents instead of wasting all your money on store bought things. You will spend less and you will save hundreds of dollars around the holidays by reducing spending at department stores.
You should open a good savings account where you can sock away money to use in case of emergency. You can either save for something specific, like saving for college, or paying off your credit card.
When collection agencies get involved in collecting a debt from you, be aware that they only have a limited amount of time to get it from you; otherwise, the debt can expire. To find out what the statue of limitations for old debt in your state is before paying any money on old debt.
One of the smartest things you can do to stay in control of your finances is to lay out exactly what you need to purchase, and the amount of money you have budgeted for each item. Stick to to the budget. Use the tips laid out here, so you can avoid collection calls and remain in the black.
