Whether you’re trying to come up with a down payment, build an emergency fund or redecorate your house, the more money you save, the closer you’ll be to achieving your goal.
If you’ve struggled to save in the past, you’re not alone. Saving money is like losing weight – it always feels like you have a long way to go.
But luckily there are some time-tested strategies that may improve your odds of success. Here are some solutions that may have you flush with savings in no time.
Open a savings account with competitive rates. One of the biggest benefits of putting some of your money in a savings account rather than keeping it all in a checking account is that the savings account will typically offer a higher interest rate on your savings. However, shop around and compare offerings to find the account that offers the best rate. (Don’t forget to check online-only banks and credit unions.)
Automate your savings. If you have to physically move money from your checking account to your savings account each month, you may forget to move it or, even worse, spend the money instead. See if your employer can have a portion of your check deposited directly into your savings account. If not, you may be able to have a certain amount automatically transferred from your checking account to your savings account on a regular basis.
Keep your savings out of reach. If you’re constantly dipping into your savings, you will never get ahead. One way to avoid this is to make it difficult to take money out of your savings account. Whether you keep your savings in a bank on the other side of town or cut up the ATM card that lets you withdraw from your savings account, find a way to make accessing your savings a hassle.
Enlist the help of family and friends. Use your network to your advantage. If you have family and friends who also want to save more money, suggest a friendly competition to see who can save the most. If you spend a lot of money on entertainment, invite friends and family over for a pot luck dinner in. By sharing your savings goals with loved ones, you not only gain some support but you may encourage them to step up their financial games too.
Your financial habits can make all the difference in your ability to achieve your goals. Let HomeFree-USA help you master habits that will ensure that you have #Money4Life.
