Budgeting Skills

May 16, 2018 by Improvecredit

One of the most popular classes we offer is Budgeting Made Easy. Time and time again we hear how much clients learned about their spending habits, what expenses they can cut, and how much they are saving monthly, all as a result of these classes. This is a regularly occurring class, offered every two months. Call our offices to check schedules and reserve your spot.

While creating a budget is important, you need more than proficiency in math to manage your money successfully. You also need a handful of other skills if you want to stick to your financial plan.

Here are some at the top of my list:

1-Self-awareness. In terms of money, self-awareness can help people understand where they spend their money impulsively and how to control it.

2-Delegation. Once people know where they struggle, they are more inclined to work on those areas. However, you can get some help with this, with a lot of great tools. For instance, you can use our simple Money Manager Fritter Finder to help you keep track of where the money goes.

3-Self discipline. Creating a budget is easy. It’s sticking to it that is hard. That’s where people falter. After a long day, who isn’t tempted to pick up something quick for dinner, for instance? It’s important to know where your weaknesses are, and keep yourself on track.

4-Organization. It’s hard to be financially successful if you miss payments or lose paperwork. Late bills can not only hurt your credit, but also result in late fees. Being organized can help.

5-Confidence. Many people struggle financially because they aren’t sure what the best decisions are. We have a team of trained counselors who can teach you how to build your confidence about financial matters.

6-Critical thinking. There are tons of financial scams out there. Be smart; if it sounds too good, it may well be a scam. Think things over before you spend money, whether it’s $5 or $500 dollars.

Women and Retirement

May 8, 2018 by Improvecredit

I hear it all the time: life is short. Way too short, in fact. But for women, it is getting a little longer, according to some national research.

The average American woman’s life expectancy hit an all-time high of 81.2 years back in 2014. That compares to the life expectancy of 76 years for the average American man.

However, women retire an average of two years earlier than men. Over their lifetime, women are still earning less income than their male counterparts. All of this combines to put women at a real serious risk when it comes to retirement, when their money needs to last longer.

What’s the solution here? Well, one key is that women need to start investing earlier for their retirement. This can not only ease concerns about their retirement security, but also empower them about being financially secure.