13 Things You Should Accomplish with Your Money Before Turning 30

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When it comes to managing money, time is on your side in your 20s. A head start on saving and investing could mean huge financial gains in the future. To help you optimize this decade, we’ve come up with 13 milestones to aim to achieve before hitting 30:

  1. Build an emergency fund. Life is full of unexpected — and, often, costly — surprises. That’s why it’s crucial to build an emergency fund.The amount of savings you need is highly personal, but a general rule is that it’s smart to have three to nine months’ worth of living expenses tucked away. Of course, you may need more or less depending on your situation. By 30, you should be at, or well on your way to, that three- to nine-month mark.
  2. Negotiate your salary. You can’t sit around and expect a raise or bonus to fall into your lap. Even if your boss notices your hard work and efficiency, he or she won’t necessarily pay you more. You have to ask for what you want.As personal-finance expert Farnoosh Torabi, who doubled her salary at 26, preaches, “You don’t get what you deserve. You get what you negotiate.”There’s a right and a wrong way to go about this delicate conversation. Read up on things you should never say in a salary negotiation, and know what you’re worth before heading into the meeting.
  3. Contribute at least 10% of your income to a retirement account. Retirement is never too far off to neglect, especially since time is on your side when you’re young. In fact, when you start to save outweighs how much you save, meaning your 20s are a critical decade.Many experts recommend putting aside at least 10% of your income. That may not be possible when you’re first starting out your career, but it’s a good goal to have by 30.Get in the habit of upping your contribution on a consistent basis — either every six months, at the end of each year, or whenever you get a pay raise — and work your way up to a 10% contribution or more.Set up a no-cost, no-obligation appointment with our Investment & Retirement Center at 732.312.1500, mary.laferriere@lpl.com or maureen.mcgreevy@lpl.com, or stop in to see us to discuss your future savings goals.*
  4. Establish savings goals and start setting aside money for big purchases. There are bound to be big expenses in your future — a home, car, vacation, and kids, to name a few — that require diligent saving.The best way to prepare for these expenses is to create savings goals, and then set aside money as early as possible. You’ll want to adjust your budget so you can contribute a specific amount of money — depending on your upcoming purchases and time horizon — into a savings account each month. Treat this money like a fixed cost, meaning you must set it aside like you would do for rent or utilities.Pro tip: Set up automatic transfers from your checking account to your savings accounts so you never even see this money and learn to live without it.
  5. Establish wealth goals. In addition to savings goals, you’ll want to establish goals for your annual income and net worth. Money won’t just appear — you have to work at it. If you want to eventually build wealth, you have to have a clear and specific goal in place before forming a financial plan to achieve that goal.Be realistic when setting a time frame to attain these bigger wealth goals, but at the same time, think big and don’t be afraid to challenge yourself. A distinguishing characteristic of rich people is their commitment to setting high expectations.
  6. Buy the insurance you need. Nobody wants to deal with insurance — it’s complex and confusing — but by 30, you should have the coverage that’s right for you. That means health, renter’s (or homeowner’s if you have your own place), auto, and disability insurance. And depending on your situation, it may mean life or pet insurance.It’s also smart to make a habit out of reevaluating your insurance plans each year to ensure that your coverage is still working for your needs and budget.
  7. Set up a method to start tracking your expenses. By 30, you should have a very good idea of how much money is coming in and how much is going out.Apart from making sure you’re earning more than you’re spending, you’ll want to get a good idea of whether or not you’re on track with your savings and retirement goals. You’ll also want to see if there’s any room to reduce spending and up your saving.Strategies to track cash flow include recording each purchase you make in a spreadsheet or notebook, or downloading an app that will categorize and monitor your monthly and annual spending, such as Mint.
  8. Pay off some of your student debt. Student-loan debt in particular is often blamed for preventing young people from buying homes and growing their wealth, so the sooner you can start living debt-free, the better.Plus, the longer you wait to pay it down, the more you’ll owe, thanks to interest. Interest works in your favor with your savings and to your detriment with your debt, when it can build up over time and sometimes end up costing more than what you originally borrowed.
  9. Experiment with a side hustle. It’s easy to focus on cutting costs and forget about earning, but the wealthiest, most successful people develop multiple streams of income.Earning more money is often easier said than done, but most people have options. Plus, it’s good to experiment with being your own boss, rather than working for your money. After all, there is a significant difference between how rich people and average people choose to get paid.
  10. Invest in something other than your retirement savings plan. Many experts recommend using investment vehicles in addition to your employer’s retirement plan to ensure that you’ll have enough to fund your golden years.If you’re maxing out your 401(k) plan, consider contributing money toward a Roth IRA or traditional IRA, research low-cost index funds — which Warren Buffett recommends — and look into the online-investment platforms known as “robo-advisers.”Of course, you’ll want to make sure that your general finances are in order before you invest. But if you have a sound emergency fund, have prepared for future expenses, and are debt-free, then the quicker you put your money to work and jump start its growth, the better.
  11. Establish a strong credit score. Your credit score, which you can check as often as you want through free sites like Credit Karma, Credit.com, or Credit Sesame, is a three-digit number between 301 and 850 based on how you’ve used credit in the past.Generally, you don’t want your credit score to dip below 650, as potential creditors in the future will consider you less trustworthy and less deserving of the best rates.While often overlooked or forgotten about, building good credit early on is essential. It will allow you to make big purchases in the future, such as insurance, a car, or a home. Start by selecting a good credit card and then focus on establishing smart credit card habits.
  12. Make your payments automatic. In today’s technologically savvy world, there’s no excuse to ever miss a payment. Most bills can be paid online, and you often have the option of setting up automatic payments. If you automate consistent payments for fixed costs — cable, internet, Netflix, and insurance — you won’t have to think about them every month and will never miss a bill.You can do the same for variable costs such as credit-card bills, although you’ll want to check in on your account regularly to make sure that things are going smoothly and there aren’t any signs of fraud.For payments that can’t be made online, such as rent, set up calendar reminders and get in the habit of paying them around the same time each month so it becomes routine.
  13. Invest in yourself. The wealthiest, most successful people are constantly exercising their brains and looking for ways to continue learning long after college or any formal education is over.Self-educate by enrolling in a course, attending a work-related conference, or investing in books. On a similar note, invest in your health — consider pursuing an appealing form of exercise, or anything else that will better your health and strengthen your mind.As self-made millionaire Daniel Ally, who reached millionaire status by 24, emphasizes: “You must take your education into your own hands if you want to prosper. Invest in yourself.”

*Securities and advisory services are offered through LPL Financial (LPL), a registered investment advisor and broker/dealer (member FINRA/SIPC). Insurance products are offered through LPL or its licensed affiliates. First Financial Federal Credit Union (FFFCU) and First Financial Investment & Retirement Center are not registered as a broker/dealer or investment advisor. Registered representatives of LPL offer products and services using First Financial Investment & Retirement Center, and may also be employees of FFFCU. These products and services are being offered through LPL or its affiliates, which are separate entities from and not affiliates of FFFCU or First Financial Investment & Retirement Center.

Securities and insurance offered through LPL or its affiliates are:

Original article source courtesy of Kathleen Elkins of Business Insider.

10 Money Questions to Ask Yourself

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The first quarter of the year is a great time for reflection. And your money is no exception: Think about where it’s been, where it’s going, and, most important, where you want it to go. Whether your finances had a stellar year or took a hit, take a minute to check in and see where you want to go next. Here are 10 questions to get you started for a better financial year.

1. How much debt am I taking into the new year?
Tally up what you have left to pay on your student loans, any outstanding credit card balances, and your mortgage (if applicable). Take a long, hard look at this number. It’s better to know it than not know it. Make this number a key part of your action plan for next year.

2. How much did I save last year?
If you automate deposits into your savings account, this should be easy to calculate. (If not, here’s your incentive to do it.) Take a look at your savings account and consider what’s there: Could you have saved more? Did you plan to have more? What stopped you from meeting your goal? And if you don’t have a savings account — or a savings plan — make one.

3. What’s my credit score?
First of all, know what goes into your credit score — and then check your number free online. Check your credit report, too, and make sure any debts you’ve accrued this year are accounted for and that no one has taken out lines of credit in your name. Remember: You get one free credit report from each of the three credit bureaus a year: Equifax, Experian and TransUnion.

4. Am I getting the most out of my credit cards?
Take stock of what your credit cards have given you this year, like great rewards, lower interest rates, or cash back. If your cards haven’t provided you with any of those perks, consider upgrading to a different card. If you have a card that’s dragging you down with high annual fees, think about closing it — provided you know the consequences of doing so. Make sure you know the best way to use your cards and that you aren’t inadvertently hurting your credit.

Transfer your high balance to First Financial’s Visa Platinum Cash Plus Credit Card today!* Enjoy great low rates, no annual fees, and 10 day grace period.** Getting started is easy – apply online, 24/7. 

5. How much money will I make this year? Can I make more?
Whether you’re a full-time employee or a one-lady business, consider whether there are ways you can grow your income. Is there some sort of side gig you can take on? Could you be a consultant? If you work a 9 to 5, would a switch to freelance be more lucrative? On the other hand, is it finally time to shut down professional projects that are draining your resources?

6. What do I want to save for in the next year? How will I accomplish that?
Set financial goals, like saving for a down payment on a home, paying off a certain amount of debt, or putting a specific amount in savings. Figure out what strategies you will put in place to save, such as making lifestyle changes or automating with apps.

7. Did I stick to my budget? If not, why not?
If you blew off your budget this year, take time to troubleshoot. Maybe your goals were unrealistic or you didn’t have a budget at all. Now’s the ideal time to make one, or get started with an app or two.

8. How will I budget this year?
Once you know what has (or hasn’t) been working for you, look ahead toward optimizing. Maybe you’re ready to switch from a simple pen and notebook to an app, or vice versa. Maybe you’ve learned that you perform better on a less stringent budget and or that you actually need more structure. If you’re newly partnered (or married), this may involve merging finances — or simply merging financial goals.

9. How much money is in my emergency fund?
You have no idea what the new year could bring: sudden health crises, unexpected layoffs, or a downturn in business. Make sure your emergency fund (about three to six months of living expenses) is robust enough to take care of you if need be. And if not, make it a priority to establish a healthy fund. If you need some incentive to save, make it fun with these hacks.

10. What are some poor money habits I can squash?
Think about some areas in your daily (or monthly) life where you can save — or stretch your dollar. If you’re living beyond your means, know where to rein it in. Eating out at work? Make lunch. Tempted to go buy new clothes? How about revamping your old ones instead? Know the red flags if you think you’re in financial trouble and decide to make a change.

*APR varies up to 18% for purchases, when you open your account based on your credit worthiness. The APR is 18% APR for balance transfers and cash advances. APRs will vary with the market based on the Prime Rate. Subject to credit approval. Rates quoted assume excellent borrower credit history. Your actual APR may vary based on your state of residence, approved loan amount, applicable discounts and your credit history. No Annual Fee. Other fees that apply: Cash advance fee of $10 or 3% of the total cash advance amount—whichever is greater (no maximum), Balance transfer fee of $10 or 3% of the balance—whichever is greater (no maximum), Late Payment Fee of $29, $10 Card Replacement Fee, and Returned Payment Fee of $29. A First Financial membership is required to obtain a Visa® Credit Card and is available to anyone who lives, works, worships, or attends school in Monmouth or Ocean Counties.

**No late fee will be charged if payment is received within 10 days from the payment due date.

Original article source courtesy of Koa Beck of Market Watch.

How to Be Frugal Without Wasting Your Time

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bigstock-Portrait-Of-Happy-Business-Wom-64512829-e1455714572209A lot of people think frugality is about saving money at the cost of your time: you spend all day clipping coupons just to save a couple bucks on your groceries…that’s not what being frugal is. Your time is precious—more precious than money—and being frugal is about using both your time and money wisely. Here’s how.

Pick the methods with the biggest payoff.

You’ve probably heard the saying, “penny wise, pound foolish.” This means going out of your way to save $5 on gas when you have a $500 car payment or buying nothing but Ramen for the week when you mindlessly spend $300 on drinks while you’re out every month. It’s a waste of time to scrimp and save on the pennies when you’re blowing big money like it’s nothing.

When you’re trying to shrink your budget, you want to focus on the big stuff – meaning the categories with the largest payoff. These are typically the three most expensive categories in your budget:

  1. Housing: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, housing makes up about 30 percent of the average American’s annual expenses.
  2. Food: Makes up 12 percent.
  3. Transportation: Makes up 17 percent.

Some frugal solutions are easier than others, but to toss some general ideas out there, you might:

  • Move to a cheaper area.
  • Negotiate your rent.
  • Cut back on your restaurant spending.
  • Find a better way to meal plan.
  • Carpool on your way to work.

Making a single frugal decision in these expensive categories will give you the quickest, biggest bang for your buck. Similarly, when you’re trying to save money on anything else, keep your eye on the big picture—what money saving tactic will net you the largest overall savings?

For example, let’s say you’re planning a nice, relaxing two-week vacation. There are a lot of ways you could cut costs: stay in a hostel, cook instead of going out, house sit for someone in exchange for lodging. Those are all valid ways to save, but you’ll save more if you focus on the biggest expenses, like your flight and lodging. You can save a ton by simply flying at the right time, when travel is cheap. By choosing to travel six to eight weeks before or after high season (called the shoulder season), you could easily save you hundreds if not more.

Use technology to find deals and coupons automatically.

Focus your energy on larger items, then automate your savings everywhere else by downloading a few browser extensions to find deals for you.

We all love a good deal, but if it takes you two hours of research to find a new laptop that’s only $25 cheaper, that might not be the best use of your time. Thankfully, there are so many tools out there that find the best price for you.

You could also use a browser extension like Honey or Coupons at Checkout to automatically find coupon codes when you shop online at thousands of popular, participating retailers like Amazon, Target, Gap, and Best Buy to name a few. When you go through the checkout process online, the extension will automatically populate and enter in coupon codes so you don’t have to search for them yourself.

Beyond couponing, you can automate your frugality in other areas too. Save money on your monthly electric bill by installing a smart power strip that knows when to turn off all of your electronics, or tweak the energy settings on your TV, computer, and other gadgets. Call your utility providers and negotiate or find better rates for Internet, cable, cell phone service, gym membership, and car insurance. Even though this might require a little effort, you’ll save money every month without having to do any additional work.

Come up with rules for making smarter spending decisions.

Unless you’re Warren Buffett, you’re probably not in a position to drop $700 on a phone. So while it’s important to think about your spending, wavering over some purchases can also be a huge waste of time. To combat this, establish some rules for your spending decisions.

If you’re incredibly indecisive about even the most frivolous spending, try the “10/10 rule” for small purchases. If you’re thinking about buying something that’s ten dollars or less, try not to spend more than ten minutes thinking about it. This comes in handy when you’re in a store and you pick up something you like and throw it in the cart (especially at Target). Give it some thought first, but if you haven’t put it back and it’s less than ten dollars, then you could buy it – but if it’s more than ten dollars and you’ve spent ten minutes thinking about it, put it back on the shelf. It’s a really simple rule and helps for those one-off, impulsive items.

Another rule for larger purchases is setting a dollar amount at which you give yourself at least a week to think about the purchase – like a $100 pair of Nike sneakers. If you’re thinking about buying anything that costs $100 or more, give yourself a week to think it over. It’s not to say you won’t automatically buy anything you see that’s $99—this tactic just gives you ample time for larger decisions.

A few simple rules can help find a balance between being mindful about your spending and overthinking it to the point of wasting your time.

Make sure every purchase is worthwhile in the long-term.

When you’re trying to be frugal with both your time and money, it helps to consider the long-term impact of your spending too. This is why it usually makes sense to buy a quality item even if it costs a little more because the cheaper item will eventually cost you more in the long run. Let’s say you buy a pair of cheap boots that you have to replace every winter. You’ll actually spend more over time than if you were to just buy quality boots in the first place. Not only that, but also think about the time you spend shopping for new boots every year. Buying quality means you buy once, and you won’t have to waste time doing it again for several years – of course, expensive doesn’t equal quality, but your time is still valuable.

*Original article courtesy of Kristin Wong of TwoCents.com.

Financial Choices You’ll Regret in 10 Years

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According to self-made millionaire David Bach, you don’t have to earn a lot of money to get rich. You don’t even need remarkable willpower to build a fortune.

Bach exposes these misconceptions, and more, in his book “The Automatic Millionaire.”

Before you write yourself off as an “average earner,” consider these common misconceptions Bach outlines about money:

1. You don’t have to make a lot of money to be rich.

“How much you earn has almost no bearing on whether or not you can and will build wealth,” Bach writes. “Regardless of the size of your paycheck, you probably already make enough money to become rich.”

On the flip side, a salary with a bunch of zeros tacked on the end doesn’t necessarily equate to wealth. At the end of the day, it’s just a number — and if the cash behind that number is not managed properly, it can disappear in the blink of an eye.

As Robert Kiyosaki, author of the personal finance classic, “Rich Dad Poor Dad,” emphasizes in his book, “Most people fail to realize that in life, it’s not how much money you make. It’s how much money you keep.”

The good news is that anyone can start saving — you don’t need to be rich to invest and take advantage of the power of compound interest. You just have to be smart about it and start as early as possible. When you start to save outweighs how much you save.

2. You don’t need discipline to get rich.

The ultimate money managers don’t necessarily work harder — they don’t have extraordinary willpower or discipline, Bach emphasizes. They simply automate their finances, meaning their money is automatically sent to their investment accounts, savings accounts, and creditors before they even have the chance to spend it. This allows even the laziest of people to grow their wealth.

“Making your financial plan automatic is the one step that virtually guarantees that you won’t fail financially,” Bach writes. You’ll never forget a payment again — and you’ll never be tempted to skimp on savings because you won’t even see the money going directly from your paycheck to your savings accounts. It also frees up valuable time and allows you to focus on the fun parts of life, rather than spend time worrying about whether you paid that bill or if you’re going to overdraft again.

3. You don’t need to be your own boss to get rich.

There’s a lot to be said about self-employment — many self-made millionaires determine the size of their own paycheck by building their own businesses, while average people tend to settle for steady paychecks.

Rest assured, if the entrepreneurial path isn’t for you, “you can still get rich being an employee,” Bach writes.

It all starts with investing in your employer’s 401(k) plan, if one is available. You’ll get large tax advantages, the money is automatically taken from your paychecks before you have the chance to spend it, and sometimes your employer contributes money to your account in what’s known as an employer match.

Perhaps most importantly, it allows you to compound money over time — and compound interest, if taken advantage of from a young age, can make you a millionaire.

As Bach writes:

The single biggest reason why paying yourself first into a retirement account at work is such an effective way to build wealth is that you make it automatic … Because this process is automatic, the chances are pretty good that you will continue doing it for a long time.

And by doing that, you will get to enjoy the benefits of a mathematical phenomenon most people don’t really understand but everyone can use to become rich — the miracle of compound interest. It comes to this: Over time, money compounds. Over a lot of time, money compounds dramatically!

To see just how much your money can compound, check out these charts. Or read about how one man is on track to accumulate just under $2 million by age 60 by maxing out his 401(k) plan.

4. You can build a fortune on a few dollars a day.

“The trick to getting ahead financially is watching the small stuff — little spending habits you have that you’d probably be better off without,” Bach writes. “Most of us don’t really think about how we spend our money — and if we do, we often focus solely on the big-ticket items while ignoring the small daily expenses that drain away our cash … We don’t realize how much wealth we might have if, instead of wasting our income, we invested just a little of it.”

He illustrates this idea with what he calls “The Latte Factor,” which basically says that if you ditch your $4 latte every morning, you’d have quite a bit of money to contribute towards savings — about $30 a week, or $120 a month. Over the course of a few decades, that money could grow substantially.

“Whether you waste money on fancy coffee, bottled water, cigarettes, soft drinks, candy bars, fast food, or whatever it happens to be — we all have a Latte Factor,” Bach writes. “We all throw away too much of our hard-earned money on unnecessary ‘little’ expenditures without realizing how much they can add up.”

To give you an idea of how much money you could have if you identified and eliminated your Latte Factor, he gives the example of making a $5 purchase (the average cost of a latte and a muffin) each day, which would cost you $35 a week and about $150 a month. If you invested that $150 instead, assuming a (very generous, admittedly) 10% annual return, you’d wind up with $30,727 after 10 years, $339,073 after 30 years, and $948,611 after 40 years, he explains.

Original article source courtesy of Kathleen Elkins of Business Insider.

6 Smart Uses for Your Tax Refund

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680856_21Expecting a tax refund? Sounds like a great time to jump start your finances.

If you’re expecting a refund, you might be tempted to rush out and spend it on a new car or a fancy vacation. After all, it might be the single biggest check you will receive all year.

In all, 70% of Americans are expected to get a tax refund this year, according to the IRS. Last year, the average refund amounted to $2,797.

But remember, this was your money all along, not a prize that’s fallen from the sky. There are much better uses for this chunk of cash that could actually pay off in the long run.

“There are great ways you can invest in yourself and get on sound financial footing,” said Gerri Walsh, FINRA’s senior vice president for Investor Education.

Here are six smart ways to put your refund to work for you:

1. Pay Down Your High-Interest Debt.

One of the smartest things you can do with your refund is to zap your credit card balances or other types of high-interest debt, Walsh said.

Facing down your debt with your refund bucks could yield sizeable savings. By lowering your balance, you reduce the amount of interest you owe.

“Getting debt under control and out of the way quickly can save hundreds, or even thousands of dollars, over time,” said Bruce McClary, a spokesman for the National Foundation for Credit Counseling.

2. Supersize Your Savings.

Your tax refund might help you sleep better at night if you use it to bulk up your savings.

“Make sure your emergency fund is fully funded,” Walsh advised.

Experts typically recommend having three to six months worth of living expenses in a savings account to cushion the blow of a job loss or another financial setback. But many people are woefully behind in achieving this goal. In a recent survey conducted by Bankrate.com, close to a third of respondents said they have no emergency savings.

Luckily, the IRS makes it easy for taxpayers to save their refunds. By opting for direct deposit, you can deposit your refund, for free, in up to three accounts in U.S. financial institutions. You can also direct your refund money toward the purchase of up to $5,000 in U.S. Savings Bonds.

Think of it this way: the more of your tax refund you save, the less of a chance you’ll end up needing to tap your credit cards if you hit a rough patch.

3. Fund Your Retirement Accounts.

The “found money” you receive today could make a big difference in the years to come. Consider making an extra contribution to your Roth or traditional IRA.

“That extra contribution could grow three or four-fold by the time you need it in retirement,” said Greg McBride, Bankrate’s chief financial analyst.

Remember the IRS’ direct deposit option? You can choose to have some, or all, of your refund money sent directly to your IRA. If don’t already have an IRA, you might want to use your refund money to start one.

The annual contribution limit for IRAs in 2016 is $5,500 ($6,500 for those 50 and above).

Does your company offer a 401(k)? If yes, while you’re focused on retirement, figure out whether you’re on track to save the max this year using FINRA’s 401(k) Save the Max calculator. The contribution limit for 401(k)s this year is $18,000 ($24,000 if you are age 50 or above).

Set up a no-cost consultation with the Investment & Retirement Center located at First Financial Federal Credit Union to discuss your savings and retirement goals. Give us a call at 732.312.1500 or stop in to see us!*

4. Bulk Up Your Kids’ College Funds.

Once you’ve taken care of more immediate financial concerns and your retirement, it’s time to think about your kids and their future.

Two types of college savings vehicles, 529 plans and Coverdell Education Accounts, offer potential tax benefits so long as the money is used for qualified educational expenses.

Why is so important to do what you can to bulk up your children’s college savings accounts? Every dollar you save reduces the chances your kids will face a heavy student loan burden down the road.

5. Invest In Your Career.

If you’ve been dreaming of developing new skills, or of getting a degree, this could be your shot. You might want to invest your tax refund in continuing education courses.

The payoff might be more than just a higher paying job—it might also include personal satisfaction. Now that beats a shopping spree at the mall, any time of the year.

6. Plan For Next Year.

No matter how you use the cash from your refund, there is one simple step any citizen should take: adjust your withholdings to prevent a refund next year.

A refund sounds great, but in reality, it means you overpaid on your taxes over the course of the year. A tax refund is often referred to as an “interest-free loan” to Uncle Sam. It is money you might otherwise have used during the year to pay your bills, invest or reduce your debt, but that instead, you paid to the government.

For many taxpayers, figuring out how much to pay in taxes throughout the year to avoid getting a refund is a difficult task. Some people deliberately withhold too much from their paychecks, using this tactic as a forced savings plan. Many others, though, experience changes in their life that impact their tax status, whether that means getting married or divorced, having a child or changing jobs.

But if you can help it, you might be better off foregoing the refund and using the extra cash from each paycheck to invest or to pay down your debt throughout

*Securities and advisory services are offered through LPL Financial (LPL), a registered investment advisor and broker/dealer (member FINRA/SIPC). Insurance products are offered through LPL or its licensed affiliates. First Financial Federal Credit Union (FFFCU) and First Financial Investment & Retirement Center are not registered as a broker/dealer or investment advisor. Registered representatives of LPL offer products and services using First Financial Investment & Retirement Center, and may also be employees of FFFCU. These products and services are being offered through LPL or its affiliates, which are separate entities from and not affiliates of FFFCU or First Financial Investment & Retirement Center.

Securities and insurance offered through LPL or its affiliates are:

Original article source courtesy of Phyllis Furman of Business Insider.

 

A Simple Financial Checklist You Really Need

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bigstock-Young-Businessman-Checking-Mar-72052462When it comes to your fiscal health, things may seem overwhelming. There are so many different responsibilities and goals you have to keep straight to be truly on the right track. If you are struggling with this, just like with other overwhelming aspects and times in life, it is sometimes best to pause and make a list. You can often check in on your progress more effectively when you have everything in a visual format. Check out some items that should be on your list.

1. Evaluate your budget.

Almost as important as creating a budget, evaluating your budget can help you assess whether your money is still going where you want and in the amounts you intended. It also gives you the chance to make any changes based on your dynamic needs and goals. It’s a good idea to continue tracking your spending and adjusting any categories on your budget that are consistently lower or higher than you had estimated. This can help make sure you are on track for monthly and annual goals.

2. Contribute to retirement funds.

One of the ways to make sure you are preparing for your long-term future is calculating how much money you will need in retirement. Then you can focus on a collaboration of employer-sponsored and individual retirement accounts to save toward that goal while still meeting other goals. If possible, it can be a good idea to talk with your company’s human resources department and adjust your retirement account contributions so you can qualify for the maximum match available.

Set up a no-cost consultation with the Investment & Retirement Center located at First Financial Federal Credit Union to discuss your savings and retirement goals – contact us at 732.312.1500 or stop in to see us!*

3. Double down on debt.

Everything from your credit card debt to student loan payments can hang over your head and cause stress. It’s a good idea to create a plan to automate your debt repayments so you avoid late payments and don’t have the choice of paying them or not. It may be stressful, but it’s important to come to peace with your debt and feel comfortable with your debt-repayment plan. This can even include taking on freelance, part-time or odd jobs to make additional payments if necessary.

4. Work on your credit score.

Your credit score affects many financial decisions in your life from what interest rate you pay on a mortgage to whether you can rent an apartment. It’s important to regularly check your credit report, look for any mistakes, and work on some ways to improve your score. These include paying your bills on time, opening credit card accounts only as needed, paying off debts and keeping revolving credit low. You can check your credit scores every month on Credit.com to track your progress.

5. Update your insurance details.

From home, auto, and health all the way to life insurance, it’s a good idea to make sure your personal information is up to date and that you are getting the best deals possible. Some strategies you can employ include simply paying your premiums as due, asking your provider about reducing your rates, and making sure you have the coverage you need even as your life circumstances change.

6. Boost your emergency fund.

You may have heard this one before but it is a good idea to stash of three to nine months’ worth of expenses in an easily accessible place in case of a sudden rough patch. The exact amount you decide to tuck away to cover the emergencies will vary depending on things like job security, living expenses and streams of income.

It is important not only to be financially responsible, but also to make financial goals and work toward reaching them. Writing your goals and responsibilities down can help you be more accountable and make things easier to grasp.

*Securities and advisory services are offered through LPL Financial (LPL), a registered investment advisor and broker/dealer (member FINRA/SIPC). Insurance products are offered through LPL or its licensed affiliates. First Financial Federal Credit Union (FFFCU) and First Financial Investment & Retirement Center are not registered as a broker/dealer or investment advisor. Registered representatives of LPL offer products and services using First Financial Investment & Retirement Center, and may also be employees of FFFCU. These products and services are being offered through LPL or its affiliates, which are separate entities from and not affiliates of FFFCU or First Financial Investment & Retirement Center.

Securities and insurance offered through LPL or its affiliates are:

Original article source courtesy of AJ Smith of USA Today.