8 Financial Quick Wins to Start the New Year Right

Track last year's spending 

Before you start thinking about what you want to accomplish over the next 12 months, take an honest look at how you spent your money last year. You know where your income comes from, but where exactly is it going? Break down your spending into categories and see how much you spend on both necessary and unnecessary expenses. You may find some places to make a change — by spending less on eating out, for example, or allocating more to your savings goals.

Create a new budget  

Thanks to rising inflation, a budget that worked well for you in the past may no longer be serving you. After reviewing last year’s spending — did you spend significantly more on gas and groceries? — you can create a better-informed budget. You now know exactly what you spent last year and where you want to make improvements, so set a savings and spending plan that will move you toward your goals.

Mark financial deadlines   

Make sure you never miss a rent payment again by marking important financial deadlines in your calendar. Set alerts so you’re reminded a day or week beforehand. This will ensure that you won’t have to scramble to get a timeslot with your accountant or realize that a free trial ended months ago.  

Tackle your highest interest rate debt

The Fed’s efforts to combat inflation have meant higher interest rates — which can make your debt even more expensive if you have a variable interest rate on any loans or credit products. If tackling debt is high on your list of resolutions, the total of everything you have to pay off can be overwhelming. A good way to start is by focusing on the debt with the highest interest rate (while continuing to pay the minimums on your other balances). This debt will cost you more in the long run (in interest), so paying it off more quickly will save you money. 

Increase your retirement contributions 

If you set your retirement contributions when you first started working and then promptly forgot about it, it’s time to revisit your strategy. You’re likely earning more now, so adjust your contributions accordingly. Even if it’s just one percentage point, it can make a big difference in your retirement savings (don’t forget to factor inflation into your retirement planning). And if you’re looking for other ways to boost your savings, these tips can help.

Cancel a recurring monthly expense 

Are you subscribed to six different streaming services but only use two regularly? When was the last time you attended a meeting with that professional society you joined? Fitness resolutions are also popular this time of year, but have you ever taken enough yoga classes to justify your unlimited membership? You can probably eliminate these extras from your life without even noticing it. And if you do really miss a service or subscription, you can it, you can always sign up for it again — just make sure you account for it in your new budget. 

Plan a spending freeze 

Challenge yourself to a spending freeze in the first quarter of the year to reset your budget. Abstaining from all unnecessary purchases (the essentials like rent and groceries are still allowed) for a week, month, or whatever time period feels right to you can help you evaluate your spending, make you more mindful and improve your overall wellness. 

Learn more about your money  

Do you want to do more with your money but aren’t sure where to start? Are you still a little unclear about how retirement accounts work? Set aside time each week to learn more about the financial topics that are important to you so you can better manage your money. Learning more about financial planning will make you feel more confident and ready to tackle any hurdles that come your way.