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Make saving money so easy you can do it with your eyes closed
Make saving money so easy you can do it with your eyes closed
Imagine this: you’re fast asleep, but somewhere out in the world your money is multiplying. Does it sound too good to be true? It’s not! With the right savings tools set up, you can sit back, relax and let your money do the work. Here are just a few ways to make your saving dreams a reality without even trying.
Start simple. Automate your savings. Have your employer deduct cash from your paycheck and deposit the funds directly to a savings account. Or, you can also have your financial institution move your money from checking to savings regularly. This way, you can have saving discipline without thinking twice.
401(k)? OK! Increase your 401(k) contributions annually. To make it easier on yourself, simply sign up to have your contributions increased every year automatically.
Your mini me will thank you. Transfer $250 a month to a custodial account. That money will equal more than $39,000 over 10 years at a 4% earnings rate. Or, instead of a custodial account, automate a Section 529 college savings plan. The best part about the 529 is these earnings are tax-deferred and can be withdrawn tax-free (for qualified educational expenses).
Pay up automatically. Paying on time can help you save too; with auto-pay, you won’t need to worry about late fees. And, when you pay your student loans automatically you can also get a small percent interest rate reduction.
Interested? Find out which accounts earn the most interest at your financial institution. Having more money in your savings account (rather than checking) can be beneficial. And, having a certificate of deposit can be even better. Learn about what options you have and which are better for you.
Get your cash back. Use credit cards with cash-back rewards, so the more you use it the more money you’re refunded. You can then use that cash-back towards the balance, or just pocket it! Find a card that has a rebate on all purchases, or a rebate that matches your lifestyle. If you typically use your credit card for just gas, search for a card that offers rebates on that. More bang for your buck!
Think of your saving like it’s a bill. This way, you can consider it a priority, not just an amount that can be flexible each month. Warren Buffet said it best, “Don’t save what is left after spending; spend what is left after saving.”
Consistency is key when trying to reach your money goals. By saving a set amount monthly, you take control of your financial future. Need $10,000 to buy a car? Calculate how much you can afford to save each month towards this goal, and then automate it. You’ll reach your goal before you know it!
