In today’s economy, many families are worried about layoffs, foreclosures and mounting debt. They’re looking for ways to cut costs, save more and make smarter money choices for their future.
Primerica, a financial services industry leader, believes one of the first steps toward getting on track for a bright financial future is to create better spending and saving habits. To help clients get into the mindset of making better money choices, Primerica presents three easy ways to curb spending.
- Track purchases.
Little purchases made every day can add up to big money at the end of the month. Clients are encouraged to keep track of expenditures by either writing them down in a notebook or purchasing budgeting software. Families might be surprised at just how much they didn’t realize they were spending. - Minimize ATM visits.
ATM withdrawals can add up quickly if the client isn’t tracking them. It’s easy to keep pressing that withdrawal button and even taking out the minimum $20 at a time can add up quickly. The best plan is to set a limit on withdrawals per week and stick to it. - Cut spending by small amounts first.
Breaking the over spending habit isn’t likely to happen overnight. Primerica urges clients to start small, say reducing spending by 10%. Once a family gets used to that adjustment, they can work their way up to a more aggressive cost cutting strategy.
Discretionary spending (e.g. eating out, entertainment, movie rentals, etc.) isn’t a bad thing, but over spending – particularly in times of economic upheaval – can put families into a precarious position if debt becomes too high or if the breadwinner is laid off.
As families learn to budget better and spend less, the next step is to start socking away all that extra un spent cash. Primerica’s free Financial Needs Analysis offers a comprehensive snapshot of a family’s finances and presents clear strategies for getting out of debt, becoming properly protected, saving more and getting on track for a great future.
Tags: family finance, home finance, Primerica, spend less, tips to curb spending
