Another new year brings another set of resolutions — many of which involve making new financial goals. Whether you’re currently in school or have been in the workforce for a few years, it’s smart to make these changes now in order to set yourself up for future financial success.
But it’s one thing to make financial goals, and another thing to stick with them. Here’s a few tips to save more money and budget effectively to keep yourself on track throughout the year.
Create A Budget. Then Write It Down.
This is important. Many of us budget in our heads, but don’t take the time to write it down. Dig out your notebook. Then, follow these steps to set up an effective budget that helps you make responsible decisions with your funds.
- Determine a timeline for your budget — will you track it by week, month, semester, or year?
- Separate your expenses into categories like housing, transportation, and entertainment
- Revisit the document on a regular basis to update and track payments
The way you set up your budget is up to you. The important thing is to get it written down.
Wants Versus Needs
Obviously, there are things you need to pay for. Tuition, fees, housing, and food can all add up. The line between “needs” and “wants” can be blurry, so it’s important to clearly define them in your budget.
For example, if you’re paying for a school meal plan, going out with friends is a “want,” even though you need to eat. That doesn’t mean you have to give up eating out or spending money on things you want — in fact, it’s often important to do so!
By determining which expenses are “wants” and which are “needs,” you’ll be able to spend your money responsibly without going overboard.
Financial Goals Quick Tip: Consider giving yourself a set allowance to spend on your “wants.” If you’re saving up for something big, determine which “wants” you’re willing to spend less on each week.
Credit or Debit?
When it comes to the debate between credit cards and debit cards, there’s really no right or wrong answer. In many cases, it’s smart to use both. However, it’s especially important to use your credit card responsibly.
- Use your credit card for one small charge each month — otherwise, keep it for emergencies only
- If an emergency does happen, stop your monthly charges and instead use that money to pay off your credit card
- When using your debit card, keep an eye on your checking account to make sure you aren’t spending more than you have
Loans and Financial Aid
Chances are you’ve had to borrow some money to pay for at least a portion of your education. If you’ve taken out a variety of different loans, it can be difficult to keep track of what you really owe.
Check out the National Student Loan Data System (NSLDS) to determine the federal student loan debt that you’ve incurred from the government
Visit AnnualCreditReport.com for a free, accurate credit report and a list of any private loans you’ve borrowed
When you’re considering taking out a loan, it’s helpful to research repayment options to find the loan that is right for you. If you find your payments are too high, you may consider refinancing all your loans into one loan with a potentially lower interest rate. Refinancing means you’ll pay less each month on your student loans – if this sounds like a fit for you, Nelnet Bank can help you start the refinancing process. Refinancing your federal student loans into a private loan may cause you to lose certain benefits.
Setting up your financial goals doesn’t mean sacrificing experiences like going to the movies or eating out with friends. By budgeting and defining your wants and needs, you make smart choices that count.
Nelnet Bank does not provide legal, investment, tax, or financial advice. This page and the information contained herein is for informational purposes only. This content is not meant to address the circumstances of any particular individual. Nothing contained in this article constitutes a recommendation or endorsement by Nelnet Bank. For specific advice about your unique circumstances, consult with a qualified professional.
From time to time, articles may provide hyperlinks to web pages operated by third parties. When you click on these hyperlinks, you will be leaving Nelnet Bank’s website. Nelnet Bank has no control over such sites or their content, and is not responsible or liable for any such site or content. Nelnet Bank does not endorse or recommend the contents of the third-party sites. Your use of a third party website is subject to their terms of use and privacy policy.
