If you’re going to make some resolutions for 2017, consider including financial concerns among them. Health and wellness resolutions are a great idea, but if you get some financial matters resolved you are often less stressed and freer to attend to these other concerns. Here are three resolutions you might want to consider.
First, resolve to save more money in 2017. We know it can be difficult with the state of the economy today, but if you can find a way to shave off just a few dollars a month, it can make a difference in the future. Consider investing the money or simply stashing it in a safe, low-interest bearing bank account.
Second, resolve to set a good financial example this year. This is a great resolution to make if you have children, because you don’t have to have a lot of money to model good financial habits for your children. By modeling smart spending, saving and good money habits, you can help your kids learn to build wealth in the future. Talk to your kids regularly about money, how it’s important to save and about responsible use of credit.
Finally, resolve to create a will or continue with existing estate planning in 2017. If you haven’t started estate planning yet, 2017 is a great time to start. If you’ve got a tax refund coming, consider using it to fund your will and estate documents or set up a small trust or investment account for your heirs.
You don’t have to be rich to set good financial goals or benefit from a will. Talk with an estate planning attorney this January about how you can protect yourself and your heirs in the future.
Source: The Huffington Post, “5 Financial Resolutions For Your Family And Kids In 2017,” accessed Dec. 23, 2016