With the current financial crisis that we are facing, handling money effectively is becoming more and more important. People often wonder how others were able to get by with only a little money. This proves the point that it is not the amount you have but how you utilize it that’s important. Here are some practical tips on how you can manage money more effectively thus saving in the process.
Manage your checking account: Getting a passbook will bring you peace of mind. It will help you figure out where your money went, if an issued check will bounce or if you are nearing an overdraft. This will help avoid incurring charges in that checking account.
Make your own bank statement: Tracking your outstanding balance can be beneficial. Use tools like Microsoft Excel or similar programs to create your own bank statement. This has to be updated regularly so you’ll know if your next balance will be covered by your next check.
Budget. You should be realistic when preparing a general budget. Your list should include all known expenses. Make sure that you allocate money for emergencies and miscellaneous expenses. Do not forget to write down your target savings, too. This should be updated regularly to ensure that it is accurate and that you are able to follow it. If you feel that your projected income will not cover your budgeted expenses, you may have to cut down some of the things in your list.
Maintain a good relationship with your bank: Customer service is a priority among banks. You should go to your bank regularly to establish good relationship. Talk with the bank personnel. Chat with the branch manager and make them feel that you are a loyal client. Most of the time, doing this will help you save on penalties.
Take care of your credit card balance: Paying just the minimum amount required often results in penalties if you have unpaid amounts. There is nothing wrong with paying just the minimum but you should always pay them on time.
Use your credit card wisely: Always keep in mind that credit cards are not money. Never use them to buy things that you cannot afford as this will result to a disaster. Never max out your credit card just because you are expecting a hefty bonus. This is not a healthy practice.
Pay your debts on time: Interest-bearing debts should always be paid on time. This will help you avoid paying penalties and more interest. If you can, pay ahead of time. You may even manage to cut down your loan payment term! You can save a lot in terms of the foregone interest. Also, it’ll be a big relief to finally know that you is debt-free.
There are a lot more practices out there for managing cash and for saving money. However, what works for one may not work for another. Make sure that you adopt the practices that will work for you. Always be flexible. If you think that a technique no longer suits you, don’t stick to it. Look for new ones that will work better. Bear in mind that cash is not the king. Handling it wisely is.
You can use all these strategies to save money, reduce debt and improve your life but it will not last unless you have a system automatically set up to continually work without your input. Get Dan Cavalli's FREE money saving secrets set on auto pilot at: www.the-richest-man-in-babylon.com.
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