4 quick tips when budgeting for the year that will have lasting effects

This is a sponsored story paid for by Delta Community Credit Union. 11Alive and Delta Community Credit Union have partnered together to create Money Moves to help Atlantans save money.

A new year brings a fresh start and the opportunity to make meaningful changes—big or small—that can impact our lives not just for the year ahead, but for the long term. One common tradition is making New Year’s resolutions: commitments to somehow change our behaviors or habits, whether for the year to come or an indefinite period

Regardless of your preferred approach to money, there are a few financial management activities that are worth continuing or starting in the new year, and anyone could resolve to consider adopting them. These resolutions can provide benefits this year and, possibly, for decades to come. Starting this month, think about initiating these money management activities:

1) Create or just adjust a comprehensive annual budget

2) Let your emergency fund emerge and grow. Make a strong commitment to adding to and growing your emergency fund every month. 

3) Ensure to insure—be certain that your insurance coverage is at the appropriate level for this stage of your life. 

4) Boost your retirement plan contributions by just 1% (or more) either for the short term or long term.

For more tips on each step, visit Delta Community Credit Union’s Financial Education center here. 

Want to take the first step in creating your comprehensive annual budget?

Home Budget Analysis Calculator – By entering your income and monthly expenditures, you can see how much you have left to save and where your money is being spent.

Budget Worksheet – Visualizing your budget is the best way to stick to it and understand your cash flow. Use this BALANCE worksheet to start your comprehensive budget.

BALANCE™ is a financial education and counseling organization that offers free services to Delta Community members. Some of its services include credit report reviews, debt management, and information on budgeting, money management and home buying.