Use This Advice To Do Well In Hard Times
Stop using your credit card if you find that you are having problems making the payments. Cut expenses in your budget and start using cash so that you don't wind up with a maxed out credit card. Be sure to pay your monthly balance prior to starting to use your card again.
Try reducing your alcohol consumption to prevent making poor financial decisions. Only drink water when you go to the bar with friends. That way, you'll make smart financial decisions, rather than having a big mess to clean up later.
Your emergency fund should have at least three months of income in it. Take 10 percent of your income and put it into a high-yield savings account.
You want a credit score of 740 if you are trying to get a mortgage. If you have a high credit rating you will get a good interest rate. Wait until your score has risen, if necessary. It is better to wait to apply for a mortgage until your credit score improves.
Try to eliminate your credit card debts as fast as possible. No matter how much or how little you owe, finance charges go right into the pocket of your creditor every month. That's money that could be better spent elsewhere! Pay your credit card accounts every month and always pay a little more than the minimum.
Remember to do your taxes at a time that is right for your personal situation. This will allow you to get the refund that you earned as soon as possible. However, you should wait until April to file if you plan on owing taxes.
Always look over your monthly statements. Do this in order to make sure rates or fees haven't increased. Many people choose to overlook their statements and end up paying significantly more money in fees than they should. Scrutinize all of your statements to be aware of this.
These tips will help anyone understand and shape their personal financial situation into a healthier, more productive situation. No matter whether you're starting with five dollars in the bank or with five thousand in investments, the same principles apply, and you can use tips like these to boost yourself into a new, better way of life.