2021 is around the corner, are your finances in order? Here are 5 actions you can take today to make next year your best year yet!

1. Identify a clear financial goal

Looking to buy a house? Pay off your debt? Surprise your loved one with a vacation? Whatever your goal is, make sure it’s SMART:

Specific: What exactly do you want to accomplish and how long will it take?

Measurable: How much do I need to put aside in order to reach this goal?

Attainable: How possible is my goal, and how can I put measures in place to achieve it?

Realistic: How important is this goal to you? How motivated are you to achieve it?

Time-Bound: How long will it take to achieve your financial goal? Longer term goals can be broken down into manageable milestones to keep you on track!

2. Create a Budget

Now that you’ve outlined a goal, it’s time to fine-tune that budget! Creating a budget may seem daunting, but it’s important to see where your money comes from and where it goes.

Not sure where to start? There are many free downloadable apps that will help you create a flexible budget to fit your lifestyle!

3. Small Changes with Big Payoffs

Think you need to move mountains to save money? Chances are you can save more every month by tweaking your lifestyle. Do you eat out often? Try meal prepping at home to cut that food bill! Or try carpooling to save on gas every month. Small changes to your everyday habits will add up and result in extra cash at the end of the month

4.Educate Yourself

When it comes to mastering finances, knowledge is power! Read up on current investment trends, talk to a financial advisor and see what successful people are doing to better manage their money.

5. Trust the Experts

Financial planning can be intimidating, but we at Citizens are equipped to get you on the right track! Visit any one of our branches to talk to an experienced advisor today .