Analyze Spending, Set A Budget To Get Yourself Back On Track

St. Louis, Mo., Feb. 4, 2013 – If post-holiday bills are eating up all of your money  before your paycheck arrives, it may be time to get back to basics and set a budget, the Better Business Bureau (BBB) advises.

“Consumers may find themselves juggling bigger than expected bills after the holidays, especially if they didn’t pay attention to their spending and credit card use,” said Michelle L. Corey, BBB president and CEO. “If you want to get back on top of your finances, there’s no better time to take stock of your situation and figure out how to live within your means.”

The first step is to write down what funds you have coming in: salary, child support, interest income, rental income or stock dividends, for example.

You’ll also need to keep track of your spending for a few weeks to find out where the money is going. Some costs, such as rent, car payments or utilities can’t be trimmed.

However, most people will find things that can be cut back, such as packing your lunch rather than eating out, for example. Are there things you’re paying for that you don’t need, such as an extra cell phone, computer or car? What expenses are “needs” and what are “wants”?

You also may consider finding ways to increase your income, such as taking a part-time job, turning a hobby into a business or holding a yard sale to get rid of unwanted household goods.

The BBB has tips and charts you can use to develop a budget on its website. If you find that you’re seriously in debt, you may consider working with a nonprofit credit counseling agency, such as Clearpoint Financial, which partners with the BBB on consumer spending issues.
Once you achieve a balance between spending and income, consider socking some money away in a savings account or emergency fund.

Smart saving strategies include:

• Pay yourself first, putting a small amount aside every week. Even $10 a week will grow to more than $500 by the end of the year.
• Build up an emergency fund equal to at least three months’ worth of income.
• Take advantage of employee benefit plans, such as 401(k) retirement savings plans. These plans allow you to save money before taxes, and many employers match at least part of your contributions.
• Be smart when you choose a savings account. Shop around for the best rates, consider fees and other features.

Don’t just set up a budget and forget it. Review it regularly to see if you’re still on track. If you’re finding it hard to meet your goals, you may need to revise the budget to accommodate your needs.

Consumers can learn how to protect themselves or find BBB Business Reviews and charity reviews by calling (314) 645-3300 or by going online to www.bbb.org.

Contacts (News Media Only): Michelle Corey, President & CEO, 314-645-0606, mcorey@stlouisbbb.org, or Chris Thetford, Vice President-Communications, 314-584-6743 or 314-681-4719 (cell), communications@stlouisbbb.org