1. Vow to spend less than you make: If you constantly overspend, you will never have enough money to save or invest. Control your budget by determining where your money is going. Use our free home budget calculator to get started now.
2. Trim your post-holiday credit card flab: Pay the highest-cost credit card first. Consolidating debt may also help, as can paying more than the minimum due each month. Use our Debt Payoff Calculator to learn more.
3. Fix your ARM: You can still get a great deal on a fixed rate mortgage loan. LFCU has a new no-cost option available, and all loans are covered by our 100% satisfaction guarantee. Compare our rates or click here to view all rates.
4. Review your credit record and financial statements regularly: Get a free copy of your credit report once a year at www.annualcreditreport.com. Scrutinize statements from all financial institutions and credit credit-card companies regularly to guard against identity theft.
5. Avoid fees: ATM surcharge fees are now as high as $3 per transaction. As an LFCU member, you can avoid these fees by using one of 25,000 free CO-OP Network ATMs. Say goodbye to monthly checking fees by signing up for Value Checking with e-Statement delivery. Avoid late fees and bounced check fees - use LFCU's Auto Pay service and sign up for overdraft protection with an LFCU VISA.
6. Retire early: Millions of employees dream of leaving the working world before their hair turns gray. Click here to calculate how big your nest egg needs to be for you to live the retirement lifestyle you want.
7. Make your wishes known: If you die without a will, the state in which you reside determines who gets your assets. Use these steps to finally cross "estate planning" off your resolution list.
