My bank sent me an email with some good advice for the new year, ways to get ahead financially in the new year.  Although this might not be new to some of you, if is a good reminder of some basics.  Here are three of the suggestions.

1. This year we will know where our money is going:

• • No more ignoring the balance or avoiding the app…
  • Start tracking expenses regularly, identifying all of them and understanding where our money goes. This way, we can avoid surprises at the end of the month.
  • Make it a habit to open your banking app or look at the website every week.

2. This year we will create a smart budget and stick to it

• • When we are  really in control of our financial management, it gives us a sense of security. Creating a budget is an empowering tool that helps us achieve our goals. Don’t leave the numbers “up in the air” and just drift along—take control and manage your money.

3. This year we will set money aside and save regularly

• • It’s worth setting a monthly amount to put aside as savings, making it part of your regular routine.  Start with an amount that’s realistic (after reviewing your budget and seeing where you can cut back)—even a small amount each month. The goal is to build an important habit of saving.

Read more here (in Hebrew – use your browser to translate as needed)