Resolution time is near! The New Year is a terrific time to do some financial housekeeping. What will you resolve to do in 2013? Below are many ideas that may save you money! Remember, it's good to start with one or two so that they are do-able. Get 'em done, and then pledge to move on to another!

Review insurance plans. Make sure to carry only coverage you need and cancel coverage that you no longer require. Shop for better rates. Increase deductibles to reduce premiums. Ask your agent about discounts for multiple policies or vehicles, safe driving records, safety feature discounts. Improve your health (quit smoking, lose weight, exercise) to reduce medical and/or life premiums. If possible, pay one annual payment to reduce payment amount and avoid fees. Let your insurance company know if your credit score has increased- they may lower your premium.

Educate yourself. They say that "knowledge is power", so pick a topic (budgeting, credit, investments, retirement plans, taxes etc...) and learn. Come to some of our classes in the New Year or sign up for a matched savings account to go back to school!

Save more. Automate savings via pre tax payroll deductions for employer sponsored plans such as 401K, Health Savings Accounts (HSA), Dependent Care Savings Account. Consider a 529 Education Savings Account. Have a portion of your post tax earnings automatically deposited into savings instead of a checking. Enroll in a Keep the Change program, if available, at your bank or credit union. Reward yourself for using coupons or not spending on smaller items by putting the savings in a "piggy bank."

Organize records. If you have more than one checking, savings or investment account, consider consolidating to streamline record keeping. Enroll in online banking and/or bill paying. Use a money management program such as Quicken to track spending.

 Consider using apps such as www.mint.com. Gather supporting paperwork for upcoming income tax preparation.

Limit spending. Differentiate between needs and wants. Resist buying items just because they are a "good deal". Pick one spending leak and eliminate it for the week, month or year! Consider cost per use when purchasing. Invest in quality pieces. Instead of several okay items, buy just one that you love. Buy used.

View your credit report. Go to website www.annualcreditreport.com to see what your free annual credit report says about you. If you have not already done so, begin establishing credit. Improve your credit score by paying bills on time and reducing debt. Limit applications for new credit. Credit reports go back seven years, so remember to use credit occasionally to keep a current record.

Earn more. If the timing is right, ask for a raise. Take on a second job. Consider part time, seasonal or self employment. Sell unneeded items on www.craigslist.org, www.ebay.com or at a garage sale. Look for a higher rate of return on investments and a lower rate of return on credit purchases. Barter goods or services. Finally, remember that "a penny saved is a penny earned!"

Best of luck reaching your financial goals and cheers to a happier, healthier, wealthier New Year! Come see us if you would like help following through on your New Years resolution(s)!