4 Financial Tips for Fall

Take advantage of the fall season and prepare for the months to come with these four financial tips.

Fall is a beautiful time of year – and not just because the pumpkin spice latte is back. The leaves change color, the pumpkin patches surface, and the spirit of giving is very much alive.

Go forth and enjoy those seasonal wonders, but keep these important things in mind as we begin to look forward to the months ahead.

Prepare for Key Changes

It’s during fall that we need to make some important decisions for the year to come. One of those decisions involves open enrollment. This is the time to make changes to benefits, such as health savings contributions, medical coverage, and others. Think long and hard about this before locking in your elections.

While you’re at it, you may want to review additional services as well. When’s the last time you looked at your home, renters, and/or auto insurance policies? Ask your provider if there are discounts that may be applied or compare providers and make the switch. For added savings, consider canceling services or memberships you no longer need.

Plan the Remainder

Expenses shouldn’t creep up on us as we approach the end of the year. We know we’ll be spending a little more during the holidays, so begin planning and saving if you haven’t done so already.

To ensure you’re getting the most for your money, create a gift list early on. Take advantage of sales and do your research beforehand for the best deals.

Think Ahead, Act Now

Securing your financial future can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to go at it alone. If you need guidance, consider speaking to a professional. As a member of A+FCU, you can set up a one-on-one consultation with a financial counselor at no cost to you through BALANCE.

One matter they can review with you is prepping your holiday budget. Together you can work on a plan that will help you spend within your means and still reach your financial goals.

Weatherize Your Home

While the weather is still nice, it’s a good idea to conduct some preventative maintenance around your home to prepare for the winter months. This will not only ensure your heating system is working efficiently, but also help prevent costly repairs down the road.

Other recommendations include doing things like cleaning your gutters and checking for air leaks. Gaps near windows and doors allow heat to escape while clutter in the gutters can cause build up that can damage the roof or other areas of your home. Don’t forget to check your vents, change the filters, and test your heating system in advance.

With a little bit of prep this season, you can make sure the rest of your year goes as smoothly as possible.