You can take some targeted steps to improve your sense of Financial Wellness. Here are some ideas and resources. Take a look at the topics that interest you now, or come back later to learn more when the information is relevant in your life.
Review your bank's online services and banking limitations.
Know before you go.
Know the signs and protect your family.
Losing money or property to scams and fraud can be devastating, and financial fraud has exploded during the pandemic.
Learn at your own pace about the topics that matter to you.
Improve your financial health with the FDIC’s Money Smart online tools. Watch the Money Smart Learn Video to explore the Computer Based Instruction (CBI) and Money Smart Podcast Network.
Read articles about topics that matter to you:
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is the nation’s consumer protection agency. The FTC works to prevent fraudulent, deceptive and unfair business practices in the marketplace. Topics include Credit and Debt, Loans & Mortgages, and more.
Bankrate.com is more than just a way to compare bank rates. This site is a reliable source of short, informative articles and useful calculators.
Practical Money Skills, by Visa, is another reliable resource with articles and calculators, including information and games for teaching kids about finances.
Make a spending plan.
Budgeting can be hard. Planning is natural, especially when you know how to adjust for the unplanned.
Read Making a Budget, what to know and do, by the FDIC.
Try the online FDIC Spending Diary or download the CFBP Spending Tracker to know how you spend.
Download this Budget Worksheet from the FTC.
Pay yourself first!
Talk to your bank about automatically transferring a fixed amount to a savings account after every paycheck. Save for emergencies or something specific, like a vacation or special gift.
Take advantage of a Deferred Compensation Account.
If you've already done that, check the balance of your 457 account and consider changes.
Teach the children in your life about saving.
Use these tips and resources from the ABA Foundation to help youth understand money concepts that will set them on the path to a smart financial future.
Check the true cost of a credit card purchase before you buy.
How long will it take to pay off this purchase, and how much interest will you pay? Is it worth it?
How long will it take to pay off your existing balance?
Check your credit reports.
While you can usually check them for free once a year, you can do weekly checks through December 2023. Your credit score will not be affected when you check your reports.
Make a plan to paydown debt.
Like a snowball, build momentum and get the win.
To take a deeper dive into your financial wellness, take a look at the More Resources tab at the top of this page.
