A Fresh Start
by April Qualls
August is passing swiftly and soon it will be time for the school year to start again. What better time than now to get a fresh start on your finances? If you have never developed a budget, now is a good time to start.
First, list out your income (or financial aid if you don’t have any income), your expenses, and how much you want to save every month. Even if you only save a few dollars your savings will add up. Income, expenses and savings are the essential elements to your budget. Plan how you will spend your money month by month, and stick to it. Look at ways to maximize your budget. Increase your income by getting a job or selling old clothes. Reduce your expenses by getting the cheaper cable package or use the internet at the library. Don’t borrow more financial aid than you need, and resist the temptation to put unnecessary items on your credit cards.
Follow these simple guidelines and you will be surprised at how much smoother the school year will go. You will never be worried about how the next bill will be paid if you budget and plan ahead.
For more information on budgeting, click the "Register" button on this page to enroll in the Budgeting course.
