You might be in financial straits or planning for the future. Whatever the case may be, however dire your situation, here are a few things you need to be doing right now to open some doors:
1.) Savings/ Emergency Fund
If you do not already have 8 months to 1 year of expenses saved, then start now!
Before you get started with any other investment goals, you have to be financially
sound. Ensuring that your everyday expenses are covered is the best way to do this.
2.) Paying Down Debt
Start paying down off any outstanding or lingering debt that you may have. Now is a
great time to wipe the slate clean.
3.) Homeownership
If you are thinking of buying a home, start by getting a copy of your credit report and
making sure it is accurate and also start saving for a down payment. Try to amass at
least 10% for the downpayment so that your mortgage payment is reasonable.
4.) Retirement
The earlier
you start here the less of a rush you will be in later. If you are still early inyour work life, now you can be more aggressive with your retirement investing decisions
and go for maximum return on your investment. If you are moving towards the middle
or later years in your work career, you should look to invest in stable investment options
with less risk.
Just a few quick tips to help you with setting your financial goals.
Black Enterprise Columnist Jennifer Streaks is a Financial Expert, Author & Pundit.
Continue the conversation by following her on twitter @ JStreaks or visiting her website
www.JenniferStreaks.com.