End of Year Financial Hacks
Looking for some financial shortcuts for the end of the year? Well, you are totally in the right place! If you’re vigilant, there are some ways that you can “hack” yourself to a better financial picture in the last few weeks of the year.
Donate, Donate, Donate! – Got some junk you really don’t need? Then donate it! Did you know that you get a tax deduction for doing so? You should do this – because it includes high-value items like cars and boats too. If you’ve got stuff that you don’t think you can sell, then donate it.
Forecast Your Budget – One way that you can stay on top of your financial situation and make sure you are “hacking” the right way is to use the digital tools that are available to you. Check out advanced money management tools like Mint. Or use a spreadsheet if you’re old fashioned.
Start Complaining –Yes, seriously. But not to us, the people you pay your bills to. Did you realize that you can call your credit card company, cable provider and wireless carrier to try to get a reduced rate? Yes, if you call and say you’re going to cancel. And hey, make sure you sound like you mean it!
Pay Your January Mortgage Early – If you do so, you’ll be able to then apply that mortgage tax deduction to your 2010 finances. You could start making this a habit every year. Yes, it’s only a small savings, but why not do it if you are able to?
Spend That Flex – You will seriously lose out on flexible spending account funds if you don’t spend them. It’s there for you to use, so why not do something with it? Use it for a doctor’s appointment, or to get some new glasses if you need them. Just don’t let it disappear!
Take Advantage of That Match – If you have the cash to do so, make sure that you max out your retirement account contribution. Most employers will match that money every year, which is effectively free retirement money you would have to come up with on your own otherwise.
Accelerate Federal Deductions – You can pull this off by paying off state and property taxes early. Just like an early mortgage payment made before the calendar year turns over, if you can make deductions early that is helpful for you later on and will be worth it.
Daniel Cawrey is a freelance writer who covers topics ranging from financial management to proper management of credit cards.
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