As the year comes to a close, it’s the perfect time to review and reset your finances. Use this checklist to get organized and start the new year strong:
1. Evaluate Spending
Reflect on this year’s budget. Trim unnecessary expenses and set limits for the months ahead.
The 50/30/20 rule is a popular and straightforward budgeting method that divides your after-tax income into three categories:
50% for Needs: This category includes essential expenses such as rent / mortgage, utilities, groceries, car / transportation, and healthcare. When housing costs are significant for you, this portion is important for maintaining a stable living environment.
30% for Wants: Wants are non-essential expenses that enhance your lifestyle, such as dining out, entertainment, travel, and hobbies etc. This allocation allows for some guilt-free spending.
20% for Savings and Investments: The final 20% is dedicated to building savings and making investments. This might include contributions to your CPF (Central Provident Fund) for retirement savings, as well as setting aside funds for emergencies and future goals.
This is an attractive option as it provides a balanced approach to managing expenses while ensuring that savings and daily needs are prioritised. Nevertheless, it may not be the appropriate method for those with lower income, higher debt such as loans to pay off and other expenses for big families.
You can adjust the percentages to suit your current situation accordingly and review those expenses like gym or streaming subscriptions, telco and internet bills.
2. Review Debt
Focus on reducing high-interest debt while preparing for any upcoming payments. This includes:
Paying off high-interest debts: Prioritise clearing debts with the highest interest rates, such as credit card balances.
Student Loans: If you have student loans, make regular payments to avoid accruing excessive interest.
Good Debt vs. Bad Debt: Understand the difference. Good debt, like a mortgage, can help you build wealth, while bad debt, like high-interest consumer loans, can hinder your financial progress.
Debt management is vital, especially if you are balancing mortgage payments, reno or car loans, student loans, or credit card debt.
3. Boost Savings
Ensure your emergency fund is solid, and plan contributions for future goals. One of the most effective ways to ensure you save consistently is to automate your savings. Set up a continuous transfer of a portion of your salary to a savings account or investment account every month. This way, you will be less tempted to spend it.
Other ways of course are to cut more expenses or increase your income. A side gig or freelance work can provide an additional revenue stream that can significantly impact your monthly cash flow. You can also consider different ways to invest so that passive income keeps growing over the years.
4. Check Investments
Time to rebalance your portfolio and align it with your goals. Is that fixed deposit or T-bill that's ending still worth reinvesting? How about bonds or robo-advisors?
A well-diversified portfolio can include a mix of local and international equities, real estate, bonds, and alternative investments like REITs or commodities. Do note your own risk appetite and consult professional advice before devoting your money though.
5. Update Documents
Review insurance policies, update beneficiaries, and revise your estate plans if needed. Are you and your family’s health covered? If you have children, have you planned out for them?
Some to consider are term, critical illness, and personal accident insurances.
Homeowners insurance: Ensure the policy covers the full value of your property or loan taken.
Car insurance: Look for a policy that balances coverage and affordability. Regularly compare rates and consider bundling your home and car insurance to get a discount.
Health and life insurance: If you have dependents or plan to in the future, life insurance is critical for ensuring they are taken care of in the event of death. Also, make sure you have adequate coverage to prevent a medical emergency from derailing your finances.
Consult with the right financial or property advisors to make informed decisions. If you have significant assets, consider working with an estate planning attorney to ensure your loved ones are protected too.
Hooray, it's time to set new goals and welcome 2025!
What are some of your possible moves?
Map money flow and review it
Increase CPF contribution
Define your vision for next year, and start now to enjoy peace of mind and financial success.
Master Your Finances Wisely,
Value Vaulter
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