Is There a Hole in Your Pocket?

Sounds like it could be the chorus to a country hymn; instead, it’s a question we all seem to be asking today. The current rise of inflation can feel like every extra dollar you earn somehow ends up in that pocket and immediately disappears. Therefore, YOU must tell your money where to go, or you will be asking it where it went.

I’m guessing I’m not the only one with the annual resolution to save more and spend less. So, to ring in 2023, let’s discuss a few ways to save on some everyday and one-time expenditures that could be a few threads towards patching up the hole.

Clean Out Your Tech Cupboard

Edit your apps and subscriptions – truth is I did this recently and realized I’ve double subscribed to multiple streaming services (embarrassingly). It is so easy to buy or add apps and services via your phone, remote, or Voice/Alexa. And, turn on family sharing for streaming apps so your immediate family doesn’t duplicate purchases either.

BY RENEE MICHEL, MBA, AND JOE SWEENEY, CFP ® , FINANCIAL ADVISORS AT SWEENEY & MICHEL, LLC

Curbside Pick-Up Not Just for Pandemic Times

Are you a shopper that goes into a store with a list (if you remember it) and comes out perplexed not just by the total but the cart full of all the things we ultimately end up throwing out or donating. During the pandemic, curbside pickup was sometimes the only thing available. It took getting used to, but I soon realized I was saving money by having to plan out meals and not going in and getting excited by the wine sale or the quick meals.

Stop Loaning Your Dollars to the Government

If you are receiving a large tax refund annually, it might be time to review your tax withholdings. When you withhold more than you are required to pay, the funds are then borrowed and spent by the government until you file your taxes and ask for it back. Personally, I feel as if I am a better steward at budgeting than the government and would prefer to keep my money in my pocket for today.