1 00:00:00,600 --> 00:00:03,390 - Solid financial footing starts with smart moves. 2 00:00:03,390 --> 00:00:05,970 Let's make next year your year to thrive. 3 00:00:05,970 --> 00:00:07,650 Planning for some big life changes, 4 00:00:07,650 --> 00:00:10,500 a new job, a new home or a growing family, 5 00:00:10,500 --> 00:00:13,200 update your goals and plans to match what's coming. 6 00:00:13,200 --> 00:00:14,610 Now, review your savings. 7 00:00:14,610 --> 00:00:15,960 Can you cover three to six months 8 00:00:15,960 --> 00:00:18,390 of expenses if life throws you a curve ball? 9 00:00:18,390 --> 00:00:21,825 If not, make building an emergency fund your top priority. 10 00:00:21,825 --> 00:00:22,658 Treat it like a bill 11 00:00:22,658 --> 00:00:24,840 you pay yourself consistently every month, 12 00:00:24,840 --> 00:00:27,030 set up an auto deposit to your checking account 13 00:00:27,030 --> 00:00:28,650 and you won't have to think about it again 14 00:00:28,650 --> 00:00:29,880 until you need it. 15 00:00:29,880 --> 00:00:31,290 Next, tackle your debt. 16 00:00:31,290 --> 00:00:34,350 Look for ways to lower interest rates or refinance loans. 17 00:00:34,350 --> 00:00:35,400 Freeing up cash now 18 00:00:35,400 --> 00:00:37,950 means more room to save and invest later. 19 00:00:37,950 --> 00:00:39,540 And don't forget your future self, 20 00:00:39,540 --> 00:00:41,910 maximize your 401k, TSP 21 00:00:41,910 --> 00:00:44,220 or other retirement plan contributions 22 00:00:44,220 --> 00:00:46,860 and maybe open an IRA for tax benefits. 23 00:00:46,860 --> 00:00:48,270 Also, make sure your insurance 24 00:00:48,270 --> 00:00:49,680 covers those who depend on you, 25 00:00:49,680 --> 00:00:51,900 and check that your investments still fit your goals 26 00:00:51,900 --> 00:00:53,250 and risk tolerance. 27 00:00:53,250 --> 00:00:55,470 Finally, update your estate plan and will, 28 00:00:55,470 --> 00:00:57,720 life changes fast so keep your plans current 29 00:00:57,720 --> 00:00:59,640 and before making any big money moves, 30 00:00:59,640 --> 00:01:01,830 talk to a trusted financial advisor. 31 00:01:01,830 --> 00:01:04,530 This new year, leave bad money habits behind 32 00:01:04,530 --> 00:01:06,780 and embrace smarter, more powerful moves, 33 00:01:06,780 --> 00:01:08,223 now that's thriving.