It’s a new year. A fresh start. New beginnings. It’s time to start over or create something new. It’s goal-setting season. A great time to think about your life and what you want to change for the better. What do you want to achieve this year? All things are possible for you and your family in 2024!
Check out some suggestions for heading this new year in the right direction.
1. Set goals for the year.
Look at the various areas of your life – work, spirituality, health, fitness, and, of course, financial [see #2]. Think about what you want to change for the better. Get a new job. Lose a few pounds. Exercise more. Spend more time with your kids. Be specific with your goals. Write down your goals and check your progress throughout the year.
2. Review your financial situation.
Think about different ways to save money, stretch your dollars, and cut expenses. For example, take your lunch to work, bundle your cable and Internet, check your cell phone plan, and look for ways to reduce your electric bill. The end of January is a great time to shop for winter clothes.
It’s a fact – Food prices at fast food and full-service restaurants are up 7.2% and 8% year over year, respectively, according to the National Restaurant Association.
And if you need a little extra help with food for your pantry, check out your local food bank. Go to FeedingAmerica.org to get a list of food resources in your area.
Check out our other helpful tips and blogs:
· Save money at the pump – 10 Tips to Overcoming Rising Gas Prices
· New Year, New You – 6 Tips for Getting Your Financial House in Order
· Get Money Smart for Peace of Mind – 5 Tips to Improve Your Financial Wellbeing
· Get Smart about Credit – 6 Tips to Building a Positive Credit History
3. Check your car; keep it healthy.
It’s your car that takes you here, there, and everywhere. It’s part of your family. The new year is a good time to make sure your car is road ready for all your travels. Do some preventative maintenance on your vehicle. Check out our 5 Tips for Maintaining Your Vehicle – Keep Your Car in Shape This New Year.
4. File your taxes.
Don’t procrastinate. Get your paperwork together and make a goal to file your taxes in January. By filing sooner, you’ll receive your tax refund sooner. And you’ll avoid mistakes by not waiting until the last minute.
Tax time is the perfect time to choose Car-Mart. We can help you make the most of your tax refund, whether you decide to put it towards buying a new vehicle or paying down the loan on your current one. Learn more about how you can rev up your tax refund.
5. Use your tax refund as a down payment on another vehicle at Car-Mart.
Once you file your taxes, put your tax refund to work for you. Put it towards another vehicle that you’ve been wanting and needing.
Check out our helpful blogs:
· How to Make the Most of your Tax Refund.
· 5 ways to use your tax refund at Car-Mart for your vehicle needs
All of us at America’s Car-Mart wish you a wonderful 2024. If you need a quality, used vehicle, we’re here for you. We offer affordable financing, and we’ll determine a payment plan that works for your budget. Start the process online today.
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Editor’s Note: This blog was originally published in January 2023 and has been updated with new information and links to additional helpful blogs.
