The country’s economy may be on the upswing, but that doesn’t mean that our personal economy is! Early in the year is a perfect time to take a fresh look at how we’re managing the important issues in our lives, from finances to final wishes. I share my favorite digital tools to ensure financial success this year.
Fix That Credit Score – Once and For All
If you’re planning a big purchase, like a car or a home, have a look at that credit score. If it’s less-than-stellar, it could prevent you from getting a good rate – or getting approved at all. Self Lender is a really unique service that allows you to build and improve your credit with a small, 12-month installment loan secured by a CD that is funded by the loan itself. Your on-time monthly payments towards the loan is reported to the credit bureaus so that it can impact your credit history. When you’ve finished all your payments at the end of the year, the CD unlocks and that money goes back to you. You’ve just built credit and saved money at the same time!
Trade Flash for Cash
If money is tight you might be considering selling some of your old or inherited stuff. There are plenty of platforms for selling your old electronics and kid’s clothing, but what about something more precious – and lucrative – like inherited estate pieces and passed down heirloom jewelry like diamonds and other gems? Many of us are sitting on wedding rings from former marriages, or pieces that have been bequeathed to us that we’ll never wear. Chances are, these pieces have great value. Worthy is an online platform that helps you sell these precious items, guiding you every step of the way to ensure that you get the very best value for your gems. You can even send in your whole jewelry box and they can let you know what’s valuable and what’s not. Once you sell your gems, be sure to save that money instead of spending it!
Plan for Down the Road
Making my will is one of those things that I’ve been avoiding for years. It seemed so intimidating and time-consuming! When I heard about Fabric, which is a platform that allows you to make your will digitally, I was skeptical. I tested the free service and was able to write my and my husband’s wills in about 20 minutes. Now we just need to print it and have it notarized so it’s legally binding. Fabric can also help guide you when it comes to purchasing the right life insurance policy!
Go Paperless and Avoid Those Late Fees
Did you know that most households pay 12 bills a month on average? With that many bills to pay, we’re bound to miss one every now and again and those late fees can really add up (and damage our credit). Using a tool like Doxo, you can pay all your bills online or through the app on your phone, including utilities, credit cards and loans and never miss a payment again. You control how it’s all set up, from what bills to pay, auto billing, and preferred payment method.
Kids Can Save, Too
You can even get your kids planning for their future by setting them up with an FDIC-insured account with Goalsetter, which is a savings platform for kids. With their Goalsetter account, kids can save for things they really want, like dance lessons & costumes or a used car. The account is linked to yours and you, family members and friends can help contribute towards your child’s goals (rather than giving gifts that may or may not be useful).
