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Save More Money In 2015

BOSTON (CBS) - Saving more money always makes the top ten for resolutions. In their sixth annual Financial Resolutions Study, Fidelity found that over one third of the respondents were considering making a financial resolution, with most wanting to save more, about $200 a month more.

Save More Money In 2015

Our national savings rate is around 5%. I would like to see it higher, at least 10%. We need to change our mindset about saving money. We like instant gratification but if you don't put some money away for a rainy day there will be a day of reckoning.

Almost every goal we establish or decision we make as an adult has a financial component. If the goal is to buy a house, you do need some money saved to start the process.

Fidelity has created a month-to-month guide to help consumers keep their financial resolutions.

What about a comfortable retirement? When saving for retirement you will need to learn about investing your money for putting it in a savings account or a CD will not earn you enough dollars to create that comfortable retirement.

The average monthly Social Security check for this year is $1,328. Could you live on that? Maybe in a trailer in Arkansas!

To save more you really do need a plan. What are you willing to do differently now to accomplish saving more? What life style changes are you willing to make? You will need a spending plan. Where does your money go and why?

First, review your monthly expenses and then compare them to your income. Review this information dispassionately and see where you can cut costs, pay down debt and save more. Fidelity investments has a Savings Planner, a tool to help you rev up your savings.

Look for ways to automatically save at work. Your 401(k) plan, a savings account to beef up your emergency fund, even Savings Bonds.

As you are spending your money decide to spend it more wisely and if you are able to save on everything you purchase you could have those extras dollars needed to achieve your goals.

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You can hear Dee Lee's expert financial advice on WBZ NewsRadio 1030 each weekday at 1:55 p.m., 3:55 p.m., and 7:55 p.m.

Subscribe to Dee's Money Matters newsletter here.

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