Dollars & Sense Newsletter

8 Smart Steps
 to Start off
the New
Year Right

The new year is here and it’s time to focus on some small things now that can make a big difference. Maybe you’ve been putting off these tasks, or maybe they haven’t occurred to you.

1. Review your credit history. At AnnualCreditReport.com you can get a free copy of your credit history – everything the three major reporting agencies have in your file. Your credit history doesn’t include your credit score, but this is the information used to tabulate your score, so you really need to check it for accuracy.
2. Clear clutter. There’s no better time than the present to turn your clutter into cash, or at least a tax deduction. The best way to approach your clutter is slowly, otherwise it can be overwhelming. Pick one room, closet, or drawer per day, and spend a few minutes getting rid of things you haven’t touched in a year or more.
3. Review/rebalance investments. Investments, like your retirement plan, shouldn’t require a lot of maintenance, but they do require some. Take a look at how your investments are performing and decide whether it’s time to buy, sell, or leave well enough alone.
4. Max out retirement contributions. The annual cap for IRAs (including Roths) is $5,000 for those under 50 and $6,000 for those 50 and over. You have until April to do this, but don’t put it off.
5. Find a financial advisor. There’s someone out there who can help you with most of the things on this list, and a lot more – a financial advisor. Kristin Chim, CFS* financial advisor at South Metro is available. Don’t hesitate to stop by or call (952-445-0888 ext. 19) and set up a complimentary consultation.
6. Tinker with your budget. Now’s a good time to look at whether your spending has matched your projections over the past year – maybe some adjustments are in order, especially if your income or expenses has changed.
7. Change important passwords. A lot of sensitive personal information is one smart guess away from being stolen. Add an extra layer of protection by changing the most important passwords at least once a year.
8. Make a will. Planning for the “what if’s” in life is important. Take the time today to make sure that your loved ones are taken care of and won’t have to deal with the hassle or probate. Consult with a local attorney and have the necessary documents drawn up.

How to find the time to do all of this! The key is slow, easy, and gradual. Earmark just 15 minutes to an hour per day and go down the list. And if you don’t get it all done... well, there’s always next year.

*Non-deposit investment products and services are offered through CUSO Financial Services, L.P. (“CFS”), a registered broker-dealer (Member FINRA/SIPC) and SEC Registered Investment Advisor. Products offered through CFS: are not NCUA/NCUSIF or otherwise federally insured, are not guarantees or obligations of South Metro Federal Credit Union (“SMFCU”), and may involve investment risk including possible loss of principal. Investment Representatives are registered through CFS. The credit union has contracted with CFS to make non-deposit investment products and services available to credit union members.

South Metro's Got the Rate You Want
Great loans available for:
     • Auto
     • Home Improvement
     • Boats
     • Motorcycles
     • RVs
We have money to lend!

Your Ticket to Bigger Savings

We are here to help

DebtInFocus.org is a free, anonymous source to help you assess your financial situation. You'll be asked several questions about your income and debt. In return, you'll receive a financial analysis including strategies to keep your finances moving forward. This is available to credit union members courtesy of Filene Research Institute. Check it out! 

Invest in America

Get exclusive credit union discounts on things you use every day. Visit lovemycreditunion.org for more information. SMFCU members are eligible for a discount on most new GM vehicles and other special offers and discounts.

Why Throw Away Your Money? Save with Sprint!

Join the 700,000 credit union members nationwide that are already saving over $43 million on their wireless plans! Credit Union Name Here is pleased to bring our members these major savings through the Sprint Credit Union Member Discount Plan.

Ways you can save:

• 10% off most regularly priced Sprint individual service plans
• 15% off most regularly priced Sprint business service plans
• Waived activation fee on new activations
• Waived upgrade fee
• Available to new and existing Sprint customers

Enjoy the perks, benefits and exclusive discounts that only credit union members like you can receive.

3 Ways to Get Your Discount:

1. Call 877.SAVE.4CU (877.728.3428) and let them know you’re a credit union member. Ask to be a part of the NACUC_ZZM Corporate ID to save

2. Click www.SprintSave4CU.com

3. Visit your nearest Sprint store

What are you waiting for? Start saving today!

Spread the Word about Credit Unions!

The Wall Street Journal published an article on June 11, 2011 titled "Where the Banking Deals Are: Credit Unions Still Outdo Their Bank Counterparts, and It's Easier to Get In." As a member-owned, not-for-profit financial institution, South Metro answers to our community, not stockholders. As banks raise more fees and reject more loans, make sure your friends and neighbors are aware of your local alternative: South Metro Federal Credit Union. Join today!

[Loans] [Checking] [Savings] [Join Us] [Online Services] [About Us] [Search] [Home]