MAY 18, 2023
By Jillian Stinson
Read time: 3 minutes
Are you trying to get the ball rolling for making better life choices? Given everything we know about interest rates, inflation and recession, making smart financial choices are likely at the top of your list.
The good news is making smart money moves is easier than you may think. Here are 8 ways to help everything fall into place for a brighter financial future:
A budget is the starting point of any good financial plan. Don’t have one? Try our budget calculator to get an idea of your monthly expenses. Or update the one you’ve already got. Make sure it’s realistic. Don’t forget emergency expenses like car repairs and yearly expenses like property taxes or winter clothes for the family. Then stick to your budget as best you can.
Read more: 10 tips for eating healthy on a budget
This is one of the most important rules of personal finance. What does it mean to pay yourself first? It means putting aside an affordable amount every month before you pay bills or make any other purchases. For example, you could set up automatic withdrawals from your pay that go into a registered retirement savings plan (RRSP). That way you never see the money and aren’t tempted to spend it.
The pandemic taught many Canadians about the importance of saving for a rainy day. How much should you have saved up in an emergency fund? Aim for 3-6 months of your net income. What matters most is that you start saving today. Even a small amount every paycheque can go a long way. Putting that money into a tax-free savings account (TFSA) might make withdrawals less tempting.
This includes both retirement savings and health benefit plans. Call the company that administers these plans and ask about how to get the most out of your plan. For example, a lot of employers match the retirement plan contributions that employees make, up to a certain level. It’s free money that you don’t want to leave on the table.
Your needs and those of your family will change over time. Talk to your advisor about the types and amount of protection you have. Don’t forget to update named beneficiaries if your situation changes, like after divorce.
You have options with Sun Life.
1. Get a free insurance quote. Apply for life insurance online with Sun Life GO.
2. Find an advisor. Talk to a Sun Life advisor who can help you understand your options.
Start with your short-term goals. Think about what you’d like to accomplish by the end of the decade. Choose goals that are attainable, but optimistic. Studies show optimists have a better relationship with money than pessimists.
Next, focus on your long-term priorities. Here’s where you can dream of life goals, and retirement. An advisor can help you update your financial roadmap to get you there.
Or find an advisor if you don’t have one. A Sun Life advisor can help you build a personalized plan to make your life dreams a reality.
What does that mean? If you already have investments, it’s the portion of your money invested in stocks, bonds and other assets. You’ll want to reset this asset allocation as you age and as the markets go up and down. Talk to your advisor about a plan that follows your changing needs.
This article is meant to provide general information only. Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada does not provide legal, accounting, taxation, or other professional advice. Please seek advice from a qualified professional, including a thorough examination of your specific legal, accounting and tax situation.
