Do you find yourself living paycheck to paycheck and struggling to save up for an emergency fund? �There are things that you can do to help put yourself in a better financial position. �Take a look at this little list that we have put together of easy ways that you can boost your savings when you feel like you are scraping by.
Set a Budget
I know we harp on this often, but really setting a budget is the cornerstone to a happy and healthy financial life. �Though it may seem stressful, setting a budget when you live paycheck to paycheck is imperative and can make the difference in your success. �If you stay true to following your budget, you are far less likely to strain your checkbook or go in the red. �
Start an online savings account
Yes, you really could start any kind of savings account, but I have found that online savings accounts are the easiest way to boost your savings. �Why? �Well because it�s harder to get your hands onto your money if it is stuck in an online account, where it takes 2 to 3 days to transfer it into your regular bank account. �I know this from personal experience as my husband and I recently began depositing money straight from my husband�s paycheck into a savings account that is solely online. �We chose a small amount (less than $70 per month) and we now have over $1000 built up, which is nice since we really don�t even notice that amount being pulled out each month. �
Set a savings goal
If you have a goal set as far as how much you are trying to save, you will find more success. �It is easier to say no to impulse buying and unnecessary spending. �Going along with what we talked about earlier, when you live paycheck to paycheck, it is better to start with a small amount being saved per pay period. �Whether it is $20, $50 or $100, it will help you to steadily build your savings without causing stress to your otherwise stretched budget.
What have you found helpful in your savings journey? �How do you find pockets of money to save while you are barely making ends meet?