5 Ways to Increase Your Financial Security in 2023

No one knows what the future holds, but there are steps you can take to increase your financial security in 2023. This can allow you to weather any storms that may come your way. Here are five quick ideas to get you started toward a more financially secure future:

1. Get a paycheck loan

There are times when a bill is due before payday, you’re running low on cash for groceries, or an unexpected expense throws the budget off track. When people find they can’t cover weekly costs, paycheck loans can act as a safety net. With these short-term loans, you’ll typically receive a few hundred dollars, and you can repay what you owe in two to four weeks on your next payday. Think of paycheck loans as a way to get through today so you can start planning for tomorrow.

2. Build an emergency fund

Having some extra money in a savings account for emergencies should be part of any plan to achieve financial security. Many experts recommend saving three to six months’ worth of expenses. If you’re on a tight budget, try contributing to your emergency fund in small increments to start. Five or ten dollars a week might not seem like much, but it adds up over time. Set small savings goals, meet them, then set larger goals. Eventually, the emergency fund will build to a substantial amount that you can use in a financial pinch.

3. Max out your retirement contributions

Maxing out your retirement contributions can help increase financial security so that you can eventually retire comfortably. The Internal Revenue Service has a limit on how much you can contribute to a retirement fund each year. The maximum contribution limit for a 401(k) fund in 2022 was $20,500. If you can, contribute that full amount. It may not seem like you’re getting a great return right now, but it will add up over time. Ignoring your retirement savings now could create financial problems in your golden years. Many people wait too long before they realize that.

4. Make sure you’re properly insured

Experiencing a medical emergency, automobile accident, or natural disaster can be compounded by not having the insurance to cover it. Part of achieving financial security is ensuring that your assets are protected wherever possible. Conduct a personal audit on all your insurance policies. Check the coverage pages to find out what you are and aren’t insured for, then make the changes you need to make sure you’re covered going forward.

5. Consolidate your credit card debt

Consolidating credit card debt is an excellent way for people of all income and credit levels to increase financial security. Credit card debt can come with high interest rates that are expected to go up even more in the next several months. This is a great time to take out a debt consolidation loan to pay off outstanding credit card debt and lower your monthly debt payments. Many banks and credit unions offer personal installment loans to do this. There are also online lenders that service borrowers with poor or fair credit.

The bottom line

You don’t need to be a financial advisor to do some basic financial planning for 2023. Borrowers can meet immediate needs with a paycheck loan. Building an emergency fund can help you get by when life takes a turn. A well-funded retirement savings account and good insurance will secure your future. And if you’re carrying a lot of credit card debt, consolidate it with a loan. By taking it one step at a time, you can achieve financial security in the new year.