Financial resolutions for 2020…Get on a healthy track as the New Year kicks off

The New Year is the best time to take stock of your finances. So, as you begin the season of self-reflection and goal-making, take the time to review your spending and start making plans for a financially healthy 2020! Here are a few tips to get you started:

  • Start with your goals—Record what you want to achieve. Is it paying off credit card debt? Buying a home? Saving more for retirement or your child’s college fund? To achieve goals, you must first get specific and then plan your attack.
  • Make a budget—Creating a budget allows you to identify where you might be overspending. Take some time to review year-end credit card reports, for example, to help pinpoint spending leaks.
  • Check in on your credit rating—If you’ve ignored your credit score for some time, it’s probably time to check in. Request a free credit report and review it for potential issues. It’s better to find them now and work to correct mistakes before they turn into something big down the road.
  • Identify cut-backs—Don’t go crazy and deprive yourself, which is the fastest way to fall off the wagon. Instead, identify easier, more digestible cut-backs. For example, plan one stay-cation this year where you and your family spend quality time at home. Or, instead of joining an expensive gym, create an exercise plan that you can execute on your own or with friends. You can also cut out small purchases, like that daily latte from an expensive café chain.
  • Cut the cable cord—While this could be listed under “Identify cut-backs,” we thought it deserved a little spotlighting. Cable services can be very expensive. And with all the cost-effective streaming services available today, do you really need it? Consider dumping your cable and replacing it with Netflix, Amazon Prime, Hulu or even a digital antenna.
  • Bulk up your HSA—Adding a little extra to your Health Savings Account is a tax-savvy way to save for future medical expenses. Check with us for current HSA contribution limits.
  • Educate yourself—There are a lot of outstanding finance-based podcasts out there. Do some research to identify a few and then subscribe. Education is the key to smart financial action.

Start 2020 out right and get on track for a financially healthy year. Let us know if we can help you with your planning.

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Justice Bragg

Business Development Specialist, Florida

At work, Justice is passionate about helping the team make decisions and connections that propel the business forward. He prioritizes client satisfaction by serving as a medium to facilitate communication to the proper channels making sure every issue is properly addressed.

Outside of work, Justice enjoys exercising by going to the gym and playing pickleball with his friends. He is a self-proclaimed foodie who can’t say no to trying a new restaurant, sometimes even immediately regretting it.

Zachary Williams

Staff Accountant, Florida

At Level Accounting, Zach is responsible for bookkeeping & payroll. He is dedicated to ensuring financial success for our clients.

Beyond the office walls, Zach’s weekends are filled with adventure, whether he’s exploring Florida’s hidden gems with his wife or battling it out in tournaments. When it’s time to unwind, you’ll find him at the movies or casting his line out for a relaxing fishing session.

Melanie Jerome, MBA

SENIOR STAFF ACCOUNTANT, FLORIDA

Meet Melanie J, one of our senior staff accountants! Melanie ensures your financial health with precision and expertise. Beyond the office, she’s a true crime enthusiast who loves traveling and outdoor adventures. Whether she’s balancing books or exploring new trails, MJ’s dedication and skill set the standard for excellence in our team.

Seren Lunsford, MBA

STAFF ACCOUNTANT, INDIANA, QUICKBOOKS ONLINE PRO-ADVISOR

Meet Seren, one of our dedicated staff accountants here at level accounting! She is responsible for bookkeeping & payroll. Outside of the office, you can find her on the sidelines of a soccer pitch, karting track, or baseball diamond, cheering on her two active boys. Seren is also a proud owner of two gentle giants, her beloved Great Danes. In her downtime, she channels her creativity into baking and decorating sugar cookies, always eager to experiment with new baked goods ideas and recipes. With her expertise in accounting and her passion for family, pets, and baking, Seren brings a unique blend of professionalism and warmth to our team.

Ivette Rivera

EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT, FLORIDA

Ivette Rivera is our Executive Assistant at Level Accounting, juggling schedules and keeping things running smooth.

When she’s not crushing it at work, Ivette is an avid participant in her church community. As a mom, she’s all about those quality moments, whether it’s baking up a storm, hitting the water for some kayaking fun, or just chilling with a good book or binge-worthy show. And let’s not forget her partners in crime at home: Harley Quinn, the fridge-raiding pit bull, and Atlas, the cat who rules the roost. Ivette’s all about that balance between work hustle and personal bliss.