Staying Accountable with a Free Financial Coach

How a Free Financial Coach Helps You Stay on Track with Your Money Goals Throughout the Year

Beyond simply crunching numbers, a financial coach is someone who helps you develop healthy money habits and instills confidence in managing your finances. They serve as an accountability partner who keeps you motivated and on track toward achieving your desired financial outcomes. Whether you set a New Year’s resolution to save more money, pay down debt, or start building wealth, a free financial coach can help keep you on track along your journey to financial wellness.

GET HELP CREATING A PERSONALIZED BUDGET THAT ALIGNS WITH YOUR FINANCIAL GOALS AND LIFESTYLE CHOICES 

A financial coach understands that each individual has unique circumstances and priorities. They take the time to listen to your specific needs and help you create a budget that not only addresses your immediate concerns but also sets you up for long-term success.

One of the key benefits of working with a certified financial coach from Canopy is their ability to help you craft a budgeting strategy that you’ll actually stick to. They provide guidance and support throughout the process, making sure you understand the importance of tracking expenses, identifying areas where adjustments can be made, and finding creative solutions for saving more money.

Over time, you’ll learn to take control of your finances in a way that feels manageable and sustainable. With their guiding expertise at your side, you’ll have the tools necessary to make informed decisions about spending, saving, and ultimately achieving greater financial stability.

RECEIVE TIPS FOR MANAGING DEBT EFFECTIVELY TO ACHIEVE LONG-TERM FINANCIAL STABILITY 

In today’s fast-paced and often financially challenging world, managing debt can be a source of stress and anxiety for many individuals. However, there is a solution that can help alleviate this burden and pave the way towards long-term stability: working with a free financial coach.

A financial coach is not just someone who provides tips on managing debt; they are your ally in navigating the complex world of money management. They understand the unique challenges you may be facing and offer personalized guidance tailored to your specific situation.

One of the greatest benefits of working with a financial coach is the ability to reduce stress. Debt can weigh heavily on our minds, affecting our overall well-being and quality of life. A skilled coach will not only provide practical strategies for paying off debt but also offer empathy and compassionate support throughout the process.

Best of all, the financial coaches at Canopy Credit Union offer this service completely free of charge, to both members and non-members of the credit union. This means that anyone, regardless of their financial situation, can access expert advice regardless of how much is in their checking account. This service is an opportunity to gain valuable insights from professionals who genuinely care about helping you achieve your long-term financial goals.

LEARN STRATEGIES FOR SAVING MONEY AND BUILDING AN EMERGENCY FUND 

In uncertain times, having a solid emergency fund can bring a sense of Security and peace of mind. It serves as a financial cushion that can help navigate unexpected expenses or job loss. However, building an emergency fund requires discipline and strategic planning.

One of the most effective strategies for saving money and building an emergency fund is to create a budget that fits this consistent savings goal within its framework. By tracking your expenses and identifying areas where you can cut back, you can allocate more funds toward your savings. This may involve making small sacrifices in your daily spending habits, such as eating out less frequently or finding cost-effective alternatives for entertainment.

Automating your savings is another powerful strategy. Set up automatic transfers from your checking account to a separate savings account specifically designated for your emergency fund. This way, you won’t have to rely on willpower alone to save; it becomes a consistent habit that happens automatically.

It’s also important to explore ways to save more money in your everyday life. Look for opportunities to reduce Monthly bills by negotiating with service providers or switching to more affordable options. Additionally, consider embracing frugal habits such as couponing, buying in bulk, or opting for second-hand items when possible.

While saving is crucial, it’s equally important to maximize the growth of your emergency fund through smart investments. Explore high-yield savings accounts or CD/term share options that offer competitive interest rates. Remember that the goal is not only saving but also allowing your money to work for you over time.

Lastly, maintaining motivation and staying focused on the long-term benefits of having an emergency fund is essential throughout this process. Celebrate small milestones along the way and remind yourself of the security and freedom that comes with financial preparedness. Plus having a free financial coach at your side to guide you along the way will help you stick with your goals for the long term.

By implementing these strategies and consistently prioritizing saving, you can build an emergency fund that provides stability during unforeseen circumstances while also fostering healthy financial habits for the future. 

FINALLY, DISCOVER HOW TO GROW WEALTH OVER TIME 

A financial coach understands that before you can start building wealth, it’s essential to address certain foundational elements. First comes debt management – they will assist you in creating a plan to pay off any outstanding debts efficiently. By managing your debt effectively, you can free up more resources to allocate towards building an emergency fund and putting resources towards wealth-building activities.
Throughout this journey, a compassionate financial coach recognizes that everyone’s situation is unique. They will listen attentively to your concerns and tailor their guidance accordingly. Their goal is not only to help you build wealth but also to empower you with financial literacy so that you can maintain long-term financial stability.

By working alongside a knowledgeable financial coach, individuals can gain the confidence necessary to make sound financial decisions throughout their lives. Together, they lay the Foundation for lasting wealth by addressing debt management, establishing an emergency fund, growing net worth, and harnessing the power of strategic investments.

By partnering with a free financial coach, you can stay accountable to your money goals throughout the year. Their guidance and support will help you navigate challenges, track progress, and make informed decisions that align with your long-term financial well-being. 

Schedule your first appointment and start working with one of Canopy’s free financial coaches today.

Canopy Credit Union

Related Post

How to Calculate IRMAAHow to Calculate IRMAA

IRMAA is now impacting more than 7 million retirees this year and for many they have questions. This report will answer all the questions relating to “How do you calculate IRMAA Surcharges?”

What is IRMAA?

IRMAA, short for Medicare’s Income Monthly Adjustment Amount, is a surcharge on top of a Medicare beneficiary’s Part B and Part D premiums if they are earning too much income during the year.

Simply put, IRMAA is a tax on income through Medicare and compounding the impact of this tax is that IRMAA also reduces your Social Security benefit.

You pay this tax of IRMAA automatically through your Social Security benefit too.

So, the more money you generate in retirement the higher your Medicare premiums will be and the less Social Security benefits you will receive.

Think of IRMAA as being a huge revenue generator for Congress that also helps alleviate the burden of what Social Security must pay out in benefits.

Social Security is not going broke not even close.

How do you calculate IRMAA Surcharges?

There are 2 different sets of IRMAA surcharges as this tax will affect both your Medicare Part B AND Part D premiums.

To calculate IRMAA Surcharges – Part B

You must first realize that no one person ever pays full price or the “true cost” of Medicare Part B as the federal government provides a subsidy for all retirees.

The “true cost” of Medicare Part B is the current year’s monthly Part B premium multiplied by 4.

In 2024 the “true cost” of Medicare Part B is $698.80 a month (4 X $174.70).

According to Social Security.gov IRMAA is a Medicare subsidy reduction as those who reach it receive a lower subsidy for Part B premiums.

The subsidy per IRMAA Thresholds is as follows:

IRMAA Government Subsidy of Part B Retiree Portion of Part B
No IRMAA 75% 25%
1st Threshold 65% 35%
2nd Threshold 50% 50%
3rd Threshold 35% 65%
4th Threshold 20% 80%
5th Threshold 15% 85%

Knowing the “true cost” of Medicare Part B and the amount of subsidy each person will receive when in IRMAA the monthly surcharge can easily be found.

In 2024 the IRMAA Part B surcharges per Threshold are as follows:

IRMAA Retiree Portion of Part B True Cost of Medicare Part B Part B and IRMAA Costs
No IRMAA 25% $698.80 $174.70
1st Threshold 35% $698.80 $244.60
2nd Threshold 50% $698.80 $349.40
3rd Threshold 65% $698.80 $454.20
4th Threshold 80% $698.80 $559.00
5th Threshold 85% $698.80 $594.00

Calculating IRMAA Part B in the future:

IRMAA Part B surcharges move with in conjunction with the Medicare Part B premium. If the Part B premium increases the IRMAA Part B surcharge will inflate at the same rate.

Over the next 8 years the Trustees of Medicare are projecting that the Part B premium will inflate by over 6.30%.

By 2032 this premium, according to the projections, may be $285.60 a month making the surcharges equate to:

Navigating the OASDI Threshold in 2023Navigating the OASDI Threshold in 2023

The limit for Old-Age, Survivors, and Disability Insurance (OASDI) stands as a pivotal determinant influencing your contributions to Social Security. In the OASDI limit 2023, a substantial shift is on the horizon, marking an increase in the maximum earnings subject to Social Security tax, soaring from $147,000 to $160,200. This translates to a potential expansion of the portion of your income subject to taxation for Social Security purposes.

But what’s the precise implication of this adjustment? Allow me to elucidate. The Federal Insurance Contributions Act (FICA) stipulates that both employers and employees are obligated to contribute an equal share to Social Security through payroll taxes, encompassing both OASDI and Medicare components. In 2023, the FICA tax rate stands firm at 7.65%, with 6.2% earmarked for OASDI.

This elevated cap doesn’t only affect individuals earning up to or exceeding this new wage base; it also leaves its mark on businesses that reciprocate these contributions. So, if your income crosses the $160,200 threshold next year, anticipate heightened deductions under the label of ‘Social Security Tax.’

The Interplay of the Wage Cap and Future Benefits

An intriguing facet of elevating the wage cap lies in its cascading impact on future benefits. This stems from the fact that benefit calculations hinge on the average lifetime earnings covered by Social Security. Consequently, an escalated contribution potentially paves the way for augmented benefits during your retirement years.

If you’ve ever pondered the rationale behind these annual adjustments, the answer lies in their synchronization with increases in national average wages. While witnessing slightly more substantial deductions from your paycheck presently, rest assured that it’s a strategic move, laying the foundation for a more secure Financial future.

Unraveling Your Personal Financial Landscape

Remaining well-informed about changes that influence your financial future is a wise approach. For more comprehensive insights into the 2023 alterations, perusing the Social Security Administration’s press release can furnish you with the details you seek.

Impact of the OASDI Limits on Social Security Benefits

The OASDI limit exerts a considerable influence on your Social Security benefits. This is because the amount you contribute through payroll taxes directly shapes the magnitude of your future monthly benefit.

Rise in SSI Benefits

A crucial aspect to comprehend is how modifications to this limit can impact Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits. The SSI program extends assistance to individuals with limited income and resources who are aged 65 or older, blind, or disabled.

Consider recent developments; in 2023, there will be an 8.7% increase in both Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits. So, what does this signify for recipients of these payments? It implies that if you rely on these programs as a safety net – whether due to age or disability – your financial outlook just became brighter.

To provide context to this increase: the previous average monthly social security benefit of $1,681 would now surge to approximately $1,827. These figures represent tangible enhancements that can significantly ease the lives of beneficiaries nationwide – quite noteworthy, isn’t it?

This substantial upswing aligns with the objective of ensuring beneficiaries keep pace with inflation while preserving their purchasing power over time.

Beyond being crucial information for current SSI beneficiaries, these statistics also serve as valuable indicators for anyone orchestrating their retirement finances. Understanding potential changes is pivotal for effective planning.

However, bear in mind that while this increase is noteworthy, it’s not the sole consideration when contemplating your retirement finances. Other factors like personal savings, investments, pension plans, or even your intent to work part-time during retirement all play pivotal roles in securing a comfortable post-retirement life.

Grasping these systems may seem intricate, but remember – knowledge empowers, especially when planning for financial security down the road.

Six Good Reasons Why Individuals Need To Turn To Solar powerSix Good Reasons Why Individuals Need To Turn To Solar power

Save And Generate Cash

 

Contrary to well-known opinion, making the shift to solar power may not have to break the bank and can even put hard earned cash back into your pocket!As soon as you make the switch to solar power energy, you primarily use the electricity that you produce and, when you do use electricity from the network, you can strive to do so when the energy is at its least expensive. Solar Info Here Integrated Solar PV Panels
 

Cut down Your Influence on The Planet

 

The electrical energy that your solar energy panels generate is 100% clean and sustainable and entails no burning (on our earth anyway!) which means there are no emissions of damaging greenhouse gases released. On the other hand, the power from power stations may be generated from burning coal.
 

Autonomy from the Grid

 

Fuel prices have never been higher, and as individuals we’re never quite confident when the next rate hike is going to be put into effect, sending our personal spending plans and monetary plans into chaos.When you switch to solar energy, you detach yourself from the mental worry of surprising price lift.

 

Govt Rewards and Assistance
 

Simply because of the attempts of the government to decrease the extent of climate change, and the multiple sustainability aims that they have to achieve, there are now significant rewards to shift to solar power at home. More solar panel installations Harrogate
 

Property Worth Boost

 

When solar power panels first started being put in on residential roof tops, a lot of homeowners were concerned about devaluing their home – after all, a solar energy array isn’t the prettiest thing to have ever enhanced the top of a property.
These days however, as a result of ever growing power prices, as well as an increased awareness of Environmental accountability and protecting our planet, this perception has altered, with the addition of solar energy photovoltaic cells on a rooftop adding to the value of a residential or commercial property.

 

Inexpensive Upkeep Innovation

 

Solar energy panels in truth only need a quick inspection every calendar year to make sure they’re working optimally. It’s also good to make sure the panels are kept spotless and aren’t overshadowed by trees – do this, and your solar panels ought to last well over twenty years.
 

As you’ll now recognize, it is now easier than previously to switch over to solar power. Click Here now Solar panel Installation Doncaster