Need Help Saving Money? Try “America Saves” Week
February 25th, 2008 | by rachel |
Where is “saving money”on your list of financial priorities? If it is a low or non-existent priority, you are not alone. Millions of Americans live “paycheck to paycheck” with no financial cushion. For the last couple of years, the personal savings rate in America has been negative. Obviously, saving little or nothing has become a way of life. Fortunately, living on the financial edge doesn’t have to stay a way of life! February 24 - March 2, 2008 is the 2nd annual “America Saves Week”. If you are ready to make saving money a priority in your financial life, the “America Saves” program can help.
The America Saves Program, created by The Consumer Federation of America, is a “national campaign involving more than 1,000 non-profit, government and corporate groups that encourages individuals and families to save and build personal wealth.” To date, it has enrolled over 96,000 savers in the free program that provides information, financial advice and encouragement for starting and maintaining a savings habit. There are several levels of participation in the program.
INDIVIDUAL
- enroll as a saver at the “America Saves” web site
- determine a savings goal
- determine monthly contribution and the number of months of the commitment
- identify the financial institution and a method of deposit
LOCAL
Local campaigns are run by groups of representatives from a variety of community organizations. They are intended to encourage groups of people, families and members of organizations to start saving together. Especially for people that have NEVER saved money, it may be easier to start the process as part of a group instead of “on their own”. For a list of local campaigns throughout the country, go to the CAMPAIGN LIST on the America Saves website.
NATIONAL
This program offers numerous resources for savers, even those not enrolled in the “America Saves” program. It is an amazing cooperation of government, private and non-profit organizations offering money, services and expertise.
No matter how you choose to do it, it is essential to have some way to save money on a regular basis. Saving even small amounts can make a difference when financial circumstances change. Start this week and save with America!