• Pay yourself first. If you wait to see what's left over, you are less likely to save. Determine in advance how much money you plan to keep on deposit each month. If you receive a raise, increase the amount of money deposited into your savings account.

• Take
advantage of bank technology. Consider automatic payroll deductions or automatic transfer from checking to savings. Arrange to have a specific amount transferred to your savings account every pay period.
• Pay
your bills on time-and pay more than the minimum amount. Although 97 percent of Americans pay their bills on time, some consumers find themselves paying late fees. Alleviate the hassle by scheduling time once a month to pay bills, and put them in the mail with enough time to get to the creditor.
• Determine
needs versus wants. Do you need to eat out every day for lunch? Do you need that gourmet cup of coffee in the morning? By bringing your lunch to work a couple days a week, you can save hundreds of dollars a year.
• Shop
around. There are thousands of options for financial services products. Be selective, and get the best prices, services, convenient locations and lowest fees for credit cards, bank accounts, mortgages and CDs.
• Consider
investments. For long-term goals, such as saving for a home or retirement, look into bonds, mutual funds, real estate and stocks.
• Consult
your local bank. Ask which package of bank products and services would best suit your needs. Your banker is the best source of information about accounts and interest rates available at your bank.

David L Conrad
President and CEO