The U.S. economy is experiencing another downturn. Increasingly, people are interested in how to take out a loan, which proves that the economy still affects ordinary people. Unfortunately, it is projected that the inflation rates will rise again next year. Consumers feel an urgent need to protect their personal finances and boost savings to prepare themselves for the upcoming recession. It’s time to take action to bulletproof your finances. Keep on reading to learn more about the top tips to do it.
Inflation and Probability of Recession
We are experiencing the highest rates of inflation in four decades. Many specialists are scared of the coming recession. The previous year wasn’t stable as well, and thousands of American households felt financial pressure due to rising inflation.
Their spending power was lowered, and their budgets were strained. Retirement accounts and 401(k) balances became smaller. Although the recent news was quite positive and mentioned slowing the speed of inflation and moderating gas prices, many experts project a new recession in 2023.
Source: https://www.statista.com/statistics/1239080/us-monthly-projected-recession-probability/
U.S. monthly projected recession probability 2020-2023 estimates that there is a 38.06 percent probability that the USA will fall into another economic recession. It is an increase from the previous month’s projection, where this probability was 26.03 percent.
We don’t know for sure what this new year will bring us, but you definitely need to protect your finances. Here are the best ways to prepare your budget for any economic disruptions.
How to Prepare Your Finances for 2023
Create an Emergency Fund
Having an emergency fund is already a necessity today. We are living in a world where economic uncertainties happen rather often. Preparing yourself and your family for new waves of recession is necessary. You never know what the new 2023 will bring in terms of economy and financial stability.
If you suddenly lose your job and become unemployed, having an emergency fund will help you overcome temporary issues. How much should you set aside? Specialists say having three to six months’ worth of living costs will be able to protect your monetary needs. It’s useful to download a budgeting app to have your finances in order.
Earn More on Your Savings
It’s always a good idea to have a separate savings account. You will be able not just to have your finances set aside but also work for you. The median annual interest rate on the savings account is 0.268%. It isn’t enough to grow your savings.
Conventional banks and other financial institutions offer the lowest interest rates. If you open an online-only account, you will be able to earn up to 4% in interest. The repayment connected with taking out cash from big banks is more extensive than it used to be.
Switch Your Bank Accounts
The last two decades changed banking, and it’s essential to keep up with the evolving landscape. However, the banking methods in your financial institution may not have changed at all. American consumers prefer to stick with the same institutions where they opened their savings or checking accounts many years ago.
To ensure you are getting the most suitable option with the highest interest rates, it’s time to consider making a change and exploring what top nationwide banks have to offer. By shopping around and comparing rates once in a while, you can find banks that not only provide excellent customer service but also offer cash withdrawals from ATMs without maintenance fees.
Cut Down Expenses
Another important tip is to trim your monthly costs. If you plan to protect your existing savings and maximize them, it’s necessary to cut down your expenses. Why don’t you shop for a cheaper internet plan? Would you mind finding a more affordable cell phone bill? You may also bundle your home and auto insurance to reduce monthly costs.
Think about your current subscriptions. If you aren’t using all of them, it makes sense to lower this number. Besides, cooking your lunch and taking it with you can save a lot of cash in the long run.
Get a Side Hustle
If you don’t have enough money to support your monthly needs or your family, you may want to boost your earning potential. Having one steady source of income may not be enough in modern life with high inflation rates. There are plenty of side hustles around, and everyone will be able to find a suitable option.
Finding a side gig is one of the easiest ways to get an additional source of income and have extra funds for your needs. You may work a few additional hours in the evening or find a weekend job. Gardening, answering paid surveys, babysitting, driving, and dog-walking are examples of extra money.
Renegotiate Your Bills
Do you think your monthly bills are too expensive? Then take your phone and try to renegotiate them with the service providers. It usually costs more to attract a new client, so wireless companies and cable providers will most likely accept your offer and lower the bill.
Don’t hesitate to ask the provider to match a competitor’s price or get your previous rate back. You may also be offered a discount or special deal for longtime customers.
Try Passive Income
Those who wish to have monetary independence may want to look at passive income options. If your regular income isn’t sufficient enough and you frequently rely on lending options, you need to find a convenient solution.
Apart from active income streams, consumers may look for passive income options. Earning advertising income from web platforms, affiliate marketing, or drop-shipping are common options to help you build streams of your passive income.
Check Your 401(k) Fund
Experts suggest consumers refrain from making any serious changes to their retirement funds during the economic recession. However, you still need to review and check your account once in a while.
Make sure you log into your retirement fund once a year to check the savings rate, the types of tax-advantaged accounts, and the investment mix. U.S. intermediate-term bond funds are lower by 12.4% this year, and the S&P 500 stock index is down 19.3%.
The annual 401(k) contribution limit was raised to $22,500 for the coming year. Consumers who are 50 years old and more have a new limit of $30,000.
The Bottom Line
In times of economic uncertainty and recession, it’s wise to consider how you can maximize your savings and protect your finances. Follow these tips to prepare for 2023 and remain financially independent.