Winter Garden Magazine August 2018 | Page 18

6 Tips for Boosting Your Financial LiteracY Jessica Ludvigsen W ith tax season recently ending, money is top of mind for many Central Floridians— so it’s a fitting time to brush up on your financial know-how. your goal and the metrics that matter toward reaching it. If you want to buy a house one day, it’s key to understand interest rates and how they affect your overall mortgage payment. If you’re saving for retirement, meet with an The good news is that no matter your expert to discuss your target income level of financial knowledge, you can after you stop working – and how take steps to educate and empower much you need to save to get there. yourself. Here are a few ideas: 2. Take advantage of free (and 1. Begin with the end in mind. Define affordable) resources. MyMoney. 18  | WINTER GARDEN MAGAZINE | AUGUST 2018 gov and CNN’s Money Essentials are just two examples of online resources dedicated to teaching the basics about financial education. You can find advice on subjects like buying a home, balancing a checkbook, or investing in a 401(k). 3. Be realistic. If you’re just starting a budget or beginning to save regularly, it can feel like starting a diet: It’s best to ease yourself into it. Drastic changes