5 Smart Money Moves to Make This Fall

As the leaves begin to change color, it's time to start thinking about your year-end money strategy. The fall and winter holidays are closer than you think. Use the following strategies to make the rest of the year count.

1. Clean out your closet. Fall is the perfect time for a garage sale. Instead of packing away those summer items and kids clothes that won’t fit next year, have a sale to clear out the clutter. You can save the money for the upcoming holidays or use the funds to replenish your winter wardrobe.

2. Add holidays into your budget. Speaking of holidays, if you haven't already made a spending plan for them, do so now. Figure out how much you can afford to spend and stick to that amount. Start shopping early so you can wait for sales and avoid the last minute rush . And remember, Fort Worth City Credit Union offers a Christmas Club account to make it easy and painless to save for the holidays throughout the year.

3. Up your 401(k). If you’ve gotten a raise this year, consider increasing your retirement deductions by 1%. The more you save now, the more tax benefits you’ll get, AND the less you have to worry about the future.

4. Spend your Flexible Spending Account (FSA) dollars. Use it or lose it. You've already saved this money, so don't leave it on the table. Check your FSA documentation to see what health-related expenses you can use this account for and use those dollars.

5. Plan to use your vacation days. Using your vacation days is key to living a successful, balanced life. Even if you have a staycation, it's critical to use your well-deserved days off. If you plan now, you can even save for a weekend getaway before the end of the year. Life is all about balance.

As the weather turns cooler, it's a great time to reflect on the money progress you've made throughout the past year and start focusing on small wins to finish the year right.