David Lerner Associates: Free Financial Planning Tools
Financial Planning Month is a good time to try out some of the apps and software that can help you get your finances in better shape. There are many new apps out there – some free and some paid. These are excellent free tools you should use to keep your finger on your financial pulse.
Your credit report and score
Credit reports with the three main credit bureaus make up your credit score. This score affects not only loans and credit applications, it can also be used when you apply to rent a house or apartment or even when you apply for a job. It’s important to know exactly what’s in your report and how your score adds up. You can get a free report from each of the three major credit reporting agencies once a year through AnnualCreditReport.com. There are also credit-monitoring services that will give you monthly access to your report for free.
Budget software and apps
The cornerstone of a financial plan is having and sticking to a budget. Instead of wading through piles of receipts and keeping track of it all on a spreadsheet, there are a number of great apps to help you. Mint.com is a free app that has all the tools you need to manage your earnings, spending, saving, and budgeting. It syncs up all your accounts, from bank accounts and mutual funds to your 401(k) or IRA. It analyzes your spending habits, helping you pinpoint areas where you can potentially save. GoodBudget is another app that can help you keep to your budgeted spending.
Paying off debt
Another important part of a financial plan is to get rid of your debt as soon as you can. You will need a plan to do this in the most efficient way. Ready for Zero is an app that offers a free personalized plan that provides you with both the method and the motivation to pay down your debt.
These are just a few of the apps and software programs available today to help you with your financial planning. When you reach the point in your financial planning where you have money to save and invest, always consult an investment professional who can assess your needs and goals and help you choose a sensible investment plan.
IMPORTANT DISCLOSURES
Material contained in this article is provided for information purposes only and is not intended to be used in connection with the evaluation of any investments offered by David Lerner Associates, Inc. This material does not constitute an offer or recommendation to buy or sell securities and should not be considered in connection with the purchase or sale of securities.
To the extent that this material concerns tax matters, it is not intended or written to be used, and cannot be used, by a taxpayer for the purpose of avoiding penalties that may be imposed by law. Each taxpayer should seek independent advice from a tax professional based on his or her individual circumstances.
These materials are provided for general information and educational purposes based upon publicly available information from sources believed to be reliable– we cannot assure the accuracy or completeness of these materials. The information in these materials may change at any time and without notice.
David Lerner Associates does not provide tax or legal advice. The information presented here is not specific to any individual's personal circumstances. Member FINRA & SIPC.