How to Adapt and Financially Prepare for 2021

If we could look in a crystal ball, we would have a clear picture of how we should financially prepare for 2021. We can only guess what lies ahead for us next year basing on our experiences this year. 2020 has been tough on many- business closings, lay-offs, disruptions to learning, health and social concerns, and financial stress.

If the recession extends into the New Year longer than we would like, our optimism may stifle. Many people have changed their habits during COVID-19. Adapting to the new normal is critical to staying healthy. It will also assist you to be financially prepared for anything. Here are a few ways you can prepare for the upcoming year:

Increase your emergency fund savings.

Save as much as possible in case of a future lay-off or closing at your employer. Your emergency fund should cover a minimum of three to six month’s expenses. While you can take a distribution up to $100,000 from your retirement savings this year through The CARES Act without paying the 10% early distribution fine, liquidating your shares may result in taxation, a loss of valuation, and having less money during retirement.

Continue to fund your retirement savings.

If you are still working, consider increasing your retirement savings contributions. That way, if you do lose your job or are laid-off, you have at least made some contributions that will help boost your retirement savings. Meet with your financial professional and review your portfolio’s diversification. Diversification can help avoid severe losses when containing assets from various market segments and insurance products such as annuities.

Set up a monthly budget.

Often people find themselves running out of money before their next paycheck arrives. If this sounds like you, take time to assess your overall monthly spending to find gaps that are eating up your monthly income. Determine what you can eliminate to ensure you are not financially stressed each month. Remember that setting aside part of your income for retirement and future needs is as important as your needs and wants. Some budgeting methods include the 50/20/30 budget or the envelope method. Investigate other ways that may help keep you on track each month.

Reduce your debt.

If you are carrying credit card balances forward each month, paying your debt off will increase your ability to save. Instead of paying interest and monthly credit card payments, use the additional money to increase your savings. According to a September 2020 study by WalletHub:

Get Ready to Financially Prepare

“Americans began 2020 owing more than $1 trillion in credit card debt after a $76.7 billion net increase during 2019. Consumers quickly changed course, however, posting the biggest first-quarter credit card paydown ever, at $60 billion. This was followed by another record in Q2 when consumers payed down $58 billion more in credit card debt. Although first-quarter paydowns are normal, Q2 2020 marks the first time in more than 30 years that credit card debt has dropped from April through June.”

WalletHub projects that U.S. consumers will end 2020 with a reduction in credit card debt for the first time since the end of the Great Recession in 2009.

As 2020 ends and 2021 begins, preparing for the unknown lies ahead in your best interest. If you have any questions about how to financially prepare, saving, or protecting your future, reach out to me anytime.

Disclosure

For financial professional use only.  Not for use with the general public. Before any decisions are made regarding your client’s financial situation, your client’s individual circumstances and objectives should be discussed.  There are many factors to consider. This newsletter is not endorsed or approved by any other Government Agency. It is designed to provide general information on the subjects covered and should not be considered as tax advice. The sources used to prepare this material are believed to be true, accurate, and reliable, but are not guaranteed.

An Annuity is a long-term financial product designed largely for asset accumulation and retirement needs. Annuities generally contain fees and charges which include, but are not limited to, surrender charges, administrative fees, and optional contract riders and benefits. All guarantees of an Annuity are backed by the claims-paying ability of the issuing insurer.

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As a retirement income specialist and 38-year veteran of the financial services industry, August H. Velten understands what his clients need in order to enjoy a comfortable retirement. Augie is a former instructor for the Life Underwriter Training Council. He once occupied the legislative seat for the Maine Association of Life Insurers. At August H Velten & Associates, we know that it is your retirement, and you should have control over it. We offer our experience and knowledge to help you design a custom strategy for financial independence. Contact us today to schedule an introductory meeting!