January 2019 Financial Checklist

We can’t be the only ones who live for those new diary feels at the start of each year, right? There’s just something about putting pen to paper in a fresh new (and usually over-priced) diary on January 1st that triggers that excitement for a new beginning, symbolic or not. For those embracing the “new year, new me” phenomena, check out Mozo’s Financial Checklist for January 2019.

Get debt-free in 2019

Raise your hand if you over-indulged and over-spent this festive season? Now, keep your hand up if you’re currently regretting all the times you used “YOLO” to justify every impulse purchase you made throughout Christmas. They don’t call it the ‘silly season’ for nothing folks!

A balance transfer card can give you some breathing room to clear your balance without worrying about interest piling up. So if you overdid it at Christmas, start 2019 off with a promise to yourself that you’ll clear lingering credit card debt ASAP.

#SavingsGoals

Now that you’re on the way to clearing that debt, it’s time to dig deep and determine your financial goals for 2019. Perhaps you’re saving up for a brand new car? Or maybe you’re dreaming about a jam-packed European holiday?

Have a play around with our savings goals calculator to work out how long it will take to hit your savings goals. Whatever you decide to put your money towards, it’s always a great idea to set yourself some attainable financial goals to work towards throughout the year. Keep your eye on the prize!

Bills, Bills, Bills…

Another day, another… bill? Set aside some time to review your bills and look for ways to reduce them. A savvy saver is always hunting for better deals in the market. You’d be surprised by the savings you can find from running a quick comparison check. For example, why spend a fortune on car insurance when there are some great value policies that balance price tag with a quality cover?

While you’re cleaning up your bills, don’t forget to cancel any unused subscription services. If you currently pay for multiple online streaming services but only watch Netflix, cancel them! $10 per month seems like nothing at first, but it definitely adds up!

Establish a 2019 Budget

Now that you’ve set some clear financial goals for the year and reduced your bills, it’s time to establish your 2019 budget. As they say, a goal without a plan is just a dream. With a solid budget in place, specifically designed to fit your financial circumstances, you’ll maximise your savings or meet your spending goals in no time! And for the budgeting newbies out there, not to worry. With our budget calculator at hand, you’ll be a budgeting pro in no time!

Time to stock up!

Just in case you’ve been living under a rock, its sale season! If you want to be a savvy saver you should figure out any major purchases you’ll be making this year and get in quick while the sales are still around to avoid paying a premium price later.

If your mum’s birthday is in June, why not buy her present now? We know what you’re thinking, “That’s ages away!” But June will be here before you know it and if you buy Mum that Dyson vacuum cleaner she’s always wanted now while it’s on sale for half price, you’ll be thanking us later!

Skip the gym

So this is the year you’re going diet, work out and get the body of your dreams? ...Cause we haven’t heard that one before! While we fully support your 2019 weight loss goals, think carefully about what fitness trends you embrace and whether the cost is really worth it.

Mozo research from last year showed that while many Australians start the year with good fitness intentions, these goals can cost a bundle, with things like membership fees costing thousands of dollars a year. Choose a workout routine you’ll get enough use out of to justify the price or start by working out at home. Trust us on this one!

Take control of your finances in 2019. Head over to our life & money hub for more savvy saving tips!