How Financially Savvy Are You?

Are you managing your finances like a pro or are there a few areas that can use improvement? Take this quiz to find out.

1. How often do you check your credit report?

A. At least once a year– from all 3 bureaus.
B. Once every few years.
C. What is a credit report?


2. How much do you have in savings?

A. At least three to six months worth of essential living expenses.
B. A few hundred dollars.
C. Nothing.


3. Which of the following most accurately describes your bill-paying habits?

A. I always pay on time.
B. I mostly pay on time but sometimes am a little late.
C. Paying bills is a struggle, and I am often severely delinquent.


4 . How high are your credit card balances?

A. I always pay my balances in full each month.
B. Fairly low.
C. Pretty close to or over the limits.


5. How often do you check your bank account balance and activity?

A. At least once a week – and whenever I am not sure if there is
---enough money in my account to make a purchase.
B. At least once a month.
C. Never – I’m not even sure how much money is in there now.


6. Do you contribute to a retirement plan?

A. Yes – enough to reach my retirement goals.
B. Yes – but only a small amount.
C. No.

See how you did!

Give yourself two points for each “A” answer, 1 point for each “B” answer, and no points for each “C” answer.

12 points
You are financially savvy! Now help those you care about also learn money-smart habits by sharing the information available to them online for free at www.balancepro.net/education.
6-11 points
You may benefit from making a few adjustments to your financial routine. Look at your “B” and/or “C” answers, and consider what you can do to turn them into “A” answers. Monitor your credit report and checking account on a regular basis – set reminders if you are worried you will forget. Look at your budget and consider ways that you can increase your income and/or reduce your expenses so that you can save and pay your bills with ease. Put savings on autopilot by having a portion of your paycheck directly deposited into your savings account. Peruse a wealth of information online to help you get financially savvy at www.balancepro.net/education.
0-5 points
If you continue on your current path, you may be headed toward a financial disaster, but a major financial tune-up can help you get on the path to financial success. Take a careful look at your budget and cut back on expenses that are not necessary. Consider if there are any ways to increase your income, such as by getting a part-time job, working overtime, or renting out a room in your home. Avoid using credit further until you get it under control, and contact your creditors for help if you cannot make the payments. Don’t be afraid to seek guidance from a financial professional if you need advice. Learn more about how we can help at www.balancepro.net/services.
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