If your bank account was missing a couple desired zeros last year, according to the Chinese New Year, you might just be in luck. This year is the Year of the Tiger, and like the animal, it’s predicted to be powerful, daring, and able to change in an instant. 2022 could bring you the unexpected, good news you’ve been waiting for and turn your lofty ambitions into a glorious reality, but only if you are bold enough! Easy Tiger! Don’t pounce just yet! Like our highly strategic and adaptable striped animal friend, you shouldn’t go fearlessly spending without a plan. Below are some helpful tips to help you attack in new year:

Budget: Maybe you set a budget last year, but it might have changed significantly as the months flew by. Have you adjusted? If not, do it now, and don’t forget to account for those end-of-the-year months, which tend to be significantly more expensive. With school starting for the kiddos, turkeys and hams to put on the table, and all those gifts those loved ones expect, your budget will most likely increase along with your pant size going into the Fall and Winter months.

Credit Score: 2022 could mean big changes; moves, new car, a baby, taking out a personal loan for that new business adventure. Check your credit score now to make sure it’s in good shape as accrued debt, late payments, hard credit inquiries, identity theft, or several other factors in 2021 could have lowered it without your knowledge.

Taxes: Be proactive, instead of reactive by looking for 2022 tax advantages now. Strategic check withholds, exemptions, child credits, charitable deductions, etc. A financial professional could really bring to light tax-saving opportunities you might be missing out on.

Did you know as a LegalEASE Plan Member you have access to 10 hours per year of one-on-one financial coaching from our Certified Financial Counselors? Examples of member services provided include: avoiding debt, saving money, achieving long-term stability, bankruptcy advice, investment strategies, debt matter, personal family budgeting, and harassment relief from creditors/collection agencies.

Not a member, we can still help! All employees, regardless of whether they elect legal coverage or not, have access to KOFE, a financial counseling resource section within our new site, the Legal Corner.