Financial Planning During Difficult Times

Some tips and resources from Latitude 32 Credit Union to assist during these uncertain times.

There is no doubt about it, 2020 has taken us all by surprise. Our financial present and our financial futures’ have all been turned upside down by the covid-19 pandemic, subsequent lockdowns, and ensuing financial hardships that have followed.

Our everyday lives have changed drastically and for many, so have their finances.

That’s why it’s completely understandable to be concerned about your financial future in these uncertain times. None of us have ever experienced something quite like this before, and there are still plenty of unknowns to add into the equation, making financial planning even more difficult.

That’s why our team at Latitude 32 Credit Union wanted to illustrate the resources available to you through your membership.

Latitude 32 Credit Union Can Help

As you navigate your finances in the coming months, our team at Latitude 32 Credit Union is here to help.

Latitude 32 members can always come in for a complimentary consultation with a Latitude 32 Financial Advisor. Even if you are used to managing your financial planning on your own, you should consider setting up a session with our team.

We are experienced, member focused, and most importantly “on your side”! We will focus our efforts on providing the best insights and solutions to your financial needs, providing valuable perspective. Now, more than ever, you can find value in collaborating with an expert.

4 Ways to Solidify A Financial Plan

  1. Set a Financial Goal

With all the uncertainty in the world today, setting and achieving a financial goal is something that you can control. A good financial plan is started with a solid financial goal. We suggest setting short term, medium term, and long-term goals and adjusting as needed throughout the process.

  1. Track Your Money

Unless you are currently tracking your spend and have a good sense of where your monthly cash flow is being allocated, it can be difficult to set a realistic financial plan. This step is what is proving to be the most difficult for our members during these trying times.

Income is uncertain, cash flow is sporadic, and predicting where it will be in a few months seems to be an impossible task. We suggest focusing on what you can control, your expenditures. Streamline your outgoing payments as much as possible and have a thorough understanding of what your spending on, its value, and if it can be consolidated during these times. The more you can trim now the better you’ll be in the long run.

  1. Put Away Emergency Cash ASAP

The foundation of a financial plan is having cash for emergencies. We suggest if you don’t have any stored away now, that you start small. $500 is enough to cover small emergency expenses, so work towards that first. From there ensure you are setting goals, associated with your expenditures, and potential emergency costs.

  1. Build Credit & Tackle Debt

We also suggest building credit as a way to protect against a financial emergency. Having a good credit score allows you to take a loan or use a credit card without paying overbearing interest costs and fees. Additionally, lowering your high interest debt frees up more monthly cash.

While these are just some basic suggestions to get you started on your financial plan, you can also count on Latitude 32 Credit Union to help in a wide range of other ways including:

  • Post-COVID-19 financial planning. The pandemic could impact many areas of your finances.
  • Retirement planning. Whether you’re in the early stages of your career or considering retirement, now is a good time to re-evaluate your standing and make changes as needed.
  • Education funding. Are your educational plans changing? Let’s revisit your plan and funding options.
  • Debt consolidation. Would a personal loan assist you in consolidating high interest debt – improving your credit standing and simplifying your monthly payments?
  • Auto Loans. Now, more than ever, you’ll want to ensure you aren’t overpaying!
  • Need cash? Would a cash line of credit make sense to get you through these slower times?
  • Looking to take advantage of the market and buy a new home or refinance your current home? Our mortgage team can help!
  • Maybe you just want to take advantage of the outdoors and have fun this summer? We have amazing rates and terms for ATV, boat, RV, and jet ski loans!
  • Planning for financial security. No matter your income or asset level, Latitude 32 can help.
  • & much more

We’re currently setting up consultations via phone. To schedule an appointment, call us at 843.556.4809, or visit us online at Latitude32.org.