Financial Fitness Calendar Tips

The Virginia Society of Certified Public Accountants (VSCPA) has released the 2012 Financial Fitness Calendar! The calendar is designed to provide you with year-round tips and tools on topics that will improve your financial health.

The VSCPA has sold out of the 2012 Financial Fitness Calendar. Please feel free to download the full calendar in PDF format. Please note that this could take several minutes depending upon your Internet connection.

January — Eye on the Economy | Top

While experts are expressing increased optimism about the economy, it is prudent to stay alert and be financially prepared for whatever turns the economy could take.

 

February — Financial Chemistry | Top

Personal financial planning is a key ingredient to achieving your goals and plays an important role in achieving financial harmony in your relationship.

 

March — Where It’s @! | Top

Stay on top of personal finance news and gain access to helpful money management tips through various social media channels and e-communications. 

April — Tax Tidbits | Top

It’s that time again! Individual income tax returns are due April 16. Tax season doesn’t have to be stressful, especially if you’re prepared. Check out the VSCPA Tax Resource Center and these tax articles for information on:

  • Gathering all of the records you’ll need
  • Downloading forms
  • Signing up for e-file and direct deposit for refunds
  • Filing for an extension  

May — Batten Down the Hatches! | Top

While it’s unsettling to think a natural disaster could affect you, emergencies can and do occur. With a little planning, you can minimize the financial impact of an unexpected crisis. Visit the VSCPA Disaster Recovery Resource Center for information on:

  • Building an emergency fund
  • Organizing important records
  • Making sure you’re adequately insured
  • Identifying possible lines of credit in advance, just in case
  • Taking advantage of disaster preparedness tax breaks

June — Classy Credit | Top

It’s a good idea to establish and maintain good credit in the event that you may need to borrow funds for a major investment. But use credit wisely, as it can make or break your financial situation. Visit www.annualcreditreport.com for a free copy of your credit report. Check out these financial articles on credit and debt management.

  • The pay-offs of paying off your balance in full each month
  • The advantages of rewards programs
  • What to look for before signing a credit contract
  • The impact of canceling your card
  • Checking your credit report annually for free
  • How new laws may affect your credit

July — Ensure You’re Insured | Top

One thing is for sure: You can always expect the unexpected. That’s why insurance is so important. But there are so many kinds of insurance and options. Check out these financial articles on insurance.

  • What you need to know about long-term care insurance
  • Facts about life insurance
  • Tailoring disability insurance to meet your needs 
  • Health insurance options for the unemployed

August — Your Cash Is on the Line | Top

Crooks are always after money that isn’t theirs. Make sure they don’t get their hands on yours! One of the best ways to protect your finances is to protect your identity. Read these financial articles on identity theft and fraud.

  • Everything you need to know about identity theft
  • Important considerations regarding medical identity theft
  • What to do if your wallet or personal info is stolen
  • Ways you can monitor your identity for signs of theft

September — Simple Savings | Top

When it comes to saving money, every little bit helps. Pennies eventually add up to dollars and can ultimately make a big impact on your finances. Check out these financial articles on how to manage your finances.

  • Helpful everyday savings tips
  • Tricks you can use to lower your fuel costs
  • How to be a savvy shopper 
  • A downloadable budget sheet to help you manage your spending

October — Green Thoughts | Top

Green is the “it” color this year, and for a good reason. Going green not only saves the environment; it also saves you some green. Read these articles for more information:  "Going Green Can Save You Money" and "Going Green Is Easier Than You Think."

  • Conserving cash by conserving energy
  • Shopping second-hand stores
  • Checking out public transportation
  • Fixing certain appliances rather than buying new ones

November — Prescription for Savings | Top

Financial Fitness is just as important as physical fitness. But it can be tough to know how to save money without skimping on health care. Read these  financial articles on health care and insurance.

  • Saving money on prescription drugs
  • Reviewing your health insurance coverage
  • Comparing the benefits of different plans
  • Taking advantage of health care options for the unemployed

December — Wrapped up With a Bow | Top

Tis the season for family, friends and giving. This holiday season, don’t forget one of the most important gifts of all — the gift of financial stability. Read these  financial articles on holiday shopping.

  • Budgeting ahead so you don’t overspend
  • Giving children money-minded toys that teach financial lessons
  • Making year-end charitable donations as gifts to yourself and others
  • Taking advantage of holiday savings accounts