While 40% to 50% of us make New Year's resolutions on January 1-a ritual that has existed since ancient times-approximately 60% to 80% of us have already broken by the end of February, according researchers.

It is still not too late, however, the path to restore their family's finances, experts note.

1. Building a Budget
If you have not already done so, create a realistic budget.

Approximately 85% of their income must be set aside for needs such as shelter, food, health care and clothing, according to professionals in the U.S. VISA.

This leaves 15% for entertainment-and something many consumers completely neglect: savings.

2. Distinguish between "needs" of "wishes"
Make sure you have a clear understanding of what you need in life versus what you want in life.

You have to pay for antibiotics when the doctor diagnoses a respiratory infection. No need to buy the latest DVD movie release to aid in their recovery.

You have to pay the rent or mortgage. No need to buy the lovely accent pillows that invite you from the boutique interior design.

Always separate the needs of needs, especially if money is tight.

3. Monitor your expenses
To see what actually spend each month, keep a record of all purchases-no matter how small a full month. This will give you a visual representation of where your money goes after depositing your paycheck.

It is possible that the $ 3 cup of coffee that starts each day amounts to $ 90 per month-a pocketbook PINCHER asking you to buy a pound of coffee in the local market and grind your own. The flowers at $ 90 in savings of $ 1080 at the end of a year.

4. Create an Emergency Fund
Life is full of surprises, both positive and negative. If you happen to lose your job or suffer an illness that temporarily sidelines, you will have cash reserves to support during the rough months.

"In most cases, consumers who are facing a financial hardship are unprepared and have not saved for unexpected situations," says Diane Giarratano, director of education for Novadebt, USA agency financial management services, with multiple locations, which provides credit counseling, budgeting and financial education.

5. Educate
When he attended high school or college, he studied history, mathematics, language and science, but probably did not exist in the basic course on money management.

If you need help in meeting a financial goal, whether buying a home or reducing your debt, take advantage of community resources.

"Consumers should feel free to contact a credit counseling agency for free advice with regard to creating a budget or to learn how to handle the unexpected difficulties," Giarratano said.

6. Does not become a victim
Identity theft has become an international epidemic, so be extremely cautious about giving their credit card or personal identifying information. Monitor your credit card bills carefully for unauthorized charges, and immediately report suspicious activity to the issuing company.

"Identity theft is often an inside job," warns Robert L. Siciliano, a security expert with Boston, Massachusetts SafetyMinute-based seminars and author of "The Safety Minute."

"Low-level help desk workers and frontline call center employees often have access to all our personal information in their databases," he says. "What will you do to protect themselves? If you are not paying attention, you can be a victim, too."

And when disaster strikes, as the murderer of recent tsunamis in South Asia and East Africa, be wary of scammers from fake charities before reaching for your checkbook. Unfortunately, there will always be unscrupulous individuals who seize such opportunities to profit from others' misfortune.

"Avoid using your credit card to make contributions," advises James Walsh, author of "Can not Cheat an Honest Man: How Ponzi schemes and Pyramid Frauds Work ... and why it is more common than ever .

"While this may be a way forward, many thieves looking for credit card numbers," said Walsh. "They will press strongly for 'immediate support." Do not rush. "

Instead, you initiate the call and select a nonprofit reputation.

"Go with recognized names," said Walsh. "No organization is perfect, even the best of the groups occasionally meaning misallocate money or are victims of abuse employees. But larger charitable groups such as the Red Cross, United Way and Catholic Charities-have mechanisms in place to audit its people and performance. "

Donations are tax deductible, so keep good records of all cash donations, including small gifts.


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