Tis the time of year to make New Years resolutions. And financial resolutions are popular every year. Most people say they want to save more, spend less or pay off debts. But rather than make a general resolution thats easy to lose track of, think about a specific goal. A financial goal should always have an amount and a time-frame attached to it. See how you can make a worthwhile resolution even better.

Better Resolution: Starting with the first 2016 payday, I will save $50 (or other amount) per paycheck in KPERS 457, my employers retirement savings plan or another savings vehicle.

Tip: Make savings automatic with payroll deduction.

Better Resolution: Increase my retirement savings by 1 percent (or more) starting in January.

Tip: Save a percentage instead of a dollar amount, your savings will get a raise whenever your pay increases.

Better Resolution: Cut $50 per month off my food spending.

Tip: Clipping coupons, buying store-brand or shopping in bulk for nonperishables can help chop your grocery bill. By planning meals ahead, you may find yourself eating out less.

Better Resolution: I will find a budget-tracking tool that works for me, and use it to track my spending each month.

Tip: See our Budgeting Techniques article on page 2.

Better Resolution: Pay off $100 (or other amount) of debt each paycheck or each month.

Tip: A vague goal to pay off debt may not get you far. Instead, make an achievable, realistic goal with a specific amount. Over the year, youll knock a big chunk out of your debt.

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