Money Read Time: 3 min

Pay Yourself First

Each month, you settle down to pay bills. You pay your mortgage lender. You pay the electric company. You pay the trash collector. But do you pay yourself? One of the most basic tenets of sound investing involves the simple habit of “paying yourself first” – in other words, making your first payment of each month a deposit into your savings account.

The saving patterns of Americans vary widely. And too often, short-term economic trends can interrupt long-term savings programs. For example, the U.S. Personal Savings Rate jumped from 3.5% to nearly 8% in May 2008 during the housing and banking crisis. It then rose and fell sporadically as the economic environment appeared to stabilize. It peaked in December 2012 at 12%. As of 2021, the average rate has once again varied widely between about 15% to 28%, largely due to the COVID-19 pandemic.1

The Genius of Pay Yourself First

Anyone who’s ever managed their own finances knows that saving can be a challenge. There seems to be an endless stream of expenses that demand a piece of each month’s paycheck. Herein lies the genius of paying yourself first: you get the cream at the top of the bucket, and not the leftovers at the bottom.

The trick is to prioritize. Make it a point to put your future first. At first, saving may mean a small lifestyle change. But most individuals want to see their net worth increase steadily. For them, finding ways to save becomes more of a long-term commitment than a short-term challenge.

Putting Your Money to Work

What will you do with the money you save?

If retirement is your priority, consider taking advantage of tax-advantaged investments. Employer-sponsored retirement plans, such as 401(k)s, can be a great way to save because the money comes out of your paycheck before you even see it. Also, as an added incentive, some employers offer to match a percentage of your contributions.2

For money you may want to access before retirement, consider placing the funds in a separate account. When the balance hits your target, you may want to move the money into investments that offer the potential for higher returns. Of course, this may mean exposing your money to more volatility, so you’ll want to choose vehicles that fit your risk tolerance, time horizon, and long-term goals.

In the pursuit of growing wealth, sound habits can be your most valuable asset. Develop the habit of “paying yourself first” today. The sooner you begin, the more potential your savings may have to grow.

1. Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis, 2021
2. Under the SECURE Act, in most circumstances, you must begin taking required minimum distributions from your 401(k) or other defined contribution plan in the year you turn 73. Withdrawals from your 401(k) or other defined contribution plans are taxed as ordinary income, and if taken before age 59½, may be subject to a 10% federal income tax penalty.

The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The information in this material is not intended as tax or legal advice. It may not be used for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalties. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. This material was developed and produced by FMG Suite to provide information on a topic that may be of interest. FMG Suite is not affiliated with the named broker-dealer, state- or SEC-registered investment advisory firm. The opinions expressed and material provided are for general information, and should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security. Copyright FMG Suite.

 

Related Content

What to Do When You Lose Your Wallet

What to Do When You Lose Your Wallet

Ever lost your wallet? Frustrating. Here’s what you can do to keep yourself safe.

5 Benefits of Working in Retirement

5 Benefits of Working in Retirement

Here are 5 reason why you may consider working through retirement.

What You Need to Know About Social Security

What You Need to Know About Social Security

Every so often, you’ll hear about Social Security benefits running out. But is there truth to the fears, or is it all hype?

 

Have A Question About This Topic?







Thank you! Oops!

Retirement Income and the Traditional Portfolio

Experiencing negative returns early in retirement can potentially undermine the sustainability of your assets.

Variable Universal Life Insurance

Variable Universal Life is permanent insurance in which the policyholder directs how premiums are invested.

Retirement Questions That Have Nothing to Do With Money

Things to consider before retirement.

View all articles

Should I Buy or Lease an Auto?

This calculator compares the financial impact of leasing versus buying an automobile.

Saving for Retirement

This calculator can help you estimate how much you may need to save for retirement.

Comparing Mortgage Terms

Estimate the total cost in today's dollars of various mortgage alternatives.

View all calculators

5 Smart Investing Strategies

There are some smart strategies that may help you pursue your investment objectives

An Inside Look at Retirement Living

A number of questions and concerns need to be addressed to help you better prepare for retirement living.

Investment Strategies for Retirement

Investment tools and strategies that can enable you to pursue your retirement goals.

View all presentations

Retirement and Quality of Life

Asking the right questions about how you can save money for retirement without sacrificing your quality of life.

Rightsizing for Retirement

What does your home really cost?

Timing Your Retirement

This short video illustrates why knowing when to retire can be a crucial part of your strategy.

View all videos