Simplifies: Your Finances

August 5, 2014

Author: Ann Green

Let’s be real: Sometimes "life hacks" are only good in theory. (Yes, rigging a system of binder clips and plastic bread ties will organize my computer cables, but who has the time for that?) So, in celebration of National Simplify Your Life Week, we asked dozens of experts on everything from finances to skincare for advice on how we can really, actually make things easier. We add to the series with some tips on managing your money (without losing your sanity).

Photo: Anasdressau White Bridesmaid Dresses

Money on your mind? An afternoon shopping downtown or a night at the bars will do that to you—at least, it does it to us. (I spent how much on those rounds of mojitos last night?) But If you’ve decided it’s time to get your finances in check, have no fear. It doesn’t have to be as awful as you imagine. And while knowing where your accounts stand and saving for future you is important, that doesn’t mean you have to be constantly thinking about your money matters.

TIP 1: AUTOMATE WHAT YOU CAN

To keep things simple, automate everything you can, says Today's financial editor Jean Chatzky. "I’m not saying you should take your eye off the ball forever, but there are many things you can put on autopilot, [like] automatic bill payments, charges that recur every month, or automatic contributions to your retirement accounts and your saving accounts. These are things that need to happen, and this way you don’t need to think about it."

TIP 2: PARE DOWN YOUR ACCOUNTS…

"Fewer is always better," says Chatzky. Pare down on retirement accounts, savings accounts, and, of course, credit cards. This translates to fewer statements, fewer emails, and fewer papers to store or shred. "Most people can do with only two credits cards—one with a low interest rate and one where you get some points or miles back," she says.

TIP 3: …BUT NOT ALL AT ONCE

While getting rid of credit cards can make searching through your wallet wildly simpler, shutting down all of those superfluous store cards (Nordstrom Card, I’m sorry—it’s not you, it’s me) at once can wreak havoc on your credit score. "If your credit score is over 720 and you’re not applying for a car loan or a mortgage in the near future, start a process of closing cards. Close a card, wait six months, close a card, wait six months, and if you have debt to pay down, do so in these six month periods," Chatzky advises. While it takes some time, it does make your life a little simpler not to have to deal with closing accounts left and right all at once.

TIP 4: SWAP TRACKING APPS FOR YOUR BANK APP

When it comes tracking your hard-earned cash, make your life easier by ditching the fancy apps. If you’ve got time for Mint, great. If not, don’t sweat it. Stick with your mobile banking solution to transfer funds on the fly or check your balance at a moment’s notice. (Shoutout, Bank of America app. Though I’m sure you other banks have got super-handy solutions too.)