As the days grow longer and the flowers start to bloom, there's no better time to give your finances the spring cleaning they deserve. Just as we eagerly swap out our winter wardrobes for lighter attire, your financial portfolio could use a seasonal overhaul. Firstrust Bank is here with savvy tips to help you weed through your finances, ensuring your money grows.

1. Simplify Your Subscription Services

We all have them—those subscriptions we signed up for and then forgot about. They're like the junk drawer of our finances; we keep adding to them, promising ourselves we'll sort them out 'someday.' Well, 'someday' is today. Go through your bank statements and decide which services like Hulu, Spotify, and the various meal kits you really need. If you haven’t used it in months, it’s probably safe to say goodbye. It’s amazing how much you can save when you cut out the extras.

2. Embrace Digital Banking

Gone are the days of paper cluttering your mailbox and desk. It's time to switch to online banking, online statements and bill pay. Not only is it environmentally friendly, but it also gives you a clearer, instant view of your finances. With Firstrust Bank’s digital banking solutions, tracking your budget and spending habits, setting up automatic bill pay, and staying on top of your finances and managing your debt has never been easier. Plus, our online banking offers credit score monitoring.  Moving to digital banking is a simple switch that can lead to big improvements in managing your money

3. Reassess Your Financial Goals

As seasons change, so do our goals. What was important in the dead of winter might not hold the same weight come spring. Take this time to sit down and really think about what you want your money to do for you. Are you saving for a vacation? A new home? Retirement? Once you have a clear idea, adjust your budget accordingly. And remember, Firstrust Bank is here to help with resources and advice to ensure your financial goals are not just dreams but achievable realities.

4. Debt Decluttering

Debt can be overwhelming, especially when it's scattered across various credit cards and loans. This spring, make it a goal to declutter your debt. Start by listing all your debts, from the smallest to the largest. Consider using the debt snowball method, where you pay off the smallest debts first, gradually working your way up. This method not only helps clear debt but also provides psychological wins that keep you motivated. And for larger debts, like those pesky high-interest credit cards, consider a consolidation loan from Firstrust Bank to potentially lower your interest rates and streamline your payments.

5. Invest in Home Improvements

Home improvement projects not only enhance the livability and aesthetic appeal of your property but also can significantly increase its market value. Utilizing a home equity loan for these projects can be a strategic investment. Whether it's remodeling the kitchen, upgrading the bathroom, or even adding a new roof, spending money upfront can lead to substantial benefits in the future. Firstrust Bank offers competitive rates on home equity loans, making it easier for you to invest in your home's future.

6. Bolster Your Emergency Fund

A well-padded emergency fund is essential, giving you peace of mind for those just-in-case moments. Ideally, it should cover three to six months of living expenses, offering a buffer against unexpected events like medical emergencies or sudden job loss. It’s crucial to build and maintain this fund, contributing regularly to ensure it can cover you when you need it.

_{Home equity loans made by Firstrust Bank NMLS # 424205. Home equity loans secured by an interest in your real estate. All loans are subject to individual credit approval.}