Set financial goals for your short term and long term future. Creating goals can help you turn your vision into reality.

Goals should be SMART to increase the likelihood that you will achieve them: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound

Make a budget and stick to it. Making a budget helps you achieve your financial goals and prioritizes how you spend your money (Download the “Budget worksheet” to get started).

There are budgeting apps that can help you better manage your money. Some apps track your spending in real time and send you alerts when you are close to going over budget.

Build an emergency fund by putting money away each month into a savings account. You should have at least 3 to 6 months of living expenses saved in the event of a job loss or other emergency.

Having money automatically deposited into a savings account each time you are paid is a great way to build your savings.

Pay off debt by either paying debt that has the highest interest rate first or pay the smallest debt with the largest payment possible, until paid off.

Be sure to incorporate debt repayment into your budget. You should always pay more than the minimum balance on credit card bills. This will help you pay off the debt sooner.

Pay your bills on time to help you build good credit and avoid expensive late fees. Create a bill payment calendar to help keep track of due dates.

You can enroll in automatic bill payment or signup for text message reminders so you don’t forget to make timely payments. Negotiate due dates to help match your payday.

Save for retirement by taking advantage of retirement plans offered by your employer.