Ask for more at the bank.
Because interest rates have risen sharply over the past year, suddenly it is possible to get a return on savings accounts, money markets, certificates of deposit, and other cash equivalent instruments. Look at your statement and if your interest rate is still paltry, consider changing banks or talking with your financial advisor to find better alternatives.
Ask for more at work.
Because of the rate of inflation, companies who generally give a “cost of living” raise will likely have to increase the percentage of raises just to keep up. If your HR department offered you the normal 3%, you’ll actually be taking a pay cut.
Talk to your company about at least approaching the 8.7% cost of living adjustment set by Social Security in order to counterbalance the increase in goods and services we’re seeing in most industries.
Use it wisely.
If you’re fortunate enough to receive a meaningful raise, you want to use that extra money wisely. Especially in the current conditions, you don’t want to fall victim to lifestyle creep–or an increase of your normal spending when you have access to more money.
Try to continue living on the amount you were previously making and use the additional funds to pay down debt, invest for your future, or build an emergency fund. If you have some debt at a variable rate–like a line of credit on your home or personal credit cards-pay those down as soon as you can because they are getting more expensive each time interest rates rise.
Increase your contributions.
The IRS has increased the contribution limits for most retirement savings vehicles. The 2023 limits will be:
- 401(k): $22,500/year with a $7,500 catch-up provision at age 50+
- IRA: $6,500/year with a $1,000 catch-up provision at age 50+
- HSA: $3,850/year for individual or $7,750/year for families with a $1,000 catch-up provision at age 55+
- SIMPLE IRA: $15,500/year with a $3,500 catch-up provision at age 50+
- Defined Benefit Plan: $265,000/year
- Defined Contribution Plan: $66,000/year
If you’re already used to maxing out your retirement accounts in 2022, consider increasing your contributions to reach the newer, higher limits in 2023.
Start planning.
We’re seeing unprecedented changes in the cost of living, and there can be several new planning conversations to have with your advisors. Talk to your CPA or financial advisor about possible tax-planning opportunities related to continued employment, relocating to a different state in the U.S., and exploring Roth IRA conversions or other income tax timing strategies.
The lesson: Inflation is scary and is hurting a lot of families, but there are ways to minimize the effects. Making strategic decisions with the help of a trusted and professional advisor can have a great impact on your financial future.
IMPORTANT DISCLOSURES Broadridge Investor Communication Solutions, Inc. does not provide investment, tax, legal, or retirement advice or recommendations. The information presented here is not specific to any individual's personal circumstances. To the extent that this material concerns tax matters, it is not intended or written to be used, and cannot be used, by a taxpayer for the purpose of avoiding penalties that may be imposed by law. Each taxpayer should seek independent advice from a tax professional based on his or her individual circumstances. These materials are provided for general information and educational purposes based upon publicly available information from sources believed to be reliable — we cannot assure the accuracy or completeness of these materials. The information in these materials may change at any time and without notice.
Prepared by Broadridge Investor Communication Solutions, Inc. Copyright 2021.