When you are putting together or redoing your budget, make savings a priority for emergencies and special goals, such as retirement, a car, home, or education.

Here are several strategies to help you get started on growing your savings:

• “Pay yourself first.”  Put a portion of your paycheck into your savings account before you pay other bills.
• Collect your loose change in a jar and at the end of each month put the change into your savings account.
• Save your tax refund.
• If your employer matches your retirement contributions, contribute the amount that maximizes your employer’s contribution.
• Start small and save regularly.  Even if your income is modest, with compounding interest you will see your savings grow over time .

Source: Wellness News You Can Use, January 2005 – National Wellness Institute