Before the Grill Heats Up, Give Your Finances a Quick Check
For many of us, summer means more time outside—whether you're boating at the lake, grilling in the backyard, or watching the kids or grandkids at ballgames. But before you shift into full summer mode, it’s smart to take a quick pause and check in on your financial game plan.
Here are four simple ways to ensure your finances are in order, so you can enjoy the season with fewer worries and more time on the water, at the ball field, or wherever summer takes you.
1. Revisit Your Financial Game Plan
We’re halfway through the year—how are you doing on your financial goals?
If you’ve experienced a change in income, welcomed a new family member, or are rethinking your approach to retirement or college planning, now’s the time to review your plan. A quick check-in helps ensure your strategy still aligns with your life.
2. Budget for Summer Fun
From lake weekends to backyard projects to baseball tournaments, summer can come with extra expenses. Adding these seasonal costs into your budget now can help you avoid surprises later. If a big purchase or trip is on the horizon, let’s create a plan to fund it in a way that keeps your long-term goals on track.
3. Clean Up Recurring Expenses
Think of this like a financial version of spring cleaning. Review your bank and credit card statements for unused subscriptions, streaming services, or insurance add-ons you no longer need. Trimming just a few of these can free up cash for things that actually matter—like that new fishing rod or a family weekend getaway.
4. Check Beneficiaries and Insurance
It’s not flashy, but it’s important. Make sure the beneficiaries on your retirement accounts and life insurance are still accurate. While you're at it, take a look at your insurance coverage—especially if your family has grown or your needs have changed. A little attention now can prevent big problems down the road.
Final Thoughts
A quick mid-year check-in can make a big difference in how the rest of your year goes. If you’d like help reviewing your plan or talking through any changes, I’m here. Let’s make sure your financial foundation is solid, so you can enjoy every minute of summer in the heartland with peace of mind.
