How to Build an Effective Savings Plan

How to Build an Effective Savings Plan

26 February 2024 | By INDIE

There is one thing about life that is always constant - its ability to throw surprises at you when you least expect it! Events like sudden hospitalisation, house repairs or a job loss can put you in a tight spot. However, you can tackle them courageously and without stress if you have created a financial backup, i.e., savings. Savings are surplus funds kept aside regularly - in the form of cash, fixed deposits or liquid investments. Read this guide to learn how to save money!

Saving - Why Is It Important?

To build wealth and secure your future, it is crucial to cultivate the habit of saving. Saving holds significance for many reasons:

Whether you are saving for your retirement, a big purchase, or your child’s education, the process involves an assessment of your goals, income, expenses and current financial situation. While doing so, it is important to address the fundamental question - how to save money effectively? 

There are plenty of options to place your funds, such as investing in stocks, mutual funds, fixed deposits, etc. However, you can begin by opting for a savings account like the INDIE Savings Account. It can easily be opened online with minimum documentation. Explore the attractive savings account interest rates offered by IndusInd Bank and embark on your journey today!

How to Save Money and Build an Effective Savings Plan?

Listed below are a few straightforward steps on how to save money that will help you embark on your journey of savings and financial stability.

1. Goal Planning

The first step in knowing how to save money is planning your financial goals - you might want to save for an overseas vacation or purchase your dream car. It is important to have clarity on these short-term or long-term goals because:

2. Budgeting

Once your goals have been defined, you must design a budget that is in sync with your financial goals. A budget is where you record your monthly income and expenses. If you have not got into the habit of budgeting, it is high time you do so, because budgeting - 

3. Emergency Fund

Unexpected emergencies like hospitalisation, job loss, family crises or legal issues require a huge sum of money and can wipe out your bank account in minutes. You must aim to have an emergency fund that can cover your living expenses for 3-6 months. In times of crisis, an emergency fund -

You could consider options like liquid funds as well as fixed deposits like IndusInd Bank’s INDIE Fixed Deposit to create your emergency fund. 

4. Minimise Debts / Loans

A very important step in planning on how to save money is to have a clear idea of all the loans / debt availed. You must prioritise the payment of your debts in the order of high-interest debts to low-interest debts. Make sure you clear off all high-interest debts quickly as this frees up the interest component. This money can be directed towards savings. You can reduce your debts by - 

5. Minimise Expenses

Your budget will help you identify areas where you can cut expenses. For instance, if you use a data pack on your phone, and barely use the WiFi at home, you could get rid of the WiFi. A few simple ways of minimising your expenses would be - 

6. Wise Investments

When it comes to how to save money, you must park your money across different investment avenues. You could invest in equity and debt funds, mutual funds, fixed deposits, savings schemes like public provident funds, etc. 

A few tips to note while investing -

Conclusion

Establishing an effective savings plan is vital to achieve your financial goals and safeguard your financial future. You can build a strong financial foundation by having clear financial goals, embracing the habit of budgeting, and staying disciplined. Stay well-informed about financial products, diversify your investment portfolio, and regularly assess all your investments. So, stop pondering on how to save money and take the first step to open online savings account today. Start your savings journey today!

 
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is generic and for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for specific advice in your circumstances. Hence, you are advised to consult your financial advisor before making any financial decision. IndusInd Bank Limited (IBL) does not influence the views of the author in any way. IBL and the author shall not be responsible for any direct/indirect loss or liability incurred by the reader for making any financial decisions based on the contents and information.