Getting Help to Write a Financial Action Plan
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Getting Help to Write a Financial Action Plan
If you want to write a plan but feel you need help, there is abundant help out there just waiting to be tapped. Because so many people need or want help with their financial lives, a whole industry of professionals, associations, software, and even cell-phone apps exists just for you.
Things To Know
- There are apps that will help you set and monitor the goals you set.
- Look into an employee assistance program, if your company offers one.
Financial planning software
There is a wealth of financial planning software out there, and the available programs grow and change every year. Most of them are more complex than just setting and tracking your goals—they take in your bank account and other information and create budgets and forecasts for you. But they do include some action plan aspects to them. Look to see more of them in the future as entrepreneurs start filling demand for financial planning among the non-wealthy.
More to the point, there are hundreds of apps (i.e., programs) that are simple to work with. Some of them limit themselves to goal-setting and monitoring. A search for phrases like "goal setting apps" or "financial planning apps" can bring up several that you can use on a cell phone, tablet, or computer. Some are free to use; some will even pester you if you fall off the wagon.
Financial institutions
Many people are not aware that their banks or credit unions have financial planners available on site. These planners are trained to help you set financial goals and stick with them. Many of them charge for their services, though. It pays to call and find out.
EAPs
Got an employee assistance program (EAP) at work? There may be a counselor or two who can help you draw up a plan. Many of them are familiar with goal-setting and tracking; some are actual financial planners who would not charge you. Beyond helping you set up an action plan, they can act as an accountability figure to help you stay on track—and revise your plan when you need to.
Professional sources of help
Of course, there are professional financial planners who are well-versed in financial action plans. Many of them work at large companies; others work in their own offices because they are self-employed. Still others may be available at your bank or credit union.