Common Mistakes to Avoid in Personal Finance Planning

Financial planning involves a complete understanding of one’s financial needs and future goals. Once these are established it is easy to finalise on a comprehensive solution. In the journey towards securing ourselves financially there are some common mistakes that we commit. Some of the mistakes to avoid and the solution are discussed in detail.

 

This is the most unhealthy personal finance habit that we must be wary of. This has two disadvantages: firstly we end up spending excessively in areas that are not necessary and secondly we end up not spending money where it is needed. This could leave you high and dry, in spite of all your hard work and years of service. A sound budget is one that includes all the expenses (don’t forget to allocate funds towards entertainment, house repair and renovation and retirement savings) and factors in affordability and consistency. This must be backed by proper execution of the plan. Ensure financial discipline by all family members.

 

Many of us plan and budget well, but we skid and slip in the execution phase. Temptation gets the better of us and we try to put hard earned money in schemes that lure the investors with false promises. Most of these investments turn sour and we end up losing our investments. It is better to keep safe distance from such companies that promise say, to double your money in one month or give returns as high as 40-50% etc.

 

Do not make investments that you cannot afford. Example, do not invest in life insurance that requires you to pay a huge sum as premium at the beginning of your career. Plan the amount of investment in each instrument with care and ensure you have enough to spend for rest of your needs.

 

You must have your future in mind before buying an investment product. For e.g. taking a health insurance plan when you are already covered in a previous policy becomes redundant, however attractive the product may seem. Similarly, there could be newer and better sounding products that surface from time to time. It is imperative to check if these are suited to your needs and fit into the general scheme of things before you invest in them.

 

Investment cannot be done as a quick fix option to existing situation. For instance, in order to save tax you should not buy a product which cannot be serviced or continued in the future. Instead the extra tax liability can be paid for one year and a proper tax saving cum investment option should be planned for the years ahead.

 

Procrastination can defeat the purpose of listening to advice. If you postpone the actual investment to a later date, the features of the plan or even its availability could vary. Deciding on what to buy and implementing the decision at the earliest are both equally important.

 

Putting all the eggs in the same basket may spell danger as far as investments go. Remember, diversifying portfolio reduces the risk associated with a single industry. Not only should you invest in various schemes like pension, life insurance, medical insurance etc…, but also varied options like insurance, bonds, stocks of blue chip companies, gold, real estate etc.

 

This situation should be avoided due to the uncertainties associated with human life. In case of an emergency it is always preferable that more than one person in the family knows where the funds have been invested. Details regarding medical claim, insurance claim should be shared with the spouse. Physically held investments like bond certificates, gold, etc. should be secured in lockers and the key should be kept safe. 

 

We are living in an era of ATMs and therefore may be tempted to leave the money in the bank as long as we can, so that it can earn interest till we find the need for the cash. While this lends so seamlessly to logical thinking, care must be taken before you empty the house of the minimum cash which may be required during times of emergency. There are times when the ATMs near the house do not work or are out of cash. Some vendors do not believe in credit cards and hence do not accept them.

 

In the fast paced world it is very important to teach children about money matters. Children should be allowed not only to buy what they need from nearby shops, they should also be told about the finances of the house to the extent understandable by them. This will help them draw up their budget and plan their expenses when they start earning. While this will make them avoid unwanted expenses, it will also encourage them to spend where required.

 

There are certain benefits given by employers for the benefits of employees. It is imperative to understand these correctly and utilize them as they are intended to be utilised. For instance your company could make a part of the payment in the form of food coupons. Make sure you collect them and use them in the relevant outlets.

 

If you do this you will end up paying a lower rent, nevertheless at the end of the many years of paying increasing rent you will retire without a roof over your head. Investing in a house is important as it saves the tax that you need to pay, while creating an asset for you.

 

The points discussed above are broad guidelines which will help you in planning your finances. As a final word of caution I would like to add that there are no quick ways of making money. Better be safe than sorry!