Taking control of financial situations

WEST SENECA, N.Y. (WIVB) - 2008 is a year a lot of consumers would like to forget.

2009 is the year many plan to take control of their financial situations.

Daryl Greene of Grand Island said, "The big one is just to cut back on spending all together. Probably won't eat out as much and trim where you can cause overall it's tough to have the discretionary funds to just kind of throw around."

Diana Cottrell of Buffalo said, "I'm gonna try to get some more money.

News 4's Rob Macko asked, "How are you going to do that?"

Cottrell said, "Work harder."

Jason Nigro is a certified credit counselor with Consumer Credit Counseling Services of Buffalo. They offer some tips to get your finances in order.

The first is to save at least six months of salary. If that sounds impossible, Nigro says start small.

Nigro said, "Lot of times people can set up a savings account with their direct deposit. So you don't even see the money going into that account when you get your paycheck."

Second is budgeting. Figure out how you spend your paycheck and look for ways to save money.

Third, review your payroll deductions. Look at how much you're putting into your 401K or Health Savings Accounts and make adjustments if needed. Organization can also save you money.

Nigro said, "Figure out exactly what bills are due, when. Make up a calendar and make sure those bills are paid on time. You don't want those $35 late charges creeping up on you."

Finally, credit counselors advise using your tax return to pay down your debt.

Consumer Credit Counseling helps people deal with their creditors, but also offers free workshops on general money topics.