Fall is here, saturating the air with the smell of pumpkin spice lattes. While most of us look forward to the season of sweaters and crisp weather, this time of year can bring surprises that hit our wallets pretty hard. Preparing now means you’ll be able to enjoy those falling leaves with the peace of mind that you’re ready for anything that might come along.
Identify Potential Seasonal Expenses
Although we have beautiful and fairly mild autumn weather here in California, the season can still bring plenty of surprises for your wallet. If you already have an emergency fund, you’re heading in the right direction. But a fund dedicated specifically to seasonal expenses is a great way to be sure things stay on track.
Here are some scenarios to consider as we head into autumn:
Cleaning gutters. Keep gutters clear to save your roof from potential peril of wetter weather. This goes double if you have solar panels. Even bird-proofed panels draw birds, which can make for pretty gross gutters. Investing in gutter cleaning will pay you back all rainy season long.
Wildfire safety. Those falling leaves are dry, and so is the rest of the landscape this time of year, which is why fire-smart landscaping is a must in California. Consider budgeting for extra help with landscaping to trim overgrown bushes and trees, clear out dead foliage, and remove flammable debris around your home. Prioritize protecting your home with year-round fire readiness.
Electrical costs. Whether it’s investing in a generator to take on storm-related power outages, or budgeting for higher heating bills that come with longer nights and dropping temperatures, chances are your electrical bill might increase this fall. Setting aside funds to prepare for this keeps you cozy.
Get creative
If you’re already stashing away in a regular emergency fund, the idea of allocating more to a separate fund might feel like a lofty proposition. That’s why it’s important to remain flexible in how you approach these specific savings. Find areas where you can scale back spending so you can funnel more to extra savings, but keep in mind you might not establish this fund as quickly or with the same priority as your regular emergency savings. Rest assured that even small contributions add up.
Prepare more than your budget
Although a savings account is certainly helpful for managing unexpected scenarios, why not let the change in seasons inspire you to find ways beyond your budget to prepare for seasonal emergencies? Now’s the time to update insurance policies, store important documents in a fire-proof safe, and make an emergency supply kit for storms, power outages or fires.
With a little forward-thinking and a small buffer set aside, you can face anything ahead with room in your budget for spiced cider and maybe even start stashing away for holiday expenses that are just around the corner. Explore all our savings products and get your fall finances as golden as the falling leaves.
