Top Financial Tips from Guideposts Readers

Brett Leveridge

We asked our readers to share the best financial advice they’ve ever received. Here is some of the wisdom they shared.

Most of us could use a little help when it comes to budgeting, spending and saving, so we asked our readers to share the best financial advice they’ve ever received. Here is some of the wisdom they shared.

A young green plant sprouts from a stack of coins

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My dad told us when we got married, “When you pay your bills, pay yourself, too, even if it is only ten dollars. Put it directly into a savings account and pretend it does not exist.”—Jean S. F.

man using a tablet to shop online — Credit: Getty Images/iStockphoto

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Before spending or buying, ask yourself: Is this a need or a want? Most things are truly wants.—Kristin F. G.

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Always, always pay your bills. And if you can’t afford it, don’t buy it.—Cathie H. B.

A traffic sign that reads 'Retirement Ahead'

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If your company has any kind of retirement plan, contribute as much as you can. If the company matches a certain amount, do at least that much. It’s like giving yourself a raise, but you reap the rewards later. And, if you don’t have it in your hands, you don’t miss it as much.—Martha C.

A woman shopping for clothes carefully checks the sale prices

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Live within your means.—Della V.

An oversized green dollar sign floats on a life preserver on the open ocean

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Build an emergency fund of at least one thousand dollars.—Vicki M. M.

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A smiling married couple places a donation in a church offering plate

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Remember that everything belongs to God, so be sure to tithe.—Kathryn H.