Getting Ahead It’s  never too early to start planning for the future. For many of us, entering the workforce can be the start of an exciting new chapter. The freedom and independence that comes with a regular income cannot be understated. While it’s easy to get caught up in the moment, a little forethought and planning can go along way to securing your financial future. Here are three easy tips for staying on track:

• Build savings. Too many Australians live hand to mouth, just trying to make ends meet. With some clever thinking and forward planning, a little saving goes a long way. A proper budget that allows for savings can help you raise a deposit for a property, or simply give you a buffer in the case of unforeseen expenses which inevitably come up.
• Save for your retirement. It may seem like a long way away, but a long-term plan for your financial security can stave off anxiety for all the years to come. With over half a million Australians relying on superannuation for their post-retirement income, ensuring your employer is paying the right entitlements, and knowing how to manage those entitlements, is an essential step in building a secure future.
• Income Protection Insurance. As good as we may be at planning for the future, there will always be unforeseen events that can throw of us course. Income protection insurance is a great way to guarantee a steady income stream should an unfortunate incident or circumstances prevent you from continuing work.

Financial independence is more than just earning a weekly wage. It is the understanding that circumstances change, sometimes in ways we don’t expect. With the right information and advice from a qualified financial planner you can make educated, evidence-based judgements that will set you up for the years ahead.   General Advice Disclosure: This document contains information that is general in nature. It does not take into account the objectives, financial situation or needs of any particular person. You need to consider your financial situation and needs before making any decisions based on this information. If you decide to purchase or vary a financial product, your financial adviser, AMP Financial Planning and other companies within the AMP Group may receive fees and other benefits. The fees will be a dollar amount and/or a percentage of either the premium you pay or the value of your investment. Please contact us if you want more information.