BOSTON - BostonChron -- Lynn Bentley, President of Knobull announced, "If you want to improve your finances without a major overhaul, the following changes can help:"

Create a budget

A budget is a fundamental step if you want to effectively manage your finances. It doesn't have to be complex; a spreadsheet or a budgeting app can do the trick.

Switch to a high-yield savings account

If you're still using simple savings for your money it isn't working as hard as it should be. You can change to improve your finances by moving your money to a high yield account instead.

High-yield savings accounts offer much higher interest rates compared to traditional savings accounts.

Your funds in one of these accounts, you can earn more on your savings while keeping your money easily accessible.

Open a CD

Like high-yield savings accounts, (CDs) are a low-risk, interest-bearing account — with a fixed rate, meaning the rate you lock in when you open the account is the rate you'll get throughout the CD term. That can be a beneficial perk if interest rates decline in the future.

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Consider a money market account

Money Markets features savings and checking account, offering a competitive interest rate and check-writing privileges. They're a smart choice for those who want to earn more on their savings while maintaining some liquidity.

Automate your savings

Transferring from your checking account to a savings account or retirement fund is simple. By doing this, you're ensuring that you consistently save a portion of your income without the temptation to spend it. Over time, these small, regular contributions can grow into a substantial nest egg.

Pay yourself first

When you receive your paycheck, allocate a portion of it to savings or investments before paying bills or discretionary spending. This "pay yourself first" approach ensures that your financial goals remain a priority.

Track your credit score

Regularly checking a credit score can help you spot potential issues early and maintain good financial health. A higher credit score can lead to better interest rates on loans and credit cards, ultimately saving you money.

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Set clear financial goals

Another easy change is to establish clear, achievable goals. Whether it's building an emergency fund, paying off debt or saving for a vacation, having specific objectives motivates you to make responsible financial choices.

The bottom line

Bentley concluded, "Small changes can lead to substantial improvements in your financial situation over time. The Knobull financial wellness guides can be requested at our Contact page.

By incorporating these habits into your daily life and optimizing your savings with a CD or high-yield savings account, you'll be better equipped to achieve your financial goals, build wealth and enjoy peace of mind when it comes to money matters."