October Tips and Tools to Start Living Your California Dream: #CADreamingorStruggling

Getty Images/iStockphoto

Español According to an AARP survey, entitled “ California Dreaming…or Struggling: Gen X and Boomer Financial Security,” which reveals that for the most part Californians are not ready for retirement and it is largely due to housing related expenses. AARP California wants to help you take control of your finances. We are sharing DIY tips and tools bi-weekly on social media to help you save more or begin to save. Here is a summary of what was shared in October!

CUT COSTS NOW

Many Californians are feeling financially squeezed. According to survey results, one in four respondents feel they are either just getting by or finding it difficult to get by financially. Do you need help getting your finances under control?

• Learn about services to help you reduce your bills HERE
• See if consolidating your debt is the right move HERE
• Sign-up for AARP’s newsletter to get daily financial tips HERE

REDUCE HOUSING EXPENSES

Housing costs have never been more expensive in California. Growing expenses are putting pressure on families and individuals, particularly older working people who want to retire but fear they can’t afford to remain the state. The “CA Dreaming or Struggling” survey revealed 61% of respondents have considered leaving California and living somewhere else due to the high cost of living. Are you in the same boat?

• See if cohousing is the right avenue for you to start saving HERE
• Learn more about downsizing your home HERE

SAVE FOR THE FUTURE

According to the “CA Dreaming or Struggling” survey, many respondents don’t have money to save for retirement after paying for housing costs and other expenses. As a result over half of survey respondents are worried that they will not have enough money to retire comfortably. Is the thought of your financial future stressing you out?

• Know how cosigning your children’s student loan can impact your financial future HERE
• Plan now for health costs in retirement HERE
• Find out where you should be with your savings HERE

Learn more about the #CADreamingorStruggling survey findings by visiting, aarp.org/cadreamingorstruggling. Also, be on the lookout for our November tips, tools and quizzes to help you achieve your California dream! Make sure to follow @AARPCA on Twitter and @AARPCalifornia on Facebook.