You Never Know: 5 Ways to Prepare for Emergency Expenses

No one knows what will happen in the future. Anything can happen, from an unexpected injury to an economic downturn to just bad timing. Instead of worrying about what-ifs and dreading tomorrow (and thereby hampering your enjoyment of life), why not prepare an emergency fund today? You do not need incredible financial knowledge or a lot of time to start saving now. Here are five easy ways to prepare for emergency expenses.

1. Start a Savings Account

In order to start saving, you need a place to put away the money you earn but don’t need right away. By opening a savings account with Citizens National Bank, you can start pooling your money in one place. And because it is a savings account instead of a checking account, you gain more interest over time.

2. Get Mobile Banking

Ever spend too much because you assumed you had more in your account than you really did? Everyone does. The easiest way to stop excess spending is to download the Citizens National Bank app on your smartphone and track your balance. That way, whether at work or abroad, you can know how much you are spending (and saving).

3. Improve your Credit Score

In the unlikely event that you need a loan, it always helps to have a good credit score — and no, you do not need to be a master financier to do so. All it boils down to is not spending more than what you have. The best way to increase your credit score is to pay your bills on time. Set reminders on your phone or calendar when you get your statements and when the due date approaches. Even if you have to go to your bank to pay your bill, do it. It will be worth it in the long run.

4. Take Advantage of Mobile Deposit

Not everyone has direct deposit, and bills always seem to come at the wrong time. How do you deposit your paycheck if your local bank is closed? Easy: mobile deposit. Instead of driving to an ATM, deposit your paychecks electronically with the CNB app. It is not complicated in the slightest. Just snap a picture of the front and back of your check, upload it, and you are good to go.

5. Reach Out for Advice

What if you’ve tried everything and nothing seems to help? Talk to your local Citizens National Bank representative. They are always there to help support you and help you prepare for the unexpected.