This time of year often feels like a fresh start, kids are back in school, routines are settling in, and the holiday season is on the horizon. But for many households, it’s also when money pressures start to pile up. The good news? With a little planning, you can stay ahead and Live Better Financially. Here are three common concerns and how to handle them:

1. Back-to-School Expenses
   From notebooks and backpacks to sports fees and lunch money, school season can get expensive fast. For college students, add tuition, textbooks, and housing to the list. The key is to plan early, reuse what you can, and spread purchases over several weeks instead of cramming them all into one paycheck.
2. Rising Household & Utility Bills
   The transition from summer to fall often brings higher household costs. Air conditioning bills from late summer may still be lingering, and depending on where you live, heating costs may soon follow. Add in the grocery bump that comes with packing lunches and busier schedules, and it’s easy to feel the squeeze. Setting a monthly budget (and sticking to it) helps keep things steady.
3. Pre-Holiday Budget Pressure
   The holidays might feel far off, but this is when many families start thinking about gifts, travel, and celebrations. Without planning, those expenses can lead to credit card debt by year’s end. A simple fix: start a holiday savings fund now, even if you add just a little each week.

By recognizing these three areas early, you’ll feel more confident, more prepared, and better equipped to Live Better Financially. Small steps now can make a big difference in how you close out the year.