As a new year begins, many Alabamians look back on the past few months and find things they would like to change and improve. Some create goals to set the course for a happier, healthier year. Often, one of those goals is to save money.

This can be difficult, but free assistance is available to help you with the right tools to get on track. Become an Alabama Cooperative Extension System Saver today.

April 8-12 is America Saves Week. America Saves is an initiative that brings together many financial and educational institutions, businesses, and organizations in a collective effort to increase financial awareness.

Alabama Extension Saves

The Alabama Extension Saves campaign aspires to establish a statewide Alabama Extension Saves Coalition and to enroll 3,000 savers in Alabama in 2024. Implementing these goals will encourage citizens to take positive steps toward improving their financial position.

America Saves is a national campaign, founded by the Consumer Federation of America and supported by Alabama Extension. There are many campaigns across the nation with more than 2,700 organizations contributing support and more than 800,000 people pledging to save money and reduce their debt.

According to the Bureau of Economic Analysis of the United States Department of Commerce, Americans are saving 3.8 percent after taxes since January 2024. This is lower than the past savings rate of 6.9 percent 15 to 17 years ago. More people are also looking for free or low-cost resources to get a handle on their own finances.

Individual savers find the campaign useful when making financial goals a reality. Making a financial goal is all that is required. This gives a saver access to financial education classes, certified financial counselors, and monthly newsletters on saving and debt reducing tips.

Become an Alabama Extension Saver

Don’t wait. Take the pledge. Enroll to become an Alabama Extension Saver. For more information on the America Saves program, visit www.americasaves.org.