Budgeting seminar is for everyone

In tough economic times, saving every penny can become a necessity.

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The Columbia County Library and the Consumer Credit Counseling Services of the CSRA will hold a household budgeting seminar Thursday to teach residents how to spend wisely and conserve funds.

"It is for anybody and everybody," said Lynette Walton, CCCS community educator. "It is relevant information. And we try to keep it simple, not too simple where people get bored, but simple enough that no matter what income range or income level, it is something we can all use."

The free seminar begins at 6:30 p.m. at the library in Evans.

The seminar is similar to the one Walton said she gives on a regular basis focusing on developing a personal budget.

That process involves setting short-term, immediate and long-term financial goals, distinguishing between wants and needs, prioritizing monthly spending, developing a realistic spending plan, establishing a savings plan/emergency reserve, shopping wisely and managing debt.

Though retirement savings is important, Walton said the seminar just touches on that complicated topic.

"It is more practical information," Walton said. "We feel like first of all you need to take care of your monthly budget, savings, setting some realistic day-to-day goals for the month. Once you get all that straight, whatever you've got left, then we talk about saving for retirement."

The event is free, but registration is required.

To register, call the library Reference Desk at (706) 863-1946.