S.M.A.R.T. Financial Goals
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S.M.A.R.T. Financial Goals

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December 27, 2016

Written by Kristin Gross, La Casa De Esperanza

The start of a new year is a great time to think about all the changes you want to make in your life, especially when it comes to your finances. By following the S.M.A.R.T. goal approach, you can make positive changes to your financial health that will last well into the new year!

S – Specific
Be as detailed as possible when describing your financial goals.

M – Measureable
How will you know when you’ve accomplished these goals?

A – Attainable
Goals should be attainable - something you can achieve.

R – Realistic
Considering your overall budget, are your financial goals reasonable?

T – Time-bound
What is the due date for achieving your goals?

What do “S.M.A.R.T.” goals look like in real life? It turns “I want to pay off debt” into “I want to pay of $2000 in credit card debt this year. In order to do this, I need to pay $167.00 towards my credit card every month.” This updated goal is specific (it gives a certain dollar amount per month to achieve a specific goal), measurable (you’ll be able to track your progress), and time-bound. All that’s left to do is to decide if this goal is attainable and realistic for your life.

Best of luck with achieving all of your goals in 2017!


Kristin Gross is an Asset Building Coach for the Financial Stability Initiative at La Casa de Esperanza, in Waukesha, Wisconsin. The Financial Stability Initiative is a partnership between La Casa de Esperanza and the United Way of Greater Milwaukee & Waukesha County. Kristin has her Bachelor’s degree in Personal Finance from the University of Wisconsin – Madison. She is a financial coach and educator working with individuals and families on obtaining tools for financial capability by meeting basic needs, building savings and gaining assets. She enjoys sharing her knowledge of personal finances to positively impact the lives of others.

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