If it’s important for you to make sure this year better than 2011 in terms of preserving your finances and managing debt‚ now’s a great time to get on track.

If you’re deep in debt‚ out of work and see no light at the end of the tunnel‚ you might consider bankruptcy in Woodland Hills. Let’s face it: California isn’t exactly swimming in jobs. The Woodland Hills-area unemployment rate was recently listed at 11.5 percent‚ highest among major metropolitan areas‚ according to The Lane Report.

The bottom line is that the economy isn’t improving fast enough. One strategy for consumers is to hold out hope that things will get better quickly — you may be fortunate to find a job and begin paying back your debt. It could happen.

But short of that happening anytime soon‚ one other approach would be to set up a consultation with an experienced Woodland Hills bankruptcy attorney who can provide legal advice relating to your finances. There are ways for consumers to get help on how to get finances in order in this tough economic climate.

One of the biggest problems in the Woodland Hills area has been a lack of well-paying and full-time jobs. The Woodland Hills Times recently reported that the unemployment rate dropped to 11.3 percent in November‚ the fourth straight month the state’s number has dipped. But the nation’s rate is 8.6 percent‚ well below California’s number.

Job loss has been a problem for many Americans. A huge chunk of job-seekers have been out of work for months at a time. In that period‚ many people have had major debt problems that they have never had to deal with before. Some families who haven’t had to consider debt management issues before are now staring them straight in the eye.

But there are some ways to help. One New Year’s resolution to attempt to keep is working on your financial future and attempting to make some positive changes that could provide for a better lifestyle.

CUT BACK ON UNHEALTHY HABITS THAT INCREASE INSURANCE PREMIUMS

Studies show that smokers pay about 14 percent more than other health insurance policyholders‚ while people who are obese pay a whopping 22.6 percent more than others. Cutting back on unhealthy food choices and habits‚ and quitting smoking can put some extra cash in your pocket.

SHOP SMARTER

Some people are hooked on name brands‚ but consider trying generics to help save a few bucks and see how it works out. In most cases‚ they are cheaper and provide equal quality and nutrition.

USE TECHNOLOGY TO YOUR ADVANTAGE

Simplify your budget by setting up online accounts and automatic bill pay instead of having to write checks and buy stamps.

GET SMARTER ABOUT MONEY

Don’t keep your head in the sand about money issues. Rather‚ study up so you know how you can invest and make a buck or two.

PLAN FOR THE UNEXPECTED

Major‚ unexpected events can thrust people into debt. Put together a savings account and maintain it for bad times.

PAY DOWN YOUR DEBT

Avoid late fees and high interest rates by paying down the debt with the highest interest rate. This can save you money in the long run.

CREATE A BASIC BUDGET

It doesn’t have to be complex‚ but spending without knowing your income is a recipe for disaster. Monitor your progress.

Cal West Law will provide a free consultation to help guide you in making a decision that works for you. In Encino‚ Glendale‚ and Woodland Hills‚ just call (800) 568-0707.

Additional Resources:

7 Financial New Year’s Resolutions You Should Keep‚ by Sheryl Nance-Nash‚ Daily Finance