Americans' Money Plans for 2014: Save More -- and Spend More

Shutterstock/iomis This year is more about saving money than last year, a new American Express (AXP) survey concludes. In fact, 54 percent of the 1,502 adults surveyed this January put saving money as their number one goal this year, compared to 33 percent last year. The trend toward fiscal responsibility continues when it comes to the number of people who say they plan to set a budget or stick to a spending plan within their budget: 38 percent in 2014, compared to 23 percent in 2013. However, don't let this renewed focus on saving and budgeting lead you to believe that we're entering a phase of austerity. The "Spending and Savings Tracker" also reveals that consumers have big plans to spend their money, too. How We Plan to Save While the dedication to improving finances seems to be rising, the strategies to achieve those savings goals have not changed much since 2013. Respondents plan to: Sock away more of their paycheck from primary income (53 percent in 2014 vs. 51 percent in 2013). Save at least part of their tax refund (26 percent both years). Cut back on small luxuries (21 percent vs. 23 percent in 2013). Play the lottery in the hopes (or assumption?) that they will win (19 percent vs. 21 percent in 2013). Sell personal possessions (18 percent both years). How We Plan to Spend