Happy National Pig Day!

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Do you remember the joy of opening a full piggy bank?Unfortunately, it appears that many Americans find a lot morejoy in spending than saving. The U.S. Commerce Department
reported in February that Americans' savings rates continue todecline dramatically to negative levels not seen since theGreat Depression. Statistics indicate that young Americansrank second in bankruptcy demographics and spend nearly 24 percent of household income on debt payments.

It is time Americans meet Benjamin Bankes, the icon of Feedthe Pig, a national public service campaign of the AmericanInstitute of Certified Public Accountants AICPA and AdCouncil. Benjamin serves as a reminder of savings for thecampaign's target audience, 25 to 34 year olds, known asCareer Builders. He inspires them to reignite the savingshabit by taking small, easy steps to take control of their finances.

National Pig Day may last one day, but the savings messages ofthe Feed the Pig campaign are critical throughout the year.Today is the perfect time to begin taking small but meaningfulsteps to save money and learn to control your finances. Here is how

Open a 401k. Check to see if your employer matches apercentage of your contribution. A matching contribution is essentially free money.
Bank your raise or at least a portion of it. If you don't get used to having the extra money, you won't miss it.
If you're carrying student loans, make repaying them a priority over discretionary consumer spending.
Consider raising the deductible on your insurance policy. Forexample, if it is $100, increase it to $200. It will have an impact on your premium payments.
Be energy efficient. Turn down the thermostat, and turn off the lights.
Always pay your credit card bill in full each month to avoidinterest charges. Choose credit cards with cash back rewards and no annual fees. Consider cutting up a credit card.
Dust off your library card. Watch DVDs and get books for free. Many libraries offer free Internet access.
Kick the habit. Smoking is hard on the wallet and your health.
If you are ready to experience the joy of a full piggy bankonce again, visit FeedthePig.org for free financialinformation, tools and calculators help you take control of your finances.

CPA spokespeople are available to reporters to discuss savings tips and other financial literacy topics.

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