This year, 84 percent of consumers view making a change to their personal finances as a priority. The findings of a recent survey, released by Citibank, found that many consumers believe making small changes is crucial to success. The respondents view increasing savings as the top way to take control of their finances in 2009. Cutting back spending on extras like dining out and shopping are top ways people plan to cut spending in the next few months.

"This year, consumers are making their personal finances their top priority but many don't know how to get started," said Peter Mullen, Senior Vice President of Marketing, Citibank. "They want to save more and earn rewards they can use anytime, anywhere. At Citibank, we want to make it easy for them to make small changes today that can boost their financial health for the future."

The survey of 1,004 consumers conducted by GfK Roper shows that just two weeks into the New Year, Americans are ready to change their money management habits.

Focus on Savings and Rewards

More than 75 percent of those surveyed said increasing their savings is the top change they are looking to make in their banking this year, while roughly one-third (37 percent) are looking to maximize rewards programs. Of those surveyed, 19- to 23-year-olds lead the way in actively looking to change their money habits by increasing their savings and taking advantage of rewards programs.

Saving More & Spending Less

Beyond changing their banking habits, the survey found consumers are also planning to reduce spending in the New Year, with dining out and new clothing purchases being the first expenditures to go.

Among the more interesting statistics are:

- Approximately 60 percent of consumers plan to scale back eating at restaurants in the next few months

- Half (52 percent) are cutting back on new clothing/shoes

- One-third of respondents are not willing to give up their cable TV or cell phone service

Making Financial Goals More Achievable

The survey found that consumers find financial goals to be more achievable when paired with a plan and starting with small changes. Findings include:

- 84 percent of respondents view taking one step at a time as helpful to help them make the changes needed to reach their goals.

- 58 percent responded that having a plan is essential to getting financially fit this year.

- Nearly 60 percent find that guidance from a local professional or expert is helpful.