A Guide to Making a Budget in 2023
Having money set aside is important, especially if you are planning on buying a home, building a family, or making a career change. While most people understand the importance of having an effective budget, many don't have the necessary information to construct a...
Financial Planning in the New Year
It's time to start a new financial year and make changes that will help improve your current situation. Before you start implementing any financial moves, it's crucial that you review your previous year's scorecard. Did you have to pull from savings at all? Was last...
Social Security Basics to Know
The Social Security system is a type of retirement plan that allows workers to collect benefits at the end of their working lives. It is funded through taxes, which eventually are returned to the individual. Knowing about the ins and out of this process is very...
Financially Preparing for the Year Ahead
It’s almost time to wrap up our 2022 calendars, and with a new year upon us, it’s a good time to reflect on the past year and prepare for the new one. This time of year can be a great opportunity to assess what happened in your personal life, career, and finances....
Outlining 3 Versions of Your Budget
Getting laid off, going through a divorce, or experiencing a major life change can have a huge impact on your finances. However, positive life changes can also upend finances. For instance, if you receive a major promotion and suddenly are making more money than...
5 Life Events That Demand Financial Planning
Certain life events require a solid financial plan. Even life's most exciting chapters, such as a new job or a dream relocation, require a financial plan. These 5 life events demand financial planning. Getting Married If you’re planning on getting married, it’s...
Transitioning From Two Incomes to One
The workplace has changed significantly over the past three years, and many Americans are rethinking what they want out of their careers. Some are looking to move on to a new employer, while others are planning on taking on a full-time job. According to a survey...
Financial Planning Strategies for Your Child’s Education
When you first started your family, your mind was likely filled with images of family vacations and baby clothes instead of preschool scholarships and 529 plans. Parents often begin with little idea of how they will pay for their children's education, especially when...
The Basics of Paying Off Credit Card Debt
Getting out of credit card debt can be a daunting task, but it’s also possible. Rising interest rates and inflation are likely to keep credit card balances rising. With the average APR now at 17 percent, carrying these balances becomes more expensive. Despite what...
Best Budgeting Apps
Budgeting is one of the most important things in life. Many people struggle to keep their spending under control, and find it difficult to stay on track when planning and accounting for their personal finances. Fortunately, there are many apps available that can help...