How to Build a $1,000 Emergency Fund in 30 Days

Woman sitting next to a piggy bank and investing money

Building an emergency fund of $1,000 can feel daunting, especially if you’re living paycheck to paycheck. But having a small emergency fund is a game-changer for your peace of mind and financial security.  Only about half of Americans have at least $1,000 in savings, and one-third have no savings at all. That’s why starting an […]

7 Everyday Expenses You Can Cut Without Sacrificing Comfort

Man on his computer budgeting

You don’t have to live like a monk to manage your finances. Enjoying life while staying on budget is possible. Successful budgeting begins with identifying expenses that harm your wallet but don’t improve your quality of life. You can save hundreds or even thousands of dollars each year. Make smart cuts in these areas, and […]

The Best Way to Budget in 2025: Is the 50/30/20 Rule the Answer Still?

Man looking at a budgeting spreadsheet rolled up

It’s 2025, and the state of personal finances and budgeting feels significantly different from what it was a decade ago. Inflation is skyrocketing, the cost of living is at an all-time high, and the next recession always seems to be looming. So, does your approach to your finances have to adapt? Let’s examine whether the […]

7 Financial Red Flags In Relationships You Shouldn’t Ignore

Couple sitting next to each other frustrated about finances

Money talks, but in relationships, it often whispers warnings we choose not to hear. While love may seem to conquer all, financial incompatibility can slowly erode even the strongest romantic foundations. Understanding and recognizing financial red flags early in a relationship can save you from heartbreak, debt, and a future filled with money-related conflicts.  Keep […]

Practical Strategies to Stay Focused and Motivated While Paying Off Debt

Woman sitting on the couch looking at a bill to simulate debt

Whether you’re paying off your mortgage, eliminating credit card debt, or repaying your student loans, long-term debt can feel like an insurmountable obstacle with no end date in sight. However, there are ways to maintain your morale and stay on track to boost your motivation and achieve financial freedom.  Create a Repayment Plan Two of […]

How Much Should You Really Spend on Rent or a Mortgage?

Woman standing in front of a house with dollar signs above it

Housing is likely the biggest expense in your monthly budget. Understanding your finances and determining the percentage of your income to allocate for rent or mortgage costs is essential for maintaining healthy finances. This guide will help you figure out how much you can afford.  How Much Of My Income Should Go Towards Housing Costs? […]

Your Financial Guide for Every Month in 2025

Person creating a financial planning calendar on their desk

Every year, you promise this will be when you get your finances together. Well, let 2025 truly be that year. It can be hard to know where to start, but this 2025 financial calendar will keep you on track. Your 2025 Financial Calendar Here’s a blueprint of what financial tasks you should prioritize monthly to […]

How to Create a Zero-Based Budget That Actually Works

Woman on a computer working on a budget

Does your paycheck seem to vanish into thin air each month, leaving you wondering where all your money went? You’re not alone. According to a 2024 survey by the Federal Reserve, nearly 35% of Americans don’t track their spending in any meaningful way, and 61% would struggle to cover an unexpected $400 expense. Enter zero-based […]

How to Use Home Equity to Manage Debt

Graphic of a house with money floating around it

People can accumulate debt for many reasons. It can be due to student loans, medical emergencies, overspending, or poor investment decisions. If you have debt, know that you’re not alone. As of 2024, the average American holds just under $105,000 in debt across mortgages, car loans, student loans, and credit cards. That’s a high number […]

Creating a Realistic Budget in 8 Steps

Woman working on creating a budget with different graphs

Debt can feel like a storm cloud that follows you wherever you go. Whether you are drowning in credit card debt, student loans, car payments, or personal loans, debt can play a huge role in your future financial decisions and your future. But here’s the truth: You can take control. And it starts with one […]