How Distinguishing Between Needs and Wants Can Help You Build a Better Budget
In order to create a budget that not only works, but that you can thrive on, it helps to consider your needs and wants. It can be hard initially to see any of your spending as a want because you can’t see your life without it. But if you take a step back and evaluate…
Read MoreWhat should I do to budget if I’m on unemployment?
I’m sorry to hear you are unemployed. I know for many people it has been very difficult to access unemployment benefits since the CARES Act was enacted in March 2020. On top of that, the extra $600 per month payout ended July 31, 2020. So, congratulations on breaking through the red tape. You finally have…
Read MoreGame Plan for Starting a Small Business
When I first became a financial planner, my specialty was small business owners. I also headed my local Chamber of Commerce’s Small Business committee. Over the years, I received a lot of excellent business advice. Below are the top five most impactful business tips I’ve heard: Get your personal financial house in order If you…
Read MoreHow can I save on a fixed income and disability?
The key to saving is quite simply, to spend less than you make. This works for all incomes, whether it’s from a job, retirement, or government benefits like disability. If you are spending everything that you have each month, then consider checking your spending for a leak in your wallet. When I say “leak,” I…
Read MoreHow to talk about finances with your children
It’s important to talk openly with your family about your financial goals, values, and situation on a regular basis. However, that’s easier said than done. As early as preschool, you can start talking to children about money and building their financial skills in age-appropriate ways. For preschoolers, you might focus on the skill of waiting…
Read MoreWhat is a Health Savings Account and Should I Open One?
If you have a High Deductible Health Plan for your health insurance, then you are eligible for a Health Savings Account (HSA). You can use HSA funds to pay for qualified medical expenses. These expenses can be incurred by you, your spouse, or any dependents listed on your tax return. There is no need to…
Read MoreHow to Make a Budget for Your Family During COVID-19
“How can you budget your money when you have the same amount coming in as you did before, but now you have everyone at home using more electricity, gas, and water and eating more food?” Submitted by Kelly B. A budget is nothing more than deciding how you will spend money before you get it.…
Read MoreWhat are the biggest money sinks that people can cut out of their lives to save more?
Many people don’t even realize that they have a money sink, much less what their money sinks are. We are so heavily marketed to and conditioned to spend in America. Using a debit or credit card feels so removed from real money that it doesn’t even feel like spending. It’s easy to spend without paying…
Read MoreHow do I know what is a “need” and what is a “want”?
Just seeing the word “budget” can give some people a headache. Instead of reaching for a bottle of aspirin, I suggest changing the way you think of a budget. A budget is a tool that helps you use money so that you reach your goals. You control what you spend money on and how much…
Read MoreWhat financial conversations should my partner and I have before moving in together or getting married?
My experience talking about finances with my wife Back in the early 90s when I was first seriously dating, the only thing I could think to ask my future wife was, “Do you love me?” At no time during the wooing process did we discuss money or finances at all. We had no money, jobs,…
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