Christmas in July: Preparing for Holiday Spending

The holiday season is many Americans’ favorite time of the year. We travel to celebrate with loved ones. We host holiday parties. We buy gifts and decorations. And food, lots of food. All that celebrating is expensive. The spending can really add up. As a result, many of us are hit with hefty credit card…

Read More

Should I Save If I’m in Debt?

Saving money is important. Saving might seem difficult, especially if you are struggling to make ends meet or if you are in debt. However, everyone can create a savings plan. Even as you work toward paying off debt, saving is necessary and possible. If you put all of your money toward debt, you won’t be…

Read More

6 Steps to Become Debt-Free

Think of a goal that you’ve set for yourself. Maybe there’s a book that you want to finish, you want to start exercising three days per week, or you want to take the first step in changing careers. Those are all great goals, and there is one more that I want to put on your…

Read More

5 Tips to Stay Out of Debt on Black Friday

Thin girl smiling while leaning on a glass storefront that reads SALE and wearing a red tank top, checkered skirt, and black sandals

Your No-Debt Black Friday Survival Guide As a veteran, I often get eye rolls from my kids when I use military analogies to describe events. But as a financial coach, I can’t help but see Black Friday as an epic battle. You’re knee-deep in the trenches of holiday shopping goals and you’re experiencing the rapid…

Read More

How Much Should I Save Monthly if I’m in Debt?

Saving money is always a priority, but the amount you save depends on your other goals, such as paying off debt. A rule of thumb is to save at least $1,000 to cover emergency expenses. Consider labeling your emergency account, “Debt-Proof Insurance.” The title is a reminder that the account exists to keep you out…

Read More