Andrew’s Story: The Pursuit of a Minimalist Lifestyle
Meet Andrew, a recent newlywed living in Daly City, CA with his wife and their 13-year old son. What do you do? I work for the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission in the Water Resources Department. I’ve been at this position for a little over three years, but I’ve been with the company for over…
Read MoreTori’s Story: Saving For A Rainy Day
Meet Tori, an internal communications specialist for a credit union who lives in Seattle, WA. What’s it like where you live? I’ve been in Seattle for just over three years and I love the nature and outdoorsy lifestyle that’s available here. Being so close to the mountains and water always inspires me. I have my…
Read MoreHow Can I Get Started with Low-Risk Investments?
How do I begin with low risk investments? For example CD’s, money market accounts, etc. Submitted by Deirel M. First of all, way to go! Investing is all about preparing for your future and the fact that you’re clear that you want low risk is an appropriate first step. Are You Ready to Start Investing?…
Read MoreTiffany’s Story: 100% Self-Made, Independent, and Proud of It
Meet Tiffany, an insurance company Customer Service Expert who lives in Michigan with her six-year-old son. What did your upbringing teach you about finances? I was always a hard worker and strived to make my own money. I’ve saved money to buy the things I wanted or felt I deserved. I pride myself on being…
Read MoreWhat’s the difference between withdrawing from a 401k and taking out a 401k loan?
When life happens and there’s a big bill attached, we often scramble to figure out how to pay it. Ideally, an unexpected expense should be covered by your emergency savings account. If you don’t have enough savings, consider asking for a payment plan or delaying the bill until you get a tax return or bonus.…
Read MoreKarina’s Story: Needs Vs. Wants
Meet Karina, a PhD student in Chemistry living in Columbus, Ohio with her young son. What did your upbringing teach you about finances? Sometimes we think we need things that we really don’t need. If you just wait, you realize that you really don’t need that thing. As a kid, when I asked my mom…
Read MoreGrab a Friend! Social Strategies to Help You Save
There is strength in numbers! This is especially true when you’re trying to reach your goals and change behaviors. Weight Watchers uses this principle to support healthy eating, and Alcoholics Anonymous uses it to encourage sober living. Emerging research shows that peer support can increase your confidence and sense of control. Social support also makes…
Read MoreTamiko’s Story: Pay Yourself First
Meet Tamiko: Tamiko lives in Dothan, Alabama with her two children, Ayonna (13) and Aidan (8). She has worked as an administrative assistant for her church for 16 years. What did your upbringing teach you about finances? My mom was a single parent, so she always managed money. It was a struggle for me, but…
Read MoreJoTerrica’s Story: Veteran, Student, and Mother
Meet JoTerrica, a disabled veteran who is working on her Master’s in Social Work. She lives in Albuquerque, New Mexico with her children and partner. What do you do? I am a full-time student, I am a mother, and I am a Recreation Aide at my local VA. I served in the military from 2005…
Read MoreHow Can People on Government Assistance Save for Retirement?
“Where are the best places for people on state assistance to start saving for retirement? I’m looking for something with low starting balances and low monthly transfers to the account. Do you recommend any financial companies, savings accounts, government-issue bonds, stock market?? I am so confused!” Submitted by Jessica L. I want to acknowledge your…
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