You’re our first priority.
Every time.
We believe everyone should be able to make financial decisions with confidence. And while our site doesn’t feature every company or financial product available on the market, we’re proud that the guidance we offer, the information we provide and the tools we create are objective, independent, straightforward — and free.
So how do we make money? Our partners compensate us. This may influence which products we review and write about (and where those products appear on the site), but it in no way affects our recommendations or advice, which are grounded in thousands of hours of research. Our partners cannot pay us to guarantee favorable reviews of their products or services. Here is a list of our partners.
How to Manage Money in Your 30s
Senior Writer | Small business, personal finance
Senior Assigning Editor | Los Angeles Times; University of California, San Diego; Microsoft
Many or all of the products featured here are from our partners who compensate us. This influences which products we write about and where and how the product appears on a page. However, this does not influence our evaluations. Our opinions are our own. Here is a list of our partners and here's how we make money.
Visit your My NerdWallet Settings page to see all the writers you're following.
Your 30s can be an exciting but challenging decade. While you may be advancing your career and earning more money, you may also face the financial responsibilities of buying a home or having children.
Beyond building a budget for yourself or your family, experts recommend 30-somethings take these steps to successfully manage their money.
Make these money moves
- When is the best time to pay your credit card bill?
- What is Upwork?
- What is a home equity line of credit?
- Learn more about the good credit range
- What is a W-4?
- 6 steps to opening a Roth IRA
- What is a charitable donation?
- What is the federal estate tax?
- What is IRMAA?
- Compare Medicare Part D plans
- Still deciding on the right carrier? Compare Medigap plans
- What is a lady bird deed?
- What is a self-directed IRA?
- Key takeaways:
- Hubspot
- Zoho CRM
- What are back taxes?
- Compare Medigap plans
- How to build wealth in 5 steps
- Are IRA contributions tax-deductible?
- What is the wash-sale rule?
- What is bill pay?
- What is a custodial Roth IRA?
- Pros of debt consolidation loans
- Compare types of bank accounts
- Key takeaways
- Shopping for Medicare plans? We have you covered.
- LOOKING TO SAVE ON INTEREST?
- Ready to get started? Here's what to do next
- How do we review brokers?
- Fidelity is best for:
- Charles Schwab is best for:
- Dividend definition
- Life insurance buying guide
- Compare Medicare Advantage plans
- Quick tips for where to exchange currency
- How to maximize your rewards
- What is a credit freeze?
- What is an index fund?
- What is passive income?
- How much does HBO Max cost per month?
- What are dividend stocks?
- Investing 101: A summary of the basics
- ¿Qué es una tarjeta de débito prepagada?
- Determining how much mortgage I can afford
- How to get paid on TikTok
- ETFs for beginners
- What is a good used iPhone model?
- What is a spot Bitcoin ETF?
- How the cash surrender value works
- About Farmers home insurance
- Does Spirit Airlines have Wi-Fi?
- 1. You're in default
- What is cost basis?
- How to invest your 401(k)
- What is inflation?
- 1. Determine how much to save for a down payment
- What is a credit card CVV?
- 1. Report lost debit cards ASAP
- What is a conventional mortgage?
- 7 of the best apps to make money
- What's the best S&P 500 ETF?
- What you need to open a bank account
- Is Upwork a legit way to make money?
- Can you withdraw money from a 401(k) early?
- Buy: Winter outerwear
- Which cellular network is best for you?
- Make sure the car qualifies for road testing
- Home improvement loan calculator
- How much are United miles worth?
- How to find a passport number on your passport
- 7 best-performing AI stocks
- How is the Medicare IRMAA calculated?
- HubSpot Marketing Hub: Best overall marketing software
- ETF vs. mutual fund
- Simplifying tax time with accounting software
- What to expect flying business class with Copa Airlines
- Original Medicare vs. Medicare Advantage: Overview
- What is a down payment?
- What is SSDI?
- 1. Certificates of deposit (CDs)
- Top-rated parent loan lenders
- The definition of a recession
- Cons of debt consolidation loans
- The World of Hyatt award chart
- Value of Membership Rewards points at Amazon
- Savings accounts
- What's the tax rate for bank interest and bonuses?
- What is a goodwill letter or late payment removal letter?
- What are Vanguard index funds?
- United flight change policy
- Getting to New York City
- United fare classes: The differences
- 5 things to know about Spirit delayed flight compensation
- 1. Make extra payments toward the principal
- Calculate your closing costs
- What is Frontier Airlines like?
- What is Mint?
- January
- How does capital gains tax on real estate work?
- 1. Set your budget
- 6 things to know about Hawaii’s small islands
- The best car insurance
- Know what you qualify for
- ‘An expensive gamble’
- 1. Start investing as early as possible
- How to invest $50,000
- Do rent payments affect credit?
- The best budget apps
- Why is having a low credit utilization important?
- Amazon credit card options
- The best cheap car insurance
- Types of crypto wallets
- Questions to ask before hiring your first employee
- Pros
- What is flood insurance?
- Understanding a self-directed IRA (SDIRA)
- How to use the mutual fund calculator
- How do LLC taxes work?
- Baggage allowance
- About EWR lounges
- What is the child tax credit?
- How much can I contribute to my IRA?
- Activate quarterly 5% rewards categories
- 1. Automate your savings
- Frugal food tips
- Roth IRA contribution limits 2024
- What is a growth stock?
- How to use this calculator
- Why do children fly by themselves?
- What it means to default on a credit card
- Applying for a credit card online
- When to book an open-jaw itinerary
- How to estimate your home insurance
- California state income tax brackets and rates
- Custodial Roth IRA rules
- The best places to buy a used iPhone or other cell phone
- Why do mortgages get sold?
- How to manage your money
- Decide whether to invest in Matic
- How to calculate your car lease payment
- Fidelity at a glance
- Why is cost basis important?
- First, some background
- Financing options for people convicted of felonies
- What determines your monthly car payment?
- Average car loan interest rates by credit score
- The cost of education in New Jersey
- 1. Build your network
- What are credit freezes and credit locks?
- Defining some health insurance terms
- What is mortgage forbearance?
- Nearest airports
- 1. Open an IRA
- Average savings account rate: 0.46%
- Best overall: MetLife
- 1. In some cases, Spirit will try to rebook you on another Spirit flight
- Pay private student loans first
- What are short-term investments?
- A quick look at the billing cycle
- Types of personal finance software and apps
- 1. There are 137 islands in total
- The differences between dealerships and independent shops
- Pros of electric cars
- What is an EIN?
- Skip: Other clothing
- What should I check on my Experian credit report?
- Understanding your home improvement loan calculator results
- Calculator: Convert United miles to dollars
- Best ways to consolidate credit card debt
- Are charitable donations tax-deductible?
- A
- How to compare FHA vs. conventional loans
- 1. Look into investment accounts
- 17 passive income ideas for 2024
- Estate tax limits and exemptions
- With ads
- Passport photo clothing requirements
- Are you busy enough?
- How does a lady bird deed work?
- A good deal
- How to budget money
- What is IVF?
- Original Medicare
- 1. Resort hop via the monorail
- Can you negotiate on Airbnb?
- Spending rewards
- If you don't have a work retirement plan
- How to calculate simple interest in a savings account manually
- When is a personal loan in default?
- Leasing basics
- Category: Best balance transfer credit card
- What Airbnb cleaning fees are and what they cost
- Why you’d want The Platinum Card® from American Express
- Best fleet fuel cards
- 5 Ways to get started in real estate investing
- How to start a clothing line
- How does bill pay work?
- What is a business credit report?
- Advantages of online banking
- Late winter and early spring
- 1. The rewards are solid ...
- How to find a currency exchange near you
- Organic frozen berries
- What goes into the credit card interest calculation
- What property damage liability covers
- The best investments for beginners
- Local SEO
- Charles Schwab at a glance
- At a glance
- 8 tips for finding a tax preparer or tax professional near you
- Come to terms with risk
- How does PNC Bank handle overdrafts?
- 13 daycare franchise opportunities
- Companion Fare
- Flight options
- What is a tax credit?
- What are estimated tax payments?
- Stock chart components
- About The Platinum Card® from American Express
- How do credit union loans work?
- Where to find your credit card’s CVV
- Reasons to cancel Medicare Part B
- 4 common check fraud scams
- The 41 best online business ideas
- The best money-making apps
- Itemized deductions, definition
- Breakdown of central air costs
- Mint vs. NerdWallet at a glance
- EVs can provide long-term fuel savings
- What is the 401(k) early withdrawal penalty?
- Do: Book flexible fares and rooms
- Key takeaways
- What a 720 credit score can get you
- Find student loan refinancing
- How to freeze your credit with all 3 bureaus
- Netflix subscription cost
- Pros
- How do index funds work?
- What is term life insurance?
- Summary of cash advance apps
- Which airlines have free checked bags?
- 1. Deposit locally, transfer electronically
- How to file back taxes
- What is a business credit score?
- How to invest in stocks in 6 steps
- What mortgage terms are best for me?
- Transaction types
- 1. Sign a prenup... for the house
- 1. Buy REITs (real estate investment trusts)
- Banks that offer joint business accounts
- Start with an authentic budget
- Understanding your results
- How do debt consolidation loans help you pay off debt?
- 2% cash back on all purchases
- Top 11 spot Bitcoin ETFs by fee
- Algorithms are pricing for profits
- How discretionary income is used
- The cost equation: Will Medicare save you money?
- 1. A 401(k) or other employer retirement plan
- 50 best small businesses to start
- When to track cost basis
- 1. Ask for a preparer tax identification number (PTIN)
- SBA loans
- 11 best investments right now
- Average inflation rate
- Why does tipping matter?
- Winner for route availability: Spirit
- Do goodwill letters work?
- Keeping your life insurance
- How much is life insurance?
- Coinsurance
- Why it’s the best
- 1. Ibotta
- How much are closing costs?
- How to get Upwork jobs
- Who needs to get an EIN?
- 1. Figure out if you are eligible
- Investment-based passive income ideas
- 1. There's more than one version of the store card
- How to lower your credit utilization
- What are the 2024 IRMAA brackets?
- Compare car insurance rates by age
- Ad-free
- What does the value of Hilton points mean?
- Saving vs. investing
- ¿Para quiénes son?
- ETFs vs. mutual funds: The main differences
- Boarding
- Who qualifies for SSDI?
- Types of ETFs
- Airport lounge access
- Wash sales and capital gains
- AtoB
- Know your credit score
- 1. Take inventory of your finances
- Where Farmers stands out
- General budgeting
- 2. Your account is unused
- 1. Accounting and bookkeeping
- Business profiles and listings
- 1. Creative World School
- How did we get here?
- How much is car insurance?
- Top credit cards you can use instantly after approval
- Credit freeze vs. lock
- New York Life insurance
- Will mortgage forbearance affect my credit?
- United change policies for basic economy fares
- 1. E-commerce store
- Cheap car insurance
- Comparing government loans and conventional mortgages
- Frontier Miles, Frontier’s loyalty program
- What’s happening to Mint?
- Pre-installation evaluation: $250 for a 2,000 square foot home
- How to choose an S&P 500 ETF
- How the home sale tax exemption works
- What reasons can you withdraw from your 401(k) early?
- How to fill out a W-4
- 1. Roll your debts onto a balance transfer credit card
- Standard with ads: $6.99 per month
- Cons
- NVIDIA Corp (NVDA)
- YNAB, for hands-on zero-based budgeting
- How the federal estate tax works
- 1. Keep your charges on each card to a minimum
- Processing issues delay financial aid offers
- New York state income tax rates
- How to open a self-directed IRA
- 20 high-dividend stocks
- 1. Gather your documents.
- What comprehensive insurance covers
- Understand the budgeting process
- Terminal A: United Club, Delta SkyClub and Admirals Club
- Do you need to put 20% down on a house?
- How much is the child tax credit worth?
- 1. Chase Ultimate Rewards®
- Has the account adjustment started?
- Ally personal loan alternatives
- Roth IRA contribution deadline
- Use your results to save money
- Which airlines allow unaccompanied minors to fly?
- The Fed is pushing to slow the economy
- 1. Decide how much coverage you need
- 1. EBay: Vast marketplace teeming with cell phone sellers
- Better redemption options
- What happens next
- How to choose the best crypto wallet
- Authentic Italian ingredients
- Can you get insurance without a car?
- Ongoing strikes
- Financial aid options in New Jersey
- What are dividend stocks and why buy them?
- 2. Diversify products and income streams
- Who qualifies for the Fresh Start program?
- Copay
- What to know about cash advance apps
- Example savings APYs at select institutions
- 2. Refinance if you have good credit and a steady job
- What is the cheapest car insurance in California?
- Representatives and service advisors
- Setup up a robust profile
- Today’s HELOC rates
- Buy: Outdoor furniture and grills
- United MileagePlus Miles value over time
- Check your number online
- How tax-deductible donations work
- Why invest in index funds?
- Which services will report your rent payments?
- 1. Brigit: Best for budgeting tools
- Medicare Part B IRMAA
- Ultimate Ad-Free
- 2. Buy a money order
- How much is in vitro fertilization?
- 1. How they’re managed
- Seats: lie-flat or recline
- Child tax credit 2023 (taxes filed in 2024)
- Chase Freedom Flex℠ and Chase Freedom®
- How much money do I need to buy a house?
- 2. Revisit your savings once a year
- Leasing has changed in the past few years
- Frugal shopping tips
- Banks
- 2. Cash management accounts
- Best-performing growth stocks
- Axos Basic Business Checking
- Transferring Chase points to partners vs. booking through the travel portal
- How to open a custodial Roth IRA for kids
- Factors that go into your business credit score
- The best ways to redeem Hyatt points
- Sign-up bonus
- How much does Spirit Wi-Fi cost?
- Find a place to buy Matic
- Best place to exchange currency: Your bank or credit union
- If your employer has 20 or more employees
- What's the tax difference between bank bonuses and credit card bonuses?
- How property damage liability works
- Boston University Workers
- Ways to calculate cost basis
- Why the Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card is better for most people
- Best homeowners insurance in Louisiana for coverage: Chubb
- 2. Require a CPA, law license or enrolled agent designation
- How to calculate the inflation rate
- Recent averages for factors that affect a car payment
- How do tax credits work?
- Average cost of car insurance for different driver profiles
- When are estimated taxes due?
- 2. Use money tips to accelerate your savings
- How to write a late payment removal letter
- When to use a credit freeze
- How life insurance rates are determined
- The purpose of CVV numbers
- 2. Social media marketing
- 2. Spirit may offer a refund or travel credit in some circumstances
- Paying early could help your credit
- February
- 2. Shop for a loan
- 2. Some small Hawaiian islands are privately owned
- If any of these situations apply to you
- Credit card options for students
- Reasons to cancel
- Why you may need to reskill to get a new career
- Should you choose postpaid or prepaid?
- Step 1: Enter your personal information
- Borrow a car for your driving test
- Information you need to freeze your credit
- 1. Donate to a qualifying organization
- Minimum down payments and credit scores
- 2. Explore low-cost investments
- 1. Dividend stocks
- How we found the best cheap auto insurance
- Dress code tips for passport photo
- 1. Decide how you want to invest in the stock market
- Funciones
- How LLCs pay income taxes
- When should you try to negotiate your Airbnb price?
- United Club
- If you do have a work retirement plan
- Personal loan default consequences
- Pricing transparency
- At what age can you fly alone?
- Options if you’ve already defaulted
- 2. Amazon: Lots of pre-owned phones with Prime shipping
- How the cash surrender value is calculated
- Online-only banks
- Where Farmers falls short
- Holiday weekends
- 2. ... But they're inflexible
- Grace period
- 2. Business consulting
- What is a mega backdoor Roth?
- Key findings
- Are auto loan interest rates rising?
- Consolidation vs. refinancing
- Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
- How do Vanguard index funds work?
- Buying new life insurance
- What does the The Platinum Card® from American Express cost for military personnel?
- Best homeowners insurance in Hawaii for affordability and coverage: State Farm
- Deductible
- Best credit union personal loans for 2024
- 4 steps to spot a fake check and avoid trouble
- Major airlines flying to New York
- 2. Account frozen? Submit documentation
- Cheap auto insurance from large companies
- Best budget pick for dogs: Lemonade
- How do you calculate closing costs on a house?
- Ductwork and design: $500 to $7,500
- Don’t: Play the case rate guessing game
- Car loans
- Skip: Most electronics
- Find a private student loan
- How do home improvement loans work?
- Standard: $15.49 per month
- What kind of investment is Ethereum?
- SoundHound AI Inc. (SOUN)
- Positive Rent Payment pilot program
- Do you need term life insurance?
- Amazon personal credit cards at a glance
- B/R Sports
- Wear casual clothes
- How to set up a crypto wallet
- Do you need an employee in order to take your business in a new direction?
- NY state income tax: Single and married filing separately
- The value of Hilton points over time
- What does flood insurance cover?
- 2. Get a transcript if you need one.
- How are business credit scores calculated?
- Learn more
- How to get Public Service Loan Forgiveness
- Simple interest calculation examples
- How to buy an ETF
- Why Airbnb cleaning fees are so irritating — and Airbnb's plan to fix it
- Automatic status
- LendingClub Tailored Business Checking
- Learn what to expect before you shop
- How long do recessions last?
- Pros and cons of debt consolidation loans
- Fake apps are stealing crypto
- 8 best hot wallets
- 2. A robo-advisor
- FIFO
- Know how much risk you’re comfortable with
- Sign-up bonus
- Our pick for: Rich travel rewards
- New York Life insurance policies
- Rebound of the college-bound
- 3. Freelance graphic design
- Pay off high-interest loans first
- What to look for in a personal finance tool
- How you can prepare for the end of Mint
- Types of itemized deductions
- Other alternatives to Mint
- Technician training and experience
- Postpaid
- How to file a dispute with Experian
- How do United miles compare with other airlines?
- 2. Decide what type of investor you are
- 2. You can only use the cards for purchases through some Amazon businesses
- Hot wallet
- Advantages of a self-directed IRA
- Mailchimp: Best email marketing software
- Investing for income: Dividend stocks vs. dividend funds
- Income taxes for single-member LLCs
- Lounges
- Disney's Polynesian Village Resort
- Lots of availability
- Child tax credit 2024 (taxes filed in 2025)
- Have the correct type of loans, or consolidate
- 1. Market your business and attract new clients
- The EV landscape has changed, too
- Roth IRA income limits 2024
- 2. Choose the right type of title
- Coast
- 2. Use an online real estate investing platform
- 3. Swappa: Solid marketplace for anyone looking to buy or sell
- Checking your business credit score
- 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers
- How to protect yourself
- Student loan repayment plans
- 3. Something about you (or the issuer) changed
- How can I be smart with my bank account interest and bonuses?
- Waffle House workers in Georgia
- Optional service: PNC Overdraft Coverage
- Nonrefundable tax credit
- Premium
- Alliant: Best for fast funding
- Risks of canceling Medicare Part B coverage
- How does mortgage forbearance work?
- 1. Inspect the check
- Historical national rates
- Why it’s the best
- Other factors to consider
- Are rents increasing or decreasing?
- Home loans
- Step 2: Account for multiple jobs
- Submit an Experian dispute online
- C
- Upstart Holdings Inc. (UPST)
- Estate tax rates
- 2. Ask for higher credit limits
- Free and packaged HBO Max plans
- Pros and cons of a lady bird deed
- NY state income tax: Married filing jointly or qualifying widow(er)
- Building coverage
- 3. Deposit cash in a linked ATM
- 3. Use the proper forms.
- American Airlines Admirals Club
- Minimum down payment requirements
- When should I contribute to my IRA?
- 1. Open a brokerage account
- Category: Best airline credit card
- Chase Business Complete Banking
- What is identity theft?
- 5 reasons why a Roth IRA can be right for minors
- Hyatt Regency Grand Reserve Puerto Rico
- When to use Membership Rewards points at Amazon
- Certificates of deposit
- 3. The sign-up bonus is valuable
- Decide how to pay for Matic
- If you have a high-deductible health plan with an HSA
- Baking supplies and real maple syrup
- 3. Marketing services
- Website optimization tips
- Useful reward categories
- Online loans
- Cost of living has grown faster than income in the past four years
- 2. The Goddard School
- How to use average car interest rates
- Consolidating private student loans
- Should you tip all kinds of massage therapists?
- 3. Cut back on expenses with automation and negotiation
- United's standby policy
- 2. Set financial priorities
- 3. Ask your bank for relief
- 2. Rakuten
- 3. You can request a refund in several ways
- Safety ratings
- Who qualifies for the home sales tax exclusion?
- How we chose the cheapest companies in California
- You can eliminate some maintenance costs
- If you qualify for a hardship withdrawal
- Buy: Halloween gear
- How to get your money back
- Prepaid
- Rent a car from a driver training school
- Premium: $22.99 per month
- 3. Consider diversifying your assets
- What is an index?
- Why you can trust NerdWallet
- You can’t correct submitted FAFSAs yet
- Wear a dark shirt for your passport photo
- Are you financially ready?
- Advantages of a lady bird deed
- Entertainment and education galore
- 2. Their expense ratios
- Other perks
- Longer stays
- Requirements: Who qualifies for the child tax credit?
- Travel perks and protections
- What mortgage can I afford?
- Will your disability benefits change when you turn 65?
- Overall cost
- Online lenders
- 3. High-yield money market accounts (MMAs)
- How to find growth stocks
- How to set up bill pay
- Other student loan calculators
- How to book by transferring points to an airline partner
- What is a Bitcoin strategy ETF?
- Mobile banking makes gains
- State availability
- Another money-change option: online currency converters
- Unite Here Local 11
- Mega backdoor Roth 2024
- 3. Look for friends in high places
- Decide on your 401(k) investments
- How credit scores affect monthly car payments
- Priority boarding
- Dividend vs. growth stocks
- How to sign up for the Fresh Start program
- Refundable tax credit
- Estimated tax payments 2024
- 3. Keep down payment savings in the right account
- Goodwill letter template
- Are Vanguard index funds a good investment?
- Basic stock chart terms to know
- Best points and miles for cheap flights to New York City
- Changes and cancellations
- 4. Freelance writing
- Medical expense deduction
- EveryDollar
- You only need one S&P 500 ETF
- March
- 3. Determine other ownership costs
- 3. Not all islands are open to the public
- Contact potential clients with “Connects”
- Do: Go big
- Credit cards
- Numerous obstacles to retraining
- 2. Apply for a credit card consolidation loan
- Debt-to-income ratios
- What are AI stocks?
- Free rent-reporting services tenants can use on their own
- How long does term life insurance last?
- Prime Visa
- NY state income tax: Head of household
- 4. Consider a payment plan if you can't afford your tax bill.
- Is IVF covered by health insurance?
- Medicare Advantage
- Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
- 2. U.S. Bank rewards
- Do I have to do anything?
- It’s not what you can borrow, it’s what you can afford
- If you need student loan help
- Wash-sale consequences
- Some NerdWallet favorites: Secured
- 1. Contributions can be withdrawn at any time
- 4. Gazelle: One of the original reputable cell phone resellers
- Dun & Bradstreet
- Are debt consolidation loans a good idea?
- Which policies have a cash surrender value?
- 2. Build a money management blueprint
- Get a secured credit card
- 4. Real estate business
- Average cost
- What’s going on with layoffs in tech?
- Out-of-pocket maximum
- Why CVV isn't a fail-safe
- How to cancel Medicare Part B coverage
- Get a secured credit card
- Cheap car insurance from midsize companies
- What kinds of conventional loans are available?
- Would refinancing save you money?
- Reliability
- Pay off small loans first
- Investments for money you need in less than 2 years
- The type of central air unit: $600 to $24,000
- 1. The home must be your principal residence
- How to apply for an employer identification number
- Find the best student loan for you
- 2. Decide how much to invest
- How to get a home improvement loan
- When is the best time to use United miles?
- 2. Dividend index funds and exchange-traded funds
- 2. Empower: Best for fast cash
- Best car insurance companies: Our winners
- Compare insurance rates for 20-year-olds
- 4. Load cash on a reloadable prepaid debit card
- Decide what type of account you want: checking vs. savings
- Who needs a comprehensive insurance policy
- Do personal credit scores affect business credit scores?
- Should you invest in the stock market?
- Income taxes for multi-member LLCs
- VA and USDA loans: 0% down payment
- What’s the difference between simple interest and compound interest?
- EV tech is still evolving
- Frugal entertainment tips
- Concierge services
- WEX
- 3. Think about investing in rental properties
- 1. Write a business plan
- Bank of America Business Advantage Fundamentals
- Child travel policies by airline
- Getting ready for a recession
- Find your flight
- 2. Choose your insurance deductible
- A variety of redemption options
- All year
- Crypto.com DeFi Wallet: 4.8 out of 5 stars
- If your employer has fewer than 20 employees
- Other factors that affect what you'll pay each month
- Average daily balance
- How much property damage liability you need
- Who needs non-owner car insurance?
- Email marketing campaigns
- Best homeowners insurance in Louisiana for consumer experience: Amica
- Optional service: PNC Overdraft Protection
- New Jersey 529 Plan
- Partially refundable tax credit
- Combining life insurance with long-term care
- When to use a credit lock
- First Tech: Best for co-sign and joint loan options
- Not all states are on equal footing
- 4. Monitor bank transactions online
- Average interest checking account rate: 0.08%
- Best budget pick for cats: Embrace
- 4. You’ll only be reimbursed for expenses in specific cases
- Online savings account or money market account
- What to look for in a new budgeting app
- Availability
- ITIN: What it is and how to get one
- Best car insurance companies: Our winners
- Getting the best HELOC rate
- Personal loans
- What you want in a credit card while studying abroad
- Bonus: Tacos and desserts
- Step 3: Claim dependents, including children
- Index examples
- Services provided by landlords
- Which airlines offer free carry-on bags?
- Which states have an estate tax?
- Contents coverage
- 5. Don't be afraid to ask for help.
- Try a simple budgeting plan
- Filling a gap between stays
- Delta SkyClub
- How to claim the child tax credit
- But I don't have enough to max out an IRA!
- Discover it® Cash Back and the Discover it® Student Cash Back
- Work full time for a qualifying employer
- Card readers and apps
- What if there were no cleaning fees?
- California income tax deadlines and extensions
- 5. Your wireless provider: Most carriers sell pre-owned phones
- Impression Moxché by Secrets
- Top 8 Bitcoin strategy ETFs by fee
- Mobile-focused banks: next generation options
- How to connect to Spirit Wi-Fi
- Purchase and store your Matic
- Nuts
- 3. Target-date mutual funds
- Specific shares
- Average monthly car payment by credit score
- Free checked bag
- How are dividends paid out?
- 4. Prioritize authenticity
- Who should make estimated quarterly tax payments?
- Goodwill letter vs. credit dispute letter
- Coinsurance vs. copay
- What happens when mortgage forbearance ends?
- 2. Ask yourself why you received the check
- 5. E-book writing
- Customer satisfaction
- Paying early also cuts interest
- Property tax deduction
- Credit Karma
- Submit an Experian dispute by mail
- 3. Choose how much you want to invest
- How to unfreeze your credit
- 2. Document your charitable contributions
- 3. Prime members earn lucrative rewards
- Avoid strapless tops or tank tops
- Disadvantages of a lady bird deed
- Risks of self-directed IRAs
- How to book a business class ticket with Copa Airlines
- If your income exceeds the Roth IRA limits
- Wash sale example
- Who can open a joint business account
- Be firm on your needs, flexible on the rest
- Dealing with the fallout and moving forward
- 7 types of identity theft and the warning signs
- When to consider surrendering your policy
- Farmers home insurance coverage
- 4. Being an "Icon" helps you earn more
- Where to exchange currency outside the U.S.
- You often borrow other people’s cars
- 5. Event planning
- Housing authority workers in Marin County
- More bonus categories
- Invoice factoring
- Rising costs thwart debt payoff plans
- 3. KLA Schools
- Reliability
- How much does it cost to buy Vanguard index fund shares?
- The Platinum Card® from American Express military benefits
- Best homeowners insurance in Hawaii for consumer experience: Cincinnati Insurance
- How to re-enroll in Medicare Part B coverage
- Does basic economy get a carry-on on United?
- Why it’s the best
- 4. Find the right car for you
- Cheap car insurance in California by age
- Pricing
- EV subsidies and incentives can save you money
- Strategies to keep building your 720 credit score
- Do you need a family cell phone plan?
- Step 4: Refine your withholdings
- Request your passport number from the State Department
- How do streaming services fit into your budget?
- Deciding between term and permanent life insurance
- Goodbudget, for hands-on envelope budgeting
- Best insurance company overall: Travelers
- 3. Set up balance alerts to stay on top of spending
- Medicare Part D IRMAA in 2024
- Does Max cost the same as HBO Max did?
- Are you ready to deal with red tape?
- New York state supplemental income tax
- How do Hilton points compare to other hotel programs?
- 2. Choose an investment account
- Your dollars could become more valuable
- Tarjetas prepagadas o tarjetas de crédito o débito
- 3. How they’re traded
- New listing with few reviews
- Conventional mortgages: As low as 3% down payment
- So, should you lease or buy an electric car?
- 2. Find and compare ETFs with screening tools
- Why you’d want the American Express® Gold Card
- 4. Peer-to-peer lending
- Alaska Airlines
- 3. Evaluate other factors
- Do debt consolidation loans hurt your credit score?
- Start with a budget
- The Fed keeps the economy on a diet
- 1. High-yield savings accounts
- 20% rebate on eligible in-flight purchases
- Winner for reliability: Spirit
- Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express
- 5. Know the bank’s timeline
- 3. Enroll in autopay
- When to estimate closing costs
- Fees
- What's next?
- 2. You must have owned the home for at least two years
- Best insurance company overall: Travelers
- 1. Make sure you’re eligible to get an EIN online
- Rent a car from a rental company
- Home improvement loans with bad credit
- Mortgage insurance
- How much do index funds cost?
- Services that charge renters
- Opt for modest jewelry
- How do you set up a lady bird deed?
- How many years can you file back taxes for?
- Could state abortion bans impact IVF?
- Disney's Contemporary Resort
- Do you have to contact anyone to switch from SSDI to Social Security?
- 2. Score sponsorships
- What to do if you face loan default
- Point-of-sale hardware
- Smaller annual fee
- 1. Credit identity theft
- Cell phone protection, plus other perks
- Potential penalties
- Discounted gift cards
- 6. Video production
- Direct mail promotions
- Warehouse workers in Sacramento, Calif.
- 4. Do a background search
- How loan term affects your monthly car payment
- How much is car insurance in my state?
- 4. Resist dipping into your other savings
- Tips for avoiding late payments
- Our pick for: Intro APR + high rewards on everyday spending
- What doesn’t impact your life insurance premium
- More advanced stock chart terms
- Airport lounge access
- Copay vs. deductible
- PenFed: Best for a seamless application process
- Aid deadlines vary
- 6. Translation
- 3. Swagbucks
- Pay attention to the big picture
- Goodbudget
- April
- 4. Most small islands are uninhabited
- Why should I open a bank account if I'm undocumented?
- Win a gig and get to work
- If you are converting your 401(k) to an IRA
- How does a HELOC work?
- Typical cost for a flagship family plan with unlimited data
- Step 5: Sign and date your W-4
- Reasons for unfreezing your credit
- E
- 4. Max out your retirement accounts
- Estate tax exemptions by state
- Keap: Best for dedicated support
- What is a good business credit score?
- Allow up to 50% of your income for needs
- Choosing corporate tax status for your LLC
- Ways to get good value on Copa Airlines
- Original Medicare vs. Medicare Advantage: Coverage features
- Offer to help clean up
- Terminal B: British Airways Lounge, SAS Lounge and USO Center
- FHA loans: As low as 3.5% down payment
- 3. Pentagon Federal Credit Union (PenFed) Rewards
- Category: Best credit card for college students
- Frugal DIY project tips
- Credit unions
- Other fuel cards to consider
- Should you buy growth stocks?
- 2. More time means more growth
- What to ask before buying a used iPhone
- Experian
- Alternatives to surrendering your cash value policy
- How much should you spend on a mattress?
- 5. But don’t carry a balance
- Zengo Wallet: 4.8 out of 5 stars
- Medicare Part A
- Who might prefer the Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card
- Your 401(k) plan allows after-tax contributions
- Family and friend loans
- Minimize expense ratios
- More about the card
- In-state tuition
- What if you’re unhappy with your massage?
- 6 types of dividends
- Popular and new tax credits for 2023 (taxes filed in 2024)
- Extending or converting your policy
- How long does mortgage forbearance last?
- 3. Don’t use the money
- Can a change be made on the day of travel?
- Example interest checking APYs at select institutions
- 5. Consider using your credit card’s trip delay insurance
- Unique perks of flying Frontier
- Other tech tools to help you manage your money
- Mortgage interest deduction
- Size of the AC system
- 3. You must have lived in the house for at least two years in the five-year period before you sold it
- Cheapest for 20-year-old drivers
- Parts and inventory
- How many banks have collapsed?
- Peace of mind
- Your options for retraining
- 3. Open an investment account
- Can United miles be used on other airlines?
- 4. Select a provider to open your Roth IRA
- 4. You’ll get a small introductory bonus
- Can I switch to permanent life insurance?
- Mixed-status families still face FAFSA glitches
- Hardware wallets
- Maximize your time
- What happens if you don't pay your back taxes?
- Limitaciones de las tarjetas de débito prepagadas
- Book with points
- Why should I contribute to my IRA?
- Why is the IDR account adjustment happening?
- What factors affect the amount you can borrow
- 3. Hike your savings rate
- If your income reduces your Roth IRA contribution
- How to apply for a joint business bank account
- American Airlines
- Decide among low interest, 0% or rewards
- Do I have to pay California state tax?
- The Bitcoin ETF price war
- Track your spending
- Digital banking security
- CD vs. high-yield savings account: At a glance
- Farmers home insurance rates
- Spirit Airlines Wi-Fi recapped
- You rent cars frequently
- 7. Podcasting
- Media company strikes in 2024
- Simplicity
- The best homeowners insurance in Louisiana
- PNC’s $5 safety buffer
- Many in credit card debt feel stressed, worried
- How to consolidate private student loans
- Fresh Start for incarcerated student loan borrowers
- Bid and ask
- Cheap car insurance after a speeding ticket
- Best for comprehensive coverage: ASPCA
- Cash management account
- Family plans on a budget
- Can I dispute my Experian credit report by phone?
- Diversifying with index funds
- 3. Bonds and bond index funds
- How to choose a rent-reporting service
- 4. Pay your bill before your issuer reports to the credit bureaus
- Does HBO Max allow password sharing?
- Apply natural makeup
- Flood insurance coverage beyond the NFIP
- Find a bank that suits your needs
- The benefits of compound interest
- 4. How they’re taxed
- Original Medicare vs. Medicare Advantage: Cost
- British Airways Lounge
- Jumbo loans: As low as 5%-10% down payment (varies)
- Additional child tax credit
- Citi Dividend
- Submit PSLF employment certification forms
- Integrations with accounting software
- 3. Leave your parents at home
- 2. Child identity theft
- Grand Hyatt Baha Mar
- A billion bucks might do the trick
- Medicare Part B
- Over-the-counter medicine
- How to use the car lease calculator's results
- Examples of cost basis
- 5. Compare tax preparation fees
- Business grants
- Inflation example
- 4. LeafSpring Schools
- 1. Cash dividends
- Average cost of term life insurance by age
- Coinsurance vs. deductible
- 7. Editing
- 6. Rebounding from bank account fraud
- Advantages of conventional loans
- Why the due date is so important
- Installation and labor: $75 to $250 per hour
- Additional functionality
- 5. Contact the seller or visit a dealership
- EVs are better for the environment
- How much of your fee goes to Upwork?
- Pay on time
- 2. Gather the necessary information
- W-4 form 2024
- Other ways to finance a home improvement project
- Tips for unfreezing your credit
- 3. Don’t miss out on tax deductions for volunteering
- F
- How much does term life insurance cost?
- 3. EarnIn: Best for large advances
- Amazon Visa
- Hiring your first employee: Steps to take
- How to convert Hilton points to dollars
- How to invest in dividend stocks
- Dun & Bradstreet business credit scores
- 2. Ride the water taxi to Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
- How to negotiate your Airbnb price
- Should you claim early Social Security benefits?
- 5. Online savings accounts
- 2. Find your niche
- Ways to maximize savings when booking with Chase partners
- 3. Investing can trump saving over the long term
- Find ways to save
- Mattress-buying tips
- Where to avoid exchanging currency
- Get a credit-builder product or a secured loan
- 4. Index funds
- Community event participation
- Purchasing stocks
- Your 401(k) lets you move your after-tax money
- New Jersey grants
- 5. Get help with saving for a down payment
- Hotel elite status
- Full list of the best homeowners insurance in Hawaii
- Navy Federal: Best for military members
- New York Life customer complaints and satisfaction
- How to change a United flight
- Is United’s basic economy worth it?
- Get a credit-builder product or a secured loan
- Why it’s the best
- What do closing costs include?
- Charitable contribution deduction
- 4. You cannot have claimed the home sale capital gains exclusion recently
- Cheapest full coverage car insurance in California for 20-year-olds
- Which one is better?
- Don’t: Count on borders to open immediately
- How to invest in AI stocks
- Other ways to skip baggage fees
- What is the difference between an inheritance tax and an estate tax?
- Do I still have to pay the IRMAA if I choose Medicare Advantage?
- Choose a simple hairstyle
- Take advantage of partner awards from other airlines
- What will count toward IDR forgiveness?
- Deposit timing
- If everyone hates Airbnb cleaning fees, why still charge them?
- Superior rewards-earnings
- What makes wash-sale investments 'substantially identical'?
- 4. Consider flipping investment properties
- Don’t let negative emotions get the upper hand
- What credit score is needed for a debt consolidation loan?
- Do spot Bitcoin ETFs have custodianship risk?
- How to open a savings account or CD
- Medicare Part D
- Interest rate
- 8. IT consulting
- Starbucks Workers United and Starbucks are negotiating
- Business incubators
- Estimating your car payment
- 2. Stock dividends
- Tax credits for people with kids
- Term life insurance rates for nonsmokers
- Volume, average volume and day’s range
- Will forbearance impact my future ability to buy a home?
- 8. Writing a blog
- 4. Make biweekly payments
- Estimate your potential refinance savings
- Price
- May
- Cons of electric cars
- Consider the costs of cashing out your 401(k)
- How do I access a HELOC?
- Use credit lightly
- How long does Experian take to resolve a dispute?
- Home equity loans and lines of credit
- 3. Tap your home equity for a loan or line of credit
- 5. Financing options are available, but proceed with caution
- Fly bags for free with elite status
- How to fit HBO Max into your budget
- 1. Obtain your EIN
- Alternatives to a lady bird deed
- When are New York state income taxes due?
- 1. Find a dividend-paying stock
- What are the advantages of filing back taxes?
- How comprehensive insurance works
- Leave 30% of your income for wants
- 5. The minimum investment
- How to choose between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage
- How can I qualify to borrow more?
- 3. Place the trade
- 3. Synthetic identity theft
- 4. Consider extra coverage
- More about the card
- Skip currency exchange: Use a credit or debit card
- You frequently use a car-sharing service
- Which card should you get?
- How much does homeowners insurance cost in Louisiana?
- Overdraft policies for PNC Virtual Wallet
- Rising interest rates are making it harder for many to pay off debt
- How to calculate quarterly estimated taxes
- Dropping your life insurance
- How it all works together
- Average certificate of deposit rate: 1.81% for one-year CDs
- 4. Fiverr
- Who should avoid Frontier Airlines?
- 5. You cannot have bought the house through a like-kind exchange
- EV range can still be a sticking point
- What plans are best for seniors?
- 4. Keep the deadline in mind
- 5. Optimize for tax implications
- Does paying rent build credit?
- What doesn’t flood insurance cover?
- What to expect when you open your new account
- 4 ways to start investing
- LLC payroll taxes
- SAS Lounge
- Switch to an income-driven repayment plan
- Can you collect SSI and Social Security disability or retirement benefits?
- Contract periods
- Frugal home expenses tips
- Other Ally Bank reviews
- What are fleet cards?
- What is California's standard deduction?
- 4. The tax advantages are prime for kids
- Is it safe to buy a used phone?
- Equifax
- Before delaying
- Tires and gasoline
- 9. Catering
- 6. Reconsider tax preparers who don't e-file
- 3. Dividend reinvestment programs (DRIPs)
- Key benefits of the Fresh Start program
- Term life insurance rates for smokers
- How do I qualify for mortgage forbearance?
- Other tips for managing your bill
- Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) Rating
- 5. The smallest islands only appear at low tide
- How much does a HELOC cost?
- Apply for credit sparingly
- 3. Submit your application and wait
- How to find the 2024 W-4
- How to freeze your child’s credit
- G
- Mortgage rates
- Quick start guide: How to invest in index funds
- 4. Real estate investment trusts (REITs)
- 5. Monitor your total credit utilization
- Students and parents: Here’s what you can do
- 2. Get your taxes in order
- Do I have to pay New York state income tax?
- Constant Contact: Best for unlimited user access
- 1. You avoid having the IRS do it for you.
- Equifax business credit scores
- Consider Original Medicare if you:
- Benefits of a larger down payment
- When to expect your child tax credit refund
- 4. Barclays rewards
- 4. Avoid high fees
- Other Roth IRA rules
- Delta Air Lines
- Alila Ventana Big Sur
- Discounts
- Guarda: 4.6 out of 5 stars
- You drive a company car
- 2. Certificates of deposit
- Know when to outsource
- 5. Genius Kids
- What if you can’t afford to tip?
- Beta
- How much does homeowners insurance cost in Hawaii?
- Credit union personal loan rates
- More about New York Life
- 4. Alert authorities to fraud
- 9. Freelance researching
- 3. Get disability and life insurance
- Cheap auto insurance after an accident
- Full list of the best pet insurance in California
- Spirit Airlines delayed flight compensation recapped
- No-closing-cost mortgages
- Investments for money you need in 2 to 3 years
- Advantages of itemized deductions
- Your money management style
- 6. You cannot be subject to expatriate tax
- 6. Inspect and test-drive the car, if applicable
- Credit unions and banks that don’t require Social Security numbers to open an account
- The bottom line
- 4. Pick an investment strategy
- What happens after you file your dispute?
- How did we determine the value of United miles?
- Term life insurance rates for men and women
- Best insurance company for affordability: NJM
- More U.S. passport photo requirements
- Some water damage
- 3. Hike, fish and canoe at Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground
- 3. Tap TikTok’s ‘Creativity Program Beta’
- Customer support
- Earned income restriction
- Why you’d get both
- Growth stocks vs. dividend stocks
- Some NerdWallet favorites: 0%
- 4. Taxpayer identity theft
- 5. Get a quote
- Use designated accounts for spending and savings
- Special situations: Previous employers, military and vets
- 10. Social media management
- Recent strikes
- You’ve got money left over for savings
- 7. Confirm they'll sign on the dotted line
- Crowdfunding
- 4. Special dividends
- Citi Custom Cash® Card
- Average cost of whole life insurance by age
- Rental car elite status
- 5. Pay off capitalized interest
- Short-term bond funds
- Cheapest minimum coverage car insurance in California for 20-year-olds
- Best insurance company for affordability: NJM
- Keep credit cards open
- Why did First Republic Bank fail?
- Is it time for you to switch to a better plan?
- 5. Gather your paperwork
- How to find AI ETFs
- 1. Have a goal for your index funds
- Spend on airline credit cards with built-in baggage perks
- How to reduce or avoid the federal estate tax
- How do I find out if the Medicare IRMAA applies to me?
- 2. Evaluate the stock
- 2. You can pay your tax bill in installments.
- 1. Individual stocks
- ETFs vs. mutual funds: Which is best for you?
- USO Center
- Finalize preparations for tax day, April 15
- 6. High-yield checking accounts
- How do fleet cards work?
- Stick to your price range and priorities
- What part of my income gets taxed by California?
- 5. The money can be used for more than retirement
- What do the approvals mean for Bitcoin?
- Keep your next Costco visit cost-effective
- You need an SR-22 or FR-44 form
- 5. Exchange-traded funds (ETFs)
- Houston teachers strike
- Airline loyalty programs
- Our pick for: Everyday spending
- EPS (TTM) and earnings date
- The catch: Your health plan's network
- What else you need to know
- 10. Freelance coding and web design
- If you’re considering flying Frontier Airlines
- 3 tips to control central air conditioning installation costs
- Bonus features
- HELOC requirements
- Claiming tax-deductible donations on your tax return
- H
- 6. Invest for more than retirement
- Average annual cost of term life insurance for nonsmokers
- 4. Varo: Best for existing bank customers
- EveryDollar, for simple zero-based budgeting
- Amazon Store Credit Card
- Compare car insurance rates for 35-year-olds
- 3. Set up your insurance
- Family and group travel come easy
- Damage to certain items and parts of your home
- Close your old account, if needed
- Commit 20% of your income to savings and debt paydown
- Consider Medicare Advantage if you:
- How much should you put down on a house?
- Will parent PLUS loans qualify?
- Shopping perks and protections
- Make a plan to pay off debt
- Use a co-signer
- Mutual funds
- Average cost of homeowners insurance in Louisiana by city
- 8. Check if they would have your back
- How previously incarcerated people can strengthen their loan application
- What you can do if you have credit card debt
- What is hyperinflation?
- Federal student loan consolidation
- 5. Preferred dividends
- Rewards rate
- How much is car insurance by company?
- How do you buy Vanguard Index fund shares?
- The bottom line
- Whole life insurance rates for nonsmokers
- Changing tickets booked with miles
- Use a co-signer
- 1. Examine your cooling needs
- June
- 6. New islands are still forming
- How to do well on Upwork
- Check your credit reports
- Do you ever need to change your EIN?
- Do I have to update my W-4 every year?
- How to look up passport numbers recapped
- Next steps
- Can I take my own passport photo?
- Custodial wallet
- 3. The government might owe you money.
- Experian business credit scores
- 3. Learn the difference between investing in stocks and funds
- 2. Mutual funds
- Arrive early to enjoy the lounge
- What are the drawbacks of negotiating your Airbnb price?
- 2024 child tax credit news update
- Itemize your deductions using credit card tools
- 4. Sit back and relax
- How to avoid a wash sale
- 5. Rent out a room
- 3. Understand your market
- Frontier Airlines
- How to get a debt consolidation loan
- Consumer complaints
- Exodus: 4.5 out of 5 stars
- Days in the cycle
- 11. Business planning service
- Nurses strike in Santa Clara
- 6. The Learning Experience Academy of Early Education
- Ex-dividend date
- In network
- How to contact New York Life
- You can use credit card benefits to travel in basic economy
- Cheap pet insurance in California
- Disadvantages of itemized deductions
- Account linking
- Nationwide the EV infrastructure is in its infancy
- Cash-out refinance
- When should you freeze your credit?
- Loan limits
- 2. Research index funds
- Average annual cost of term life insurance for smokers
- The bottom line
- If you inherit or bequeath something, watch out for capital gains tax
- What is New York state's standard deduction?
- 3. Decide how much stock you want to buy
- 5. American Express Membership Rewards
- Excess Roth IRA contributions
- 5. Medical identity theft
- How to book in Chase's travel portal with points or cash
- Miraval Arizona
- You want to maintain continuous coverage
- When did all of the tech layoffs start?
- Work on your credit score
- 3. Bonds
- How to protect against inflation
- 6. Dividend funds
- More about buying life insurance as a senior
- Whole life insurance rates for smokers
- Statement credits
- Average cost of homeowners insurance in Hawaii by city
- How to get mortgage forbearance
- How to maximize your rewards
- Example CD APYs at select institutions
- 5. Upwork
- 6. Stick to the standard repayment plan
- 2. Time it right
- Calculating capital gains tax on a home sale
- 7. Determine which warranties are right for you
- How to get a home equity line of credit
- Pay strategically
- 4. Borrow from your 401(k)
- 5. Money market funds
- Dress code for a passport picture recapped
- 4. Write a job description and post the opening
- Most of your basement
- 4. You can avoid problems getting a loan.
- Learn more about sector ETFs:
- LLC self-employment taxes
- 4. Shop, dine and play at Disney Springs
- Reconsideration for PSLF applications
- 5. Stick with the market
- Find the best homeowners insurance in your state
- Am I a resident for California state tax purposes?
- Best custodial Roth IRAs
- Building your business credit score
- Consumer experience
- 12. Tax consulting
- Warehouse workers in Sacramento, Calif.
- Dividends
- Bottom line
- 1-year target estimate
- Out of network
- How to get a loan from a credit union
- Final thoughts on changing your United flight
- 11. Software and app development
- Seller-paid closing costs
- Cheapest auto insurance in California for 20-year-olds with poor credit
- Is Upwork the right freelance marketplace for you?
- Why did Silicon Valley Bank fail?
- 6. Pick your investments
- 7. Chat with an advisor
- How do I pay the Medicare IRMAA surcharge?
- Cons
- Zoho CRM: Best overall CRM software
- How much does comprehensive coverage cost?
- Final thoughts on Copa Airlines business class
- Terminal C: United Club and United Polaris
- Will my servicer know if I qualify?
- Make 10 years' worth of payments
- JetBlue Airways
- Choose between cash-back and travel rewards
- Find your flight
- Resident status rules
- Develop good credit habits
- Exchange frequently? Consider a multicurrency account
- Become an authorized user
- 6. Investment apps
- The cheapest home insurance in Louisiana
- Government bonds
- How to pay estimated taxes
- Hotels to book with points in New York City
- Become an authorized user
- Cheapest car insurance after a DUI
- Cheap pet insurance in California for dogs
- Investments for money you need in 3 to 5 years
- 3. Look for equipment rebates and tax credits
- Security
- If you want to know about the small islands of Hawaii
- There are upfront costs to charge at home
- Compare the same score
- How to adjust your Form W-4
- Credit cards
- Term life insurance shopping guide
- Lots of people
- 5. Safeguard your Social Security.
- Why do I need a business credit score?
- 3. Index funds
- Other considerations to determine your down payment
- Think twice before paying taxes with a credit card
- 4. Use gifting
- Fleet expense management tools
- 6. Account takeover
- Coinbase Wallet: 4.4 out of 5 stars
- Who shouldn’t buy non-owner car insurance
- MASS MoCa UAW members
- Is it worth going to a tax preparer?
- How to evaluate dividends
- Average annual car insurance costs from large companies
- Moving averages
- Average money market account rate: 0.66%
- Bank certificates of deposit, or CDs
- July
- What if you lose your EIN?
- 5. Understand your investment options
- Cons of a credit freeze
- Property standards
- Could we be in an AI bubble?
- Interest-based passive income ideas
- Am I a resident for New York state income tax purposes?
- Living expenses if you can’t stay at home
- United Club
- 6. Capital One Rewards
- Next Steps
- NerdWallet home insurance calculator methodology
- What do the approvals mean for other crypto investments?
- What's next?
- Stock splits
- Find a co-signer
- 7. All About Kids
- Tax credits for low-to-middle-income households
- What are the best Vanguard index funds?
- Cost of life insurance without a medical exam
- The Platinum Card® from American Express for military spouses
- The cheapest home insurance in Hawaii
- Perks await when you fly economy with elite status
- 12. Business coaching
- How to maximize your rewards
- Cheap pet insurance in California for cats
- 7. Use 'found' money
- How to finance central air installation
- How much can you borrow with a HELOC?
- Charitable contributions 2023
- K
- 3. Pick your index funds
- 1. Know the types of term life policies
- 5. Dave: Best for repayment flexibility
- Amazon Secured Card
- LLC sales taxes
- If you're considering negotiating your Airbnb price
- You might also like:
- Park Hyatt Sydney
- You typically borrow a car from someone in your household
- 13. PR agency
- Dividend per share (DPS)
- Doing the math on copays, coinsurance and deductibles
- Hilton
- Customer support
- 8. Negotiate the best price
- Smaller-impact things to know
- How to have more taxes taken out of your paycheck
- Stocks
- 5. Interview and hire
- Vehicles
- What are the best dividend stocks?
- How do I get my business credit score?
- 5. Dine and dance at Disney’s BoardWalk
- United Club
- How quickly could the IRS implement the child tax credit expansion?
- Is cryptocurrency subject to the wash-sale rule?
- Fleet fuel cards: benefits and drawbacks
- Southwest Airlines
- 7. Criminal identity theft
- Other ways to consolidate your debt
- Invest in your financial future
- Farmers vs. competitors
- The best place to exchange currency at the end of your trip
- UAW in Kentucky negotiate deal with Ford
- Inheritance and gifts
- Why is home insurance so expensive in Louisiana?
- New Jersey scholarships
- Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
- No-exam life insurance rates for nonsmokers
- Credit union vs. online lender
- 13. College consulting
- Example money market account APYs at select institutions
- Advantages of the standard deduction
- Home equity loan
- Cheapest auto insurance in California for 20-year-old drivers with one speeding ticket
- EVs come with an element of the unknown
- 2. Consider policy riders
- Best insurance company for accident forgiveness: Geico
- Repetition
- Use your refund to pay down debt
- What if I had delinquencies or a student loan in default?
- More about the card
- Part-year resident status rules
- Farmers vs. State Farm home insurance
- Appendix: How the math works in our examples
- You regularly borrow the same car from someone you don’t live with
- Why investing is important
- Create a comprehensive business plan
- How to consolidate federal loans
- Dividend yield
- Frequently asked questions about estimated tax payments
- Our pick for: Flat-rate travel rewards
- Support and resistance
- Prudence's policy:
- Why you can trust NerdWallet
- 6. OfferUp
- Will you owe capital gains taxes on your home sale?
- Best insurance company for accident forgiveness: Geico
- Government assistance
- Credit freeze or credit lock?
- L
- 6. High-yield savings accounts
- Empower Personal Dashboard, for tracking wealth and spending
- Resident status rules
- Advantages and disadvantages of comprehensive insurance
- Consequences of a child tax credit error
- 7. Citi ThankYou Points
- Apply for PSLF forgiveness
- Some NerdWallet favorites: Cash back
- Zero-interest credit card
- Trust Wallet: 4.3 out of 5 stars
- 14. Professional organizing
- Bus drivers and mechanics stage two-day strike in Virginia
- What's the difference between a CPA and a tax preparer?
- Elite status
- Can you pay estimated taxes at any time?
- No-exam life insurance rates for smokers
- What to know about Hawaii homeowners insurance
- User experience
- August
- Why did Signature Bank fail?
- How to have less taxes taken out of your paycheck
- Bonds
- 5. Enter a debt management plan
- Can I appeal the Medicare IRMAA if I don't think it applies to me?
- How do I find my public and private keys?
- United Polaris
- Building generational wealth
- Benefits
- Book your flight
- Currency exchange: Frequently asked questions
- You drive rarely or not at all
- 8. KidsPark
- How much is auto insurance based on your driving record?
- Scenario: Doctor visits and an MRI
- Cheapest auto insurance for poor credit
- Deciding whether to buy an EV
- What happens to a 720 score with a late payment?
- 4. Decide where to buy your index funds
- 4. Set a budget for your stock market investment
- LLC tax forms and deadlines
- 5. Sell with TikTok Shop
- 3. Make the most of your savings
- Get credit for the bills you pay
- 15. Photography
- Casino workers in Las Vegas reach deal ahead of the Super Bowl
- Real estate
- If you’re looking for AmEx Platinum Card military benefits
- Flooding
- 14. Tutoring
- Get credit for the bills you pay
- Home equity line of credit
- Reviews
- How to avoid capital gains tax on home sales
- 9. Maximize trade-in value, if applicable
- Important considerations when opening a Roth IRA
- Who can access your frozen credit reports?
- 6. MoneyLion: Best for existing customers
- Is flood insurance required?
- What to look for in marketing software
- Drawbacks
- 4. Register your clothing business
- Nonresident status rules
- Home equity financing
- Hyatt Place Knoxville
- Farmers vs. Allstate home insurance
- Where is the best place to exchange currency?
- Corporate bonds
- Methodology
- Tax credits for investing in retirement
- What happens if I forget to pay my quarterly taxes?
- Vanguard 500 Index Fund (VFIAX)
- Average cost of life insurance by term length
- Final thoughts on the different United economy fare classes
- The difference between interest rate and APY
- 1. Live in the house for at least two years
- Cheapest auto insurance in California for 20-year-old drivers with one at-fault crash
- How to use a W-4 to owe nothing on a tax return
- Mutual funds
- M
- Refinancing
- A regular IRA may be enough
- 4. Exchange-traded funds
- 6. Sail on the Friendship Launch boats
- State child tax credits
- 8. Bank of America® rewards
- Can I get a refund?
- Spirit Airlines
- MetaMask: 4.0 out of 5 stars
- Teachers Strike Breaks Records in Boston Suburb
- What to know about Louisiana homeowners insurance
- Dividend payout ratio
- How much is auto insurance after an at-fault accident?
- 15. Online fitness trainer
- After deciding
- Is getting a HELOC a good idea?
- Should you invest in AI stocks?
- 7. CDs
- 3. Understand the approval process
- Amazon business credit cards at a glance
- Compare insurance rates by driver history
- One price is not always just one price
- Lounge access for United cardholders
- Make the most of your credit cards during spring travel
- Fuel card vs. business gas credit card
- 11 ways to prevent identity theft
- How do I find a currency exchange near me?
- Never done it before? Here's what to consider
- 16. Event space
- Vanguard Total Stock Market Index Fund (VTSAX)
- Types of stock charts and how to read them
- Next steps
- 7. Poshmark
- September
- 2. See whether you qualify for an exception
- What’s happening with Silvergate Capital Corp.?
- Part-year resident status rules
- Cost
- If you want to book an open-jaw flight using Chase points ...
- 401(k) loan
- Save
- Hurricanes and tropical storms
- How can I make paying quarterly taxes easier?
- Scenario: Trip to the ER
- Cash-out refinance
- 10. Make the purchase
- Pros
- Exchange-traded funds
- 5. Buy index funds
- Is my home at risk of flooding?
- 7. Take in views on the Skyliner
- What is the $500 credit for other dependents (ODC)?
- Spring road trip? Save money at the pump
- 6. Monetize using the Series feature
- 1. Freeze your credit
- Where can you exchange currency for free?
- Where to buy non-owner car insurance
- Your goals and time horizon
- 17. Interior decorating
- 9. Primrose Schools
- Are dividends taxed?
- Vanguard Total Bond Market Index Fund (VBTLX)
- Golden crosses and death crosses
- Hurricanes
- 16. SEO consulting
- Standard deduction vs. itemized deductions
- 3. Keep the receipts for your home improvements
- What happened to Credit Suisse?
- N
- Property-based passive income ideas
- Features
- Practical matters
- LLC tax tips for business owners
- Final thoughts on the lounges in the Newark airport
- One-time IDR account adjustment for PSLF borrowers
- United Airlines
- How to earn Hyatt points
- The bottom line
- Practice good credit habits
- SEIU United Healthcare Workers West — Prime Healthcare
- Tax credits for education
- U.S. Bank Cash+® Visa Signature® Card
- Practice good credit habits
- Which one should I take?
- Cheapest auto insurance in California for 20-year-old drivers after a DUI
- Cons
- What is credit card consolidation?
- 7. SoLo Funds: Best for peer-to-peer cash advances
- Best insurance company for having few customer complaints: American Family
- Amazon Business Prime American Express Card
- Tourist traps
- 5. Focus on investing for the long-term
- Child tax credit vs. child and dependent care credit
- Renting a car? Take advantage of rental insurance benefits
- 2. Safeguard your Social Security number
- California state tax credits
- Electrum: 2.5 out of 5 stars
- Risk tolerance and diversification
- 18. Woodworking or furniture building
- Next steps
- Our pick for: Customizable bonus categories
- Vanguard Balanced Index Fund (VBIAX)
- Best insurance company for having few customer complaints: American Family
- W-4 calculator
- Compare car insurance rates for drivers with a DUI
- Nonresident status rules
- Reporting and analytics
- Choose between a general or co-branded travel card
- Invest
- 4. Money market funds
- 17. Selling handmade goods
- How the FDIC calculates national rates
- Personal loan
- October
- How taxes on real estate, rental, and investment sales work
- FHA vs. conventional loans: Summary
- 6. Keep an eye on your index funds
- 8. Buy a rental property
- PocketGuard, for a simplified budgeting snapshot
- Traveling abroad? Watch for foreign transaction fees
- 5. Design and source the clothes for your line
- 3. Be alert to phishing and spoofing
- Vanguard Growth Index Fund (VIGAX)
- Volcanic activity
- How does credit card consolidation work?
- O
- 4. Compare prices
- Ongoing support
- 8. ‘Safari’ at Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge
- 7. Collect tips from viewers
- Does your business need a fleet fuel card?
- Comparison of unaccompanied minor fees by airline
- California earned income tax credit (CalEITC)
- 19. Graphic design
- 10. Kids ‘R’ Kids Learning Academies
- Cheapest car insurance for young drivers
- Cheapest for 30-year-old drivers
- Is it better to get a home equity loan or line of credit?
- Are other banks are in trouble?
- Conventional loans
- 4. Use strong passwords and add an authentication step
- 3 best cold wallets
- How much is non-owner car insurance?
- Potential strikes ahead
- Vanguard Small Cap Index Fund (VSMAX)
- 18. Virtual thrift shop
- What else to know about Form W-4
- 9. Rent out your own house
- 6. Manage your stock portfolio
- California young child tax credit (YCTC)
- World of Hyatt sweet spots recapped
- Pay off debt
- The bottom line on investing for beginners
- 20. Clothing boutique
- Association of Professional Flight Attendants
- Tornadoes
- Testing a resistance level
- Earthquakes
- Is there an over-55 home sale exemption?
- 1. Has the W-4 form changed?
- P
- 8. Klover: Best for no-fee advances
- Won’t the government help?
- Reconsideration for rejected PSLF applications
- The bottom line
- Some NerdWallet favorites: General travel
- 5. Use alerts
- Check your credit scores and reports
- Average car insurance costs after a speeding ticket
- Vanguard Total International Stock Index Fund (VTIAX)
- Check your credit scores and reports
- November
- Cheapest full coverage car insurance in California for 30-year-olds
- Should I take my money out of the bank?
- FHA loans
- More about term life insurance
- NYC income tax rates
- The pros and cons of cruises, recapped
- California child and dependent care tax credit
- 21. Bed and breakfast
- Thunderstorms and hail
- 5. Mutual funds
- Credit cards
- Tax credits for green purchases
- 19. Affiliate marketing
- What to do if you can’t keep up with your HELOC payments
- Is consolidating credit card debt a good idea?
- 10. Get a roommate
- 9. Watch the fireworks
- Additional tips for making money on TikTok
- 6. Watch your mailbox
- Striking worker totals increased by 141% in 2023
- OK, what's next?
- 2. What does it mean to be exempt from taxes?
- S
- Find your niche
- California adoption cost tax credit
- Repeat
- 22. Food truck
- 11. Adventure Kids Playcare
- Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card
- Hawaii insurance department
- 20. Accounting or bookkeeping
- Alternative investment passive income ideas
- Best insurance company for financial strength: Auto-Owners
- Amazon Business American Express Card
- Best stocks for beginners
- 7. Shred, shred, shred
- Ledger: 5.0 out of 5 stars
- Our pick for: Bank of America® customers
- Cheapest auto insurance for senior drivers
- Best insurance company for financial strength: Auto-Owners
- Are we in a recession?
- Can I still use my credit card after debt consolidation?
- NYC tax rate schedule
- How much flood insurance do I need?
- California nonrefundable renters tax credit
- Louisiana Department of Insurance
- Cheapest minimum coverage car insurance in California for 30-year-olds
- Some NerdWallet favorites: Co-branded
- 8. Use a digital wallet
- 23. Restaurant or cafe
- 6. Index funds
- Average car insurance costs after a DUI
- 21. Telemarketing
- December
- Pros and cons of loan apps
- Honeydue, for budgeting with a partner
- Don't qualify for PSLF? You have other options for relief
- Looking for more insurance in Louisiana?
- The bottom line on how to read stock charts
- 3. When should I review my W-4?
- T
- 11. Peer-to-peer lending
- 9. Protect your mobile devices
- Trezor: 4 out of 5 stars
- 24. Craft brewery
- 12. Lightbridge Academy
- Marriott
- 22. Online personal assistant
- Be authentic
- 6. Partner with a manufacturer
- How to track your California state refund
- 4. Be persistent
- Screen Actors Guild - American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA)
- New Jersey tuition waivers
- Are we headed for a depression?
- Pros
- Compare auto insurance rates for drivers with poor credit
- The bottom line on investing in stocks
- 10. Check your credit reports regularly
- 23. Data entry
- Cheapest car insurance by state
- Cheapest auto insurance in California for 30-year-olds with poor credit
- 4. Can I adjust my W-4 multiple times throughout the year?
- U
- 6 things to know about New York state income tax
- How much is flood insurance?
- 25. Ice cream shop
- 12. Private equity
- Which Amazon credit card is best for me?
- 11. Monitor financial and medical statements
- SafePal: 3.8 out of 5 stars
- Bilt World Elite Mastercard® Credit Card
- 24. Transcription
- Serve your audience and set small goals
- 26. Personal chef
- United Auto Workers (UAW)
- 13. College Nannies, Sitters, and Tutors
- New Jersey student loans
- Our pick for: Paying rent
- Cons
- Best insurance company for discounts: Amica
- How flood insurance works
- California state sales tax
- 25. Travel planning
- Best insurance company for discounts: Amica
- 27. Landscape services
- Cheapest auto insurance in California for 30-year-old drivers with one speeding ticket
- Budgeting resources from NerdWallet
- Use multiple strategies
- Additional resources
- Methodology
- Fees
- How much is auto insurance for good and poor credit?
- 13. Crypto staking
- 10 ways identity theft happens
- 28. Pet grooming
- 7. Exchange-traded funds
- Student loan repayment in New Jersey
- Winner for lowest fees: Spirit
- 26. Cybersecurity and IT consulting
- 7. Price your products
- 5 things to know about California state tax
- United Auto Workers (UAW) — Mack Trucks
- How to get cheap car insurance
- Are cash advance apps payday lenders?
- 1. Lost wallet
- 29. Florist
- How to get flood insurance
- Other ways to earn money
- Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital
- The bottom line
- Average annual car insurance costs for drivers with good vs. poor credit
- Cheapest auto insurance in California for 30-year-old drivers with one at-fault crash
- 27. Online therapy
- Methodology to identify the best budget apps
- 8. Decide where to sell your clothing line
- 2. Mailbox theft
- 30. Massage therapist
- Coalition of Kaiser Permanente Unions
- Other notable options
- Product creation passive income ideas
- Are apps like DailyPay and Payactiv cash advance apps?
- 8. Stocks
- 28. PR consulting
- Risks of getting cheap auto insurance
- Individual stocks
- 3. Using public Wi-Fi
- Writers Guild of America (WGA)
- Cheapest auto insurance in California for 30-year-old drivers after a DUI
- 14. Write content
- Best insurance company for customer satisfaction: State Farm
- 31. Nutritionist
- 29. Podcasting
- Best insurance company for customer satisfaction: State Farm
- Alternatives to cash advance apps
- Major issuers and their policies on instant credit access
- Compare insurance rates for drivers with an accident
- 4. Data breaches
- 32. Personal trainer or fitness instructor
- How much is auto insurance based on age?
- Dividend stocks
- Hyatt
- 30. Life coaching
- Cheapest for 40-year-old drivers
- 9. Market your clothing line
- Is Spirit better than Frontier?
- 5. SIM card swap
- 33. Beauty services
- How much is auto insurance for young drivers?
- 31. Video production
- Cheapest full coverage car insurance in California for 40-year-olds
- 15. Publish a digital course
- 34. Life coach
- 6. Phishing or spoofing
- 32. Resume writing and career coaching
- Best insurance company for military members: USAA
- Best insurance company for military members: USAA
- Car-related passive income ideas
- 9. Alternative investments
- 7. Skimming
- 35. Tutor
- 33. Dropshipping
- Cheapest minimum coverage car insurance in California for 40-year-olds
- How to apply for financial aid in New Jersey
- 16. Wrap your car with ads
- 10. Work with an expert
- 36. Daycare provider
- Cash advance app star rating methodology
- 8. Phone scams
- Average annual car insurance costs for young drivers by company
- 34. Recruiting
- 17. Rent out a parking space
- 37. Senior care provider
- 10. Cryptocurrency
- Cheapest auto insurance in California for 40-year-olds with poor credit
- 9. Looking over your shoulder
- 35. Marketing consulting
- Other ways to save money
- Full list of the best car insurance companies
- 38. Interpreter or translator
- Full list of the best car insurance companies
- 36. Online fundraising or grant writing
- How to compare car insurance rates
- 11. Figure out how to manage your finances
- 10. Malware
- 39. Housecleaning
- How much is auto insurance based on gender?
- The bottom line
- 37. Online course teaching
- Cheapest auto insurance in California for 40-year-old drivers with one speeding ticket
- Best car insurance companies by state
- 11. Real estate
- Best car insurance companies by state
- 40. Automotive repair
- 38. Online cooking instruction
- 1. Gather your information
- 41. Handyman services
- 12. Get funding for your clothing line
- How to report identity theft
- 39. YouTube channel
- Cheapest auto insurance in California for 40-year-old drivers with one at-fault crash
- 42. Dry cleaners
- How much is auto insurance based on vehicle type?
- How to find the best car insurance
- How to choose the best investments in 2024
- 40. Voiceover work
- How to find the best car insurance
- 2. Choose the right liability car insurance coverage levels
- 43. Hardware store
- Cheapest auto insurance in California for 40-year-old drivers after a DUI
- Frequently asked questions
- What happens when you report identity theft?
- 44. Self-storage business
- 41. Start a team
- 1. How much does it cost to start a clothing line?
- 45. Freelance copywriting and content creation
- How to choose an online business idea
- What else affects my car insurance cost?
- Cheapest for 50-year-old drivers
- 46. Rideshare driver
- How do you want to make money?
- 2. How much do clothing lines make a year?
- What is the best identity theft protection service?
- 47. Website development and design
- How will you find work?
- Cheapest full coverage car insurance in California for 50-year-olds
- 3. Do you need to trademark a clothing line?
- 48. Sell clothes online
- How to get cheap car insurance
- 3. Decide if you need full coverage car insurance
- 4. How do you source material for a clothing line?
- How much autonomy do you want?
- 49. SEO consultant
- Cheapest minimum coverage car insurance in California for 50-year-olds
- The bottom line
- 50. App development
- Want to start a business?
- Cheapest auto insurance in California for 50-year-olds with poor credit
- 4. Collect and compare car insurance quotes
- Cheapest auto insurance in California for 50-year-old drivers with one speeding ticket
- How to choose an insurance company
- Cheapest auto insurance in California for 50-year-old drivers with one at-fault crash
- Cheapest auto insurance in California for 50-year-old drivers after a DUI
- Compare car insurance companies
- Cheapest for 60-year-old drivers
- Cheapest full coverage car insurance in California for 60-year-olds
- Cheapest minimum coverage car insurance in California for 60-year-olds
- Cheapest auto insurance in California for 60-year-olds with poor credit
- Cheapest auto insurance in California for 60-year-old drivers with one speeding ticket
- Cheapest auto insurance in California for 60-year-old drivers with one at-fault crash
- Cheapest auto insurance in California for 60-year-old drivers after a DUI
- Cheapest for 70-year-old drivers
- Cheapest full coverage car insurance in California for 70-year-olds
- Cheapest minimum coverage car insurance in California for 70-year-olds
- Cheapest auto insurance in California for 70-year-olds with poor credit
- Cheapest auto insurance in California for 70-year-old drivers with one speeding ticket
- Cheapest auto insurance in California for 70-year-old drivers with one at-fault crash
- Cheapest auto insurance in California for 70-year-old drivers after a DUI
- Cheapest car insurance for military families
- How to get cheap car insurance in California
- Minimum auto insurance requirements in California
- Auto insurance laws in California
- Alternative car insurance in California
- Low-income car insurance in California
- How AAA car insurance works in California
1. Open an IRA
You probably know the importance of saving for retirement and starting early to take advantage of compound interest. You may also know that if your employer offers a retirement plan, you should take advantage of it. But beyond that?
Consider investing in some combination of 401(k), traditional IRA and Roth IRA accounts. (See how to choose between a Roth and traditional IRA.)
One approach is to first ensure you receive the full company match on your 401(k), and then contribute as much as you can to a Roth IRA. The annual maximum is $6,000 for those who fall within the income limits — $124,000 (filing as single) and $196,000 (married filing jointly) for 2020 and $125,000 (filing as single) and $198,000 (married filing jointly) for 2021. If you are over the IRA limit, divert your contributions back to the 401(k).
This approach assumes you have a company-sponsored plan at your disposal. If you’re among those without one, open an IRA on your own via an online broker. Robo-advisors like Betterment and Wealthfront use an algorithm to build and manage your account, automatically investing for you based on your age, retirement goals and risk tolerance. That tolerance should be high in your 30s, when you’re still a few decades off from retirement.
Regardless of your plan, contribute what you can afford and bump up the amount as your income increases — adding a percent or two each time you get a raise — with a goal of setting 10% to 15% of your annual income aside for retirement.
More on investing
2. Set financial priorities
Align spending with your priorities. In addition to increasing your retirement savings as you make more money, be sure to keep your spending in check.
Don’t fall into the trap of spending more just because you earn more. Instead, be intentional about your spending. Work with your partner, if you have one, to determine what is important to you and your family.
For a quick check-in on your spending, plug your income in the calculator below. NerdWallet suggests allocating 50% of your income to necessities, 30% to wants and 20% to savings.
A certified financial planner can also help you set up a plan that takes into account your financial priorities.
Save for emergencies and goals. Savings should be a top priority. If you don’t have an emergency fund, start there.
It can take a while to fully stock your emergency fund, so work in increments. Aim for $500, then $2,000, and eventually build it to cover three to six months of living expenses. This will help you focus on other goals, such as saving for a down payment on a new house or for college if you have kids. You should do this while also saving for retirement.
Use separate accounts for each goal, recommends Brian McCann, founder of Bootstrap Capital LLC in San Jose, California. Keep an online savings account for your down payment or home repair fund, another for a new car and a third for your dream vacation.
“Remember: Your kids can fall back on student loans if necessary; your retirement can’t.”
Try to kick college savings into gear as soon as you have kids, using a 529 plan or other tax-advantaged plan. With an IRA, for example, you can take out money for qualified education expenses without penalty.
Like retirement savings, the sooner you start, the more time your money has to grow. So contribute what you can, without sacrificing retirement savings, to get the most mileage out of your savings. Remember: Your kids can fall back on student loans if necessary; your retirement can’t.
More on reaching your money goals
3. Get disability and life insurance
No one wants to think about the worst-case scenario, but planning for it can make life a little easier should it occur. That’s where insurance comes in.
Most disability insurance offered by employers pays 60% of your base salary if you're too sick or injured to work. For many people, that’s not enough.
Evaluate your current income and future financial goals to figure out what you need, says Tracy St. John, a financial advisor and founder of Financial Avenues LLC in Kansas City, Missouri. Then, look at what your current disability plan would pay. If there’s a gap, consider purchasing additional coverage now.
“As you get older it’s going to cost you more,” she says.
Purchase only what fits within your budget, but choose a plan that allows you to adjust coverage as your income increases.
Adding life insurance can also be a smart move in your 30s, even if you have coverage through your employer, St. John says. Like other policies, life insurance gets only more expensive with age.
More on getting insurance