Articles and resources for better money management (2024)

FAQs

What is the most effective method to help you manage your money? ›

Create a budget

It will take a little effort, but it's a great way to get a quick snapshot of the money you have coming in and going out. Setting up a budget helps you keep track of your money, so you to when you can spend and how to avoid going into the red.

Those will become part of your budget. The 50-30-20 rule recommends putting 50% of your money toward needs, 30% toward wants, and 20% toward savings. The savings category also includes money you will need to realize your future goals. Let's take a closer look at each category.

Money management is the process of tracking expenses, investing, budgeting, banking, and assessing tax liabilities; it is also called investment management. Money management is a strategic technique to deliver the highest interest-output value for any amount spent on making money.

Golden Rule #1: Don't Spend More Than You Make

Basic money management starts with this rule. If you spend less than you earn, your finances will always be in good shape. Understand the difference between needs and wants, live within your income, and don't incur unnecessary debt. It's really that simple.

The biggest long-term financial goal for most people is saving enough money to retire. The common rule of thumb is that you should save 10% to 15% of every paycheck in a tax-advantaged retirement account like a 401(k) or 403(b), if you have access to one, or a traditional IRA or Roth IRA.

Consider an individual who takes home $5,000 a month. Applying the 50/30/20 rule would give them a monthly budget of: 50% for mandatory expenses = $2,500. 20% to savings and debt repayment = $1,000.

Housing and Utilities

Housing is likely your biggest expense, so downsize or relocate somewhere with a lower cost of living. Opt for a small space or rental apartment rather than homeownership. Shoot for $700 or less in rent/mortgage. Utilities should run you no more than $200 in a small space if you conserve energy.

Money management is all the ways you budget, spend, save and invest your money. It also includes how you use credit and pay off debt. In short, it's how you handle your finances. Finding ways to better manage your money can have positive effects on your finances and lower your stress about money.

How do I fix my finances? ›

Understanding how to create a realistic budget, track your spending, and set attainable savings goals are essential steps in the process. It can be overwhelming to take on all these tasks at once, but when broken down into smaller steps, money management success is achievable.

Feeling depressed, stressed, anxious or experiencing mania can make it difficult to manage money. For example: You might find it harder to make budgeting and spending decisions. To make yourself feel better, you might spend money you don't have on things for other people or that you don't need and then regret it later.

The main principles of money management are generally income, investing, savings, and spending. With the right balance, these principles can help individuals to maximize their financial well-being.

Setting up automatic payments for credit cards and bills can be a great way to avoid late fees and interest payments.