How to Manage Your Money During a Recession (2024)

FAQs

How to Manage Your Money During a Recession? ›

Investors seeking stability in a recession often turn to investment-grade bonds. These are debt securities issued by financially strong corporations or government entities. They offer regular interest payments and a smaller risk of default, relative to bonds with lower ratings.

Investors seeking stability in a recession often turn to investment-grade bonds. These are debt securities issued by financially strong corporations or government entities. They offer regular interest payments and a smaller risk of default, relative to bonds with lower ratings.

Knowing how to prepare for a recession means proactively approaching your finances. Start by establishing a budget, removing unnecessary expenses, and building an emergency fund. Consider paying down debt to improve your financial stability and reduce your reliance on credit during tough times.

Your money is safe in a bank, even during an economic decline like a recession. Up to $250,000 per depositor, per account ownership category, is protected by the FDIC or NCUA at a federally insured financial institution.

Most stocks and high-yield bonds tend to lose value in a recession, while lower-risk assets—such as gold and U.S. Treasuries—tend to appreciate. Within the stock market, shares of large companies with solid cash flows and dividends tend to outperform in downturns.

The short answer is no. Banks cannot take your money without your permission, at least not legally. The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) insures deposits up to $250,000 per account holder, per bank. If the bank fails, you will return your money to the insured limit.

Generally, money kept in a bank account is safe—even during a recession. However, depending on factors such as your balance amount and the type of account, your money might not be completely protected. For instance, Silicon Valley Bank likely had billions of dollars in uninsured deposits at the time of its collapse.

GOBankingRates consulted quite a few finance experts and asked them this question. They all said the same thing: You need three to six months' worth of living expenses in an easily accessible savings account. The exact amount of cash needed depends on one's income tier and cost of living.

As you can see, getting rich during a recession isn't that complicated. Keep your expenses low, make sure you have steady income, and invest as much as possible. If you're able to do that, you'll come out ahead.

Can I lose my money in a recession? ›

Recessions can impact your savings in many different ways. Lower interest rates, stock market volatility, and potential job loss can drain your savings. Diversifying your investments, building an emergency fund, and opening a high-yield savings account can help protect your savings.

For investors, “cash is king during a recession” sums up the advantages of keeping liquid assets on hand when the economy turns south. From weathering rough markets to going all-in on discounted investments, investors can leverage cash to improve their financial positions.

High-yield savings account

Cash? Yes, cash can be a good investment in the short term, since many recessions often don't last too long. Cash gives you a lot of options.

During economic downturns you want to have as much cash on hand as possible. If it is not absolutely necessary, it may be best to delay any big-ticket purchases. Big purchases, such as a car or house, typically require you to either put down a large lump sum of cash or have a hefty ongoing payment.

Cash. Cash is an important asset when it comes to a recession. After all, if you do end up in a situation where you need to pull from your assets, it helps to have a dedicated emergency fund to fall back on, especially if you experience a layoff.