Budget, Money Management

How We Organize Our Finances

Here’s a quick rundown of how we organize our finances and our financial documents – Extremely Important Documents – We keep our tax returns, marriage license, birth certificates, car titles, etc. in a fire-proof safe.  I have friends who keep such documents off-site in a safety-deposit box.  The fire-proof safe works for us.  I also have electronic copies stored on…

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Budget, Money Management

What Works For Me – Budget Categories

There are dozens of budgeting products on the market.  I’m partial to the You Need A Budget system, but there are other great systems available.  Find a system that works with you, fine tune it to meet your needs, and then use your budget as a tool. After selecting a budgeting system, it’s important to create specific budget categories.  When…

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Budget, Money Management

10 Things To Do Before Creating Your Next Budget

Before you create your next budget or monthly spending plan – 1.  Track your spending for one month. Use a spreadsheet, pen and paper, or online software, and track your spending for one month.  Track all payments – including those made by check, debit card, cash, (and credit card, if you choose to use one).  Remember to also include any…

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