Our Debt Free Family

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Thanksgiving: Debt Update and Planning for the New Year

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<p>It is that time of year again, where many people are making resolutions and ours, yet again, is to pay off our debt. We have had some success this year, and even this month, but we are making aggressive plans for next year to help us become debt-free and plan our future. Here's the latest progress we've seen and what we've decided for next year so far.</p>::Pexels

It is that time of year again, where many people are making resolutions and ours, yet again, is to pay off our debt. We have had some success this year, and even this month, but we are making aggressive plans for next year to help us become debt-free and plan our future. Here’s the latest progress we’ve seen and what we’ve decided for next year so far.

Reviewing the Numbers

These were our debt numbers last month…

  • My Car Amount Owed: $21,302
  • Credit Card Total For Both: $502 (interest is a KILLER, folks)
  • Student Loans: $24,184
  • Matco/Snap-On: $7,449
  • Amount in Collections: $679

We’ve made some progress! Here are the numbers this week…

  • My Car Amount Owed: $20,550
  • Credit Card Total For Both: $490
  • Student Loans: $24,362 (the interest is from having the loan deferred until after the new year)
  • Matco/Snap-On: $7,129
  • Amount in Collections: $679

While it isn’t much, it is another $900+ paid off this month, and we are making big plans for 2020.

Plans for The New year

My husband and I have decided to bite the bullet and buy the Financial Peace University from Dave Ramsey. It is going to be our Christmas gift to one another (plus something else small for each of us). We’ve been listening The Dave Ramsey Show pretty often and believe purchasing the program and following the steps closely will really help us reach our goal of being debt-free.

By following the program, it is quite possible that we will be debt-free year year (or soon after). The idea of having all of our debts paid off and potentially be able to buy a home afterward is the dream for us. We both know it will be a lot of hard work, but it will be so worth it. And I can’t wait to keep you all updated on our progress next year!

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Determining Your Maximum Debt Limit: How Much Debt is Too Much

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<p>When you look back on what you have been able to accomplish in your life, chances are that it was all possible due to debt.</p>::Pexels

When you look back on what you have been able to accomplish in your life, chances are that it was all possible due to debt.

Without a loan, you wouldn’t have owned your first home.

Without a loan, you wouldn’t have driven that first car of yours.

And without a loan, you couldn’t have earned that first degree.

In other words, debt can truly be a good thing. However, according to the old adage, you can have too much of a good thing. If you feel that you have piled up too many loans, there are tips to help you pay off your debt in a smart and efficient way.

So, how much debt is too much? Here is a rundown on how you can determine your maximum debt limit. Let’s get started!

How Much Debt Is Too Much?

A good way to determine how much debt is too much in your situation is to look at your ratio of debt to income.

To get this figure, you should divide your recurring debt each month by your gross income each month. You will then express this figure as a percentage.

Your monthly debt includes anything that you have to pay each month. This includes, for example, your mortgage, credit cards, car payment, and student loan.

Meanwhile, your gross income is the amount of money you bring home prior to paying taxes, Social Security, and insurance.

Example of Debt-to-Income Ratio Calculation

If you have $3,000 in current debt and generate a gross income of $6,000 per month, your debt-to-income ratio comes out to 50%. Unfortunately, this is not a good figure.

Many lenders generally like to see ratios of around 36% maximum. In fact, some financial advisors state that ratios of more than 20% are indicators that consumers are borrowing too much. Still, others say that near 30% is the magic number.

What does this tell us? It tells us that there’s no black-and-white answer for how much debt is too much for you. However, if you find that your disposable income each month seems insufficient, you’re probably carrying more debt than you should.

How to Help Yourself

If you’re wondering whether to get that next loan, ask this question to yourself first. “How much debt is too much?”

There are many different reasons to get a loan. Irrespective of the circumstance, you must eventually pay back the borrowed money. Therefore, it is always advisable to not borrow more than you need and your repayment ability.

When you start feeling the burden of too much debt, consolidating all of them into one can help you simplify your finances. In some cases, you may even be able to reduce the monthly payments.

The next time you decide to get a loan, determine your requirement, check about your ongoing debt payments and figure out how much you need. There are lenders who also help you to determine the ideal loan amount and then design a suitable repayment term for you.

Always find the right fit lender and loan fit for your financial situation.

Image source: Institute for Money and Technology.

Becoming Debt Free: Side Jobs to Help Pay Off Debt

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side jobs
Paying off debt is no small task, especially if you have a substantial amount to be paid. Everyone should have the goal of being debt free one day but it sounds a lot easier than it is. In my case (and the case of many others), you need to generate more income to be able to pay off your debt. What side jobs are best for generating income to pay off your debt though?

Side Jobs to Pay Off Debt

Taking on a side job or part-time job is no small task. Many people who choose to take on a side job to pay off their debt don’t have kids or any family responsibilities. If they do have a family, the other half of the marriage is generally caring for the kids and home. That being said, taking on a side job is a great way to pay down and pay off your debt. You’ll want to be able to generate a decent amount of income if you’re putting in the effort though. Here’s five of the best side hustles to use to pay off your debt.

Freelance Writer

If you’ve got a knack for writing apply for a freelance position or post your resume on a freelance website. Most companies pay per article or per word so you’ll be able to rack in a bit of money. Depending on your experience and the place you’re writing for, pay can be anywhere from $25 up to the thousands.

Become a Social Media Assistant

Social media assistants can make pretty decent money and the work isn’t all that demanding (if you’re tech savvy). For the most part you just man the company/website’s social media pages, do promotional work and sometimes run a Facebook advertisement. Social media assistants get paid per post sometimes. If you get hired on as a social media assistant (part time) you’ll be looking at an average hourly wage of $15 per hour.

Part-Time Work

If writing and social media aren’t your thing, you can always get a traditional part-time job. Most fast food places and retail stores need part-time help. These positions won’t likely pay much (minimum wage to $10 for most) but the extra cash can help you work your way to becoming debt free. Check around or search online for part time jobs in your specific area to see if there are any available part-time positions.

 

Nannying/Babysitting

Being a nanny or babysitting is another great way to earn extra cash. If you’re good with kids and able to get good referrals babysitting can pay anywhere from $10 to $25 per hour. The greatest part about becoming a babysitter, also, is that you can pick up/turn down babysitting opportunities as your schedule allows. Care.com is a great place to start looking for babysitting positions near you.

Salesperson

Becoming a salesperson may seem like a full-time gig but many people have become rather successful selling items part time. You may have seen the “ITWorks” girls on Facebook or even had friends that sell LuLaRoe. Either way, these sales opportunities can help you pay off your debt over time. Just remember to check for the signs of a scam before jumping into a business venture.

These are just a few side jobs that you can take on to help you pay down and pay off your debt. Do you have any other side jobs that could contribute to someone’s savings or “debt fund?”

 

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If You Must Get a Debt Consolidation Loan, Here is How

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<p>If You Must Get a Debt Consolidation Loan, Here is How</p>::Pexels

 

Consolidate Your Debt in Three Steps

Debt consolidation is an option many people turn to when they feel they are drowning in debt. There is no doubt that, for some, it is a great option to consolidate and pay off your debts. So, if you have to pull out a debt consolidation loan, how do you do it?

Of course, consolidating your debt isn’t an overnight process. It will take some work and planning on your part. However, it doesn’t have to be complicated. In fact, it is as easy as 1-2-3:

Step One: List Your Debt

Before thinking about taking out a debt consolidation loan, consider whether you have enough debt to consolidate or not. Take some time to write down all of your debt. Include any loans and credit cards you have that need to be paid off. Generally, if this amount is $10,000 or more you can pull out a debt consolidation loan to ease your payments.

Be sure to list each of your debts along with the interest rate. Lower interest rates on payments may be worth simply paying off instead of consolidating. You may also want to consider seeking debt counseling before settling on consolidating your debt.

Step Two: Research Debt Consolidation Loans

Once you’ve established your need for a debt consolidation loan and have identified the debts you want to target, research the different types of consolidation loans available to you. Generally, there are three debt consolidation loans to choose from:

  • Unsecured Loans – Unsecured debt consolidation loans require good credit, which is a difficulty for many people looking to consolidate their debt. These types of loans will allow you to pull out a loan, based on your credit, and consolidate your debts as you see fit, into one monthly payment.
  • Secured Loans – Secured loans for paying off debt don’t always make sense. However, if you’ll save money on the interest they can be helpful. Secured loans allow you to borrow against money you have in savings or elsewhere to pay off your debt with one monthly payment. If the consolidation loan’s interest rate is less than your credit card interest rates or loan interest rates, a secured loan is a great way to go!
  • Private Student Loans – For many people, student loans make up the majority of their debt. If you want to consolidate these, you will have to pull out a private student loan. Many banks offer private student loans and can provide you with a lower-interest loan to pay your education off.

Step Three: Create an Easy Payment Plan

After deciding what debt consolidation loan is best for your repayment needs, determine the terms of your loan. If you can only afford $200 per month towards debt repayment, adjust the length of your loan accordingly. You should also be sure to put your payment date on a date that is always convenient for you. To ensure the loan payment is always made, set up an automatic payment. Making the payments in full and on time will help your credit score significantly.

If you find yourself gravitating towards a debt consolidation loan, you’re not alone. Just be sure you go through the steps above and define the best course of action for you and your finances.

Readers, have you taken out a debt consolidation loan? What was your experience? 

When is Debt Settlement a Good Idea?

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<p>An astounding 15 percent of Americans believe they will be making payments on their credit cards until the day they die. On top of that, one-third of Americans believe it will take up to 20 years to pay off their current debts. Because of the overwhelming amount of debt most people living in the United States carry, many people find themselves wondering when debt settlement might be a viable option.</p>::Pexels

An astounding 15 percent of Americans believe they will be making payments on their credit cards until the day they die. On top of that, one-third of Americans believe it will take up to 20 years to pay off their current debts. Because of the overwhelming amount of debt most people living in the United States carry, many people find themselves wondering when debt settlement might be a viable option.

Dangers of Debt Settlement

While finding a way to settle your debt may be tempting, it isn’t always the best way to handle your finances. Essentially, a debt settlement company will negotiate a payoff amount for your account. You will no longer pay the creditor and, instead, will begin making payments to the settlement company. However, the process of working with these companies can actually hurt you.

During the process of working with the debt settlement group, you will have to cease making payments on your debt. These companies also don’t typically don’t start working with people until their debts have been past due for months. This means that your credit score will likely tank.

It also isn’t as good for your credit score as paying the account off in full. Normally, when an account is settled, it will be noted on your report as “Paid-Settled,” which is good. It doesn’t have as good an impact on your credit as a “Paid in Full” status though.

Additionally, using a debt settlement group can also make you feel like not paying your debts is okay. You aren’t really learning much about changing your habits to improve your long-term financial health.

When is Debt Settlement a Good Idea?

That’s not to say that debt settlement isn’t a good idea for some people. It is a necessary evil in some cases to avoid filing for bankruptcy or going into more debt with neverending interest being tacked onto your accounts.

Instead of settling, you may want to consider getting debt counseling. Contacting someone who is an expert in dealing with debt can help you see a way out of your mess. Sometimes being in debt makes it difficult to see a way out. A counselor can help you come up with a debt management plan and assist you in coming up with a doable plan.

If debt counseling isn’t for you, consider opening up communication with your creditors. Talking to them about your options may open another door for you. Many creditors will allow you a few months off of making payments for hardship. Give them a call and see what you can do.

And, if all else fails, debt settlement can be a good choice. I personally settled a debt with a third-party company recently. It helped me knock that off my credit and received a letter that it was paid in full. It helped my credit score tremendously and put a fire under me to get it paid off. If you’re already behind (like I was) it can be a good option.

Readers, have you ever settled a debt? What was your experience?

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GreenPath Financial Wellness Reviews: Is It Worth Your Time?

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Finding Financial Peace with GreenPath: Your Pathway to Wellness

<p>Are you feeling overwhelmed by your financial situation? Are you constantly stressed about money, living paycheck to paycheck, and unable to build a secure future?  Many individuals and families struggle with financial burdens, and it can take a toll on every aspect of your life. But there is hope. GreenPath, a trusted leader in financial counseling and education for over 60 years, is here to help guide you on your journey towards financial peace.</p>::Pexels

 

Are you feeling overwhelmed by your financial situation? Are you constantly stressed about money, living paycheck to paycheck, and unable to build a secure future?  Many individuals and families struggle with financial burdens, and it can take a toll on every aspect of your life. But there is hope. GreenPath, a trusted leader in financial counseling and education for over 60 years, is here to help guide you on your journey towards financial peace.

With GreenPath, you’ll have access to a wide range of resources and services designed to empower you to take control of your finances. Their expert financial counselors will work with you to create a customized plan based on your unique circumstances and goals. Whether you need help with budgeting, debt management, or credit counseling, GreenPath has the knowledge and expertise to support you every step of the way.

 

Understanding Your Financial Situation

The first step towards financial peace is understanding your financial situation. This means taking a close look at your income, expenses, debts, and assets. GreenPath’s financial counselors can help you create a personalized budget that takes into account your unique circumstances and goals.

 

The Importance of Budgeting

One of the most effective ways to take control of your finances is by creating a budget. A budget is a plan for how you’ll spend your money each month. It can help you prioritize your expenses, avoid overspending, and save for your goals.

GreenPath’s financial counselors can help you create a budget that works for you. They’ll take into account your income, expenses, and goals to create a personalized plan. They can also provide tips for sticking to your budget and adjusting it as your circumstances change.

One of the key benefits of budgeting is that it can help you avoid debt. By prioritizing your expenses and avoiding unnecessary purchases, you’ll be able to live within your means. This can help you avoid relying on credit cards or loans to make ends meet.

 

Debt Management and Consolidation Options

If you’re struggling with debt, GreenPath Financial Welness can help. Their financial counselors can work with you to create a debt management plan that fits your needs. This may involve negotiating with creditors to lower interest rates or payments, consolidating debts into one manageable payment, or exploring other options for debt relief.

Debt consolidation is a popular option for individuals with multiple debts. This involves taking out a new loan to pay off your existing debts. The new loan typically has a lower interest rate than your existing debts, which can help you save money in the long run.

Another option for debt relief is a debt management plan. This involves working with a credit counseling agency like GreenPath to create a plan for paying off your debts. Your counselor will negotiate with your creditors to lower your interest rates and payments. You’ll make one monthly payment to the credit counseling agency, who will then distribute the funds to your creditors.

 

GreenPath Financial Wellness Contact and Locations

In addition to providing phone and internet debt management services, GreenPath also operate multiple brick and mortar locations within the United States which offers in-person appointments. Services and operating hours vary by location so head over to their contact page to verify if your requested in-person service is available in your area.

When it comes to financial services, transparency is paramount. The contact section of Greenpath’s website lists several phone numbers and counseling hours making it a breeze to engage with a counselor or have your general questions about their services answered without waiting for a response via email.

 

Strategies for Saving Money and Building an Emergency Fund

Building an emergency fund is an important part of achieving financial peace. An emergency fund is a savings account that you can use to cover unexpected expenses, such as car repairs or medical bills. Having an emergency fund can help you avoid turning to credit cards or loans in times of financial stress.

GreenPath’s financial counselors can help you develop a plan for building an emergency fund. They can provide tips for saving money on everyday expenses and help you identify areas where you can cut back. They can also help you set savings goals and track your progress over time.

Another way to save money is by reducing your monthly bills. GreenPath’s counselors can help you negotiate with service providers to lower your bills or find more affordable options. They can also provide tips for reducing energy usage and other expenses.

 

Investing For the Future

Investing is an important part of building long-term financial security. GreenPath’s financial counselors can help you understand your investment options and create a plan for investing in your future.

One of the most popular investment options is a 401(k) plan. This is a retirement savings plan offered by many employers. With a 401(k), you can invest a portion of your pre-tax income into a retirement account. Your employer may also match a portion of your contributions.

Another option for investing is a Roth IRA. This is an individual retirement account that allows you to invest after-tax income. The funds in your Roth IRA grow tax-free, and you can withdraw them tax-free in retirement.

GreenPath’s financial counselors can help you determine which investment options are right for you based on your goals and risk tolerance.

GreenPath Financial Wellness Login Portal

The GreenPath Financial Wellness Portal offers a convenient and user-friendly way for clients to access their financial wellness accounts. Here are some key features of the portal:

  1. Debt Management Plan (DMP) Account Access: Clients can log in to the portal 24/7 from a desktop, laptop, tablet, or mobile device. Whether you’re at home or on the go, you can easily access your DMP account information.
  2. Program Summary: The portal provides a comprehensive view of all your DMP accounts in one place. You can track your progress and stay informed about the status of proposals submitted to your creditors.
  3. Payment and Deposit Details: Say goodbye to guesswork! The portal allows you to track where your funds are throughout the month. You’ll know when deposits will be made to GreenPath and when payments will be sent to your creditors.
  4. Secure Message Center: Need to connect with GreenPath? The message center is your go-to. You can upload important documents, chat live with the GreenPath Client Services Team, and communicate via email. It’s a convenient way to address questions and requests at your convenience.

 

Greenpath Credit Counseling Review

GreenPath offers a wide range of financial counseling services to help you achieve financial peace. Their expert financial counselors can work with you to create a customized plan based on your unique circumstances and goals.

Their services include debt counseling, credit counseling, housing counseling, and bankruptcy counseling. They can also provide financial education and budgeting tools to help you manage your money more effectively.

One of the key benefits of working with GreenPath is their non-profit status. They’re committed to providing unbiased advice and support to their clients. They don’t receive commissions or bonuses for selling financial products, so you can trust that their recommendations are in your best interest.

 

GreenPath’s Educational Resources and Tools

In addition to their counseling services, GreenPath offers a wide range of educational resources and tools to help you improve your financial literacy. Their website includes articles, videos, and interactive tools on topics like budgeting, credit scores, and debt management.

They also offer financial education courses and webinars. These courses cover a variety of topics, including budgeting, saving, investing, and retirement planning. They’re designed to be accessible and informative, regardless of your financial background.

 

Success Stories and Testimonials from GreenPath Clients

Consumer Affairs Green Path Financial has GreenPath Financial at an impressive 4.8/5 stars from over 848 reviews. A testament to their outstanding service and no question as to whether their services is legit or not.

GreenPath has helped thousands of individuals and families achieve financial peace. Their clients have shared their success stories and testimonials on GreenPath’s website, highlighting the positive impact that their services have had on their lives.

Many clients have praised GreenPath’s financial counselors for their expertise and compassion. They appreciate the personalized attention and guidance that they receive throughout the counseling process. Others have highlighted how GreenPath’s services have helped them achieve their financial goals, such as paying off credit card debt or saving for a down payment on a home.

 

Conclusion and Next Steps Towards Financial Peace

Achieving financial peace is possible, and GreenPath can help guide you on your journey. By understanding your financial situation, creating a budget, managing your debts, saving for emergencies, and investing for the future, you can build a strong financial foundation.

GreenPath’s financial counseling services and educational resources can provide you with the tools and support you need to make informed financial decisions. Don’t let money worries consume your life any longer. Take the first step towards financial peace by joining GreenPath today.

 

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You Might Be Surprised By Our August Update (We Were)!

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<p>It has been a little while since I've dropped debt numbers here on the blog and, honestly, that is because it hasn't been a main focus of ours. We've been working on establishing our family and our financial goals have mostly aligned with that (emergency fund and ensuring we have everything we need). Being new parents is challenging! However, we've been navigating everything fairly well. Here's our latest debt update...</p>::Pexels

It has been a little while since I’ve dropped debt numbers here on the blog and, honestly, that is because it hasn’t been a main focus of ours. We’ve been working on establishing our family and our financial goals have mostly aligned with that (emergency fund and ensuring we have everything we need). Being new parents is challenging! However, we’ve been navigating everything fairly well. Here’s our latest debt update…

Breakdown of the Numbers

It has been about a year since our last big financial update on the blog. Two weeks before our baby was scheduled to arrive, we took another look at our finances, knowing it would be a while before we had time to really review them again. I am glad we did a serious review then because we truly haven’t sat down and reviewed the numbers until now. There have been so many changes in our finances over the last year and we’ve rolled with every single one. Some of the highlights have been:

  • My husband landed an amazing full-time remote job. We are both able to work from home full time and keep our daughter home as well.
  • We’ve got side hustles making us steady cash to put towards paying off debts.
  • Having a child lowered our tax liability considerably. Our home office deductions were helpful too!
  • We are credit card debt free!!
  • Inflation has been interesting to navigate, but we are able to stick to a budget.

All of that being said, our main focus has been addressing our needs as a family, paying medical bills, and padding our savings. So, our debt numbers haven’t moved significantly. Below is a recap of what they were last August.

  • Credit cards: $451 – This will be paid off in full soon.
  • Collections: $1,213 – We are working on getting these removed.
  • Car loans: $16,398
  • Student loans: $24,185

Now, what are the numbers this year?

  • Credit cards: $0
  • Collections: $1,205
  • Car loans: $11,858
  • Student loans: $24,185

What’s Next

I’ve fully taken advantage of the pause on student loan payments. Once we have our emergency fund fully funded, we will be paying those off as soon as possible! That said, our EF is our main focus right now. We are also getting some items that we’ve needed around the house that are bigger purchases. So, we are using sinking funds for things like a dining table, new clothing, etc.

Once our EF is fully funded though, we plan to snowball our debt. The items in collections will get knocked out, then our car loan, and then the student loans. After we have accomplished that, we will start saving for a down payment on our first home.

All in all, we’ve made significant progress, especially when you consider where we started four years ago. We’ve cut our debt in half (and then some). I can’t wait to see all those balances hit $0.

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Try This $10000 Biweekly 26 Week Money Challenge to Crush Your Debt

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<p>The Biweekly 26 Weeks Money Challenge is the perfect way to start your savings journey and reach your financial goals. Saving money can be overwhelming for some, but with this challenge, you'll be able to save a significant amount without feeling the pinch. If you haven't done so already, click here to check out our article on the ins and outs of the challenge.</p>::Pexels

 

The Biweekly 26 Weeks Money Challenge is the perfect way to start your savings journey and reach your financial goals. Saving money can be overwhelming for some, but with this challenge, you’ll be able to save a significant amount without feeling the pinch. If you haven’t done so already, click here to check out our article on the ins and outs of the challenge.

 

 

How to Save $10000 Using the Biweekly 26 Week Money Challenge

Saving $10000 using the biweekly 26 week money challenge is easier than you think. If you divide $10,000 by a 26, your answer is rounded to 385. So essentially, you’ll need to save $385 every two weeks to end up with $10,000 at the end of the 12-month period.

There are many different ways to approach reaching your goal of $10,000. The key parts of the 26 week savings challenge are your initial investment amount and the increments in which you add to your savings every two weeks. Use this free printable biweekly 26 week money challenge PDF to log your progress. Here are the steps to reach your goal:

Option 1:

Start with savings of $265 for the first period.

You will use increments of $10 every two weeks. So for the next 2-week period, you’ll add $275 ($265 + $10) to your savings.

The next 2-week period you’ll add $285 ($275 + $10) to your savings.

Continue this process for 26 2-week period and you’ll find yourself with $10,140 in a year.

 

Option 2:

Start with savings of $350  for the first period.

You will use increments of $3 every two weeks. So for the next 2-week period, you’ll add $353 ($350 + $3) to your savings.

The next 2-week period you’ll add $356 ($353 + $3) to your savings.

Continue this process for 26 2-week period and you’ll find yourself with $10,075 in a year.

 

How to Save $5000 Using the Biweekly 26 Week Money Challenge 

A goal of 0$10000 may be a bit much for our first time at the challenge If your salary or debt reduction plans only allow for a more conservative challenge, don’t be discouraged. Try this method to make $5000 using biweekly 26 week savings challenge.

Option 1:

Start with savings of $155 for the first period.

You will use increments of $3 every 2 weeks. So for the next 2-week period, you’ll add $158 ($155 + $3) to your savings.

The next 2-week period you’ll add $161 ($158 + $3) to your savings.

Continue this process for 26 2-week period and you’ll find yourself with an extra $5,005 in a year.

 

Option 2:

Start with savings of $93 for the first period.

You will use increments of $8 every two weeks. So for the next 2-week period, you’ll add $101 ($93 + $8) to your savings.

The next 2-week period you’ll add $109 ($101 + $8) to your savings.

Continue this process for 26 2-week period and you’ll find yourself with an extra $5,018 in a year.

 

 

Tracking Your Progress and Staying Motivated

Tracking your progress is essential to staying motivated and accountable during the 26 Week Money Challenge. Here are a few ways to track your savings and stay on top of your progress:

 

  • Savings Tracker Apps: Use a savings tracker app to monitor your savings and track your progress. These apps often have features that allow you to set savings goals, customize your savings plan, and visualize your progress.

 

  • Paper Tracker: If you prefer a more hands-on approach, create a paper tracker. This can be as simple as a calendar where you mark off each week as you save. Seeing your progress on paper can be incredibly motivating. Use our free printable biweekly 26 week money challenge PDF

 

  • Visual Representation: Create a visual representation of your savings goal. For example, if you’re saving for a vacation, create a vision board with pictures of your dream destination. Place it somewhere visible to remind yourself of your goal.

 

Common Mistakes to Avoid During The Biweekly 26 Week Savings Challenge

While the 52 Week Money Challenge is a fantastic savings strategy, there are a few common mistakes that you should be aware of to ensure your success:

  • Carelessly Skipping Weeks or Pay Periods: Avoid skipping weeks or falling behind on your savings. Consistency is key to building momentum and reaching your savings goal.

 

  • Not Adjusting for Budget Changes: Life happens, and your budget may change throughout the year. Do your best to avoid payday loans with extremely high interest rates. Make sure to adjust your allocation if necessary to accommodate any financial changes. Pay off any debt that may be negatively affecting you credit score. Self Inc is a great tool to build your credit while creating a savings next egg.

 

  • Not Playing Catch-up: If you get off track due to budget changes or any unforeseen circumstances, make every effort to catch up with your saving and continue on your journey to $5,000 or $10,000. There are a large number of side hustle opportunities out there if you’re lookin for extra funds to add to your savings. For examples, you can get paid to write articles and blog posts or even testing apps and writing reviews.

 

  • Dipping into the Savings: Resist the temptation to dip into your savings for non-essential purchases. Remember your goals and stay committed to the challenge.

 

  • Not Celebrating Milestones: Celebrate your savings milestones along the way. Recognize and reward yourself for your progress to keep motivation high.

 

Whether you’re saving for a dream vacation, a down payment on a house, or simply want to boost your emergency fund, this challenge is a fantastic way to kickstart your savings journey. Opening a Webull account and using your savings to earn dividends on your favorite stocks is another great way to put it to use. If you need help building credit while building a savings nest egg, check out this article.

 

If you’re looking to add even more wealth in the form of interest to your 26 week savings plan, check out Raisin for single sign on access to FDIC insured institutions offering high-yield interest rates above 5%.  I like Raisin.com for its easy to use interface and access to multiple institutions to diversify your funds without creating multiple accounts across different banks. There is also no penalty for removing your funds early. Click here and enter my referral code earlm014354 to earn up to $125 in bonus cash when you sign up and meet the deposit requirements.

 

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Debt Free: Inspirational Money Quotes That Will Motivate You

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<p>Oftentimes, it is easy to get bogged down about what isn't going right with your finances. Maybe you've gone over budget and feel like you'll never get be debt free. In times like this, you need to find the motivation to keep pushing forward towards your financial goals. Here are the debt free quotes I turn to for inspiration to get back on track.</p>::Pexels

 

Oftentimes, it is easy to get bogged down about what isn’t going right with your finances. Maybe you’ve gone over budget and feel like you’ll never get be debt free. In times like this, you need to find the motivation to keep pushing forward towards your financial goals. Here are the debt free quotes I turn to for inspiration to get back on track.

 

10 Inspirational Debt Free Quotes

Whether you are looking for inspiration to get back on track or the motivation to get started, each of these money quotes has inspired me on my debt free journey.

“Money is only a tool. It will take you wherever you wish, but it will not replace you as the driver.” -Ayn Rand

<p>“Money is only a tool. It will take you wherever you wish, but it will not replace you as the driver.” -Ayn Rand</p>::Pexels

 

“Many people take no care of their money till they come nearly to the end of it, and others do just the same with their time.” – Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

<p>“Many people take no care of their money till they come nearly to the end of it, and others do just the same with their time.” – Johann Wolfgang von Goethe</p>::Pexels

 

“Financial peace isn’t the acquisition of stuff. It’s learning to live on less than you make, so you can give money back and have money to invest. You can’t win until you do this.” – Dave Ramsey

<p>“Financial peace isn’t the acquisition of stuff. It’s learning to live on less than you make, so you can give money back and have money to invest. You can’t win until you do this.” – Dave Ramsey</p>::Pexels

 

“A big part of financial freedom is having your heart and mind free from worry about the what-ifs of life.” – Suze Orman

<p>“A big part of financial freedom is having your heart and mind free from worry about the what-ifs of life.” – Suze Orman</p>::Pexels

 

“When you know the impact of little expenses, you will realize that there is nothing little in this world.” – Manoj Arora

<p>“When you know the impact of little expenses, you will realize that there is nothing little in this world.” – Manoj Arora</p>::Pexels

 

Click Here for 40 Funny Debt Free Quotes With a Twist to Keep You in Good Spirits

 

“It doesn’t matter how slowly you go, as long as you do not stop.” – Confucius

<p>“It doesn’t matter how slowly you go, as long as you do not stop.” – Confucius</p>::Pexels

 

“The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step.” – Lao Tzu

<p>“The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step.” – Lao Tzu</p>::Pexels

 

“It always seems impossible until it’s done.” – Nelson Mandela

<p>“It always seems impossible until it’s done.” – Nelson Mandelas</p>::Pexels

 

“Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can.” – Arthur Ashe

<p>“Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can.” – Arthur Ashe</p>::Pexels

 

“The secret of getting ahead is getting started.” – Mark Twain

<p>“The secret of getting ahead is getting started.” – Mark Twain</p>::Pexels

If I am having an especially rough day and find myself getting bogged down with what isn’t going right, I take a look at these. I hope these debt free quotes above are able to help you on your journey as well.

 

Snowball vs Avalanche: Which Method is Best at Managing Debt Reduction

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debt snowball vs avalanche -which method is better

 

What is Snowball vs Avalanche?

Snowball and avalanche are two of the most popular debt reduction strategies. As you become more informed on these strategies, you will realize that their popularity is more due to simplicity rather than anything else.

One method is centered around paying off the smaller debts first, while the other method is focused on paying off the debt with the highest interest rates first.

Both methods have their very own situational advantages, and your level or discipline and make a make difference in which method works best for your debt reduction journey.

Here you can find a free Debt Snowball vs Avalanche calculator.

<p>Here you can find a free Debt Snowball vs Avalanche calculator.</p>::Pexels

 

Debt Snowball Method

The debt snowball requires listing all debts from lowest to highest amount owned. You set as much money aside for paying debts as possible. You want to have enough to pay greater than the minimum on one debt.

Let’s say your total minimum payments equal $550. You must then find $10-50 extra in your budget. Where can it come from?

Make coffee at home instead of buying it. Doing this twice a week could save 15 per month.

Buy less expensive food at the store. This doesn’t mean skimping on quality, wait for things to go on sale and buy them then. You can also buy things you need for the month in bulk. If it saves you an extra $20, you are set.

Once you have found the extra, apply it to the debt with the lowest balance. Once you pay that debt off, add the amount you were paying on it to the next balance on the list.

Do not spread it out across the remaining balances, it all goes to the new lowest balance. Keep working your way up the list, throwing more and more money at each successive debt.

 

Debt Avalanche Method

The debt avalanche takes a similar approach, but it can result in saving more money. You line up your debts in a list, but the priority goes to highest interest rates.

Interest rates cost you the most when you only pay the minimum. On the debt with the highest interest rate, you want to commit all your extra funds. Extra payments go to the principal amount and reduce your interest costs long-term.

You still roll entire amounts over to the next item on the list. And you still throw any extra money at debts each month.

 

Snowball Pros and Cons

The snowball method has strong psychological benefits. You get an early victory and victory inspires you to continue working.

Plus, as relationship work goes, quick victories build a stronger bond with your mate.

At the end of the day, the biggest pro here is motivation.

But there can be downsides to the snowball method. As stated above, the earlier payments may not hit the highest interest rate first. And interest may cost you a lot of money in the long run.

 

Avalanche Pros and Cons

In some cases, the avalanche method will pay off the debt faster in the long term. Further, if you have debts with very high interest, you save money.

But this depends greatly upon your situation and your personal debt.

Many don’t recommend this method because it doesn’t motivate at the beginning. And you need the most motivation at the start.

If your highest interest rate somehow has the highest amount due, watch out. You might wait a year or more before you manage to pay off the first debt.

 

How to Choose between Snowball vs Avalanche

Your situation may need debt consolidation to help find which method is better for debt reduction.

Your situation, goals and personal motivation will govern the choice of snowball, avalanche or consolidation.

Let’s say you have two dozen pieces of debt ranging from  $100 – $800. That crushing weight needs some relief.

To begin, stop using anything that will increase debt until everything has been paid off. Then begin your snowball with the lowest amount. By next month you will be suffocating under one less bill.

The next one may take more time than that, but not much. Because you will be throwing an extra hundred at it each month. In a year’s time, maybe you are down 5-6 bills.

That situation rings of desperation and needs a boost of freedom. In this case, choose the snowball.

What if you have a ton of motivation and just need direction? You have 8 credit card or loan payments. Some with very high interest and some with very low.

Your situation hasn’t made you desperate or suffocated you. But you want to do away with all the extra interest you are paying. Your situation needs an avalanche.

You don’t need to start fast. You need to feel like you are hitting your debt as hard as you can. And you want to be thrifty about it.

You’re a defensive end with a clear shot to sack the quarterback, your debt. Yeah, it may be the first quarter, but you want to make an impact that on the whole game.

Avalanche will do that for you. You will only need keep playing every minute no matter what.

Examine, Plan, Execute

Before you make any decision about your debt, look at all of it. Arrange it in whatever manner you choose. But once you pick snowball vs avalanche, stick to it.

Once you have it arranged in your preferred method, find the money needed. You can find tips on making extra money with side jobs here. Sometimes an extra ten hours a week makes all the difference.

 

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