save it Archives - Money Smarts

The surprising psychological effect of tracking your expenses

Have you ever felt stressed out over finances? You’re not alone. Nearly two-thirds of Americans report that money is a major source of stress. Studies show that insurmountable debt may be even more stressful than divorce or the death of a close friend. Financial...

Budgeting, Money, Save It

What’s the Best Savings Vehicle for My Emergency Fund?

Anyone who has ever had to hide the “good” snacks from a voracious roommate knows that a proper stash must maintain the perfect balance of three factors: Separation: Storing your chocolate-covered almonds somewhere other than the shared pantry not only decreases the...

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How to manage volatile income

Anyone who has ever been a freelancer, worked on commission, or relied on tips knows the boom-and-bust cycle of having an irregular income. How are you supposed to budget when you don’t know which months feature steak dinners and which ones require ramen noodles? ...

Earn It, Save It, Spend It

How much savings is too much?

Setting up good saving habits is one of the best things you can do for yourself. But whether you’re just getting started on your savings journey or you’ve already got a pile of cash, you might be wondering: just how much, exactly, should I save? What if I...

Save It, Spend It

Living with parents to pay off 105k of debt? This family did it.

Tae and Monica Kim began their marriage with over $100,000 dollars in student debt. It’s an albatross around the necks of many young Americans: how to pay down debt, create savings, afford to start a family — childcare, food, clothing — and own a house? “We couldn’t...

Family, Save It