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Financial lessons made easy

It’s the first of the month!

It’s time to kick off the new (financial) you and show those dollars you mean business. First days can be hard, so let’s use today to lay some groundwork. Begin every month with these 2 financial fundamentals: 🔍 Track your Benjamins. Put on your detective hat and sleuth out where your money is going. Check your bank statement and sort out all those anxiety-inducing expenses draining your account, from cell phone payments to brunch bills. Gaining visibility into your cash flow will help you make more savvy money moves. 📊 Craft a budget. Take a close look at your income, expenses, and goals and start putting money where it needs to go. Easier said than done, we know. But start allocating funds for necessities, savings, and fixed expenses like bills and housing costs. Go ahead and set aside a (modest) secret stash for your favorite guilty pleasure.

DAY 1

Time to get real about expenses.

DAY 2

DAY 3

DAY 4

DAY 5

DAY 6

DAY 7

DAY 8

DAY 9

DAY 10

DAY 11

DAY 12

DAY 13

Are you (and your wallet) ready to embark on a financial journey? Buckle up, because we worked with Discover® to develop this 30-day calendar to help you take your money game to the next level.¹ It’s all here, from budgeting basics to investment insights and management tips during uncertain times. Treat this cal as your very own passport to a world of financial empowerment. Let’s do this.

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It’s time to kick off the new (financial) you and show those dollars you mean business. Day 1’s can be hard, so let’s use today to lay some groundwork. Begin every month with these 2 financial fundamentals: 🔍 Track your Benjamins. Put on your detective hat and sleuth out where your money is going. Check your bank statement and sort out all those anxiety-inducing expenses draining your account, from cell phone payments to brunch bills. Gaining visibility into your cash flow will help you make more savvy money moves. 📊 Craft a budget. Take a close look at your income, expenses, and goals and start putting money where it needs to go. Easier said than done—we know. But start allocating funds for necessities, savings, and fixed expenses like bills and housing costs. Go ahead and set aside a (modest) secret stash for your favorite guilty pleasure.

Congrats on making it to Day 2! It’s time to peer into the money mirror and really examine those pesky expenses. Fair warning: You’re gonna learn some harsh truths about your spending habits. Here’s the bottom line: Cleaning up your cash flow is all about identifying patterns. First, identify what you’re spending your money on (remember tracking those Benjamins?). Did that daily coffee run turn into a caffeine-fueled monster? Or maybe that one-time impulse buy became a weekly habit? Once you’ve identified those expense monsters, unmask the patterns. Are you overspending on concerts, dining out, or shopping? Take a closer look and ask yourself if these purchases align with your priorities and financial goals. And yes, adjust accordingly. 👀

Get real about expenses.

Give yourself a pat on the back—you survived the expense review. Now, let’s talk ways to reduce those sneaky spenders. Here are two major tips that’ll have your checking account sighing with relief. ✂️ Time to trim. Grab your budget scissors and start cutting away the excess. Maybe it’s time to bid adieu to that fancy-schmancy gym membership you never use or finally pare down your streaming services. By making smart cuts, you’ll save money without sacrificing the things you value. 💡 Get crafty. Cutting down expenses gets a lot easier (and more sustainable) when you start thinking outside the box. Love online shopping? Start checking out thrift stores instead. Always buying tix for concerts and outings? Explore local community events. Think of alternative, lower-cost ways to enjoy the things you love, and you’ll be more likely to make your budget cuts last.

Cut it out.

It’s time to make your savings work for you. Here are a few ways to boost those dollars you’ve tucked away. 💲 Contribute to a traditional savings account. This one’s sort of obvious, but if you haven’t opened a traditional savings account—do it. Then crunch the numbers and figure out a monthly deposit rate. Stick to it. 🧾 Open a CD. No, not the ones from the early ’00s. Certificates of deposit are like souped-up savings accounts where you put money away for an allotted time and let it grow at a fixed rate. (P.S. These are ideal for building vacation funds.) 📈 Open a high-yield savings account. Exactly as it sounds, a high-yield savings account is an account that comes with an APY higher than traditional rates. Great for building wealth.

Level up your savings.

Here’s a very brief guide to the 2 main kinds of interest. When you deposit funds into an account, financial institutions reward you with a little something extra—that’s simple interest. Think of simple interest as the compensation (set at a fixed rate) you earn for lending your money. Okay, easy enough. Compound interest is a little more complex. With compound interest, you not only earn interest on your initial investment but also on the accumulated interest over time. So, it’s like a snowball effect, growing bigger and bigger as time goes by. The earlier you start, the more powerful this snowball effect becomes. 📈

Interested in interest?

Maybe you know this already, and no shame if you do: Credit allows you to borrow funds to buy stuff right away and pay the money back later, often with interest attached. The institution from which you borrow then gives you what’s called a credit score. Think of this 3-digit score as your financial report card. The higher your credit score, the better your chances of securing loans, favorable interest rates, and other financial opportunities. You can also view your credit report, which is like a detailed biography of your credit history. It includes information about your credit accounts, payment history, and outstanding debts. Lenders use this report to assess your creditworthiness. Keep an eye on this number, folks. 📑

Check your (credit) credentials.

So you want to start getting a grip on your credit. How to do it? 💡 Assess your debt. Take a close look at all your outstanding balances, interest rates, and minimum payment requirements to get a full picture of your credit. 📆 Set clear goals. Next, determine a payment timeline based on your financial sitch. Break down your debts into manageable milestones, whether that’s paying off a certain amount each month or targeting specific debts. ✂️ Trim expenses, boost payments. Start trimming unnecessary expenses and putting those funds towards debt repayment. Cut back on non-essential purchases and consider creative ways to boost your income. 🤝 Seek support. Talk to financial advisors or debt counseling services that provide guidance and encouragement for insights, tools, and resources.

Make a payback plan.

What’s the #1 rule for smashing your credit score to the rafters? Make timely payments. Consistency demonstrates reliability and contributes positively to a credit score. You should also consider utilization, aka the ratio of your credit card balance to your credit limits. Aim to keep your credit utilization below 30%. Interest on your credit balance can snowball quickly—so keep those numbers small. 📊

Boost that score.

Stuff happens. Your car needs a new set of tires. Your home’s AC system went kerplunk. You spilled coffee on your laptop. Unforeseen expenses will come—no doubt about it—so you need to have an emergency fund. Start building this cash umbrella by contributing to an emergency fund on a monthly basis. Prioritize it in your budget, just like any other expense. Y’know what? Automate your savings by setting up automatic transfers. The monthly amount? Calculate that based on your income, expenses, and your budget. Looking for a benchmark? Aim to save 3–6 months’ worth of living expenses.

Rainy days will come. ☂️

So you’ve got your budget established, your expenses reduced, and your credit on track to an A+ score. Let’s turn now to investing. We’ll start by covering a few basic investment options. 📈 Stocks: Think of stocks as tokens of ownership in companies. When you buy stocks, you’re buying a small piece of a company’s ownership, called shares. As the company grows, the value of your shares can increase, which equals $$$. 📜 Bonds: When you invest in bonds, you’re essentially loaning money to the government or a company for a set period. In return, you’ll receive regular interest payments and the return of your initial investment when the bond matures. 🤝 Mutual funds: Think of mutual funds like a really cool collab sesh. They gather money from multiple investors to create a portfolio of stocks, bonds, and other assets.

Making cents of investments.

Grab your pencils, because class is in session. We’re talkin’ stocks. Here’s a step-by-step method to get your portfolio started. 1️⃣ Set money goals: What do you want out of investing? Are you saving for retirement, a down payment on a house, a dream vacation? Clear goals will better guide your investments. 2️⃣ Assess risk: Are you comfortable with potential market dips? Or do you prefer a more conservative approach? Understanding your personal risk appetite is crucial to succeeding in the stock market. 3️⃣ Build a diversified portfolio: Here comes the #1 rule of investing: Don’t put all your eggs in one basket. Spread your money across different companies, industries, and asset classes. This reduces risk and increases potential for rewards. 4️⃣ Choose an investment account: Select a brokerage account that fits your goals. Consider fees, customer service, and available tools for research and analysis. Remember, investing in the stock market comes with risk. Start small and grow on a gradual level.

Welcome to Stocks 101. 🏫

Yesterday, we told you that diversification was the golden rule of investing. We weren’t kidding. Let’s dig a little deeper into this super important concept. Diversification is like having a safety net for your investments. By spreading your portfolio across a variety of assets, industries, and even geographic regions, you lower the risk of enduring losses. When one investment takes a dip, others may perform better. See how that’s stabilizing? But diversification doesn’t just pad your investments against market fluctuations. It also helps you maximize opportunities to stack better returns. By diversifying, you can tap into various markets, sectors, industries, and asset classes that offer unique growth potential. 🧮

Diversification, diversification.

Risk and reward—name a more dynamic duo. In order to come out on top of your investments, you’ll need to think smart about these 2. Risk, of course, represents the possibility of losing money—easy enough. Reward represents potential gains. Investing is all about finding the perfect balance between the 2 R’s. And here’s a tough fact about investing: Higher risk often equates to higher returns. That’s why it’s crucial to carefully analyze the potential rewards and assess if they align with your risk tolerance and investment goals. Throwing all your dough at a hot company in hopes of earning big might be a bad idea. Think smart, do your research, and diversify.⚖️

Understand the 2 R’s

DAY 13

Congrats! Take a breath—we’re finally moving out of the investing weeds. So now that you’ve got a diversified portfolio, let’s talk about net worth. (No, it’s not just for the rich and famous.) Think of net worth as a snapshot of your overall financial health. So, how to calculate it. Here’s the equation: Net worth = total assets - total liabilities. But what does all that mean? Assets include everything you own that holds value. Think cash, investments, real estate, vehicles, and personal belongings. Liabilities represent outstanding debts—stuff like mortgages, student loans, and credit card balances. It’s basically what you’ve got minus what you owe. 💡

So what’s net worth, anyway?

DAY 14

Congrats on making it to Day 2! It’s time to peer into the money mirror and really examine those pesky expenses. Fair warning: You’re gonna learn some harsh truths about your spending habits. Here’s the bottom line: Cleaning up your cash flow is all about identifying patterns. First, identify what you’re spending your money on (remember tracking those Benjamins?). Did that daily coffee run turn into a caffeine-fueled craze? Or maybe that one-time impulse buy became a weekly habit? Once you’ve identified those expense monsters, unmask the patterns. Are you overspending on concerts, dining out, or shopping? Take a closer look and ask yourself if these purchases align with your priorities and financial goals. And yes, adjust accordingly. 👀

Get real about expenses.

DAY 2

Give yourself a pat on the back—you survived the expense review. Now let’s talk ways to reduce those sneaky spenders. Here are 2 major tips that’ll have your checking account sighing with relief. ✂️ Time to trim. Grab your budget scissors and start cutting away the excess. Maybe it’s time to bid adieu to that fancy-schmancy gym membership you never use, or finally pare down your streaming services. By making smart cuts, you’ll save money without sacrificing the things you value. 💡 Get crafty. Cutting down expenses gets a lot easier (and more sustainable) when you start thinking outside the box. Love online shopping? Start checking out thrift stores instead. Always buying tix for concerts and outings? Explore local community events. Think of alternative, lower-cost ways to enjoy the things you love and you’ll be more likely to make your budget cuts last.

Cut it out.

DAY 3

It’s time to make your savings work for you. Here are a few ways to boost those dollars you’ve tucked away. 💲 Contribute to a traditional savings account. This one’s sort of obvious, but if you haven’t opened a traditional savings account, do it. Then crunch the numbers and figure out a monthly deposit rate. Stick to it. 🧾 Open a CD. No, not the ones from the early ’00s. Certificates of deposit are like souped-up savings accounts where you put money away for an allotted time and let it grow at a fixed rate. (PS: These are ideal for building vacation funds.) 📈 Open a high-yield savings account. Exactly as it sounds, a high-yield savings account is an account that comes with an Annual Percentage Yield (APY) higher than traditional rates. Great for building wealth.

Level up your savings.

DAY 4

Here’s a very brief guide to the 2 main kinds of interest. When you deposit funds into an account, financial institutions reward you with a little something extra—that’s simple interest. Think of simple interest as the compensation (set at a fixed rate) you earn for lending your money. Okay, easy enough. Compound interest is a little more complex. With compound interest, you earn interest not only on your initial investment but also on the accumulated interest over time. It’s like a snowball effect, growing bigger and bigger as time goes by. The earlier you start, the more powerful this snowball effect becomes. 📈

Interested in interest?

DAY 5

Maybe you know this already, and no shame if you don’t: Credit allows you to borrow funds to buy stuff right away and pay the money back later, often with interest attached. The institution from which you borrow reports account information to a credit bureau, which then uses that information to calculate what’s called a credit score. Think of this 3-digit score as your financial report card. The higher your credit score, the better your chances of securing loans, favorable interest rates, and other financial opportunities. You can also view your credit report, which is a detailed accounting of your credit history. It includes information about your credit accounts, payment history, and outstanding debts. Lenders use this report to assess your creditworthiness. Keep an eye on this number, folks. 📑

Check your (credit) credentials.

DAY 6

So you want to start getting a grip on your credit. But how to do it? 💡 Assess your debt. Take a close look at all your outstanding balances, interest rates, and minimum payment requirements to get a full picture of your credit. 📆 Set clear goals. Next, determine a payment timeline based on your financial sitch. Break down your debts into manageable milestones, whether that’s paying off a certain amount each month or targeting specific debts. ✂️ Trim expenses, boost payments. Start trimming unnecessary expenses and putting those funds toward debt repayment. Cut back on nonessential purchases and consider creative ways to boost your income. 🤝 Seek support. Talk to financial advisors or debt counseling services that provide guidance and encouragement for insights, tools, and resources.

Make a payback plan.

DAY 7

What’s the #1 rule for smashing your credit score to the rafters? Make timely payments. Consistency demonstrates reliability and contributes positively to a credit score. You should also consider utilization, aka the ratio of your credit card balances to your credit limits. Aim to keep your credit utilization below 30%. Interest on your credit card balances can snowball quickly, so keep those numbers small. 📊

Boost that score.

DAY 8

Stuff happens. Your car needs a new set of tires. Your home’s AC system went kerplunk. You spilled coffee on your laptop. Unforeseen expenses will come—no doubt about it—so you need to have an emergency fund. Start building this cash umbrella by contributing to an emergency fund on a monthly basis. Prioritize it in your budget just like any other expense. Y’know what? Automate your savings by setting up automatic transfers. The monthly amount? Calculate that based on your income, expenses, and your budget. Looking for a benchmark? Aim to save 3–6 months’ worth of living expenses.

Rainy days will come. ☂️

DAY 9

Making cents of investments.

DAY 10

Grab your pencils because class is in session. We’re talkin’ stocks. Here’s a step-by-step method to get your portfolio started. 1️⃣ Set money goals: What do you want out of investing? Are you saving for retirement, a down payment on a house, a dream vacation? Clear goals will better guide your investments. 2️⃣ Assess risk: Are you comfortable with potential market dips? Or do you prefer a more conservative approach? Understanding your personal risk appetite is crucial to succeeding in the stock market. 3️⃣ Build a diversified portfolio: Here comes the #1 rule of investing—don’t put all your eggs in one basket. Spread your money across different companies, industries, and asset classes. This reduces risk and increases the potential for rewards. 4️⃣ Choose an investment account: Select a brokerage account that fits your goals. Consider fees, customer service, and available tools for research and analysis. Remember, investing in the stock market comes with risk. Start small and grow on a gradual level.

Welcome to Stocks 101. 🏫

DAY 11

Yesterday we told you that diversification was the golden rule of investing. We weren’t kidding. Let’s dig a little deeper into this super-important concept. Diversification is like having a safety net for your investments. By spreading your portfolio across a variety of assets, industries, and even geographic regions, you lower the risk of enduring losses. When one investment takes a dip, others may perform better. See how that’s stabilizing? But diversification doesn’t just pad your investments against market fluctuations. It also helps you maximize opportunities to stack better returns. By diversifying, you can tap into various markets, sectors, industries, and asset classes that offer unique growth potential. 🧮

Diversification, diversification.

DAY 12

Risk and reward—name a more dynamic duo. To come out on top of your investments, you’ll need to think smart about these 2. Risk, of course, represents the possibility of losing money (easy enough). Reward represents potential gains. Investing is all about finding the perfect balance between the 2 R’s. And here’s a tough fact about investing: Higher risk often equates to higher returns. That’s why it’s crucial to carefully analyze the potential rewards and assess whether they align with your risk tolerance and investment goals. Throwing all your dough at a hot company in hopes of earning big might be a bad idea. Think smart, do your research, and diversify. ⚖️

Understand the 2 R’s.

DAY 13

Congrats! Take a breath—we’re finally moving out of the investing weeds. So now that you’ve got a diversified portfolio, let’s talk about net worth. (No, it’s not just for the rich and famous.) Think of net worth as a snapshot of your overall financial health. So, how to calculate it? Here’s the equation: net worth = total assets – total liabilities. But what does all that mean? Assets include everything you own that holds value. Think cash, investments, real estate, vehicles, and personal belongings. Liabilities represent outstanding debts—stuff like mortgages, student loans, and credit card balances. It’s basically what you’ve got minus what you owe. 💡

So what’s net worth, anyway?

DAY 14

Whether you’re starting your career or reaching your last stretch, prepping for your golden years is essential to achieving strong financial health. Here are 4 steps to help you prepare for retirement: 😎 Imagine your ideal retirement. What kind of life do you want to pursue? Where do you want to live? Determining your goals will help set a clear vision for the future. 💰 Start saving early. The sooner you start tucking money away, the more time your investments have to grow. Develop a disciplined savings plan, contribute regularly to retirement accounts, and take advantage of employer-sponsored plans like 401(k)s or IRAs. 🧾 Explore retirement accounts. Speaking of 401(k)s, you should research retirement accounts that offer tax advantages, such as traditional or Roth IRAs. Each comes with their own contribution limits, withdrawal rules, and potential tax benefits. 👵👴 Research Social Security. Familiarize yourself with the ins and outs of Social Security benefits. Understand how the claiming process works and consider the optimal time to start receiving benefits.

Ready for retirement?

DAY 15

Insurance is like a shield that helps you recover financially from unexpected woes. Here are a few basics you should consider adding to your books: 🚗 Auto insurance: Nearly every state requires vehicle owners to maintain car insurance. It protects you from financial liability in case of accidents and also covers damages to your vehicle. 🏠 Homeowners/renters insurance: Another crucial one. This will protect your abode and personal belongings from damages or losses caused by fire, theft, and natural disasters. ⚰️ Life insurance: A tough one to think about, but important. This’ll provide financial protection to your loved ones in the event of your passing. It helps cover funeral expenses, pay off debts, replace lost income, and ensure your family’s financial stability. 🏥 Health insurance: You guessed it—also extremely important. Health insurance covers medical expenses, hospital stays, and preventive care. Essential. 💼 Liability insurance: This’ll protect you from legal and financial liabilities resulting from accidents or injuries that occur on your property or are caused by your actions.

Even you (yes, you) need insurance.

DAY 16

We’re halfway there! Pat yourself on the back for coming this far. Let’s use today to catch a little mid-month R&R. Consider exploring personal finance resources like podcasts, books, and news articles. There’s tons of great content out there that can help you wrap your head around all things money, from podcasts about debt management to books about building out your side hustle. Sit back, relax, and enjoy some of the good stuff. 😎

Time for a mid-month refresh.

DAY 17

Whether you’re looking to pay off debt, save for a tropical vacay, or boost your emergency fund, side gigs can be a financial game changer. Here are some popular hustles to consider: 📝 Freelancing: Got slick writing skills? Consider yourself a top-notch graphic designer? Love developing websites? These are all great freelance avenues that can add a little extra dough to your pockets. 🏫 Online tutoring: If you have expertise in something, consider helping students ace subjects like English, math, science, music, languages, or coding. 🚗 Gigs: You’ve probably seen the phrase “gig economy” floating around the mediasphere. This includes work like rideshare driving, food delivery, and pet sitting. Great way to boost income. 🛜 E-commerce: Online selling can be huge money. You can sell handmade crafts, vintage items, home goods—you name it—on a variety of platforms.

What’s your side gig?

DAY 18

Wouldn’t it be nice if you could generate the big bucks while sipping mai tais poolside? Meet passive income. Here are some tips for getting on your passive income game: 💡 Research and educate yourself on different income streams to find the ones that align with your goals and interests. 🪜 Start small and gradually build your passive-income empire over time. 🤖 Automate your income streams by setting up cash flows and processes that aren’t a hassle to maintain.

Make your money work for you.

DAY 19

Ah, April. Don’t you just love spring? Warmer temps, blossoming flowers, sunnier skies, and…taxes. Filing is never fun, but there are ways to make it a little less painful. The trick? Know your documents. Here are the basics: 1️⃣ W-2: This form is provided by your employer. It reports your annual wages, salary, and any taxes withheld. Pretty standard tax form. 2️⃣ 1099: There are a handful of Form 1099s, but the most common is Form 1099-MISC. This is issued by businesses that paid you as a freelancer or an independent contractor. It reports that income. 3️⃣ 1095-A, B, or C: These forms provide information about your health insurance coverage. Form A is used by individuals who get coverage through the Health Insurance Marketplace, while B and C are provided by employers and insurance providers.

Kiss tax season headaches goodbye. 😘

DAY 20

Does the word “loan” give you goosebumps? Fear not. Loans can be a great way to help you access funds for buying a home, starting a business, or getting your degree. Here are some common ones you’ll encounter: 💼 Personal loans: These typically have fixed interest rates and repayment terms, and they’re often used for a wide range of purposes. Think consolidating debt, covering unexpected expenses, or funding a vacation. 🎓 Student loans: Chances are you’ve heard of student loans. These are designed to help students finance their education. Pro tip: They have different interest rates and repayment options, so it’s super important to understand the terms. 🏠 Mortgage loans: These help homebuyers finance their purchase of a home. They often have longer repayment terms and may offer fixed or adjustable interest rates. 🏢 Business loans: These help entrepreneurs get funding for stuff like starting a new venture, expanding operations, or purchasing equipment.

Loans don’t have to be scary.

DAY 21

Your job doesn’t hook you up with juuust a salary. (Even though, let’s be honest, that’s why we have ’em.) They also offer a bunch of other benefits. You probably know what we’re talking about, but let’s lay it out. 🏥 Health insurance: No-brainer here. You know what health insurance is. But it’s important to spend time reviewing your plan. Make sure you understand what coverage it provides (and doesn’t provide), and be aware of co-pays, deductibles, or out-of-pocket expenses. 🧓 Retirement savings plans: Check to see if your employer offers a retirement plan like a 401(k) or 403(b). If they do, take advantage of it. Seriously. Maintain a consistent contribution. ⚕️ Flexible spending accounts (FSAs) or health savings accounts (HSAs): These can be kind of tricky. Basically, FSAs and HSAs allow you to set aside pretax dollars to pay for qualified medical expenses. You can use them strategically to save money on healthcare costs.

Your office has your back.

DAY 22

Congrats! You’ve come into a little extra dough. Whether it’s birthday cash, payment for a small favor, or unexpected earnings, it’s time to make the most of these Benjamins. Look, we know it’s tempting to go cop that fancy shirt you’ve been eyeing or book a nice dinner, but let’s try something a little more financially rewarding. Like what? Well, you could put it in your savings account to boost those numbers. Not feelin’ like saving? Use that cash to pay down debt or invest in yourself by purchasing a book, an online course, or a workout class. You can thank us later. Got your debt in check and feelin’ personally sharp? Okay, fine. It’s Day 23. You deserve a little indulgence. Use a portion of the money for something that brings you joy—maybe it’s that fancy shirt or nice dinner. Just try to save some of it. 💸

You found $100!

DAY 23

Picture this: You’re strolling through the supermarket, ready to slay your shopping list, when you notice that prices are absolutely booming off the charts. What gives? It’s the economy’s biggest troublemaker: inflation. Inflation refers to an imbalance between supply and demand, one that’s accompanied by a general increase in the prices of goods and services. This, of course, hurts your wallet—you lose spending power. But fear not! You can outsmart inflation and come out on top of a tough market. Keep an eye on rising prices, adjust your budget accordingly, and cut back on nonessential spending. Inflation is natural, and prices will stabilize. 📈

Inflation got you down?

DAY 24

Do you dream of buying a home? It’s not for everyone, but it can unlock tons of financial opportunities. Here’s what you need to know before you take the leap. 💰 Get on your financing game. Before you start your homebuying adventure, learn about your financing options. Explore different types of mortgages, compare interest rates, and get preapproved. 🗺️ Location, location, location. This is a classic saying in real estate, and for good reason. Think long and hard about neighborhood, proximity to schools, amenities, and your daily commute. 🤝 Become buds with a good agent. A trusted real estate agent will know the market, negotiate on your behalf, and guide you through the process. Securing a good one is essential. 🔍 An inspection is key. In competitive markets, buyers can feel tempted to sweeten their offers by forgoing an independent inspection. But that’s a risky gamble. A home inspection ensures you’re aware of any costly repairs or maintenance needed before you finalize the purchase. Our rec? Get the inspection.

Looking to buy?

DAY 25

We’re getting closer to the end! Let’s use today as a last-inning stretch to hit the books, check the numbers, and reassess goals. Open up your bank accounts, review the numbers, and see how you’re doing. 🔍 Check up on your: budget expenses investments income bills subscriptions

Let’s take another look at your finances.

DAY 26

Ever been asked to provide a money order or a cashier’s check and said, “Um, what is that exactly?” No shame in your digital-age game. Modern payment methods are all the rage, but it’s important to understand older, more traditional payment methods too. 1️⃣ Checks: Total classics. They might seem like relics from the past, but they still have their place. Checks let you make personalized payments directly from your checking account to a recipient. 2️⃣ Cashier’s checks: These are issued by banks and are considered more secure than personal checks. They’re often used for large transactions or when a guaranteed form of payment is required. You’ll see them a lot in down payments or car purchases. 3️⃣ Money orders: These are like prepaid checks, purchased from a bank or another provider. Simply fill in the recipient’s information and off it goes, providing a reliable way to make payments without revealing your sensitive account details.

Old-school money matters can be tricky.

DAY 27

Yesterday we chatted about old-school ways of making payments. It was dusty, we know. Today we’re fast-forwarding to the here and now: digital payments. 💻 Digital payment apps: No more fumbling for cash or digging through your wallet. Digital payment apps let you send money to friends, split bills, buy stuff, and request payments, all with just a few taps on your smartphone. 📱 Mobile wallets: These apps allow you to store your debit or credit card information securely, making it a total breeze to pay for goods and services with just a tap or a scan. 🛒 Online selling platforms: Ready to turn your passion into profit? Online selling platforms let you sell handmade crafts, vintage treasures, or your expertise to customers far and wide.

Gone digital.

DAY 28

Okay, answering that question is pretty, well, overwhelming. In our media-saturated age, it’s tough to really pinpoint what exactly is happening in the financial world and why. Here are a few tips to stay grounded: 🔍 Use critical eyes. Remember, not everything you read or hear in the financial world is set in stone. Take a step back and analyze the information critically. Consider multiple perspectives and evaluate the credibility of the sources. 😟 Balance your emotions. It’s no secret that finance news can sometimes trigger anxiety. That’s why it’s super important to maintain a balanced perspective, take a deep breath, gather info, and make decisions based on your financial goals. 🧑‍💼 Talk to a pro. Look, if the news is really getting to you, go talk to a financial advisor. They can provide personalized advice tailored to your specific situation, help you navigate complex financial topics, and create a solid plan.

What’s actually going on?

DAY 29

Wow. You did it. You made it to Day 30, the final boss of financial planning. Seriously, congrats!!! How did your journey go? Hate it? Love it? Did you find out anything insightful about your spending habits, your money game, or finance at large? Take today to reflect on your achievements, assess your financial health, and set new goals. Remember: Maintaining strong financial health is an ongoing process, one that takes time and work to master. Keep at it, don’t get discouraged, and return to this calendar when the road gets bumpy. 😎

How’d that journey go?

DAY 30

Whether you’re starting your career or reaching your last stretch, prepping for your golden years is essential to achieving strong financial health. Here’s 4 steps to help you prepare for retirement: 😎 Imagine your ideal retirement. What kind of life do you want to pursue? Where do you want to live? Determining your goals will help set a clear vision for the future. 💰 Start saving early. The sooner you start tucking money away, the more time your investments have to grow. Develop a disciplined savings plan, contribute regularly to retirement accounts, and take advantage of employer-sponsored plans like 401(k)s or IRAs. 🧾 Explore retirement accounts. Speaking of 401(k)s, you should research retirement accounts that offer tax advantages, such as traditional or Roth IRAs. Each comes with their own contribution limits, withdrawal rules, and potential tax benefits. 👵👴 Research Social Security. Familiarize yourself with the ins and outs of Social Security benefits. Understand how the claiming process works and consider the optimal time to start receiving benefits

So what’s net worth, anyway?

DAY 15

Even you (yes, you) need insurance.

DAY 16

Time for a mid-month refresh.

DAY 17

What’s your side gig?

DAY 18

Wouldn’t it be nice if you could generate the big bucks while sipping mai tais poolside? Meet passive income. Here are some tips for getting on your passive income game: 💡 Research and educate yourself on different income streams to find the ones that align with your goals and interests. 🪜 Start small and gradually build your passive income empire over time. 🤖 Automate your income streams by setting up cash flows and processes that aren’t a hassle to maintain.

Make your money work for you.

DAY 19

Ah, April. Don’t you just love spring? Warmer temps, blossoming flowers, sunnier skies, and…taxes. Filing is never fun, but there are ways to make it a little less painful. The trick? Know your documents. Here are the basics: 1️⃣ W-2: This form is provided by your employer. It reports your annual wages, salary, and any taxes withheld. Pretty standard tax form. 2️⃣ 1099: There are a handful of Form 1099s, but the most common is Form 1099-MISC. This is issued by businesses that paid you as a freelancer or independent contractor. It reports that income. 3️⃣ 1095-A, B, or C: These forms provide information about your health insurance coverage. Form A is used by individuals who get coverage through the Health Insurance Marketplace, while B and C are provided by employers and insurance providers.

Kiss tax season headaches goodbye. 😘

DAY 20

Does the word “loan” give you goosebumps? Fear not. Loans can be a great way to help you access funds for buying a home, starting a business, or getting your degree. Here are some common ones you’ll encounter. 💼 Personal loans: These typically have fixed interest rates and repayment terms, and they’re often used for a wide range of purposes. Think consolidating debt, covering unexpected expenses, or funding a vacation. 🎓 Student loans: Chances are you’ve heard of student loans. These are designed to help students finance their education. Pro tip: They have different interest rates and repayment options, so it’s super important to understand the terms. 🏠 Mortgage loans: These help home-buyers finance their purchase of a home. They often have longer repayment terms and may offer fixed or adjustable interest rates. 🏢 Business loans: These help entrepreneurs get funding for stuff like starting a new venture, expanding operations, or purchasing equipment.

Loans don’t have to be scary.

DAY 21

Your office has your back.

DAY 22

Congrats! You’ve come into a little extra dough. Whether it’s birthday cash, payment for a small favor, or unexpected earnings, it’s time to make the most of these Benjamins. Look, we know it’s tempting to go cop that fancy shirt you’ve been eyeing or book a nice dinner, but let’s try something a little more financially rewarding. Like what? Well, you could put it in your savings account to boost those numbers. Not feelin’ saving? Use that cash to pay down debt or invest in yourself by purchasing a book, online course, or workout class. You can thank us later. Got your debt in check and feelin’ personally sharp? Okay, fine. It’s Day 23. You deserve a little indulgence. Use a portion of the money for something that brings you joy—maybe it’s that fancy shirt or nice dinner. Just try to save some of it. 💸

You found $100!

DAY 23

Inflation got you down?

DAY 24

Do you dream of buying a home? It’s not for everyone, but it can unlock tons of financial opportunities. Here’s what you need to know before you take the leap. 💰 Get on your financing game. Before you start your homebuying adventure, learn about your financing options. Explore different types of mortgages, compare interest rates, and get preapproved. 🗺️ Location, location, location. This is a classic saying in real estate, and for good reason. Think long and hard about neighborhood, proximity to schools, amenities, and your daily commute. 🤝 Become buds with a good agent. A trusted real estate agent will know the market, negotiate on your behalf, and guide you through the process. Securing a good one is essential. 🔍 Inspection is key. In competitive markets, buyers can feel tempted to sweeten their offers by forgoing an independent inspection. But that’s a risky gamble. A home inspection ensures you’re aware of any costly repairs or maintenance needed before you finalize the purchase. Our rec? Get the inspection.

Looking to buy?

DAY 25

Do you dream of buying a home? It’s not for everyone, but it can unlock tons of financial opportunities. Here’s what you need to know before you take the leap. 💰 Get on your financing game. Before you start your homebuying adventure, learn about your financing options. Explore different types of mortgages, compare interest rates, and get preapproved. 🗺️ Location, location, location. This is a classic saying in real estate, and for good reason. Think long and hard about neighborhood, proximity to schools, amenities, and your daily commute. 🤝 Become buds with a good agent. A trusted real estate agent will know the market, negotiate on your behalf, and guide you through the process. Securing a good one is essential. 🔍 Inspection is key. In competitive markets, buyers can feel tempted to sweeten their offers by forgoing an independent inspection. But that’s a risky gamble. A home inspection ensures you’re aware of any costly repairs or maintenance needed before you finalize the purchase. Our rec? Get the inspection.

Looking to buy?

DAY 25

Ever been asked to provide a money order or cashier’s check and said, “Um, what is that exactly?” No shame in your digital-age game. Modern payment methods are all the rage, but it’s important to understand older, more traditional payment methods too. 1️⃣ Checks: Total classics. They might seem like relics from the past, but they still have their place. Checks let you make personalized payments directly from your checking account to a recipient. 2️⃣ Cashier’s checks: These are issued by banks and are considered more secure than personal checks. They’re often used for large transactions or when a guaranteed form of payment is required. You’ll see them a lot in down payments or car purchases. 3️⃣ Money orders: These are like prepaid checks, purchased from a bank or other provider. Simply fill in the recipient’s information and off it goes, providing a reliable way to make payments without revealing your sensitive account details.

Old-school money matters can be tricky.

DAY 27

Yesterday we chatted about old-school ways of making payments. It was dusty, we know. Today we’re fast-forwarding to the here and now—digital payments. 💻 Digital payment apps: No more fumbling for cash or digging through your wallet. Digital payment apps let you send money to friends, split bills, buy stuff, and request payments, all with just a few taps on your smartphone. 📱 Mobile wallets: These apps allow you to store your debit or credit card information securely, making it a total breeze to pay for goods and services with just a tap or a scan. 🛒 Online selling platforms: Ready to turn your passion into profit? Online selling platforms let you sell handmade crafts, vintage treasures, or your expertise to customers far and wide.

Gone digital.

DAY 28

What’s actually going on?

DAY 29