15 Ways to Manage Money (before retirement)

Stay out of debt as much as possible

Use credit cards for emergencies, not daily expenses

If you are in debt, try to pay off the highest interest rate first (or sometimes lowest balance but only if you push that savings to the highest interest rate next)

Any cash you have should be neatly in your wallet (it secretly multiplies when you treat it with respect)

Know your budget limits every month and don’t rely on your “cushions”

Have an emergency fund because O.M.G. will happen

Always pay more than the minimum payment, especially on high-interest rate credit

Don’t choose housing or vehicles beyond your means

Tell your children “No.”, especially when funds are limited (a tantrum can be ignored, debt collectors cannot be ignored)

Home cooking is cheaper than pre-made foods, practice recipes that “go farther” and can be frozen in batches for quick re-heats

Vehicles are transportation (and sometimes a business investment) don’t waste your money or buy outside your means

Routine maintenance (on cars, appliances, etc.) is cheaper than emergency replacement

Subscriptions are silent, but deadly, so close the ones you are not using

Nickels and dimes add up, especially with the invisible virtual accounts

Look at your accounts monthly to review where the money went (this also prevents fraudulent activity from exploding)