A 2019 survey found that 9 out of 10 adults feel happy and confident when their finances are in check. However, 60% of people say they don’t have enough saved for a $1,000 emergency. With unexpected expenses averaging $3,500 in 2019, many Americans are finding it hard to secure their financial future.
For over 35 years, CNBC has been a go-to for personal finance news and advice. This guide brings together insights from financial experts. It aims to give you the knowledge and tools to manage your money better and secure a brighter future.
Key Takeaways
- CNBC has been delivering reliable personal finance information for over three decades.
- The guide covers a wide range of topics, from setting financial goals to protecting your assets with insurance.
- Expert advice from a diverse panel of financial professionals, including investment advisors, tax experts, and personal finance influencers.
- Practical tips and actionable steps to help you achieve short-term and long-term financial security.
- Discover how to leverage budgeting tools, retirement accounts, and smart investing strategies to reach your financial goals.
Set Short-term and Long-term Financial Goals
Setting clear financial goals is key to financial security. It helps you manage your money better and move towards your financial dreams. By having both short-term and long-term goals, you can plan your finances well.
Short-term Goals
Short-term goals are for the next few years. They might be saving for emergencies, paying off credit card debt, or controlling new credit card spending. Saving for emergencies, for instance, means you won’t have to use high-interest loans or credit cards for unexpected costs.
Long-term Goals
Long-term goals are for 5 years or more. They could be saving for retirement, a home down payment, or a child’s education in a 529 plan. Achieving these goals needs careful budgeting and investing.
Having a list of both short-term and long-term goals helps you stay focused. By setting realistic targets and updating them as needed, you can keep moving towards financial security.
“The path to financial freedom is paved with achievable goals, not extreme objectives.” – Brittney Castro, Certified Financial Planner
Create a Budgeting Plan
Creating a detailed budgeting plan is key to reaching your financial goals. The 50/30/20 budgeting framework is a simple yet powerful way to manage your money. It suggests using 50% of your after-tax income for must-have expenses, 30% for fun spending, and 20% for saving and investing.
The 50/30/20 Budgeting Framework
The 50/30/20 budgeting method is a top choice for balancing your spending and setting financial goals. Here’s the basic idea:
- 50% for Essential Expenses: This covers fixed costs like rent, utilities, groceries, and more.
- 30% for Discretionary Spending: This includes things like eating out, entertainment, and personal buys.
- 20% for Savings and Investments: This part is for saving up, adding to retirement, and reaching long-term goals.
Budgeting Tools and Apps
There are many budgeting tools and personal finance apps to make budgeting easier. These tools help you keep track of your income, watch your expenses, and manage your financial management. You can find spreadsheet templates, banking apps, and expense tracking software.
| Budgeting Tool | Key Features | Pricing |
|---|---|---|
| Mint | Automatic expense tracking, budgeting, and credit score monitoring | Free |
| YNAB (You Need a Budget) | Comprehensive budgeting, transaction categorization, and goal setting | $14.99/month or $98.99/year |
| PocketGuard | Real-time expense tracking, budgeting, and bill management | Free with premium features available |
Using the 50/30/20 budgeting framework and the right budgeting tools and personal finance apps helps you take control of your money. You can reach your financial goals and keep a good balance between spending and saving.
Build an Emergency Fund
Building an emergency fund is key to financial stability. Experts say to save three to six months’ expenses in an emergency account. This fund helps cover unexpected costs like medical bills or car repairs without hurting your other financial plans.
Many Americans find it hard to save for emergencies. A Bank of America survey found 56% of Gen Zers don’t have enough saved for three months of expenses. Bankrate also says Gen Z is most likely to regret not saving enough for emergencies.
To build a strong emergency fund, financial planner Douglas Boneparth recommends saving six to nine months of expenses. He says it’s important to understand your cash flow by looking at your spending and income over the past few months before starting to save.
Boneparth notes it’s tough to balance spending and saving in personal finance. Only 52% of working Americans have an emergency fund, down from 2022 and 2021. The cost of living went up 3.1% from November 2022 to November 2023, making a financial cushion more important.
To help with building an emergency fund, start with saving $25 a week. You can do this by setting up automatic transfers from your paycheck or using cash-back credit cards and savings account bonuses. High-yield savings accounts like Lending Club High-Yield Savings and UFB Secure Savings offer up to 5.25% APY.
Keep an eye on your savings progress and adjust your contributions as your financial situation changes. It’s important to regularly check and adjust your savings goals during the process.
“Having an emergency fund with about three to six months’ worth of living expenses is a good starting point, but the recommended savings goal can vary based on individual situations.”
Pay Off Costly Credit Card Debt
High-interest credit card debt can really slow down your financial progress. But, there are ways to tackle this debt and get back on track. Two main strategies are the balance transfer and debt payoff methods.
Balance Transfer Strategy
With the balance transfer strategy, you move your credit card debt to a card with a lower or 0% introductory APR. This gives you time to pay off debt without extra interest. For instance, the Citi Simplicity® Card offers a 0% introductory APR for 21 months on balance transfers, with a 3% fee in the first four months. The Wells Fargo Reflect® Card also gives a 0% APR for 21 months on purchases and balance transfers made within 120 days of opening the account.
Debt Payoff Methods
There are two main debt payoff methods to consider:
- Avalanche Method: This method targets the highest-interest debt first, saving you more on interest. Experts often suggest this as the best way to clear credit card debt.
- Snowball Method: This approach focuses on the card with the smallest balance first. It may not save as much on interest, but it can keep you motivated to keep paying off debt.
Choosing a strategy to manage and pay off credit card debt can greatly improve your financial health.
| Lender | APR Range | Credit Score Requirement | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Happy Money | 11.72% to 24.67% | Fair credit (580+) | Personal loan for debt consolidation |
| LightStream | As low as 7.49% | Good credit (670+) | No fees, flexible repayment terms |
“Consolidating credit card debt into a personal loan at a 13% APR could save almost $1,619 in interest charges on a $10,000 debt over three years, compared to paying the same debt at a 22% APR.”
cnbc personal finance: Save for Retirement
Saving for retirement is key to a comfortable life after work. Experts say aim for retirement savings equal to two times your salary by age 35. By age 50, aim for six times your salary, and ten times by your late 60s.
Retirement Account Options
Employer plans like 401(k) and 403(b) and individual IRAs offer tax breaks for retirement savings. These accounts can greatly increase your savings over time.
- 401(k) and 403(b) Plans: These plans let you put part of your salary before taxes. This reduces your taxes now and grows your savings faster with compound interest.
- Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs): IRAs, traditional and Roth, give more ways to save for retirement. They offer tax-deferred or tax-free growth, depending on the type.
Generation X, starting to rely on 401(k) plans, is often behind on retirement savings. The average Gen X household has just $40,000 saved. This shows how crucial early and high contributions to these accounts are.
| Retirement Savings by Generation | Median Retirement Savings |
|---|---|
| Generation X | $40,000 |
| Baby Boomers | $144,000 |
| Millennials | $23,000 |
Boost your savings by using catch-up contributions if you’re 50 or older. You can add $7,500 to some retirement plans or $1,000 to IRAs. This is a great way to speed up your savings.
“Saving for retirement is a long-term game, and the sooner you start, the better. Even small contributions can make a big difference over time thanks to the power of compounding.”
Your financial future is up to you. Use retirement accounts wisely and save as much as you can. This way, you can control your retirement planning and secure your financial future.
Manage Taxes Efficiently
Effective tax management is key to good personal finance. Knowing about tax laws and options helps you pay less tax and keep more money. You can use strategies like putting money into tax-friendly retirement accounts, claiming deductions, and credits to improve your tax planning and tax optimization.
Using tax-deferred retirement accounts like 401(k)s and traditional IRAs is a smart move. These accounts lower your taxable income and let your money grow without taxes until you take it out. Plus, you now have more time to start taking money out at age 73.
Another smart move is tax-loss harvesting. This means selling investments that have lost value to cut your tax bill. But remember, you can’t claim a loss if you buy the same investment back within 30 days due to the wash sale rule.
Spreading your investments across different accounts can also help with taxes. Putting assets in tax-deferred, tax-free, and taxable accounts can lower your taxes. This way, you can pay less tax overall.
Getting advice from a tax expert is very helpful with tax management. They can spot good opportunities, avoid mistakes, and create a detailed plan for your taxes.
“Effective tax management is essential for maximizing your financial well-being. By staying informed and working with a professional, you can ensure you’re making the most of available tax strategies.”
Protect Your Assets with Insurance
Protecting your assets with insurance is key to financial security. Life, homeowner’s, and auto insurance offer a safety net against unexpected events. They help you and your loved ones avoid financial trouble.
Types of Insurance Coverage
There are several important insurance policies to think about:
- Life Insurance – Makes sure your family is financially secure if you pass away.
- Homeowner’s Insurance – Covers damage to your home and stuff, plus protects you if someone sues you.
- Auto Insurance – Covers you from accidents, theft, or damage to your car.
These insurance products offer a vital safety net. They protect you from the financial blow of unexpected events. By getting comprehensive coverage, you can rest easy knowing your assets are safe.
| Insurance Type | Key Coverage | Average Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Life Insurance | Income replacement, funeral expenses, debt coverage | $25-$65 per month for a $500,000 policy |
| Homeowner’s Insurance | Dwelling, personal property, liability protection | $1,200-$1,800 per year for a $300,000 home |
| Auto Insurance | Collision, comprehensive, liability, medical payments | $1,000-$2,000 per year for full coverage |
By getting these key insurance policies, you can protect your assets and keep your family financially secure. Look into the options and coverage levels to make sure you have the right protection.
Invest for Growth and Diversification
Investing for long-term growth and diversification is key to personal finance. Putting some savings into different types of investments, like stocks, bonds, and real estate, can lead to more financial growth. It also helps manage investment risk better over time. A financial advisor can help create an investment strategy that fits your risk level, time frame, and goals.
Using index funds and exchange-traded funds (ETFs) is a smart way to diversify a portfolio. These options give you a piece of many securities, letting you ride the market’s ups and downs. This way, you can lessen the effect of market swings on your wealth.
| Asset Class | Performance Potential | Risk Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Stocks | High | High |
| Bonds | Moderate | Low |
| Real Estate | Moderate to High | Moderate |
By spreading out your investment portfolio, you can aim for higher returns while keeping risk in check. This is great for long-term wealth building and reaching financial goals, like saving for retirement or a home.
“Diversification is the only free lunch in investing.”
– Nobel Laureate Harry Markowitz
In summary, investing for growth and diversification is a strong strategy for building wealth and reaching financial goals. By spreading your savings across various investments, you can aim for better returns while reducing risk over the long haul.
Plan for Major Life Events
Planning for big life events is key to long-term financial security. Whether you’re thinking about a big buy, a career switch, or retirement, a solid financial plan is crucial. It helps you get ready and reach your goals.
Buying a home is a big step. Saving up for a big down payment is important. It lowers your mortgage cost and shows you’re responsible to lenders. Don’t forget to plan for extra costs like property taxes and upkeep to avoid money troubles.
Thinking of changing careers? Consider how it will affect your income and benefits. Make a plan to handle any cash flow changes, like through savings or freelance work. Make sure you have good health insurance and look into moving your retirement plan if needed.
Getting ready for retirement means focusing on estate planning. This means making a will, setting up powers of attorney, and picking who gets your stuff. Doing this protects your family and makes passing on your wealth smooth.
Planning for big life events needs a detailed plan. This includes budgeting, saving, getting insurance, and estate planning. By tackling these financial steps, you can face big changes with confidence. This ensures your financial future is secure.
| Event | Key Considerations |
|---|---|
| Home Purchase |
|
| Career Change |
|
| Retirement |
|
“Preparing for major life events requires a comprehensive approach to financial planning. By proactively addressing these considerations, you can navigate life’s significant milestones with confidence and secure your long-term financial well-being.”
Conclusion
The CNBC Personal Finance guide offers advice and strategies for long-term financial security. It teaches setting goals, budgeting, saving, and investing. These steps help build a stable financial future.
This guide tackles big financial challenges Americans face. It helps with financial literacy and reaching the American Dream. It also deals with the need for government support in retirement.
It gives clear steps and advice for overcoming these issues. This CNBC personal finance guide is for everyone. Young professionals, families, and retirees can find tailored advice here. By using these strategies, you can control your finances and live your dream life.
Start your finance journey with confidence. Take steps to secure your financial security.
FAQ
What are the benefits of setting short-term and long-term financial goals?
How can I create an effective budgeting plan?
Why is building an emergency fund important?
What strategies can I use to pay off credit card debt?
How can I save effectively for retirement?
What tax management strategies can I utilize?
What types of insurance coverage should I consider for financial protection?
How can I invest for long-term growth and diversification?
How can I prepare for significant life events?
Source Links
- Personal Finance 101: The complete guide to managing your money – https://www.cnbc.com/guide/personal-finance-101-the-complete-guide-to-managing-your-money/
- CNBC’s Efforts to Democratize Business Information To All Continues – https://www.nbcuniversal.com/article/cnbcs-efforts-democratize-business-information-all-continues
- CNBC Women & Wealth – https://www.cnbcevents.com/cnbc-women-wealth-2024/
- There’s ‘a lot of life to live’ before age 59: How to invest your savings for both short- and long-term goals – https://www.cnbc.com/select/how-to-invest-savings-short-long-term-goals/
- How to set financial goals you can actually keep in 2022 – https://www.cnbc.com/select/how-to-set-financial-goals-you-can-actually-keep/
- Did you break your New Year’s money resolutions already? Here are some tips to make them stick – https://www.cnbc.com/2024/01/08/how-to-make-new-years-money-resolutions-stick.html
- How to create a budget in 5 steps – https://www.cnbc.com/select/how-to-create-a-budget-guide/
- Why creating a student loan payment plan is important, plus 4 more money tips for new grads – https://www.cnbc.com/select/personal-finance-tips-for-new-graduates/
- ‘A budget is a picture of what your money is doing,’ The Budgetnista says. Here’s where to start – https://www.cnbc.com/2024/03/03/the-budgetnista-tiffany-aliche-how-to-start-budgeting.html
- 56% of Gen Z doesn’t have an emergency fund—here’s the first thing you should do to build one, according to a CFP – https://www.cnbc.com/2023/11/14/cfp-first-step-gen-z-should-take-to-build-an-emergency-fund.html
- Only about half of working Americans have an emergency fund — tap these unexpected sources to start yours – https://www.cnbc.com/select/sources-help-build-emergency-fund/
- Emergency funds can offset surprise medical bills, unemployment and more — here’s how to get started – https://www.cnbc.com/select/what-is-an-emergency-fund/
- How to pay off credit card debt – https://www.cnbc.com/select/how-to-pay-off-credit-card-debt/
- Should you take out a personal loan to pay off credit card debt? Here’s how it could save you money – https://www.cnbc.com/select/using-a-personal-loan-to-pay-off-credit-card-debt/
- Saving for retirement in your 50s can be ‘really stress-inducing,’ expert says. These tips can help – https://www.cnbc.com/2024/02/07/here-are-some-on-how-to-save-for-retirement-in-your-50s.html
- Meet the Gen Zers maxing out their retirement savings: ‘It’s no longer chasing money; it’s chasing time’ – https://www.cnbc.com/2024/05/29/gen-z-retirement-super-savers.html
- 3 year-end investment tax tips from top-ranked financial advisors – https://www.cnbc.com/2023/12/19/3-year-end-investment-tax-tips-from-top-ranked-financial-advisors.html
- You can avoid paying surprise taxes by picking the best investment accounts. Here’s how – https://www.cnbc.com/2023/02/20/avoid-paying-surprise-taxes-by-picking-the-best-investment-accounts.html
- Op-ed: Here are some savvy tax-efficient investment strategies – https://www.cnbc.com/2022/03/30/here-are-some-savvy-tax-efficient-investment-strategies.html
- Don’t ‘just set it and forget it’ on money goals, advisor says: 5 steps for a mid-year financial checkup – https://www.cnbc.com/2024/06/13/dont-just-set-it-and-forget-it-how-to-do-a-mid-year-financial-checkup.html
- 5 surprising things your homeowners insurance covers – https://www.cnbc.com/select/surprising-things-your-homeowners-insurance-covers/
- Upcoming earnings will determine whether the stock market rotation is here to stay or a one-day wonder – https://www.cnbc.com/2024/07/12/-rotation-in-the-markets-may-prove-durable-or-a-one-day-wonder-.html
- How to invest $1,000 right now — wherever you are on your financial journey – https://www.cnbc.com/select/best-ways-to-invest-1000/
- This 3-question checklist will help you determine when you’re ready to invest your money – https://www.cnbc.com/select/saving-vs-investing/
- This retirement planning gap is ‘hidden in plain sight,’ Harvard professor says – https://www.cnbc.com/2024/05/29/this-retirement-planning-gap-is-hidden-in-plain-sight.html
- These 8 simple steps can help better your finances in less than a day – https://www.cnbc.com/select/ways-to-be-better-about-money/
- These four free personal finance courses can set you up for financial success in three hours or less – https://www.cnbc.com/select/free-personal-finance-courses/
- Homeownership isn’t for everyone, money coach says: Don’t fall for artificial ‘pressure to buy’ – https://www.cnbc.com/2024/04/20/yo-quiero-dinero-founder-why-homeownership-may-not-be-for-everyone.html
- 53% of Americans surveyed feel they are behind on retirement planning and savings, CNBC poll finds – https://www.cnbc.com/2024/04/03/many-americans-feel-behind-on-retirement-planning-cnbc-survey-finds.html
- Some millennials, Gen Zers plan to tap into retirement savings to buy a home. They ‘really shouldn’t,’ advisor says – https://www.cnbc.com/2024/05/21/why-workers-may-not-want-to-tap-retirement-savings-to-buy-a-home.html