budgeting

How to Budget in Times of Inflation

calculator with the word inflation

With inflation at record highs, many Americans are finding it difficult to stick to a budget. After all, when groceries have leapt in price and household staples can be double, or even triple, what they cost just a year ago, how can the same amount of money get you through the month?

Sticking to a budget during times of high inflation is challenging, but not impossible. Here are five ways to budget while in times of inflation.

What to Buy and What to Skip in November

autumn leaves

The biggest shopping month of the year is here. With Black Friday deals running for as long as the entire month of November and Cyber Monday giving the internet a chance at boasting super-low deals too, it’s truly the season to save. Before you start charging up a storm, though, keep in mind not every Black Friday deal is really all it’s cracked up to be. Some purchases should wait until December or until after the holidays have passed. Lucky for you, we have the info you need to score the best deals this month and beyond. Here’s what to buy and what to skip in November.

How to Create a Budget

laptop and papers

Budgets play a crucial role in creating financial awareness, which then helps you make more responsible choices with your money. Creating a budget will benefit you as an individual, as well as everyone who’s in your household. Let’s start by taking a look at how to create a budget and then review some popular budgeting systems and how they work.

New Year, New Money Habits: How to Stick with it in 2022

2022 candles

If you’re like most people, you likely start each year with a list of resolutions to help improve various aspects of your life. The list may include resolutions to help you become more physically fit, further your career growth and improve your personal relationships. Another category of resolutions you may make centers on those that affect your finances.

How to Talk Money with Your Partner

couple talking about money

Talking about money can sometimes lead to an uncomfortable conversation in a relationship. However, learning the right way to talk about money with your significant other is key to your financial success together. Sharing your financial goals and being honest about your financial habits is important. Here are some helpful tips to get the conversation started.

Dedicate a time

Together, choose a time when both of you can focus without distractions. If it helps, turn all smart devices off while you meet to make sure you have each other’s full attention.

6 Budgeting Tips for Fall Shopping

The leaves may be changing but your budgeting doesn't have to, if you shop smart.

Back-to-school shopping season is behind you, but don’t put those budgeting skills in hibernation!

Your child may be outfitted for the new school year, but you probably need some warmer autumn clothing for yourself. Now that the leaves are starting to change colors, winter isn’t far behind. With it comes a slew of wardrobe necessities and accessories to purchase, both for yourself and the rest of your family.

Are You a Shopaholic?

Make sure your hard work and smart budgeting aren't sacrificed by your shopping habits.

Loving to shop isn’t necessarily a bad thing, as long as you set limits and keep your spending within a budget. Healthy money management should be the priority for long-term happiness. But sometimes those two goals seem tough to reconcile.

It’s normal to feel good when you buy a new outfit; however, it isn’t normal to feel unsettled on days you don’t shop. When a shopping high adds financial strain to your life, it may be time to examine your spending habits.