Employer Matched Retirement Funds

Depending on where you work, your job may match 50% of your contributions up to 6% of your salary. That’s free money. A 50% return can take 7 years to materialize in the stock market. (That’s assuming a 6% annual return.) You should be fully contributing the matchable amount before investing else where. And you … Read more

Credit Card Debt

DO NOT INVEST IF YOU HAVE CREDIT CARD DEBT! It makes absolutely no sense to invest in the stock market if you have credit card debt. Credit card debt is typically in the 19-24% interest range (creditCardInterest). The stock market has historically returned 9.9% (stockReturn). So you’re paying 19-24% in interest to acquire 9.9% in … Read more

Emergency Fund

You must have an emergency fund incase you lose your job. The generally accepted amount is 3 to 6 months worth of expenses. Here is a quick checklist: Rent / Mortgage Electric Bill Gas Bill Water Bill Trash & Sewage Bill Car Payments Car Insurance Gas Oil Changes Tires Other Maintenance Health Insurance Dental Insurance … Read more

Warning

This personal blog is a collection of my thoughts, opinions and general philosophies. It does not pertain to your particular financial situation. The use of the word “you” is to obtain an easy to understand, conversational tone. There is no guarantee that the information provided is accurate or complete. I am in no way compensated … Read more