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The following general guidelines are offered to see how you compare in your financial life. Keep in mind, though, that these are guidelines and they may not apply to you at all points in your life.
Have an emergency fund of at least $500
Research shows that households with emergency savings below $500 are more prone to worry, loss of sleep and other ill effects than households saving more.
Save 10 percent of your income toward retirement and other savings (including employer match)
Your monthly income x .10 Example: $3,000 x .10 = $300 If you make $3,000 per month, aim to save / invest about $300 per month.
Spend less than 20 percent of each paycheck of monthly income on car loans, credit cards and other debt
Your monthly income x .20 Example: $3,000 x .20 = $600 If you make $3,000 per month, aim to spend no more than $600 per month on credit cards and loans.
Spend less than 5 percent of monthly income on clothing items for the family
Your monthly income x .05 Example: $3,000 x .05 = $150 If your monthly income is $3,000, aim to spend no more than $150 on clothing.
Spend less than 10 percent of monthly income on food and personal care items
Your monthly income x .10 Example: $3,000 x .10 = $300 If you make $3,000 per month, aim to spend no more than $300 on food and personal care.
Spend less than 20 percent of monthly income on transportation costs, including maintenance and parking
Your monthly income x .20 Example: $3,000 x .20 = $600 If you make $3,000 per month, aim to spend no more than $600 on transportation.
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