5 financial must-dos before you turn 30

20 dollar bill, 10 dollar bill and a 1 dollar bill

$30 (and one for luck) | Photo via Unsplash

Table of Contents

Morning, NOOGA. Kayla here, and this is the year I turn 30. It’s also the year I’m determined to feel like I finally “have my finances in order.”

If you’re in the same boat as me – even if it’s a younger boat – here are 5 money #MustDos before you turn 30:

1. Build up savings

It’s important to make saving your money a habit – but exactly where + how you save is up to you. Tennessee Valley Federal Credit Union offers 7 different ways to build your personal savings. Have a specific goal you’re saving for? Try this savings calculator.

2. Pay down debt

If you’re paying off student loans an unavoidable burden for many us – try to make additional payments when you can to save on interests. Overwhelmed by multiple loans? Debt consolidation via a personal loan might be a good option for you.

3. Set a budget

Finance guru Dave Ramsey says making a budget is as simple as telling your money where to go. It can be done in four steps:

  1. Write down your total monthly income.
  2. List all your expenses. (#ProTip: Take advantage of online bill pay to have one less thing to worry about.)
  3. Subtract expenses from income to equal zero.
  4. Track spending throughout the month.

4. Start an emergency fund

It’s recommended to have 6 months of living expenses saved up in your emergency fund. Tip: Consider directing part of your tax refund into an emergency fund account.

5. Plan for retirement

Even if it feels like a lifetime away, it’s important to start saving for retirement. Enroll in your employer’s 401(k) plan, if available – especially if they’ll match your contributions. #Asked: How are IRAs different? Answer here.

Check out more helpful financial tips from the pros at TVFCU.

More from NOOGAtoday