1
Budget & Goals
2
Emergency Fund
3
Employer Match
4
Pay Down Debt
5
Save for Emergencies & Education
6
Retirement Savings
7
Advanced Goals
Personal Finance Flowchart
Interactive guide to financial planning and prioritization
Create a budget and set realistic financial goals
Step 1 of 16Why This Matters
Understanding your income and expenses is the foundation of financial health. A budget helps you track where your money goes and ensures you're working toward meaningful goals.
What to Do Next
List all sources of income and categorize your expenses. Set specific, measurable goals like "save $5,000 for emergencies" or "pay off $2,000 in credit card debt."
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Budgeting
A budget is a financial plan that tracks income and expenses to ensure you spend less than you earn. Common methods include zero-based budgeting, 50/30/20 rule, and envelope system.
Learn MoreFinancial Goals
Specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) objectives for your money. Examples include saving for retirement, buying a home, or eliminating debt.
Learn MoreRelated Calculators
Important Note This is general guidance, not personalized financial advice. Consult a financial advisor for your specific situation.
A comprehensive guide to personal financial planning