If you’re a newlywed couple looking to maintain a reasonable budget, get started on the right track toward financial security and stability, and build a solid financial foundation for your new life together, these tips can help you hit the ground running!
1. Always Budget Ahead
As newlyweds, you probably know budgeting and planning ahead is vital. From planning for your new home to budgeting for unexpected expenses, setting and following a budget is key. For instance, booking your wedding reception site as soon as possible is crucial once you’re engaged – at least a year to nine months before the wedding.
However, most newlyweds make the mistake of waiting until they have an expense in mind to start saving. Unfortunately, this can be disastrous if an emergency arises and not enough is saved to take care of it. To avoid this problem, set up a budget for every month before you need it. Saving and budgeting beforehand gives you peace of mind knowing that any surprises won’t derail your long-term goals.
2. Pay Off Debt ASAP
The earlier you can pay off any debts you have, the better. If you’re stuck paying down credit cards from the wedding or student loans, plan to pay off these debts as soon as possible. The average couple will spend almost $23,000 for their wedding ceremony and reception.
Not only will paying debt free up more money in your budget, but it will also improve your credit score. This is important because if you ever need a loan for something like buying a car or home, having good credit can save you thousands of dollars in high-interest fees. To pay off debt, consider starting with the smallest balance first, then working your way up to the more significant balances. This will give you a sense of accomplishment as you make progress and help keep you motivated.
3. Invest in Your Future
Investing can be intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be complicated. You can use many investments and strategies, from stocks and bonds to mutual funds. The best way to secure a solid financial future is to invest early.
Start by investing a small amount each month in a retirement account like an IRA or 401(k). Doing so early will give your money time to grow over the years, and you’ll be able to take advantage of compound interest. Investing in stocks or mutual funds is also a great way to diversify your portfolio and increase your earnings over the long term.
Finally, keep an eye on interest rates and fees when investing. Many investment companies charge high fees that can eat away your returns, so shopping around for the best deal before committing to anything is essential. If you need help investing, consider speaking with a broker or retirement planning accountant for more advice.
4. Avoid Credit Cards
As newlyweds, you might be tempted to use credit cards to decorate your new home instead of budgeting for everything. You might want to spend on kitchen cabinets, which according to Expert Home Report, can last up to 25 years, or other renovations. But credit cards can be more trouble than they’re worth in the long run, with high-interest rates and fees eating away at your budget. To avoid this problem, try to pay off your credit card balance each month or switch to using a debit card instead.
Paying things off in full each month will also help you to build a strong credit score, which is essential for future purchases. If you do need to use a credit card, look for one with low-interest rates and no annual fees. Ask your bank about any special offers available to newlyweds or those making joint accounts, so you can get the best deal.
As a newly married couple, it’s important to plan ahead for your future together. This means setting both short and long-term goals, such as saving for retirement, having enough money to buy a house in five years, or creating a budget. Whatever your goals are, follow these tips so you can be prepared for the future.
