Nuts & Bolts - ''Managing Your Checkbook, Budget, & Credit Debt''

 

Credit and Borrowing:
 
- Credit is the financial tool that allows you to borrow now and pay back over time. It has become almost a necessity in today's economy.
- When used responsibly, credit is a valuable financial tool to make large purchases, such as a home or a car, to take care of emergency situations, and to pay educational expenses
- When not managed carefully, credit can grow out of control and result in personal and financial disaster.
 
Checking Accounts:
 
- For anyone with a steady income, a checking account is a valuable tool because:
- Your company can deposit your salary into your account every payday.
- Your money stays in the account; you do not have to carry large amounts of cash.
- You can get to your money when you need it…from an ATM, by writing a check or using a debit card…or by going to your nearest bank to withdraw cash.
- You can keep track of what you have spent and how much you have left to use.
 
Saving & Budgeting:
 
- Creating a budget helps you manage your income and expenses and plan for the future.
- There are three steps to creating a budget.
   - Step 1: Determine how much money you have coming in every month.
   - Step 2: Add up your monthly expenses (ex. Monthly bills, groceries, childcare, etc.).
   - Step 3: Subtract your expenses from your income.