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Friday is payday for many people. And like others who get a check at the end of the week, you might be thinking about buying a new TV or something else you want at the spur of the moment. Before you decide to blow your entire paycheck on the first day, you need to think about what you’re doing because you shouldn’t be so eager to spend it all without having a plan.
Here are five do’s and don’ts that can help you get the most out of your paycheck.
#1: DON’T Celebrate Like it’s 1999
Payday should be celebrated, but you need to do it within reason. Don’t go crazy! If you’re waiting for your next paycheck to catch up on bills, you have a problem. You need to have a budget, and you need to plan ahead. Know how much you get paid and when, so you can structure your finances accordingly.
#2: DO Get the Money Away from You
Most people are terrible with money, especially when it comes to budgeting. They’re apt to spend money if they have it, but you don’t want to fall into this trap. You need to set money aside for certain expenses, and the best way to do it is to get it out of your primary account. Know what you need to take care of, so you can reserve the appropriate amount of cash.
#3: DON’T be Spontaneous
Avoid impulse buying, which includes any “deals” you see at shopping malls,grocery stores, random browsing apps, and websites that try to trap you into buying something you don’t need. Now is not the time to buy a puppy. Have a plan and stick to it.
#4: DO Pay Yourself First
Whether you have a 401(k), a Roth IRA, or any other retirement account, you need to treat it like a bill you have to pay every month. Even if you have to do it at 1%, stick to that commitment. Don’t wait!
#5: DON’T Use Credit When You Can Use Cash
Not only is it a huge mistake, but it’s also a great way to stay broke. Studies have shown that you spend 10-20% more on an item when you charge it. It can even go up to 50% if you factor in interest and fees. Whether it’s a debit card or check, you want to feel the pain when you buy it because you’ll spend a lot less.
For more advice on how you can get control of your finances, be sure to reach out to Trevor Shakiba at Shakiba Capital.
