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Tips for
Newlyweds... Page 2
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The real secret of
a budget is that it is a tool to help you function better.
Simply stated, a budget is an instrument panel for your finances.
6 Topics to Ask Each Other About:
- Personal money habits:
How much cash do you carry, what types of cards do you use (credit, debit, ATM), what
types of bank accounts do you have (checking, saving)? Discuss general philosophies of
money.
- Spending habits:
What are your shopping habits?
- Logistics of money handling:
Do you balance your checkbook each month, have a budget, save receipts, do your own taxes,
have a filing system?
- Credit History:
What have you borrowed money for and from whom? Any issues with repayment or debt?
- Investments:
What types of stocks, mutual funds, pension plans, or money outside of regular checking
and savings accounts do you have? How do you choose your investments and who are the
beneficiaries?
- Insurance:
Do you have health, auto, life, disability, homeowners/renters? Who are they carried with,
names on policies, and beneficiaries?
Jane Chidester is the
author of " BudgetYes! 21st Century Solutions for Taking Control of Your Money
Now!" She also conducts seminars and is a published columnist on personal
budgeting topics. Her website, Budget Central, is a repository of information
and resources on personal budgeting, financial planning, and household money management -
a complete budgeting education. You can contact her at Jane@TulipTreePress.com.
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