265 | Money Questions: Combining Finances, Paying Off Debt, Choosing the Right Bank, Budgeting for Kids & Staying Accountable To Your Budget

Snag Our Signature Budget Template! Hey Budget Besties! In this episode, we're diving into your most pressing financial questions. From blending finances in a blended family to getting a month ahead on bills, we've got you covered. Tune in for practical advice and tips to help you take control of your money.

Key Points:

1. Blending Finances in a Blended Family:

   • Combining different financial habits and histories can be tough. We discuss the importance of transparency and creating a unified financial plan.
   • Tips on starting with a clean slate: laying out all income, debt, bills, and spending habits.
   • Define your "why" to stay motivated during tough financial discussions.

2. Weekly Budget Meetings:

   • Schedule a consistent time each week for a budget check-in. Make it enjoyable to stay consistent.
   • Key questions to ask: What’s working? What isn’t? Why? Adjust your budget as needed.

3. Balancing Groceries and Kids’ Clothing:

   • Prioritize necessities over wants. Involve kids in the budgeting process to teach them financial responsibility.
   • Tips on triaging kids’ clothing needs and finding affordable options like thrifting.

4. Making the Most of Increased Income:

   • As your income grows, it's easy for expenses to grow too. Stick to a budget to ensure you’re saving and spending wisely.
   • Tips on budgeting your new income to avoid lifestyle inflation.

5. Recovering from Budget Mistakes:

   • What to do if you miss a budget: account for previous missteps and plan your next steps carefully.
   • Tips on resetting your budget and learning from past mistakes.

6. Getting a Month Ahead on Bills:

   • Understanding what expenses to include when trying to get a month ahead: bills, debt payments, subscriptions, and utilities.
   • Aim to get a paycheck ahead to cover all aspects of your budget.

7. Choosing the Right Bank:

   • Recommendations for banks that allow multiple accounts without fees. Importance of finding a bank that works for you.
   • Suggestions for local credit unions and digital banks like Ally.

4 Ways To Connect With Us:

1️⃣ FREE CALL: Book your FREE 20-Minute Financial Coaching Call now! Get personalized advice and start your financial journey ➡︎ https://www.budgetbesties.com/freecall 

2️⃣ FACEBOOK: Become part of our Supportive Facebook Group. Connect, share, and learn with others mastering their budget skills ➡︎ https://www.budgetbesties.com/facebook 

3️⃣ BUDGET: Grab our Signature Budget Template! It's your key to organizing and optimizing your finances effectively ➡︎ https://budgetbesties.com/budget 

4️⃣ COACHING: Ready to dive deep into your finances? Sign up for 1-on-1 or Group Financial Coaching. It’s the accountability and guidance you need to make real progress ➡︎ https://budgetbesties.com/coaching 

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