Sinking Funds Without 20 Budget Categories

Sinking funds help you prepare for irregular expenses, but you don't need 20 accounts. Learn a simpler way to organize and track them.

Sinking funds are a great idea in theory. You know an expense is coming, so instead of waiting for the bill and scrambling to pay it, you save a little money ahead of time. The problem is what happens next. Car repairs get a sinking fund. Holidays get another. Then come home maintenance, annual bills, … Read more

Stop Stressing, Start Sinking: How to Save for Big Purchases Without Breaking the Bank

Ever had that heart-stopping moment when the car breaks down, or your roof starts leaking? Or maybe you’re dreaming of a tropical vacation but can’t imagine how to afford it. Unexpected expenses and big-ticket items can throw a wrench in your financial plans, leaving you feeling stressed and scrambling for cash. But what if there … Read more

The Prepaid Lifestyle: Buy Without Borrowing

A prepaid lifestyle means saving before you buy, avoiding consumer financing so future purchases do not become future debt.

The prepaid lifestyle is a simple rule for spending: save the money first, then buy. You can own a nice phone, take a vacation, replace a car, or buy the things your family wants. The difference is that the purchase happens when the money is already there instead of turning future income into a payment. … Read more