Although four out of five Americans use a budget to plan their spending, 20 percent of them keep only a mental budget. Putting your budget on paper or in a basic spreadsheet is essential if you want a healthy financial future. Creating a detailed budget is key to managing your finances. An accurate monthly budget can help you reach your financial goals, whether you’re saving for a car, buying a home or paying off student loans. By sticking to a budget, you can save thousands of dollars each year and avoid overspending.
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Do you have enough money to cover an emergency? Evaluate your finances to determine how much you should be saving for the unexpected.