Together Budget

From House Hopping to Passive Income: A Millennial's Story As a millennial, achieving financial stability and security can seem like an uphill battle. With rising housing costs, student loans, and uncertain career prospects, it's no wonder many of us are struggling to make ends meet. However, one young woman has found a creative way to turn her nomadic lifestyle into a lucrative passive income stream. The House Hopping Phenomenon House hopping, or frequent moving between rentals, has become increasingly common among millennials. With the rise of online platforms and flexible work arrangements, it's easier than ever to pick up and move to a new city or town in search of better opportunities. However, this nomadic lifestyle can also lead to financial uncertainty, as rental agreements come with no long-term security. Turning House Hopping into Passive Income Meet our millennial entrepreneur, who has turned her house hopping experience into a lucrative business. By investing in...

Enjoy Your Savings in Retirement Without Going Broke As we approach retirement, it's natural to want to enjoy the fruits of our labor and live comfortably on our savings. However, blowing through our nest egg too quickly can lead to financial stress and uncertainty about our future security. According to recent research, many retirees struggle to make their savings last throughout their golden years. But with smart planning and a solid budget, it's possible to enjoy your savings in retirement without going broke. Here are four ways to do just that: 1. Prioritize Essential Expenses First things first: make sure you're covering the basics. In retirement, essential expenses like housing, food, healthcare, and transportation should be your top priority. Create a budget that accounts for these costs, and prioritize saving for them over discretionary spending. Using TogetherBudget can help you create a comprehensive budget and track your expenses to ensure you're staying on ...

Lowering Drug Prices: How TrumpRx Works and Can It Save You Money? Are you tired of paying exorbitant prices for prescription medications? You're not alone. The cost of healthcare, particularly prescription drugs, has been a major concern for many individuals and families. Recently, there have been talks about the Trump administration's proposal to lower drug prices through a program called TrumpRx. In this article, we'll delve into how TrumpRx works and whether it can actually save you money on your medications. What is TrumpRx? TrumpRx is a proposed program aimed at reducing the cost of prescription drugs in the United States. The plan involves several key components: Allowing Medicare to negotiate prices with pharmaceutical companies Implementing an international pricing index (IPI) that pegs U.S. drug prices to those in other developed countries Requiring drug manufacturers to disclose their costs and profit margins How Can TrumpRx Save You Money? While the details of T...

'Trump Accounts' and a new retirement plan aim to help Americans save Are you struggling to save for your future? You're not alone. Many Americans are worried about their retirement savings, and it's no wonder why. The cost of living continues to rise, making it increasingly difficult to set aside money for the long-term. Recently, there have been discussions about introducing a new type of account that aims to help Americans save more effectively. These "Trump Accounts" (not officially endorsed by any politician) would be designed to incentivize people to start saving earlier and consistently throughout their lives. How do 'Trump Accounts' work? The idea behind these accounts is simple: they're meant to encourage individuals to put aside a fixed percentage of their income each month. The funds would then be invested and grow over time, providing a safety net for retirement. Here are some key features of these proposed accounts: Automatic contrib...

Unlock Your Earning Potential in 2026: Top 7 Highest-Paying Side Hustles Revealed Are you looking to boost your income and achieve financial stability? With the rise of the gig economy, side hustles have become a popular way to earn extra money. But which ones are worth pursuing? According to a recent report, these seven side hustles are expected to be among the highest-paying in 2026: 1. Software Development Median hourly rate: $100-$200 per hour Job outlook: High demand for skilled developers As technology continues to evolve, software development skills are in high demand. If you have a knack for coding and designing, consider turning your passion into a lucrative side hustle. 2. Data Science Median hourly rate: $125-$250 per hour Job outlook: Growing need for data analysis expertise With the increasing importance of big data, companies are seeking professionals who can extract insights from complex datasets. If you have a background in math and statistics, consider pursuing a caree...

Protecting Immigrant Communities and Your Finances: How Boston's Participatory Budgeting Can Inspire Change Boston Mayor Wu has made headlines recently by allocating $2.2 million in participatory budgeting funds to enhance protections for undocumented immigrants in the city. This move highlights the importance of community involvement in shaping local policies and providing support for vulnerable populations. But how does this news impact your personal finances, and what can you do to create positive change in your own life? Understanding Participatory Budgeting Participatory budgeting is a democratic process that allows citizens to contribute to the city's budget decisions. By involving community members in the decision-making process, cities like Boston aim to allocate funds effectively and address pressing social issues. Benefits for Immigrant Communities The allocation of $2.2 million will likely benefit undocumented immigrants in several ways: Access to vital services : ...

Unlocking Financial Clarity with Your Rich BFF Vivian Tu As we navigate our personal finance journeys, it's essential to have a trusted guide who can offer expert advice and guidance. In a recent interview, Vivian Tu shared her insights on various personal finance topics, helping us understand what it takes to achieve financial stability. Getting Started with Budgeting When it comes to managing finances, creating a budget is often the first step towards achieving our goals. However, many of us struggle to stick to our budgets due to overspending or lack of clarity. According to Vivian Tu, having a clear understanding of your income and expenses is crucial for making informed financial decisions. Identify your income streams Track your expenses using TogetherBudget – this powerful tool helps you categorize and prioritize your spending Set realistic financial goals Prioritizing Needs over Wants One common pitfall in personal finance is confusing needs with wants. Vivian Tu emphasize...

Maximize Your Earnings with These 7 Highest-Paying Side Hustles in 2026 Are you looking to supplement your income, pay off debt, or build wealth? The good news is that the gig economy and side hustling have become increasingly popular, offering a wide range of opportunities for anyone looking to earn extra money. According to a new report, these are the 7 highest-paying side hustles for 2026. From freelance writing to software development, we'll take a closer look at each one and provide tips on how to get started. 1. Data Science Consultant: $110-$150 per hour Data science consultants work with businesses to analyze data and make informed decisions. With the increasing demand for data-driven insights, this side hustle offers excellent earning potential. Skills required: Data analysis, machine learning, programming languages like Python or R Tools needed: TogetherBudget can help you track your finances and ensure you're earning enough to support your lifestyle as a consultant ...

Strengthen Your Credit Profile Without Owning a Home As a renter, building credit can be a daunting task. Traditional methods of establishing credit often require owning a home or having access to a credit card, which may not be feasible for everyone. However, there's good news on the horizon. Evlo has partnered with CreditLadder to provide renters with an alternative solution to strengthen their credit profiles. What is Evlo and CreditLadder? Evlo and CreditLadder are two companies that aim to simplify personal finance and make it more accessible for everyone. By leveraging technology and innovative approaches, they're helping individuals build a stronger financial foundation. This partnership marks a significant step towards making credit-building more inclusive and convenient. How Does the Partnership Work? The Evlo-CreditLadder partnership uses rental payment history to help renters establish or improve their credit scores. Here's how it works: Renters can opt-in to sha...

Unlocking Wealth: The 10 Immutable Laws of Building Prosperity Building wealth is a lifelong journey, and it's not just about making more money. It's about creating a mindset, adopting good habits, and leveraging the right tools to achieve financial freedom. In this article, we'll explore the 10 immutable laws of building wealth, and how TogetherBudget can help you put them into practice. Law #1: Think Like an Investor Wealth-building is not just about earning a salary; it's about growing your assets over time. Investors think differently than consumers – they focus on long-term growth, diversification, and risk management. With TogetherBudget , you can track your income and expenses, identify areas for improvement, and make informed decisions to boost your savings. Law #2: Live Below Your Means Spending less than you earn is essential for building wealth. It's not about depriving yourself of the things you love, but about being mindful of your spending habits. Use...

Unlocking Passive Income through Chevron Stocks Are you tired of living paycheck to paycheck? Are you looking for a way to generate hundreds in passive income? You're in luck because, with as little as $3,000 invested in Chevron stocks, it's possible to achieve this financial goal. What is Chevron and Why Invest? Chevron is one of the largest oil and gas companies in the world. Its stock has historically provided stable returns over the years, making it an attractive investment option for those seeking long-term growth. Investing in Chevron can provide a steady stream of passive income through dividend payments. Benefits of Investing in Chevron Stocks Investing in Chevron stocks offers several benefits: Stable Dividends : Chevron has consistently paid dividends to its shareholders over the years, providing a stable source of passive income. Long-term Growth : Chevron's stock has historically provided long-term growth, making it an attractive option for those seeking to buil...

Breaking Free from Retirement Planning Paralysis Are you like many Americans who feel overwhelmed by retirement planning? You're not alone. A recent survey found that nearly 40% of millennials have not started saving for retirement, and among those who have, many are struggling to make progress. At TogetherBudget , we've seen firsthand the impact of "retirement planning paralysis" on individuals and their financial futures. It's a common phenomenon where people feel stuck or unsure about how to start saving for retirement, leading to procrastination and missed opportunities. What is Retirement Planning Paralysis? Retirement planning paralysis is a state of mind characterized by feelings of overwhelm, anxiety, and uncertainty about how to plan for the future. It's often caused by: Fear of making mistakes or not having enough money saved Lack of knowledge about retirement savings options (e.g., 401(k), IRA) Uncertainty about when to start saving and how much to ...

Taking Control of Your Finances: Free Seminar Aims to Empower Community Are you tired of living paycheck to paycheck? Do you dream of achieving financial stability and security? You're not alone. According to a recent report, many individuals struggle with managing their finances, leading to stress, anxiety, and missed opportunities. Fortunately, there's hope on the horizon. The Altru Family YMCA is hosting a free financial wellness seminar, designed to empower community members with the knowledge and tools needed to take control of their finances. Understanding Financial Wellness Financial wellness encompasses more than just managing debt or saving for retirement. It involves making informed decisions about your money, aligning your spending habits with your values, and achieving long-term goals. Some key areas that will be covered during the seminar include: Budgeting and expense tracking Investing and wealth-building strategies Credit management and debt reduction Long-term ...

Want To Save More Without Thinking About It? A CFP’s 6-Step System Are you tired of struggling to save money? Do you wish there was a way to make saving easier and more automatic? You're not alone. Many people struggle with saving, but a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) has developed a 6-step system that can help you save more without thinking about it. Step 1: Automate Your Savings The first step in the CFP's system is to automate your savings. This means setting up automatic transfers from your checking account to your savings or investment accounts. By doing this, you'll ensure that you're saving a fixed amount of money regularly, without having to think about it. TogetherBudget can help you set up automated transfers and track your savings progress. With TogetherBudget, you can link all your accounts in one place and create customized budgets that work for you. Step 2: Start Small The second step is to start small. Don't try to save a large amount of money rig...

Don't Go After the Rich to Fix Broken Budgets As we navigate our personal finances, it's easy to get caught up in the idea that wealth inequality is the root of all financial problems. We might think that if we just taxed the rich enough, we could fund programs and services that would help those struggling financially. However, this approach overlooks a crucial aspect of personal finance: individual responsibility and agency. The Problem with Blaming the Rich While it's true that wealth inequality is a significant issue in many countries, simply taxing the rich won't solve all financial problems. In fact, this approach can have unintended consequences, such as: Redistributing wealth without addressing the underlying issues Fostering resentment and division among citizens Ignoring the complexities of individual financial situations Instead of focusing on wealth redistribution, we should be encouraging individuals to take control of their own finances. The Power of Person...

Financial Stress in Towns: What it Means for Residents and How to Take Control As a resident of a town facing financial challenges, it's natural to feel worried about the impact on local services like schools and fire departments. The recent news about the town's financial plan highlighting high stakes for these essential services has left many wondering what this means for their community. The Consequences of Financial Strain When a town struggles financially, it can have far-reaching consequences for its residents. Some of the potential effects include: Reduced funding for schools : This can lead to larger class sizes, outdated textbooks, and a less supportive learning environment. Decreased services from the fire department : This may result in longer response times, reduced personnel, or even closure of fire stations. Increased taxes : To make up for budget shortfalls, residents might face higher property tax bills, placing an added strain on household budgets. The Im...

4 Side Gigs You Can Do During Spring Break Season to Boost Your Finances As spring break season approaches, many of us are looking forward to a well-deserved break from work. However, with the extra time off comes an opportunity to explore new ways to earn some extra cash and boost our finances. Whether you're a student looking for ways to fund your next semester or an adult seeking to supplement your income, side gigs can be a great way to achieve financial stability. In this post, we'll explore four side gig ideas that you can do during spring break season to get started. 1. Pet Sitting or Dog Walking Estimated earning potential: $10-$20 per hour Required skills: animal care and handling Tools needed: smartphone for communication and scheduling Pet sitting or dog walking is a great side gig that requires minimal investment. With the help of apps like Rover or Care.com, you can find clients in your area who need pet care services. This side gig not only earns you money b...

WT Workshop to Offer Students, Others Key Financial Advice As a college student or young adult navigating the world of personal finance, it can be overwhelming to manage expenses, save money, and make smart financial decisions. But what if you had access to expert advice and tools to help you achieve your financial goals? West Texas A&M University is offering just that – a workshop designed to provide students and others with key financial advice and guidance. This timely event highlights the importance of personal finance education and planning for the future. Why Financial Literacy Matters In today's economy, it's essential to have a solid understanding of personal finance principles. Without proper knowledge, you may find yourself struggling to make ends meet, accumulating debt, or missing out on financial opportunities. Some key areas where students and young adults often need improvement include: Budgeting : Creating and sticking to a budget can be challenging, especia...

Welcome to the United States of Side Hustles The Rise of the Gig Economy and its Impact on Personal Finance In recent years, the concept of a traditional 9-to-5 job has become less relevant. The gig economy, where individuals work on a freelance or contract basis, has taken center stage. According to various reports, more Americans are turning to side hustles to supplement their income, pay off debt, and achieve financial stability. Why Side Hustles Are Becoming the New Normal Increased financial stress : With living costs rising and wages stagnant, people are looking for ways to make ends meet. Pursuing passions : Many individuals are using side hustles as a means to monetize their hobbies or interests. Flexibility and autonomy : Side hustles offer the freedom to work on one's own terms, which is particularly appealing in today's fast-paced world. The Challenges of Managing Multiple Income Streams While side hustles can provide financial benefits, they also introduce new...

Ivy League Schools Revamping Their Investment Strategies: What Does This Mean for You? The recent news that Ivy League schools are revamping their investment strategies may seem like a story unrelated to your personal finances. However, this development has significant implications for anyone concerned about investing wisely and achieving long-term financial goals. Why Are Ivy League Schools Changing Their Approach? The Ivy League schools, which include some of the most prestigious institutions in the world, have been adjusting their investment strategies to prioritize sustainability and socially responsible investments. This shift is driven by a growing awareness that traditional investment approaches can have unintended consequences on the environment and society. What Does This Mean for Investors Like You? While the Ivy League schools' changes may seem like a distant concern, they reflect broader trends in the investment world. As investors become increasingly aware of the impac...

Are Men or Women Better at Saving Money? When it comes to personal finance, it's no secret that saving money is a top priority for many of us. But have you ever wondered if there's a difference between men and women when it comes to saving? Do one gender group excel in this area more than the others? What the Data Says According to recent studies, the answer might surprise you. It seems that women are actually better at saving money than men. Here are some key findings: Women tend to be more conservative with their finances and are more likely to prioritize saving over spending. Men, on the other hand, often prioritize short-term gains and may be more willing to take risks with their investments. Women also tend to be more responsible with household finances, taking charge of budgeting and planning. Why the Difference? There could be several reasons why women are better at saving money than men. Some possible explanations include: Women often have a longer-term perspective on f...

Retirement Planning: 5 Mistakes to Avoid in the Next 5 Years Are you nearing retirement age and want to ensure a comfortable and financially secure post-work life? As a financial planner, I've seen many individuals make costly mistakes that can put their retirement plans at risk. In this article, we'll explore five common pitfalls to avoid in the next five years before you retire. 1. Not Reviewing Your Retirement Goals Before we dive into specific mistakes, it's essential to assess your retirement goals and ensure they're aligned with your current financial situation. Ask yourself: What do I want to achieve in my retirement? How much income will I need to maintain my desired lifestyle? Have I considered inflation, healthcare costs, and other expenses? TogetherBudget can help you create a comprehensive budget that accounts for your retirement goals and expenses. By tracking your income and expenses, you'll have a clear picture of where you stand financially and can ...

5 Mistakes to Avoid in the 5 Years Before You Retire As you approach retirement age, it's essential to be mindful of your financial decisions. Making mistakes can have significant consequences on your post-work life, and correcting them may be challenging or even impossible. In this article, we'll explore five common errors to avoid during the five years leading up to retirement. 1. Not Adjusting Your Retirement Savings Rate Retirement savings is a long-term process that requires consistent effort. However, many people fail to adjust their savings rate as they approach retirement age. This can lead to inadequate funds for the golden years. Solution: Regularly review and update your budget with TogetherBudget to ensure you're saving enough for retirement. Consider increasing your contributions or exploring alternative income sources, such as a side hustle or rental properties. 2. Failing to Assess Your Retirement Goals Before retiring, it's crucial to understand what y...

Achieving Financial Freedom: The Often-Overlooked First Step As a personal finance enthusiast, I'm always excited to share tips and strategies that can help individuals achieve their financial goals. Recently, I came across an inspiring story of a 30-year-old who built a 7-figure net worth, and the key takeaway from their journey is one that may surprise you: it's not about making more money or investing in the right assets, but rather about taking control of your finances through smart budgeting . The Power of Smart Budgeting In today's fast-paced world, it's easy to get caught up in lifestyle inflation and overspending. We often focus on earning more money as a solution to our financial problems, but this approach can actually lead to more debt and financial stress. By contrast, smart budgeting allows you to prioritize your expenses, manage your cash flow, and make intentional decisions about how you allocate your resources. Why Smart Budgeting is Key So, why is smart...

Planning a Dream Vacation with Family: Navigating RMDs and Generational Spending As we age, our priorities often shift from building wealth to enjoying the fruits of our labor. For many retirees, using their Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) from retirement accounts is an attractive way to fund dream vacations or spend quality time with loved ones. However, a recent trend highlights concerns about keeping up with younger generations in terms of lifestyle and financial comfort. The RMD Conundrum With the rise of TogetherBudget , individuals are gaining control over their finances, making it easier to plan for significant expenses like RMDs. But what happens when retirees want to use these distributions to enjoy time with family? Consider this: A 78-year-old couple wants to use their 2026 RMD to fund a dream vacation with their kids and grandkids. However, they worry that their spending habits won't keep pace with those of their younger relatives. Generational Spending Disparitie...

European Real Estate Market Outlook 2025: What Does it Mean for Your Finances? The European real estate market is experiencing a significant shift in the next few years. According to recent reports, the sector is expected to undergo substantial changes by year-end 2025. As an investor or property owner, understanding these trends can help you make informed decisions about your financial future. Key Takeaways from the European Real Estate Strategic Outlook Here are some key points to consider: Rent growth : Rental income in Europe's major cities is expected to decline due to increasing supply and decreasing demand. Property prices : Prices for residential properties are predicted to fall in many European countries, making it a buyer's market. Vacancy rates : The vacancy rate for commercial properties is anticipated to rise, leading to increased competition among landlords. Implications for Your Finances These trends may have significant implications for your personal finances: I...