While being in your 30s isn’t necessarily “dirty,” here are some financial hacks to help you avoid a mess if your life takes an unexpected turn.

1. Got Bank? It’s a great idea to have at least $400-$500 tucked away for any type of “pop up” expenses like needing a deposit on a new apartment of new tires for your car. Some experts even recommend having up to three months of your current expenses in the bank in case there’s a “downsizing” at your current job.

2. Balance Your Today with your Tomorrow. Some folks like to live so in the moment they spend nearly everything, forgetting they still have the cable bill to pay before their next check comes in. Others keep their cash so close to them they don’t allow themselves to spend any money at all and have zero experiences to show for all their hard work.

It’s imperative to have the scales balanced between free-for-all spending and extreme frugality. That’s’ where Step #3 comes in.

3. Live on a budget. Knowing your spending habits, your wants and your needs is one of the most important steps to staying financially fit in your 30s. Listing what comes in against what goes out of your paycheck will give you a clear picture of how to save for Step #1 as well as what you’ll have available to spend on your spur-of-the-moment trip to Disney.

4. Be house savvy – not house poor. You may have been approved for a much bigger mortgage than you need, but remember: the bank doesn’t pay for your house…you do. If your budget doesn’t allow for the extra 2000 square feet just yet, save for it and remember to put aside extra money for your new home owner improvement projects.

5. Go insurance shopping. If the insurance through your employer is underwhelming, shop around for some independent coverage that has great coverage with a great copay.

Ready to talk to someone who has already done the “dirty work” for you and who can help you stay financially secure? Click here now to set up a time for us to chat.