Eliminating or substantially lowering just one major monthly expense can give you enough cushion to move into a more comfortable place financially. Jean Chatzky comfortablecushioneliminate Change image and share on social
In a relationship where finances are shared, it's important that both people know what's going on. If one spouse likes being the family accountant, it's fine for that person to take the lead, but the other spouse shouldn't be in the dark. Jean Chatzky accountantdarkfamily share on social
Unlike other loans, a reverse mortgage doesn't have to be repaid until the borrower moves out of the home or passes away. Jean Chatzky borrowerhomeloan Change image and share on social
If you have had the same dishwasher for 10 years or more, don't bother repairing it. The average dishwasher is expected to last nine years, and you've most likely squeezed as much life out of it as you can. Jean Chatzky averagebotherdishwasher share on social
Anticipating a boomerang child seems the odds-on thing to do. Think about furnishing - hello, sleeper sofa - with this in mind. Jean Chatzky anticipateboomerangchild Change image and share on social
Anything past 90 days constitutes 'severe,' but all late payments stay on your report for seven years if reported. Jean Chatzky constitutedaylate Change image and share on social
Turning a blind eye to your finances always brings trouble. When you let the bills or late notices stay in their envelopes, you're making matters worse. When you finally have to deal with the problem - believe me, you will eventually - it will be exaggerated because you didn't take action. Jean Chatzky actionbadlybill share on social
Being charitable provides a boost to your psyche that is tough to replicate in any other way. But note that although any charity will happily take your money, you can give in other ways and still reap the same happiness reward. Volunteering and donating your old or unused belongings have the same result. Jean Chatzky belongingboostcharitable share on social
If salary is your most important consideration, make sure you don't take too much time off beyond the allotted 12-14 weeks of maternity leave - and certainly don't leave altogether. Jean Chatzky allotaltogetherconsideration Change image and share on social
Optimism is an expectation that good things are going to be plentiful. The wealthy generally have the sense that life will bring good rather than bad outcomes. That doesn't mean they believe that good things will be omnipresent, but that they will outnumber the not-so-good. Jean Chatzky badbringexpectation share on social