Life Events

Money for life's big moments.

Major changes bring financial complexity. Here's how to navigate them without losing your mind or your savings.

Getting Married

Marriage is the biggest financial partnership you'll ever enter. Here's how to start it right.

Before the Wedding

After the Wedding

Money Dates

Schedule monthly "money dates" to review finances together. Make it fun: takeout, wine, no judgment. Couples who talk about money have happier marriages.

Having Kids

Children are expensive and worth it. Here's how to prepare financially for the new addition.

First Year Costs
$12,000 - $25,000
Diapers, gear, childcare, medical
Annual Cost (Age 1-17)
$15,000 - $20,000
USDA average, varies by location
Childcare (Full-time)
$10,000 - $25,000/yr
Huge range by area and type
College (18 Years Out)
$200,000+
4-year public university projection

Before Baby Arrives

6+ Months Before
Boost Emergency Fund
Aim for 6 months of expenses with baby costs factored in. You'll need the buffer.
3-6 Months Before
Review Health Insurance
Understand your deductible, out-of-pocket max, and how to add baby to the plan within 30 days of birth.
3 Months Before
Research Childcare
Good daycares often have 6-12 month waitlists. Get on lists early, even if you're unsure.
1 Month Before
Understand Parental Leave
Know your company policy, state laws, and how to file for any paid leave benefits.

After Baby Arrives

Don't Sacrifice Retirement

Kids can get loans for college. You can't get loans for retirement. Keep funding your 401(k)/IRA first, then save for college.

Job Loss

Losing a job is scary, but you can navigate it. Here's your action plan.

First 48 Hours

Take a breath. You're going to be okay. Don't make any major financial decisions yet. Give yourself time to process before acting.

Week 1: Stabilize

Weeks 2-4: Adjust

What About My 401(k)?

Avoid These Mistakes

Don't cash out your 401(k). You'll lose 30-40% to taxes and penalties. Don't panic-sell investments. Don't take on new debt if possible. This is temporary.

Receiving an Inheritance

Inheriting money is bittersweet. Here's how to honor it by managing it wisely.

The One-Year Rule

Don't make any major decisions for at least 6-12 months. Park the money somewhere safe (high-yield savings) and give yourself time to grieve and plan.

Immediate Steps

After the Waiting Period

Priority 1
Pay Off High-Interest Debt
Credit cards, personal loans, anything above 7-8% interest. Guaranteed return.
Priority 2
Max Emergency Fund
Bring it to 6 months of expenses if not already there. Peace of mind.
Priority 3
Fund Retirement Accounts
Max out 401(k) and IRA contributions for the year. Tax-advantaged growth.
Priority 4
Invest the Rest
Low-cost index funds for long-term growth. Consider dollar-cost averaging over 6-12 months.
Keep Some for Joy

It's okay to use some for something meaningful: a trip, a donation in their name, or something they would have wanted you to have. Money is a tool for a good life.

Common Inheritance Types

Cash
Generally not taxed. Park in a high-yield savings account while you plan.
Stocks and Investments
You get "stepped-up basis," meaning you're only taxed on gains since death, not original purchase.
Real Estate
Stepped-up basis applies. Decide whether to sell, rent, or live in it. Each has implications.
Inherited IRA
New rules require withdrawal within 10 years (non-spouse). Plan distributions carefully for taxes.
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