We need buffers in life \u2014 from airbags to cushy sneakers, the things that stand between us and the hard world make life feel more secure and comfortable. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
But does your budget afford you the same amount of security? Let\u2019s dive into building an affordable buffer zone that works when you need it. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Before adding a buffer, you need a realistic picture of what your week actually costs (not what you hope it costs).<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Grab your bank statements from the past 6 weeks and write down:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Take a deep breath as you evaluate, as it can be difficult to see the reality<\/a> of how you use your money. If your weekly spending is higher than you expected, remember: That\u2019s information, not failure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Now that you have your baseline, add 10% on top of your total \u2014 overestimating spending is a good first step to building in that buffer, and can help reduce stress later. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Now that you have a grasp on your weekly spending, let\u2019s figure out how much you can afford to start setting aside each week. The beauty is that there\u2019s no formula \u2014 you pick a number that works for you. That said, you might consider\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n Even smaller \u2014 and certainly larger \u2014 amounts can make a difference when you\u2019re short one week, or you need to make an unexpected purchase another. The idea behind the buffer is not a \u201cbreak glass in case of emergency<\/a>\u201d solution \u2014 it\u2019s a way of adding flexibility to your finances.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you don\u2019t use the buffer one week, that\u2019s a win. You can roll it over, save it or use it intentionally later.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Your buffer is your friend, and should not become a source of stress or guilt<\/a>. It\u2019s a way of coping with the reality of life \u2014 so you should use it when you need to!<\/p>\n\n\n\n Life doesn\u2019t always cooperate, and it\u2019s not unusual to get into debt<\/a> when your buffer zone or emergency fund won\u2019t cover your needs.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n So if you\u2019re carrying significant credit card, personal loan or medical debts, give us a call. At Accredited Debt Relief, you can explore your options \u2014 and learn how you could get debt-free in as little as 24-48 months. <\/p>\n\n\n\nStep 2: Find a comfortable cushion<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Step 3: Stop worrying and learn to love the buffer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Great ways to tap into your buffer:<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
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And if debt\u2019s keeping you from true financial security?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
See Your Savings<\/h3>\n\n\n