How to Avoid Paycheck to Paycheck Living in 2023

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In this video, we will explore practical tips and steps to help you avoid living paycheck to paycheck - even in 2023.
After two months of marriage, we were flat broke and living paycheck to paycheck. Here’s what we did to break free of that cycle.
Living paycheck to paycheck has become an all-too-familiar reality for many individuals and families. However, there are numerous strategies and resources available to help you break free from this cycle.
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We're Hope and Larry and we love practical frugality. We raised our four sons, debt-free, including paying cash for our home when our income was well under the national average. For tips on saving money, budgeting, paying off debt, and setting goals (while living with a spirit of joy and abundance), subscribe to us here on KZread and visit us at our website and on social media.
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Пікірлер: 314

  • @brynnemartin9489
    @brynnemartin948911 ай бұрын

    My side job is 4 hours a week at the grocery story. A little extra money and 25% off all my groceries. It’s great!

  • @UndertheMedian

    @UndertheMedian

    11 ай бұрын

    25% off groceries is a huge perk! Well worth working 4 hours a week. Great side gig!

  • @fourdayhomestead2839

    @fourdayhomestead2839

    11 ай бұрын

    I'm considering that type of side gig.

  • @hollynauss6359

    @hollynauss6359

    11 ай бұрын

    Wow, you get $ off groceries?; Our son works for a major grocery store and gets NO discounts on food he buys there, even if bought during his shift.

  • @marthaannesweat4676

    @marthaannesweat4676

    11 ай бұрын

    Great idea!! Maybe I should look into this! Is it a chain store?

  • @brynnemartin9489

    @brynnemartin9489

    11 ай бұрын

    @@marthaannesweat4676 It does have a couple locations, but it is a local co-op grocery store

  • @Gigi......
    @Gigi......11 ай бұрын

    I work at a supermarket and we get all the expired fresh products at the end of each night for free (milk, bread, vegetables, meat, flowers, vegetarian alternatives, salads, sandwiches, fruit etc)! It's saving me so much money plus, I get my normal wage on top! 🎉 My freezer is full and I'm so thankful 👌❤️

  • @connielimon1113

    @connielimon1113

    11 ай бұрын

    What store is that I that? I work at Publix at most I get a coupon for 1 free item and maybe $100 gift card 2 times a year

  • @Gigi......

    @Gigi......

    11 ай бұрын

    ​@@connielimon1113A UK supermarket 🇬🇧👌

  • @emmalouise7837

    @emmalouise7837

    11 ай бұрын

    My sister worked at m&s and we'd get free pastries and expired food. It was delightful. She no longer works there though.

  • @LisaFly652

    @LisaFly652

    11 ай бұрын

    Wow I only get a few free items a month. Your store seems wayyyy better than in the US.

  • @asmradventureasmr

    @asmradventureasmr

    11 ай бұрын

    @@connielimon1113It’s horrible what stores throw out instead of giving it to their underpaid employees.

  • @rg-mi5hh
    @rg-mi5hh11 ай бұрын

    Stay out of debt is number one for kids starting out. If you don't have the money to buy something, save up for it.

  • @stanleymcvay9283

    @stanleymcvay9283

    11 ай бұрын

    This country doesn't provide.

  • @Nisa-gm5wg
    @Nisa-gm5wg11 ай бұрын

    My side hustle is baking sweets and breads at my job only 1 day a week. It easily generates $800 to 1 k per month.

  • @Mialuvsveggies
    @Mialuvsveggies11 ай бұрын

    I have zero debt (no car payment or credit cards), am a whole food vegetarian (no fake meats or anything like that), live 3 miles from work, prepare all my own meals at home, rarely eat out (only once this year), have 2 pets (no children) and still paycheck to paycheck. Times are tough.

  • @lucybell1487

    @lucybell1487

    11 ай бұрын

    Are youabke to increase income by dog walking in your 3 mile radius

  • @carolynm9798

    @carolynm9798

    11 ай бұрын

    I was thinking about this myself. These days some people are not needing to cut out restaurant food and entertainment because they aren’t doing that anyway. So you have to face facts … you need to make more money. I did by working a part time job with my full time for years until I moved up in my career.

  • @joyariffic4217

    @joyariffic4217

    11 ай бұрын

    You gotta increase your income. Start looking at career opportunities or even a career change

  • @mightymommom5888

    @mightymommom5888

    11 ай бұрын

    I feel ya.

  • @NikiLivi5

    @NikiLivi5

    11 ай бұрын

    Have you thought it might be your rent keeping you down. Sometimes it’s cheaper to live farther from work. Or maybe you need a different job. You really have to look at everything to figure things out. Good luck!

  • @robertneville2022
    @robertneville202211 ай бұрын

    I live on social security retirement Every 3 months I go on a trip I live (sleep in )out of my 4 door jeep at usually a loves or flying j truck stop My food is kept in a coleman cooler I cook and make coffee on my coleman propane camp stove Just got back from florence alabama where I saw crystal gayle in concert From the money I saved on a motel by sleeping in my jeep I was able to afford 3rd row stage center tickets Total price of trip including $100 show ticket was $200 Now im back home with all the lights off, no AC sitting under a ceiling fan eating beans and rice and rice and beans I'm thinking Tybee island/ savannah ga some time around the first of the year

  • @rebeccaoliver7977
    @rebeccaoliver797711 ай бұрын

    The greatest gift my mom gave me was the teaching of frugality.

  • @heathersheartco
    @heathersheartco11 ай бұрын

    I just made the LAST payment on my car. I own it free and clear now and I plan continuing to make car payments to myself and bank that money for future

  • @marilynpeppers1356

    @marilynpeppers1356

    11 ай бұрын

    Heather That is fabulous! Congratulations! I know I am not the only person that is happy about this for you.💜

  • @heathersheartco

    @heathersheartco

    11 ай бұрын

    @@marilynpeppers1356 thank you !!! It feels so good. I’m now 100% credit card and car payment FREE !! Next is student loans !!!

  • @marilynpeppers1356

    @marilynpeppers1356

    11 ай бұрын

    @@heathersheartco I’m excited for you to be getting it done! 💜✅💜✅💜

  • @kaeros5521

    @kaeros5521

    11 ай бұрын

    Congratulations 🎉🎈🎊😊!

  • @lindadenneypu6315

    @lindadenneypu6315

    11 ай бұрын

    Congratulations on paying of ya car great thinking of using the money for saving

  • @cherieroatz4233
    @cherieroatz423311 ай бұрын

    I found a brand new Bissell on the side of the road being thrown out during a clean up. Sold it in about 10 minutes for $80!

  • @marky7802

    @marky7802

    11 ай бұрын

    I work at walmart and I just process refunds for my friends for $10-$100 nothing bothers walmart until it's $700 or above it. So that's a way I and many of my work mates could afford buy cars and go on trips

  • @fischerrestoration
    @fischerrestoration11 ай бұрын

    So true Larry and Hope.. once I figured it out I learned to watch every single dollar and became frugal by design. I've gone from spending 4k per month to living simple on 1.5k per month. It's definitely doable and it makes my life so much easier and my emergency savings is stronger than ever! Feeling blessed

  • @UndertheMedian

    @UndertheMedian

    11 ай бұрын

    That's amazing! Well done!

  • @lindacgrace2973
    @lindacgrace297311 ай бұрын

    My side gig is writing. I wrote a novel (that nobody bought). Sigh. Back to the drawing board, figure out how to market the book. Start over. Proceed to write a non-fiction book (maybe that will fare better?). I call it "Prospering in Hard Times:" and I quote you several times in the book. I'll send you a copy when it's ready.

  • @jamesclaire115
    @jamesclaire11511 ай бұрын

    Great video. I am nearly 75. I worked 5 days last week and l will work 5 days this week. I do not work 8 hour days, but 5 hour days add up quickly. I am retired military and also VA disabled. I have watched your channel for a while. I now have a few thousand in the bank as an emergency fund. When l first saw your channel l had a zero bank balance. I no longer use the 'card' when an emergency comes along. When a tire blew or a battery needed to be changed out, l paid cash. When l needed a piston changed out in my car motor, again l paid cash. I pay cash and drive an older used car. I froze several credit accounts and in February of 2024 l will be debt free with the exception of my home. My home is the loan with the lowest interest rate. That will be the last loan to be paid off. I plan to be debt free before l am 79. Thanks again for such a worthwhile video. Stay well and be blessed.

  • @Dreamer-by4nk

    @Dreamer-by4nk

    11 ай бұрын

    Wow good for you! I am 63 and also working on my mortgage. I’m living in my house as is, until it’s paid off unless something breaks. I raised my 2 kids alone and now I want to secure my home before retiring. You are my role model! Best wishes♥

  • @noziphokhathi339

    @noziphokhathi339

    11 ай бұрын

    You're both my role models. I'm 52 turning 53 in August..I thought I was late but you've changed my mind. Thanks and Goodluck 👏👏

  • @sjbutler2330

    @sjbutler2330

    11 ай бұрын

    I also suggest before you retire you SHOULD have your mortgage totally paid off. It will be your Saving Grace!

  • @1971_happylifedog

    @1971_happylifedog

    6 ай бұрын

    Thanks for you service. God bless.🇺🇸

  • @jc10907Sealy
    @jc10907Sealy11 ай бұрын

    My side gig is working at a bbq restaurant 6 hours on the weekend. Free shift meals, 25% off food purchases and it pays for all my groceries. Good gig.

  • @cgt6497
    @cgt649711 ай бұрын

    Step 6, embracing a frugal lifestyle, was a key for me. Like you, I had to learn to pay off debt and start saving, so a frugal mindset grew gradually. For me, it took small steps, like not going to a shopping mall (now, I suppose it would be: not going on Amazon) or paying only cash. Once I stopped doing those things, my thinking shifted. I started to like having savings in the bank. I stopped feeling like buying the latest things or worry about the latest "trend" in fashion or home decor. I started to realize that "fashion and decor trends" were really just marketing, to try to part me from my money. I learned the difference between needs and wants. I was already environmentally conscious and discovered that my frugal choices were better for the planet. Now, I find it hard to spend money unnecessarily and I'm glad. Money no longer rules my life. I''m not very interested in buying things unless there is a good reason. And I've gained a lot of confidence by learning to fix a lot of things for free (or very low cost) using KZread University.

  • @marilynpeppers1356

    @marilynpeppers1356

    11 ай бұрын

    The shift in one’s thinking is huge! Yes it is. Like the shifting of the ground that causes an earthquake. It happens unexpectedly and it causes one to put something back or delete the order. Great testimony!

  • @cherylT321

    @cherylT321

    11 ай бұрын

    That’s wonderful!

  • @rochellethundercloud346
    @rochellethundercloud34611 ай бұрын

    Solid advice. A budget is fine,but useless if you don't track your money

  • @katehorrell8732
    @katehorrell873211 ай бұрын

    I'm on a disability income of less than $1000 a month, but I have no mortgage or car payments or credit card debt. My side hustle is I scrap metal. My friends husband is part owner of a machine shop n he saves me scraps of copper, brass, aluminium, etc. I don't get it all the time but about every 2 months or so, but an extra $500-1000 really does help.

  • @cherylT321

    @cherylT321

    11 ай бұрын

    Awesome!

  • @r.p.9829

    @r.p.9829

    11 ай бұрын

    We scrapped too.made our house payments with the money sometimes...

  • @jocelynsertich2686
    @jocelynsertich268611 ай бұрын

    My side gig is selling eggs from my chickens. I don’t really recoup all I spend on my animals, but it helps me be able to keep them.

  • @pamdee8454
    @pamdee84548 ай бұрын

    My side job is being a mystery shopper. Also, selling on Poshmark and OfferUp platforms. I love the idea of minimalism and have started selling several sewing machines etc. Water bath canning plans my future meals and can be a money maker at fall and winter craft shows. You both inspire me to save and pay off debt using a budget, meal planner, and grocery list. Some day I plan to pay cash for a dependable-ez-on-gas car. I have a one yr old and 3 yr old grandsons, I hope to meet some day soon.

  • @jillgott6567
    @jillgott656711 ай бұрын

    I am retired - I took it early so that I could run my life my way ! In addition to my social security, I recycle cans and bottles which brings in a few dollars; I do temporary gigs - in May I did registration for a logging show that comes every two years to my area and in September I will be getting Christmas Trees ready for the holiday season in various stores; I sell items online; have bartered cleaning services for labor on my car repairs; babysat; participated in focus groups; yardsales and flea market sales; make crafts to sell- I only do work that is fun, easy for me, has little responsibilities yet provides me with good money. I see this way of working as a fun adventure not a hardship

  • @zkh1075
    @zkh10754 ай бұрын

    Thank you for this video. I am a college student and I am learning about financial literacy. Your video has clear steps that makes me feel encouraged to move forward in a way that feels possible.

  • @KC-dr3cg
    @KC-dr3cg11 ай бұрын

    Just before the pandemic living in a major metro area we did not have a bathroom for 4 months except for the bathtub and a shower head. Living close to grocery stores and fast food places we made do until we had the money to put down the new linoleum on the 7 by 10 ft bathroom floor and add a new toilet paying cash for parts and labor

  • @JM-dy4fo
    @JM-dy4fo11 ай бұрын

    Larry says- "couples and families" there are single people too. Single people=only ONE paycheck=harder/not easy!!!

  • @maxwelltheportlycorgi7299

    @maxwelltheportlycorgi7299

    11 ай бұрын

    Single parent here. I agree.

  • @sjbutler2330

    @sjbutler2330

    11 ай бұрын

    Moi aussi!

  • @goalgether8502

    @goalgether8502

    6 ай бұрын

    This is when i would build community. Live with another male/female/mother if you’re a mom. Split the costs.

  • @PInk77W1
    @PInk77W17 ай бұрын

    6yrs ago I was a financial train wreck. I retired at 56 and had $11k credit card balance. I had to pay rent. I was bringing home $2300. Per month. Then my landlord said she was gonna double my rent. So I moved to Tx and changed my whole life. Paid off my cc in 15 months. Started saving like crazy for 2yrs. Got up to $28k. Bought a small home online cash for $23k. Then my social security kicks in. Now i have no debt at all and I bring home $4100. I have $50k in savings. Doing great now.

  • @joannacurran8475
    @joannacurran847511 ай бұрын

    I am retired accountant and help people who have very little money and find what is most effective is starting the bucket/envelope system for 'needs' budgets. So once income hits your accounts take out the food., energy, transport money for your envelopes and immediately what is left is then put into the buckets re debt repayment, pension, emergency fund etc. I still do that even though I have plenty of money, no debts etc. but in these times money can run away and genetically I will live to my mid 90's and who knows what will happen to inflation, cost of care maybe, etc.

  • @IBURUBURU
    @IBURUBURU11 ай бұрын

    My side gigs are: soapmaking, candle making, making diffusers, hand and body creams and lotions, lip balms, shampoos and hair masks, body sprays, etc. I really enjoy preparing them!

  • @brendasnyder8239

    @brendasnyder8239

    11 ай бұрын

    You should do a you tube channel on how to make them, I would love to learn.

  • @UndertheMedian

    @UndertheMedian

    11 ай бұрын

    That is awesome!

  • @Savannah-ed4rv

    @Savannah-ed4rv

    11 ай бұрын

    Where do you sell them?

  • @loydacoulombe1397
    @loydacoulombe139711 ай бұрын

    One category that needs to be added to this is medical. So many people are on meds and let's not forget that horrible monthly premium for your health insurance. (Mine alone is $500 a month)

  • @corinneferrarolam5101

    @corinneferrarolam5101

    10 ай бұрын

    I came here to say this.

  • @skyeblue5669
    @skyeblue566911 ай бұрын

    I'm disabled so I live SSI Disability check to check.. It's so difficult..Somedays I just eat Ramon noodle soup or 99c Bologna and bread.. Instead of turning lights on I use Night Lights I bought a the Dollar Tree..

  • @ilc-nl3yy
    @ilc-nl3yy11 ай бұрын

    We paid off our 30 year mortgage in less than 6 years. It took discipline, but it's possible. We're not even close to being rich, and I believe many can accomplish this if they stop spending their money on nonsense. I didn't say everyone can do it, but many can.

  • @jmatos7872
    @jmatos787211 ай бұрын

    You guys are my rich auntie and uncle now. My side hustles are event staff at the local football games, concerts, and notary loan signing agent, and field inspector.

  • @graceproby2662
    @graceproby266211 ай бұрын

    Hello from England. I’m a Londoner born and bred and as you can imagine there are many places in London to visit but they cost £££. We retired and moved to Norfolk. There are so many places to visit that’s free or very low costs. Beautiful places to visit, villages, beaches, countryside. I never thought I’d leave London but I’m glad I did. I’m not perfect but try and follow your mantra. Thank you. xx 😊

  • @sunshined823
    @sunshined82311 ай бұрын

    I know it was a Angel that made this channel popping up for me. I’m sitting with a pen & pad ! I have been overwhelmed with my expenses ! I’m gonna start over & get it together ❤😊

  • @kelliedaeges555
    @kelliedaeges55511 ай бұрын

    My mom was doing this in the 70s manually. I still follow some of what I saw and learned. It's still hard to save, and for sure, in these times.

  • @LifeHackMEDIATV
    @LifeHackMEDIATV11 ай бұрын

    Every dollar has to have an assignment. Writing down where every dollar is going is an eye opening experience you will be surprised on how much money is blown. Great video

  • @NoMoreTears64
    @NoMoreTears6411 ай бұрын

    I'm in my early 60's and retired. Rent is my biggest expense and it is over 50% of my SS check. If I could figure out how to NOT have to pay rent, I would have it made. 😢. I'm very frugal. I cook meals at home, shop on senior discount days at a local thrift shop, buy a yearly zoo pass for entertainment, and drive a 9 year old car that is paid off.

  • @NikiLivi5

    @NikiLivi5

    11 ай бұрын

    Have you looked at apartments that are subsidized for older people on a fixed income? My mom lives in some. Her rent now is like $360 a month. And she’s got a 2 bedroom. It’s small but it allows her to live on her own.

  • @NoMoreTears64

    @NoMoreTears64

    11 ай бұрын

    @@NikiLivi5 The city/State where I live, there are so many trying to get housing assistance that the application process opens up for 4 hours per year. My grandkids and their single mom applied and have been told it can be a waiting list of 2-18 years. They are now planning to move away to another State. I'm trying to share my apartment with another homeless family member who works. Times are tough for a lot of people and the resources are stretched thin due to the massive influx of people crossing the border.

  • @manfredmann2766

    @manfredmann2766

    11 ай бұрын

    Move to Detroit where you can buy a house for 2000 dollars (face value).

  • @goalgether8502

    @goalgether8502

    6 ай бұрын

    @@NoMoreTears64it really is super tough these days! 😢 I work for HUD here in Tennessee and I guarantee you, it’s not because people are crossing the border. Even if they are, they wouldn’t qualify for the housing. The issue of no affordable housing is because companies bought up the market that is reserved for citizens because they’re greedy and our laws allow it. They’re now suffering and going into foreclosure because they Cabot make their payments but, this is why the waiting list is so long…not bc of immigration. Hope this helps! ❤

  • @watchmethriving
    @watchmethriving11 ай бұрын

    My side gig is making 100 envelope challenge boxes with multiple options to customize them. I'm also making items with paracord. I'll be opening an Etsy shop soon.

  • @lynjaggi7204
    @lynjaggi720411 ай бұрын

    Larry and Hope, the reason I respect your advice so much is because you guys practice what you preach! I think….hey, if they can make these changes so can I!! 👏🏼 Let’s GO!!

  • @truthseeker6370
    @truthseeker637011 ай бұрын

    I have to love how Larry was concerned about how concerned Hope was! Tho I had our budget literally spelled out by paycheck on a yellow pad sitting next to our computer for All the years we were together, my husband (the money maker) Never looked at it. Several years later, I tried to introduce the Dave Ramsey principles after a good friend loaned me her Total Money Makeover book. Nope, he refused to read it. We sadly divorced 4 years later. Money wasn't the only issue. Spouses need to be a team, as you two seem to have been since you met 😊 Major point being that spouses really need to work together as a team.

  • @annoravetz5908

    @annoravetz5908

    11 ай бұрын

    My ex was the same. I bought a budget book, showed it to him but it remained empty. He refused to discuss anything financial with me. We retained separate accounts for 14 years. We divorced, and now I realize why he kept our account separate. We would have been divorced much sooner had I known about what he was really spending his money on.

  • @nanar.8088
    @nanar.808811 ай бұрын

    I started with reading "the tightwad gazette newsletter ", later was given all three hardbound books with all their tips, love them. Also, our credit union has buckets that are connected with savings accounts, I use for vehicle, special, Christmas and gifts, medical, etc. I absolutely love this system. Now debt free and yes a frugal tightwad 😂😊

  • @cherirowden

    @cherirowden

    11 ай бұрын

    The Tightwad Gazette was my inspiration, too, MANY years ago! I think Hope and Larry, and the "Prepper Princess" come closest among KZread channels in similarity Amy's frugality level.

  • @davidahart2476
    @davidahart24762 ай бұрын

    I love your channel, I'm disabled and really have to watch my funds, The biggest drainer of my budget is eating out. The funny part is, I know how to cook it's just the laziness on me to just go out.

  • @juliemoore6957
    @juliemoore695711 ай бұрын

    As a retired hairdresser, I do a few haircuts a week for neighbors and friends. I also sell clothes on Poshmark to make a little extra money.

  • @mariasinclair9718
    @mariasinclair971811 ай бұрын

    Patience is a virtue. Thank you guys 😊

  • @0773heidi
    @0773heidi11 ай бұрын

    I’m always broke I’m taking on as much work as I can when I can get it but it’s going on bills all the time I am trying to get them Paid off but it’s a long and slow process x

  • @marisameans9859
    @marisameans985911 ай бұрын

    Life-stage officiant- weddings. Funerals, naming ceremonies, house blessings

  • @s.torres242
    @s.torres24211 ай бұрын

    My side gigs are healthy living coaching and I'm a clutter clearing professional. I started doing it before I retired from nursing. My husband is a retired minister but will guest speak for friends and does counseling.

  • @rochellethundercloud346
    @rochellethundercloud34611 ай бұрын

    How we budget is all our bills are automatically paid as soon as our money hits our account.done.easy.of course we do double check the bills are paid the right amount.we make sure no surprises or late fees, nothing like that. If I want or need something, I let hubby know ahead of time,so he can budget for it.same for him. One key way to budget is HANDLE YOUR FOUR WALLS BEFORE ANYTHING ELSE

  • @jenniferdavis2110
    @jenniferdavis211011 ай бұрын

    Always love your channel ❤

  • @Dollcan
    @Dollcan11 ай бұрын

    Always great information!

  • @itsami826
    @itsami82610 ай бұрын

    love this video! glad I found your channel 🙂

  • @RetiredLovingIt
    @RetiredLovingIt11 ай бұрын

    Very important to know what your expenses are before making budget. Great video guys

  • @Intentionaltia
    @Intentionaltia11 ай бұрын

    Love this!

  • @YounginBudgets
    @YounginBudgets7 ай бұрын

    I love this couple!

  • @esterdrass4964
    @esterdrass496410 ай бұрын

    I think the hardest thing you can do is to pay attention to what you have now and what you are spending. It is a tough truth to face, add to that, your cc balances and any other monies owed out. Writing checks knowing you don't have the money in the bank but hope and pray you will by the time the check is cashed. I started changing seriously this year...when I had to just be real and see how much money I was spending just on interest rates. If I could pay off those cc and anything with a higher interest rate...I could have so much more money. Just from that alone. It's a tough ride but a worthy one and cutting down is hard at first but shoot, after a while it becomes natural and challenging. Although, I still go overboard at the grocery store. I feel the noose loosening around my neck as each cc is paid off in full and knowing that from now on, I will pay that cc full each month...and if I know I cannot afford to do it, then I don't buy whatever it is. The amount of interest rate you can pay from cc's is astounding. It wasn't like I didn't know that, I just did it and worried about it later and that was my mistake. But, Ilove these videos as a constant reminder to keep it going. Thanks.

  • @anthonygreen362
    @anthonygreen36211 ай бұрын

    Thinks for the knowledge people need that

  • @UnadornedInIndiana
    @UnadornedInIndiana11 ай бұрын

    Helpful information. I liked the highlighter tip. Good for debit and credit card lists. Great way to quickly identify not only dollar amounts for categories, but also frequency, as in how often did i meet someone for lunch last month, and could i choose a cheaper alternative or just limit how often i go out to lunch. You've got me thinking!

  • @fourdayhomestead2839
    @fourdayhomestead283911 ай бұрын

    Great tips!! A larger emergency fund to start is great. I added a "car insurance deductable" emergency fund: after my last deer hit took half of my emergency fund😢..

  • @katworkstowander9853

    @katworkstowander9853

    11 ай бұрын

    This is a good point. I keep my deductibles (homeowners, auto, medical)in a separate account from my emergency fund because I consider it a separate category altogether along with my out of pocket medical costs.

  • @UndertheMedian

    @UndertheMedian

    11 ай бұрын

    Our son just hit a deer. It's definitely no fun at all. His damage was mainly cosmetic because the deer barely hit the front of his car. Doesn't take much damage to really add up financially, though.

  • @angielay3313

    @angielay3313

    11 ай бұрын

    Our deer hit estimate was $12,000 in damage. 😮

  • @fourdayhomestead2839

    @fourdayhomestead2839

    11 ай бұрын

    @@angielay3313 mine was $5400 on a car I paid $4000 for. Insurance fixed it (I would have taken $4000, plates off & left the keys in it!).

  • @noodlepair550
    @noodlepair55011 ай бұрын

    Good tips thank you.

  • @jmatos7872
    @jmatos787211 ай бұрын

    I liked and subscribed before I even watched the video. You guys are amazing. 🎉

  • @UndertheMedian

    @UndertheMedian

    11 ай бұрын

    Welcome to the family! We're happy to have you with us!

  • @tammyhawn637
    @tammyhawn63711 ай бұрын

    My side job is housecleaning. Love cleaning house.❤

  • @vnw06
    @vnw0611 ай бұрын

    thanks for this upload, i am currently in this boat of pay check to pay check. it has happened slowly over time. i am in the process of turning the ship around to where i was 3 years ago when i was not having this problem. while watching this upload i just went through my bank statement. and it's not the big expenses that are causing the problem. it's the small personal loans and ironically giving to charity that are the issue. the other problem from my point of view is automatic deductions from accounts. if you are already living from paycheck to paycheck. it sometimes only takes an unexpected funds transfer to a subscription or a donation to throw the whole week into chaos. just cancelled amazon music at the time of posting and there are a number of other things that are going to be cancelled over the next few weeks

  • @sjbutler2330

    @sjbutler2330

    11 ай бұрын

    Cancel donating to charities for a few years! You need it more than they do. Believe me! Get rid of all extras like subscriptions to magazines etc. Remember charity Begins at home with your loved ones. You can still volunteer if you want to give! 😊

  • @user-li2vl4yd1x
    @user-li2vl4yd1x7 ай бұрын

    I've been a High School teacher for a long long time and let me tell you guys how much I love the way you guys explain everything. You can be louder, but I doubt you could me more thorough. ❤❤❤❤❤❤❤

  • @UndertheMedian

    @UndertheMedian

    7 ай бұрын

    One of our sons is a high school teaching major. He'll teach English lit and writing. He is equally expressive. LOL!

  • @user-li2vl4yd1x

    @user-li2vl4yd1x

    7 ай бұрын

    @@UndertheMedian That's wonderful.

  • @marcellagamble6633
    @marcellagamble663311 ай бұрын

    Hi Larry and Hope. I been following your video, for a few months, and enjoy what I hear. I receive SSDI, child support, and my teenager daughter, gets a disability check too. We both lived off those incomes, and I have a side hustle, donating my plasma, twice a week. I have going to start tracking my expense, and see what could I cut back on

  • @deborahwarren5856
    @deborahwarren585611 ай бұрын

    You guys are awesome

  • @lorimcbrayer8431
    @lorimcbrayer843111 ай бұрын

    I do online surveys and class action suits with no proof needed. The most I have received with class action suits is a $77 check in September 2022.

  • @kennethdecker1217
    @kennethdecker121711 ай бұрын

    That’s what we’re doing my husband so good for budgeting

  • @kerryjames6312
    @kerryjames631211 ай бұрын

    We always live on bare bones budget

  • @hollynauss6359

    @hollynauss6359

    11 ай бұрын

    Hard to cut back/save when bare bones IS the normal budget. The only option in some cases is to get a second job.

  • @rachelrademaker2974
    @rachelrademaker297410 ай бұрын

    Y'all are the coolest couple

  • @justincaldero5174
    @justincaldero517410 ай бұрын

    Vending machine business is my side gig, we have 10 machines in locations. Like you guys, I also find stuff on the side of the road that people are throwing out and I flip those items. My wife donates plasma as her side gig

  • @vitasolano3272
    @vitasolano32729 ай бұрын

    WOW your channel has grown. now you have 163K subscribers you guys had under 20K subscribers when i started following you ! Awesome

  • @UndertheMedian

    @UndertheMedian

    9 ай бұрын

    Thanks for being a long-time viewer. We appreciate having you with us on the journey.

  • @autumnleaves9680
    @autumnleaves968011 ай бұрын

    What do you do with no ''pay check to pay check? Son doesn't have a job been looking every day for months and nothing? Ppl think it's so easy to find work. Tell me pls? How, when you send resumes out to companies and no response? No 'thank-you' the positions been filled? What happened to the day where HR would contact and acknowledge receiving a resume with meeting all the requirements for the position applied? Instead of sending and no idea if it's sitting on the bottom of a pile of others resumes submitted or in file 13? Now that's garbage! He'd love to have paychecks to pay his bills which are piling up like all the resumes he's sent out over months of waiting to get a call from someone who'd read his resume to see he's qualified! It's so pathetic and from the unemployment rate he's not alone,yet our gov's keep promising jobs. How many more days does my son need to scroll through many pages of sites,tweek his resume to get one call? Consider yourself ppl those who have jobs to go to,blessed! Even if living 'pay check to pay check'!

  • @TheLadamaglasting
    @TheLadamaglasting11 ай бұрын

    Coincidence that I'm watching this video today. Great advice 🙏

  • @uniwemusic2929
    @uniwemusic292911 ай бұрын

    Awesome‼️‼️‼️💖💙👌

  • @cathyeller5722
    @cathyeller572211 ай бұрын

    I have always been somewhat frugal, however, this has gone on for to long. Even though I am older and my house is paid off, there is no way if something were to happen to my husband that I would have enough money to cover the bills. I have done all the steps in order to have enough money for my future at least that is what I thought. At some point even with all the budgeting and doing without you just need more money. I don't want to have to skimp, set around in the dark, and continue to do without what other people consider "normal" in my old age.

  • @NikiLivi5

    @NikiLivi5

    11 ай бұрын

    Have you got life insurance for your husband? That’s how we’ve insured in case my hubby goes first. Once we get retirement age if social insecurity is still there we can each draw a check and draw off his retirement and I have a financial advisor for my retirement. I can still draw off of my husbands retirement if he passes after retirement. I couldn’t pay the bills either. And I still have 3 of 5 kids at home.

  • @sheilahughes3561
    @sheilahughes356111 ай бұрын

    Hi Larry and Hope! Am new to this channel and am really enjoying watching your old videos! We are a debt and mortgage free couple living on the south coast of England! We are making every effort to be more mindful about tracking our spending as my husband is facing possible redundancy in September at the age of 61! We recently used some inheritance to buy an apartment for our son so he did not have to worry about a mortgage or rent but he does pay all of the bills and looks after himself! Everything is so expensive here as I know it is in the US!

  • @UndertheMedian

    @UndertheMedian

    11 ай бұрын

    Welcome to the Under the Median family. We're happy to have you with us.

  • @annoravetz5908

    @annoravetz5908

    11 ай бұрын

    Your son is one lucky guy!

  • @kerryjames6312
    @kerryjames631211 ай бұрын

    In our youth we all make financial mistakes

  • @rockyhorror1969
    @rockyhorror196911 ай бұрын

    i really enjoy your channel. just wish i had met you back in 1988 and got on the budget advice then. cause it so much better to pay cash for stuff than pulling out the never ending credit card

  • @tceona
    @tceona10 ай бұрын

    Thank you for making this video, I learned so much. As for my side hustle it's making jewelry

  • @kcfmark
    @kcfmark11 ай бұрын

    I was fortunate to have older people guide me when I started work. Now, nearing retirement, I have discovered that the Bible has guided me well in my spending. I have learned the following lessons: 1. Practice a simple lifestyle. Simplicity is freedom. 2. Don't buy things you don't need to impress people you don't like. 3. Buy the best quality you can afford. Don't be fooled by the latest trends. 4. Avoid getting into debt and clear your debts as soon as possible. Debt is a trap. Learn from the wise (like you guys!). Have an obedient heart. Be open to learning from those who have more experience than you. Be willing to listen to advice and follow it. I am grateful to those who have guided me throughout my life. I hope that these lessons will help others to make wise financial decisions and live a more fulfilling life.

  • @lindawilson8434

    @lindawilson8434

    11 ай бұрын

    Yes the Bible instructs us in so many ways We tithe and we have never gone without GOD is our provider 😊

  • @lj2070
    @lj207011 ай бұрын

    I am attempting to sort the budget at the moment , but I am off work ill and there is no return to work planned, doctor says I need a disabilty pension (goverment pays this in my country) Currently on another goverment payment $800 a fortnight, rent is $720 a fortnight leaving me the $80 for all expenses, but your videos are excellent in helping me. I cancelled pay tv and went back to the libary for my dvds. Growing some salad and herbs and looking for markdowns. Lucky I don't have credit cards or car debt

  • @deltaridgway4393
    @deltaridgway439311 ай бұрын

    Hello, I really needed this, and I have watched other budget videos but yours was so easy to follow and understand..thank you....I'm 49 never have been budget friendly, and I truly need to. I'm hoping using your method will help us...I only have 2 car payments and 2 small credit cards...🙏😊

  • @UndertheMedian

    @UndertheMedian

    11 ай бұрын

    Glad it was helpful!

  • @gardeningforfunandlongevit6076
    @gardeningforfunandlongevit607611 ай бұрын

    Love what you did with your hair. Hope your new hairstyle is very attractive.

  • @UndertheMedian

    @UndertheMedian

    11 ай бұрын

    Thank you so much. I love it, too.

  • @fizzazzle
    @fizzazzle11 ай бұрын

    Great info!! Thanks. My tip is to buy a well-made car. I paid off my car in 4 years and drove it for another 13 years.

  • @llkg9

    @llkg9

    7 ай бұрын

    Agreed. My car is 13 years old, and it's got A LOT of years left because it's a well-built vehicle.

  • @jonnaborosky8836
    @jonnaborosky883611 ай бұрын

    I don't have any side gigs. It's a big mystery to me. When I was younger, yes, I did. I did sewing and alterations out of my home. I painted the outside and inside of homes. I took a weekend job as an overnight residential mental health counselor (first education). I slept there but was instantly available if someone needed something. I sold underwear part time at Victoria Secret. I don't look like the average Victoria Secret sales clerk, but I was often the biggest seller. I worked part time as the check in lady at a university cafeteria. I worked a few hours as the check in person in dormitories, to make sure nobody was being snuck in... Now, however, I'm physically not capable of almost everything. I can't take care of children because I can't pick them up, or chase after them. It's the same with animals. I can't stand up long enough to work as a clerk in a store even a few hours. I haven't had any luck with selling things on-line. I've had yard sales before and done fairly well. I don't have the ability to carry things outside now.... and I really want to get rid of a lot of stuff. I'm really at a loss about how I can make extra money now. I also get so fatigued that I can't do things on time, so If there are deadlines, it's not for me. (Oh, and I wouldn't be able to do sewing at home anymore because I don't have any place to set up a machine, and certainly, trying to pick one up and carry it anywhere is out of the question. I love to knit... but that's a very slow production. I've tried sites that are supposed to pay people for taking surveys. All I've found are those who leave me without any option beyond buy something or click out of the site. I used to be a telephonic health advisor/case worker for an insurance company. I LOVED that job, because I could personally customize care and health coaching for individuals, and reach/teach hundreds, if not thousands of people through developing and presenting health educational telephonic seminars for the employees of this or that company. I've thought about starting a KZread channel, but what would I talk about? I also am really not comfortable being so visible. I no longer look like most people... and just really like to be seen so much. God gave me this condition... and we have to thank God for everything... and I do. I just don't want to be so public anymore. Can I make an interesting enough KZread channel without being seen? I don't know. I know there are topics I'm passionate enough about to bring them up for discussion. I'm not as sharp as I used to be, either. I'm pretty sure I'll make big boo-boos. Who wants to hear that!?!? I'm just at a loss about how to go about making more money. I'm open to any and all suggestions, though! What do you think? I really NEED to make more money now, because when this year's COLA increases started up, I thought I was SO fortunate! When that $200 increase knocked me out of eligibility for $600 worth of benefits and resources I was getting... well, as you can see, I'm $400 in the hole as each month begins. I've been afraid to go to the grocery store... I get $23 a month food stamps. I'm thankful, but it doesn't go very far for a month's groceries. I'm in a no-spend year, which is really helping me right now. God does provide. I've never seen it not happen, and at times, in the most unexpected ways , so I'm hopeful. This was an intensely interesting video. Thanks for sharing! Love to both of you. ❤️

  • @sjbutler2330

    @sjbutler2330

    11 ай бұрын

    So sorry to hear of your plight. It's hard being disabled or a senior, I know. Don't be afraid to ask for help at a food bank. That is what they are for. I think you'd be great on your own you tube channel! 😊

  • @monicaluketich6913

    @monicaluketich6913

    11 ай бұрын

    I agree. Look online. (something like food banks and your county and state). I'm in Texas, a very rural area, and was shocked to find out that there are 3 food banks in my county! My neighbors and I have gotten together and plan which one or ones we need to go to. Here they have different packages for different groups: senior citizens, low income, and disabled. Each bank gets different foods - one may have canned goods or prepackaged foods, one always has fresh chicken and fresh vegetables, and the third has basic pantry foods. Depending on what I'm low on, I go to 1 or 2. Going as a group allows us to help each other to unpack the vehicle at each house. One place will take your food to the vehicle, while the other 2 are drive-through: open the trunk or unlock the doors, and they put it all in for you. Most of my neighbors are senior citizens like me, so this has REALLY helped. As for KZread, they have changed all the rules recently. Unless you can get companies to sponsor you, it is really hard now to make money there. Check your area for resale shops or people who will come and look at what you want to sell and will tell you if they could sell it or put it on commission. I have to take a BUNCH of pictures for a lady I talked to earlier this week about signed prints, antique dishes and other stuff that she would buy from me and then resale. I wouldn't get the amount of $$ I could get if I sold it myself, but my time and energy will be worth the cut if I can get some of this stuff out of here! Best of luck to you. Many of us are in similar situations and understand.

  • @sherrybendall5817

    @sherrybendall5817

    11 ай бұрын

    First of all, God did not give you that condition. Jesus paid the full price on the cross. Get some good Bible teaching. Secondly, LiveOps is a work from home as an independent contractor, company. It is phone work with a computer. Lots of people supplement their social security and disability income there. They are legitimate. I worked as an independent insurance contractor and a W-2 employee. (They do other things besides insurance.) Look them up. Hope that helps!

  • @TruthSeekerxyz2

    @TruthSeekerxyz2

    11 ай бұрын

    Have you tried pet sitting?

  • @rachelgaac

    @rachelgaac

    10 ай бұрын

    If you are good with teaching little ones, my grandma got paid at her local school system to mentor and tutor

  • @debramillner6588
    @debramillner658811 ай бұрын

    Love your informative and inspiring videos. I know people that complain about living paycheck to paycheck yet they eat out all the time. Will people ever learn? Keep the videos coming. P.S. Larry, I really like the way you style your hair. I couldn't help but notice as I am a retired hairdresser.

  • @Savannah-ed4rv

    @Savannah-ed4rv

    11 ай бұрын

    Sometimes eating out actually seems to save me money because the portions are so big that I can get two, three or even four meals out of one restaurant order. So if I pay $13 for a meal and get four servings out of it that's what $3 a serving? I don't see that that's terribly expensive but maybe I'm deluded. I do try to make any restaurant meals last quite a while

  • @sjbutler2330

    @sjbutler2330

    11 ай бұрын

    I agree! Once in a blue moon I order a pizza. It lasts me for 3-4 meals. That's not bad, and we are helping to support our local restaurant s!!!

  • @janetsalazar-krom4409

    @janetsalazar-krom4409

    10 ай бұрын

    My husband is a pest control so be hard to not to eat out. I can make my lunch and take it to work because I work at a nursing home.

  • @mirthfulllaugh
    @mirthfulllaugh11 ай бұрын

    Good video. I used Dave Ramsey's plan to get out of debt

  • @beneachus4901
    @beneachus490111 ай бұрын

    It’s a monthly subscription but I really like Rocket Money for budgeting. It’s good for anyone who has a hard time doing it on their own. Just give them your bank info and they track everything for you. It’ll tell you your spending right away and you’ll be able to easily make your budget and categorize everything. You can also use it to cancel subscriptions or lower your internet/phone bill

  • @scarrasquillotorres
    @scarrasquillotorres11 ай бұрын

    My side job is a full-time job at a local laundromat.

  • @barbhopell1649
    @barbhopell164911 ай бұрын

    I love the bloopers! Lol

  • @melissaroot1092
    @melissaroot109211 ай бұрын

    Market gardening! Asparagus, garlic, strawberries ☺️

  • @valeried2941
    @valeried294111 ай бұрын

    I love your videos but I struggle with the air conditioner on during my asthma and pollen seasons So this year I cut back on groceries...genetic and low priced And only eat out once a month at worse case scenario! I actually can do a bit more.I use drugstore makeup and use lots from dollar store...no debt here. Why do I feel my health should be sacrificed for the cost of AC..So I do side gigs etc to help! Great videos!

  • @KC-dr3cg
    @KC-dr3cg11 ай бұрын

    Allstate in my area has a plan for auto insurance that it is 30 cent a mile +$3.00 a day. I live only two miles to a Dollar Tree and post office in grocery store With full coverage and zero deductible on my 2021 car I will pay $16.80 a MONTH for insurance

  • @mariejones7136
    @mariejones713611 ай бұрын

    Im retired on limited income but I'm looking for babysitting or something..I water fast for health and saves money on food .my guy and I share a car ..We go to free events ..my whole income goes to expenses ..we don't eat out much or at all..

  • @marky7802

    @marky7802

    11 ай бұрын

    Hey you don't have to worry about food that much being in US. Just order something like groceries, junk food, home supplies from target/walmart and look for refunds. I bought ps5, 70" tv and now aiming for a phone. It's like I get back my grocery money so I just spend it on other stuff

  • @carmenhampton2946
    @carmenhampton294611 ай бұрын

    Under The Median ❤❤❤

  • @barbarabruce7648
    @barbarabruce764811 ай бұрын

    Larry and Hope, I think for those who are needing more money, your strategy of cutting back by 10% would help. 10% less on groceries, fuel, water, electricity is something.

  • @baus7
    @baus710 ай бұрын

    I am slowly learning and realizing a lot as time goes on. We spend a god awful amount on sodas, snack cakes, chips, candy, paper towels, toilet paper, frozen foods, bottled waters, cheese etc. Do we really need that stuff to survive? Surviving and thrivinf are two totally different things. We can cut out our use of laundry soap and dish soap by 50% if we really wanted to, Lord knows we use far too much in every load. You would make your Money back on a bidet in about 4 months time, plus they'll keep you cleaner. There are ways to wash your laundry without soap, using all natural materials that create enzymes when water, the beads and friction come together. To "make it" and stop living check-to-check, we simply have to cut out spending on those items 100% and realize we HAVE to compromise short term for long term sucess. Sit in the dark, unplug all thing unless in immediate use. Be a little uncomfortable with the AC higher than normal. Go to bed as soon as it is dark as to not use the energy for the lights and t.v. We have to start treating it like its life or death, because for many, it is life or death, or it will be soon. There are ways. It just comes down to just how bad you want it... 🩵

  • @thomaschew2191
    @thomaschew219111 ай бұрын

    Great story, similar to ours. Lots of good info! Early on one thing we did was simply stop buying on debt. Our debt load was the problem not so much income. So at first we simply stopped buying on debt. We snowballed our debt. We stopped spending on stupid stuff. About halfway through our debt journey we decided to get serious that was when we created our written budget. From that point on we went full Dave. It took us about 5 years but this included everything including our mortgage. Today we have almost 8 months in our emergency fund and still hard to believe we have no debt! I put 25% of my income into my 401K, Sue puts 12% in her 503B. Our salaries are close to the same we are currently, even with my 25% going to my 401K can pay our expenses with what is left from mine and put all of Sue's pay into savings. This is a lot different from living paycheck to paycheck which we were doing literally 6 years ago, that was where we were, broke. I would say that we eliminated about $800/month of dumb spending plus not making any debt payments is a total life changer. We also started to educate ourselves on personal finance. We hired a financial advisor just to give us a reality check, she made only a few small suggestions. We met this lady at a free seminar on social security. What that tells me is even if we are terrible with finances, which we were, if we want to change and want to learn we can do this. Our thinking and behavior is totally different now, much more frugal these days. For the almost 5 years we were in debt payoff mode we ate out 3 times total, maybe 5 times we bought takeout food. June 1st was our anniversary, we went on a low budget 3 night 4 day car trip, the first overnight trip we have taken in over 7 years. I cannot really express just how sweet that time was, everything paid for from a pre-established sinking fund, it was just so nice.

  • @UndertheMedian

    @UndertheMedian

    11 ай бұрын

    Love your story. Thanks for sharing.

  • @edenisejohnson9214
    @edenisejohnson921411 ай бұрын

    At my age I need to have a category for medical.

  • @catherinebenton3637
    @catherinebenton363711 ай бұрын

    I’m so glad we do not live like this anymore many times we stole from Peter to pay Paul got into a lot of cc debt Now we have two credit cards left both should be paid off at the end of the yr

  • @theresamcclure7333
    @theresamcclure733311 ай бұрын

    You two are so cute! 😊

  • @nicktaran4703
    @nicktaran470310 ай бұрын

    In the budget step all I can say is lots and lots of details. Since I'm a data nut, I take a lot of data to see what my money is doing month after month. So I can make my money do what I want it to. I am constantly averaging my bills and adjusting my budget.

  • @tirzah-marielewis3447
    @tirzah-marielewis344710 ай бұрын

    My husband and I were swiping our debit card all the time. Budgeting seemed so overwhelming so we sat down with a blank spreadsheet and walked through each month from Jan this year just putting expenses in four buckets: living, bills, debts short term, debts long term. These made sense to us. The tally showed us what was really happening and the numbers are finally real. It was a pre step to budgeting but without seeing it ($500/ month spent at Amazon 😮) budgeting felt like punishment now it feels like a really attractive challenge.