by allthedifference
- Make your job your number one priority. Be at work on time, work hard, contribute, don’t cause problems, keep your employer informed if you do have to miss work (try not to). Read the employee handbook and follow the rules. You don’t want to lose that DOT job.
- Live frugally. Think cheap apartment, secondhand clothes and furniture, preparing food at home. Depending on where you live, there may be plenty of free stuff. Check craigs list and facebook market and other sites. Building an emergency fund is more important than having a new sofa.
- Don’t overpay on a car. Don’t get more car than you need or overpay on what you buy. If you need a car, do your research. Used reliable car is what you need. There are so many tools on line to determine a fair price so have that knowledge when you go to purchase a car. If you don’t need a car, don’t buy one.
- If you need any healthcare, stay in network with your insurance. Confirm whatever provider or facility or pharmacy or lab you go is in your insurance network. Get a primary care doctor. Emergency rooms are only for emergencies. Use convenience clinics or urgent care if it can’t wait for your primary care doctor. You don’t want a $1,200 bill for strep throat.
- Contribute to your 401K at least up to any employer match. Contribute more if you can.
- If you have a high-deductible health plan, get an HSA.
- File your taxes every year on time.
- Guard your personal information. There are so many scammers and schemes going around. If you have not been exposed to these people, they may have an advantage. Do not give your personal information to anyone who calls you or emails you.
- Do not spend money you don’t have except for a home. Maybe a one time exception for a car if you need one for your job. You have to get to work.
Views: