Current Edition Summer 2012 May 21, 2013

Questions from our collegians about their real-world money matters are answered by financial professional Michelle Gold.

Dear
Michelle . . .

Dear Chi Omega collegians:
Thank you so much for submitting smart and thoughtful questions related to your finances! My suggestions here are strategies to help with budgeting, retirement, college planning, paying off student loans, investments, insurance, debt settlement, and more.

Financial independence is a realistic goal for everyone and the best way to achieve your dreams is to plan for them. One way to start today is by meeting with an experienced financial professional. Taking your first steps toward financial security will give you the peace of mind you deserve.

Here are some questions asked by Chi Omega collegians and my responses. —Michelle

Frequently Asked Questions

Budgeting
  • How can I manage my money so I can treat myself every once and a while?
  • What should a standard month-to-month budget look like for a young professional?
Credit
  • I wish I knew more about establishing credit! Any tips?
  • Should I get a credit card to establish a good credit score? Also, what are the pros and cons of getting a credit card?
Student Loans
  • How do I pay back my student loans? Is there a minimum per month payment?
  • How much will student loans affect me and how long will it take to pay them off?
  • How am I going to pay back my college loans and afford graduate school?
  • How much should I pay on my student loans each month vs. saving?
Saving
  • What is the best way to save money for my future and still have enough for the present?
  • Why is it so hard to save money?
  • I wish I knew more about smart ways to save money. Any suggestions?
Investing
  • How much of my paycheck should I devote to my emergency/savings fund?
  • How much of my (potential future) paycheck should I put aside into savings?
  • When should I start investing money for retirement?

Michelle’s six key areas of focus regarding financial freedom:

1) Cash Flow (income, additional income, managing expenses)
2) Debt Management (consolidating debt, striving to eliminate debt)
3) Emergency Funds ( saving three- to six months’ income and preparing for emergency expenses/situations)
4) Proper Protection (protecting against loss of income and family assets)
5) Asset Accumulation (outpacing inflation and minimizing taxation, professional money management)
6) Estate Preservation (reducing estate taxes and building a family legacy)


About the Author

A Phi Chapter/U of Southern California initiate, Michelle Gold is a financial professional in the Los Angeles area.

World Financial Group, Inc. (WFG) is a financial services marketing company whose affiliates offer life insurance and a broad array of financial products and services.

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