My Life

You've got a new job and your own money. Now's the time to learn smart ways to make a budget, pay your bills, and start saving.

Whether it's a fixer-upper or the house of your dreams, the answer to "how much can you afford?" comes down to your monthly income, your other financial obligations, and a simple formula.

Anyone can lose a job, for a variety of reasons, at any time. If you find yourself in this situation, take these seven steps right away to help ease the financial pain.

Every week Carrie answers today's perplexing money questions in her nationally syndicated Ask Carrie column. Carrie Schwab-Pomerantz, CFP^®, is a leading advocate for financial literacy and one of America's most trusted sources for financial advice.