5.6 Assignment Case Study and Reflection
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Maximizing Financial Surplus: Prioritizing Savings and Investments
Introduction
In this article, we will discuss the best strategies for handling a financial surplus in your budget.
Drawing inspiration from Madison's current financial situation, we will explore the importance
of prioritizing savings in different areas and offer specific advice on savings goals, retirement
planning, and investment habits.
Summary of Madison's Financial Situation
Madison's current financial situation showcases a positive net cash flow, indicating that she has
extra funds available after meeting her monthly expenses. Her savings account balance is not
mentioned, but she has the opportunity to allocate her surplus wisely. Madison has various
expenses, including rent, utilities, groceries, and loan payments, while also enjoying occasional
dining out and entertainment.
Prioritizing Savings: Emergency Fund and Short-term Goals
The first step for Madison should be establishing an emergency fund to cover unforeseen
expenses. A recommended goal is to save three to six months' worth of living expenses (Blue &
Smith 2018). Given her surplus, Madison can allocate a portion each month towards this fund
until she reaches the desired amount. This safety net ensures financial stability in the face of
unexpected events.
Additionally, Madison may have specific short-term goals, such as a home improvement project
or saving for a car. By defining these goals and assigning a timeframe, she can determine the
monthly contribution needed to achieve them. Prioritizing these savings ensures progress
towards desired milestones.
Retirement Planning: Balancing Current Needs and Future Security
While Madison should focus on short-term goals and emergency savings, she should also
consider retirement planning. It is important to strike a balance between current needs and future
financial security.
To start, Madison should contribute a portion of her surplus towards retirement savings. While
the exact amount depends on her income, it is generally recommended to save at least 10-15% of
pre-tax income for retirement. She can utilize retirement accounts such as a 401(k), Individual
Retirement Account (IRA), or a Roth IRA (Blue & Smith, 2018). These accounts offer tax
advantages and long-term growth potential.
Paying off Student Loans: Pros and Cons
Madison should assess her student loan situation and weigh the pros and cons of paying it off
more aggressively. Pros of aggressive repayment include reducing overall interest paid and
achieving debt freedom sooner. However, it's important to consider the impact on her monthly
budget and overall savings goals.
If Madison has a manageable interest rate on her student loans and her surplus allows her to
comfortably meet other financial obligations while saving for emergencies and retirement, she
may consider making regular monthly payments. By balancing loan repayment with other
savings goals, Madison can maintain financial stability while still reducing her debt over time.
Calculating Retirement Savings
To estimate the potential retirement savings, we used the Schwab Retirement Calculator. By
inputting her current savings, monthly contributions, expected rate of return, and retirement age
of 65, a rough estimate of her retirement fund was to contribute $9,100 annually to her fund with
a projected spending amount of $45,000 per year in retirement. This can help her set realistic
goals and determine if she needs to adjust her savings rate to meet her retirement objectives.
Personal Savings and Investment Habits
My personal savings and investment habits are extremely goal oriented. My number one goal is
to continue to live debt-free, and most of my earned money is put towards tuition and bills such
as rent. I also have long-term investments in my IRA, with my employer matching up to 3% of
what I invest, which I know will be a positive outcome for my future. I would recommend to
regularly review and adjust your savings and investment habits to align with your long-term
objectives. Diversifying investments and reassessing risk tolerance periodically are great ways to
do so.
Conclusion
Maximizing a financial surplus involves strategic allocation of funds across various savings
goals, retirement planning, and debt management. Madison can prioritize building an emergency
fund, pursuing short-term goals, contributing to retirement savings, and carefully evaluating the
pros and cons of paying off her student loans more aggressively. By balancing these priorities,
Madison can achieve financial stability and set a strong foundation for her future.
Blue, R., & Smith, B. (2018). “MASTERING PERSONAL FINANCES, A BIBLICAL
APPROACH” (1st ed.). BVT Publishing.
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