If you’re expecting a baby, then congratulations – but don’t forget to include financial planning in your preparations. According to Matthew Teeple, becoming a parent can be expensive, and it pays to think about how finances may change once your new bundle of joy arrives. Don’t worry, though – there are some great tips for getting financially prepared for having a baby that can help take the stress out of parenthood before it even begins. From planning ahead to managing long-term expenses, read on now to discover advice on how best to tackle the financial side of parenting.
Matt Teeple Tips For Preparing Financially For A Baby
1. Start Tracking Your Spending
Before a baby arrives, it’s important, as per Matthew Teeple, to start tracking your spending habits so you can make sure that you are allocating enough funds for the baby and their needs. You may want to create a budget or use an app like Mint that will help you keep track of how much money is going in and out of your bank accounts each month. This way, you’ll be able to see exactly what room you have in your monthly budget for the baby post-arrival. You may even find creative ways to cut back on your spending to free up more space for things like diapers or formula—or put away money into savings for future costs such as doctor visits or school supplies.
2. Create an Emergency Fund
An emergency fund is a great way to make sure that you’re prepared for unexpected costs related to the baby, such as medical bills or surprise expenses. You can create an emergency fund by setting aside money each month into a savings account and having it automatically transferred from your checking account. Make sure that you’re saving enough to cover at least six months of living expenses in case of any unforeseen financial hardships that may arise when bringing home a new baby.
3. Research Insurance Options
It’s important to research what insurance options are available for parents-to-be so you can find a plan that works best for your budget and family size. Whether through a marketplace, employer-sponsored health plan, or Medicaid and CHIP (Children’s Health Insurance Program), make sure you do your research ahead of time so you can be prepared for any medical costs that may come up after the baby arrives.
4. Start Saving For College
When preparing financially for a new baby, it’s important, as per Matthew Teeple, to start thinking about their future—including college expenses. Depending on how soon you want to start saving, there are many different options available such as 529 plans or Coverdell Education Savings Accounts (ESA). These accounts allow funds to grow tax-free so they can be used later on when college becomes a reality. The earlier you start putting away money into these accounts, the more you’ll have saved up when the time comes.
Matt Teeple Concluding Thoughts
By taking these steps that Matthew Teeple highlights here before a baby arrives, you can make sure that you are financially prepared for whatever may come your way. Start tracking your spending habits, create a fund, research insurance options and start saving for college—all of these will help give you peace of mind as you enter parenthood. With these tips in mind, you’ll be able to confidently face any financial challenges that may arise after welcoming a new addition to your family.