Michelle Singletary’s money milestones for every age
Select a decade below for our personal finance columnist's take on some of the biggest financial considerations for that age group.
We have updated this project with additional content for those 90 and older. For more by Michelle, read her latest columns.
Young or old, personal finance is complicated. The knowledge and discipline needed to run your financial life can be overwhelming. How do you know if you’re on track? How prepared are you to weather an unexpected job loss or costly repair? Can you spot a scam? It’s hard to know whom to trust when so many people are after your money.
As The Washington Post’s longtime personal finance columnist, I’ve received hundreds of your questions, and I’ve compiled the most frequent ones in this guide. There’s advice for every decade of your financial life, from 20-somethings just starting out to retirees enjoying the fruits of their smart planning to advice that applies at any decade. Each stage involves making decisions that can affect your short- and long-term goals. Identifying your money milestones can help you spend less, save more and build wealth at any age.
[Post Reports: How to be smart with your money at every age]
Because some financial deliberations are ongoing, certain topics appear in multiple decades.
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Don’t give anyone money without consulting someone you trust
I’m turning 26. What do I do about health care?
What should you consider before moving in with a partner?
Why you might need a secured credit card
Learn to manage a checking and savings account
I want to invest, and not just for retirement. Where do I put my money?
Do I still need term life insurance?
You’ve hit 62. When should you take Social Security?
You’re nearing full retirement age for Social Security. Now what?
No will? Get that done. Now!
You’re finally making decent money. Here’s how much you should save.
If you’re thinking about a wedding, here’s how to budget
Should I sell my home?
Is it time to get a credit card?
Do I really need all that money in an emergency fund?
Social Security benefits max out at 70. What are you waiting for?
What you need to know about your retirement account when you hit 73.
How to talk to your adult children about your finances
How do I budget for rising health-care costs?
Should you help grandchildren pay for college?
Should I pay off my mortgage before I retire?
At 65, don’t forget to sign up for Medicare Parts B and D
I’ve never owned a home. Is it too late to buy?
How you should prepare for long-term care
You’re 59½ and can tap your retirement account without penalty. Should you?
What should you do if you can no longer live on your own?
Should you put adult children on the deed to your home?
How do you know when you are ready for a child?
What to do if you’re having trouble making your student loan payments
How much should you put in a retirement account?
What is FICA and why is it on my paycheck?
Should I be readjusting my retirement plan?
I’m still renting. Is that bad?
My credit is a mess. What can I do?
I’m still young. Do I need a will?
What percentage of my income should I spend on housing?
I’m single, no kids: What if I need someone to care for me or my money?
Is a retirement community right for you?
What’s your financial legacy?
Am I being cheap if I want to be cremated?
Should I prepay for my funeral?
How to make student loan debt more manageable
Do I really need life insurance?
Is graduate school worth it?
Should you pay to freeze your eggs?
When it’s smart to still be living at home
Start investing for retirement. Your older self will thank you.
Are you ready to be a homeowner?
When is the right time to talk to my parents about their financial plans for retirement?
Retirement is around the corner. How to play catch-up.
I’m in my mid-50s and don’t have much saved. Can I afford to retire?
Is it too late to get long-term care insurance?
How do you decide what to leave your heirs?
I’ve been a saver all my life. How do I switch to spending?
Should I get a reverse mortgage?
When to meet with a financial planner
Should I get a 30-year mortgage or a 15-year loan?
Should I merge bank accounts with a spouse or partner?
Got kids? Here’s the best way to save for college.
How will a divorce affect my finances?
Can I put my pet in my will?
Watch out for scams