Invest in Yourself with First United Bank

Join us for a monthly Lunch and Learn with Alea Schuyler from First United Bank! Feel free to bring your lunch -- the library will provide the coffee! Each month stands alone, so come when you can! The topics will alternate between Budgeting 101 and Credit Basics.

Master your money, control your future. Learn the secrets to financial freedom and build a budget that works for you.

Your journey to financial readiness starts here.

A budget is simply a spending plan that helps you manage your money. It's a tool that helps you decide in advance how you'll use the money you earn or receive. Think of it as a roadmap for your finances. 

Why You Need a Budget

A budget helps you:

 * Track Your Money: It shows you where your money is coming from (your income) and where it's going (your expenses). This makes you more aware of your spending habits.

 * Achieve Your Goals: Whether you're saving for a down payment on a house, a new car, or an emergency fund, a budget helps you set and reach those financial goals.

 * Avoid Debt: By planning ahead, you can make sure you're not spending more than you earn, which helps you avoid debt and the stress that comes with it.

The Three Main Parts of a Budget

 * Income: All the money you receive, such as from a job, a side hustle, or gifts.

 * Expenses: All the money you spend. These are often broken down into two types:

   * Needs: Things you absolutely must have, like housing, food, and utilities.

   * Wants: Things you'd like to have but could live without, like subscriptions, dining out, or new clothes.

 * Savings: The money you set aside for future goals, emergencies, or investments.

By subtracting your expenses and savings from your income, you can see if your budget is balanced. The goal is to have enough income to cover your needs, wants, and savings, ensuring you're building a financially secure future.