Insightful Articles
For Teachers and Retiring Professionals
Explore insightful articles and practical tips designed to guide educators through the com
Insightful Articles
For Teachers and Retiring Professionals
Explore insightful articles and practical tips designed to guide educators through the com
Read Our Latest Blog
Empower yourself with knowledge, discover real-life success stories, and navigate the road to financial well-being with our expert insights. Let's transform the way educators approach their finances and build a future that shines as brightly as their passion for teaching.
Read Our Latest Blog
Empower yourself with knowledge, discover real-life success stories, and navigate the road to financial well-being with our expert insights. Let's transform the way educators approach their finances and build a future that shines as brightly as their passion for teaching.
Wednesday Wealth Notes #2
Budgeting Breakdown: The 50/30/20 Rule vs. Zero‑Based Budgeting
Which method works best for teachers? Let’s compare.
If you’ve ever looked at your paycheck and thought, “Where did that go?”—you’re not alone. Budgeting helps you take back control and direct your dollars with purpose. But which method is right for your teacher lifestyle?
The 50/30/20 Rule (Simple & Flexible)
This rule breaks your take-home pay into three broad categories:
50% Needs: Rent/mortgage, groceries, insurance, transportation, minimum debt payments
30% Wants: Dining out, hobbies, travel, entertainment
20% Savings & Debt Repayment: Emergency fund, retirement contributions, extra loan payments
Great for beginners or busy educators who want structure without the spreadsheets
May not account for irregular income (like summer work) or debt-heavy budgets
Zero‑Based Budgeting (Every Dollar Assigned)
This method gives every dollar a job, down to the last cent. Your income minus expenses should equal zero.
You’ll create categories like:
Rent: $1,200
Utilities: $150
Classroom Supplies: $50
Fun Money: $75
Retirement Savings: $200
Ideal for teachers who want precision and want to maximize every dollar
Takes more time upfront and requires regular updates, especially if income varies.
Teacher Tip:
If you're paid biweekly or only 10 months out of the year, zero-based budgeting can help you plan ahead for months without a paycheck. But if you’re just starting out or feeling overwhelmed, the 50/30/20 rule is a solid way to build awareness and momentum.
Action Step of the Week
Pick ONE method to try for the next 30 days. Use a simple Google Sheet or budgeting app like YNAB, Goodbudget, or EveryDollar to test it out.
Need help? Book a free coaching call or ask a question in the TTM Educators Circle!
Member Highlight
"I always thought budgeting meant giving things up. Turns out, it means choosing what matters most."
— Amanda L., HS Science Teacher
Remember, your budget isn’t a cage, it’s a compass.
Let it point you toward your goals, not away from joy.
With clarity and care,
Rose Mendonca
Founder, Teacher Talks Money
rosetalksmoney@gmail.com | TeacherTalksMoney.com
Know an educator who could benefit from this blog? Give it a share!
Wednesday Wealth Notes #2
Budgeting Breakdown: The 50/30/20 Rule vs. Zero‑Based Budgeting
Which method works best for teachers? Let’s compare.
If you’ve ever looked at your paycheck and thought, “Where did that go?”—you’re not alone. Budgeting helps you take back control and direct your dollars with purpose. But which method is right for your teacher lifestyle?
The 50/30/20 Rule (Simple & Flexible)
This rule breaks your take-home pay into three broad categories:
50% Needs: Rent/mortgage, groceries, insurance, transportation, minimum debt payments
30% Wants: Dining out, hobbies, travel, entertainment
20% Savings & Debt Repayment: Emergency fund, retirement contributions, extra loan payments
Great for beginners or busy educators who want structure without the spreadsheets
May not account for irregular income (like summer work) or debt-heavy budgets
Zero‑Based Budgeting (Every Dollar Assigned)
This method gives every dollar a job, down to the last cent. Your income minus expenses should equal zero.
You’ll create categories like:
Rent: $1,200
Utilities: $150
Classroom Supplies: $50
Fun Money: $75
Retirement Savings: $200
Ideal for teachers who want precision and want to maximize every dollar
Takes more time upfront and requires regular updates, especially if income varies.
Teacher Tip:
If you're paid biweekly or only 10 months out of the year, zero-based budgeting can help you plan ahead for months without a paycheck. But if you’re just starting out or feeling overwhelmed, the 50/30/20 rule is a solid way to build awareness and momentum.
Action Step of the Week
Pick ONE method to try for the next 30 days. Use a simple Google Sheet or budgeting app like YNAB, Goodbudget, or EveryDollar to test it out.
Need help? Book a free coaching call or ask a question in the TTM Educators Circle!
Member Highlight
"I always thought budgeting meant giving things up. Turns out, it means choosing what matters most."
— Amanda L., HS Science Teacher
Remember, your budget isn’t a cage, it’s a compass.
Let it point you toward your goals, not away from joy.
With clarity and care,
Rose Mendonca
Founder, Teacher Talks Money
rosetalksmoney@gmail.com | TeacherTalksMoney.com
Know an educator who could benefit from this blog? Give it a share!
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