SoFi Blog

Budgeting is a drag. This is a fact of life. Another fact of life: Budgeting is totally necessary.

Budgeting isn’t fun not only because it means you can’t buy everything in sight, but also because it means you have to spend time looking over your past purchases (which almost always feels like re-reading your fifteen-year-old diary).

But, you’re a responsible adult, and you did it. You set aside a couple (gasp) Saturdays in front of your computer cooking the books and you’ve come up with a plan that allows you to maintain your lifestyle, improve your finances, and keep abreast of your essential payments.

Sometimes, however, you can get busted. Much like any diet, (and a budget is basically a money diet) cheat days can get out of control and the numbers can get way off base.

Check out these common budget busters and how to avoid them. Then you’ll likely have enough money left for those cheat days (because you included them in your budget).

Sometimes it feels like the more you learn about money and investing, the more you need to know. And that’s why we’re also sharing a few downloadable or streamed podcasts that we feel do a good job of talking money.

We’re all about simplifying finances and making investing easy. Often, the people featured on these highlighted podcasts may offer tips and tricks that may complement any other guidance you’re absorbing.

Hey, it’s hard to discount free tips and tricks, especially when your financial journey may not always be free of stress. It’s good to feel like you’re not alone in this. We’re here for you, of course, and these podcasts can make good company when you’re feeling the pressure.

You might want to give a listen to some or all of the following money podcasts.

The start of the year is a common time for reflection, and last year was an amazing year in the markets. Despite geopolitical headwinds, the U.S. stock market reached all-time highs and all major asset classes around the globe ended the year in positive territory.

As you settle into the new year, let’s recap some major highlights from last year along with some potential developments to monitor.

After a few years in the dorms, you and your friends are thrilled to be moving into your very own college apartment. You have grand plans for decorating the space to highlight each of your eclectic styles and make it feel like a relaxing sanctuary you can return to after a busy day of classes and meetings on campus.

Unfortunately, your bank account has other ideas. The list of decor you’ve compiled isn’t exactly in line with what you can realistically afford on a college student’s budget. You may have to forgo the Himalayan salt lamp for more practical apartment additions like, you know, dishes?

With a little effort (and some flexibility in your wish list) you can find ways to furnish your apartment on a budget.

Continuing your education through graduate school can be an exciting decision. Grad school can mean an opportunity to further your knowledge and expertise in your chosen field, and may lead to a lucrative and fulfilling career. But all that potential often comes with a shiny price tag.

The average graduate student spent approximately $24,812 on grad school costs during the 2016-17 school year, according to the most recent “How America Pays for Graduate School” report by Sallie Mae.

In reality, the actual cost of getting a graduate degree can vary widely due to a number of different factors including the type of degree you are pursuing and enrollment status.