Debt Free Forties Blog

couple working on a budget

Which Personal Budget Categories You Actually Need

Let’s be honest – the idea of budgeting freaks a lot of people out. Budget basics can be hard enough – and then toss a bunch of budget categories into the mix? No wonder the majority of folks nope right outta there and never come back. Not that I can blame them. Think about it…

The best passive income ideas to boost your income

Passive Income vs Active Income: What’s the Difference?

As we got serious about paying off our debt and budgeting, we also decided it was time to look into passive income vs active income. There’s always overtime at work or picking up side gigs, but as the kids (and I) get older, the less I want to work 60+ hours a week. Call me…

Hands pulling money out of wallet with text that reads How to Slam Dunk Getting Approved for Any Loan Immediately

What are the 4 C’s of Credit for Getting a Mortgage?

Are you considering getting a house, car, or personal loan this year (or in the next 2 – 3)? If so, you’re going to need to know about the 4 c’s of credit. No, they’re not horsemen bringing the apocalypse or the top cuss words your kids will spout out in front of their kindergarten…

Cheap dinner ideas for when you're broke

Delicious Dirt Cheap Meals for When You’re Broke

When it comes to budgeting, one of the easiest places to overspend is the food category. Finding dirt cheap meals is a great way to help balance your spending and live more frugally. We’re so busy running from work to picking up kids to extracurricular activities, it’s important to find the easiest and cheapest dinner…

man using calculator

What Is Liquid Net Worth & How to Calculate Yours

Chances are, you’ve probably heard the term “liquid net worth” thrown around a time or two in the personal finance realm. But, what exactly is liquid net worth? And, why is it an important thing to know? Liquid Net Worth Defined Liquid net worth is basically the amount of money you’ve got in cash or…

woman kneading dough with rolling pin on counter

60+ Frugal Living Tips from the Great Depression

Using frugal living tips from the Great Depression era is a great way to teach yourself how to live frugally on less and save more. The Great Depression was a time of vast struggle, pain, and hard times for many people due to a lack of jobs, money, and resources. However, one small good thing…

speech bubble that reads 40+ inspirational financial freedom quotes

40+ Financial Freedom Quotes to Inspire

If you’re pursuing true financial independence, it’s essential to find ways to keep yourself inspired to stay on task. Reading financial freedom quotes is a great way to keep your head in the game and focused on a good financial plan. What is the meaning of financial freedom? The meaning of financial freedom can vary…

The best cheap places to eat when you don't feel like cooking

The Best Cheap Places to Eat when You Don’t Want to Cook

Having a handy list of cheap places to eat might not sound like the best way to start living below your means. But being prepared for those days when you can’t stand to cook can be a great way to avoid blowing your food budget for the month. Meal planning is a great way to…

How to Stop Spending Money You Don’t Have

If you want to know how to stop spending money that you don’t have, you have to address two pieces of your life: the mental/emotional side and the practical/budgeting side. Spending more than you earn is living beyond your means, and in short, means you’re going to end up in plenty of credit card debt. The…