BBP REAL LIFE BUDGET | Living Paycheck to Paycheck + Debt

[@CantoDeAmor259]

Even better, hubby stays home during the day and picks up evening shifts and weekend shifts somewhere to bring in a grand or two a month to chuck at debt. We did it for years

[@user-qe4hc5hm7m]

☝️Text me on watsap... Thanks for watching..

[@Xxbubbly10]

👏

[@Xxbubbly10]

I’m so happy I’ve only had one credit card and it’s only 2500

[@musaafirah]

​@@kalyns4855 I had a Chewy bill that high for one dog because she needed prescription hypoallergenic food and a prebiotic (or she had A LOT of issues), tried to cut them or switch a bunch of times but it was the only thing that prevented the issues so the one thing I can say for that is that there may be a legit reason it has to be that high.

[@private9013]

I agree 💯! He needs to get a night job when wife comes home.

[@ccccccchhhhhh808]

The elephant in the room: he's a manager bringing home less than $3k a month. He doesn't seem to need to stay home, he needs a new job. Not to place judgement, but between the huge difference in income and the fact that he has resigned to always having debt, I think there are some other dynamics at play here.

[@miriam5714]

This. I doubt their situation will change. The husdband will not leave his job to stay home

[@rachelannelopez805]

Agree. And the numbers aren’t the only factor in whether dad should stay home. That could be a mistake- he may not be good at being a stay at home dad and also may never want to go back to work. Maybe sell one of the cars, cancel the housekeeper, get rid of storage bill. Don’t stop saving for college.

[@sagewert2174]

I agree that he needs a new job, hes making 3k a month but spent 100k on school, hes never going to be able to pay that off with this current job

[@AnnaLauraBrownHealthCoach]

yep. and these days he can probably find a remote/work from home job that pays at least that is not more.

[@rachelgilbert3164]

So many “money” issues often have underlying causes coming from emotional pain or insecurity. I love that Miko and this community are not judgmental, because we’re all in this together!

[@feliciab136]

My husband and I could not afford childcare so we worked opposite shifts until the kids were in school. It was hard but we learned to appreciate the time we did get to spend together so much more. Good luck T, you can do this!

[@jenpisano5954]

We did the same- for YEARS- Now my kids are older and we can all be on the same schedule- it was hard, but it’s all we could do- and it WORKED for us. Made us appreciate our time together - especially now- even more.

[@jenpisano5954]

PLUS he stayed home for about 3 years- THATS the ONLY WAY we could do it- we couldn’t afford daycare for two babies. We just had to Pinch it for a while- things will get better, once they get ahold of spending and get out of debt. It’s definitely a LIFESTYLE CHANGE- BUT WELL WORTH IT!

[@anonymouse9833]

I wish we could do this. There's no possible way in our present, but we're working toward it for the future

[@jeannehunter5344]

Going from the Hallmark card we-deserve-this-lifestyle to one of sacrifice, even temporarily, will require a mature mindset.

[@TheSldrwfe]

Many of us start out living outside of our financial means. We all deserve more. But…the reality is not all of us can afford what we deserve. We must be good to ourselves in a different financially responsible way.

[@lydiah7184]

I needed to hear this, thank you ❤️

[@Kelly-oe8kr]

Many of us can't afford what should be considered basic human rights (affordable housing, clothing, medical care, food). It's sad that we live in an economy not a society

[@dianethompson6804]

I went to a financial planning seminar and the presenter said we should all live up to no more than 85% of our income. She said that way if someone loses their job, you are already used to living on less, so you will be fine until another job is found.

[@thebeautyandhervlog]

Went and pulled our credit cards out of our wallets while watching this. We don’t have this much debt, but I have been watching our balance grow while also paying off a debt consolidation loan… thank you for the wake up call before I’m in too deep!! Essentials only & turning to savings for emergencies for the next few months until we’re paid back down!

[@alwaysemilia]

Good for you!! It sucks for a bit but I have also felt so liberated in sticking to my budget.

[@LorialRoballo]

I did the same thing!! 😂

[@NurseProf]

T - I hope you read this because I know when Miko did my Real Life Budget - I read every single comment. The part for me was the initial shock and realization that I needed to do what needed to be done. It wasn't that I didn't understand it was just hard hearing it from someone else. Look at your internet and see what shopping around can do for you. Make certain that you and your husband have an honest conversation and get on the same plan. I was taught the same thing about money "you will always have debt." No, you don't always have to have debt. It most likely seems and feels overwhelming but you can do this! It gets easier each month.

[@LornaKBailey]

This is awesome. Way to go! Keep inspiring others.

[@TheSldrwfe]

I used to say that debt will always be a part of our life, too. I’ve been clawing at it for years. Working on mortgage and retirement.

[@Budgetmeright]

this is awesome! I m so glad you did this! keep up the good work!I also used to think that I will always have debt! But I am debt free for 4 years now. have a great day! thanks for sharing this!

[@alwaysemilia]

How are things going for you now? Would love to hear how you’re doing after the real life budget convo 😊

[@Hollis_Creative_Corner]

Over here literally in tears. Got barely any money in the bank and just had my car towed to a mechanic and can't go to work until it's fixed.

[@jenpisano5954]

My husband and I did the same thing when our boys were small- our daycare bill was too high- he stayed home saving daycare costs, gas , car repairs, and money spent on eating out for lunch. I would do overtime at work and it worked out for us. A lot of people had stuff to say about it- but I would tell them YOU DONT LIVE MY LIFE- YOU DONT PAY MY BILLS- WE DO WHAT WORKS FOR US- and it DID- WORK FOR US! 🥰🥰 I just wish we would’ve been taught HOW to manage the money we saved back then 😂. We’re learning now so that’s all that matters! THANK YOU KUMIKO FOR THE WORK YOU DO AND TEACHING US HOW TO DEAL WOTH OUR DEBT!

[@JoachimBlank-q1g]

I will be forever grateful to you, you changed my whole life and I will continue to preach on your behalf for the whole world to hear you saved me from huge financial debt with just a small investment, thank you Reynold Felicia

[@JesseyBohne-p6d]

Wow. I'm a bit perplexed seeing her been mentioned here also Didn’t know she has been good to so many people too this is wonderful, I'm in my fifth trade with her and it has been super.

[@RobinKrosel43]

She is my family's personal broker and also a personal broker in many families I'm United States, she's a licensed broker and a FINRA AGENT in United states.

[@annabach-oq9jj]

Isn't that the same Reynold Felicia that my neighbors are talking about, she has to be a perfect expert for people to talk about her so well.

[@financemister27]

As a beginner what do I need to do? How can I invest, on which platform? If you know any please share.

[@JoachimBlank-q1g]

SHE'S MOSTLY ON TELEGRAMS, USING THE USERNAME

[@Autumnbudgets]

Please let us know how they get on! My dad stayed at home 40 yrs ago to look after me when my mum made worked and it was not trendy! I loved that and made me & my dad super close he did a fab job! No shame in that game! Even 40 yrs ago xx💜

[@amandabeachum188]

I don't know what the area is like where they live but I wonder if they could sell the condo and find a place to live where they didn't have to pay for parking, fees, laundry, etc. That's just insane. I think even renting a house would be better. Even though rent is high, I feel like it would be half of that. Again, not sure of the area, cost of living, real estate values, but I would look into it. Wishing them the best. It was brave of her to share this.

[@emmyorzi9488]

It's one of the most expensive areas in the country... so they are lucky to have such a low mortgage. Good luck getting a 2 bedroom rental for that price in Westchester, NY!!

[@BethAnnesBest]

I thought this too but with the way rent and housing is right now that might be doable.

[@amandabeachum188]

@@emmyorzi9488 Ugh. I'm not familiar with area. I wonder what a commute would look like or if it would save money, even with the price of gas? A decade or so again we lived an hour away from where my husband worked because of the difference in cost of living. What we saved on housing and taxes was significant but the gas expenses were high, and they were nowhere near what they are now.

[@TheRonskins]

I know that area VERY WELL...I used to live in Stamford, Connecticut for 15 years and worked in Mount Vernon (NY), Dobbs Ferry (NY) , Greensburg (NY), Rye (NY), Purchase (NY), and White Plains (NY). I'm a Librarian and worked in the public or university libraries in those cities and towns. It's very expensive to live in these areas within Westchester County, especially with housing.

[@melbell2125]

I would love an update on this family. I hope they can figure it out. You had great suggestions. Fingers crossed for them.

[@brroookkeee]

Miko, all of your comments have spam comments! I reported some of them but it looks like they’re not going away

[@alisawoods4180]

HI GOOD MORNING TO YOU HOW IS TEE DOING? YOU ARE SO GOOD AT BUILDING FINANCIAL FREEDOM CAN THEY MOVE TO A CHEAPER PLACE TO LIVE? HUSBAND CAN GET A JOB AT NIGHTS AND WEEKENDS AND GO ON A DIET FOR 6 MONTHS GO AROUND THE HOUSE AND GET RID OF EXCESS STUFF GARAGE SALE ITEMS GO GAZILLION WITH YOU AND DAVE RAMSEY CLEANING THIS ENTIRE BUDGET UP!

[@tokeshiaschroeder384]

They are using special savings accounts that force you to keep that money in the account until you need it. For Christmas it is generally called a Christmas Club account. I whole heartedly agree that they shouldn’t keep money tied up when they don’t have access to emergency funds. Hope we can get an update on this family. This is relatable to so many people.

[@rachelgilbert3164]

I love these strategy/problem solving skills covered in these real life budget videos. I wish they were uploaded more frequently! It helps people know that they are not alone with their budget struggles. Thank you Miko! 🙂

[@user-qe4hc5hm7m]

☝️Text me on watsap... Thanks for watching..

[@kerrischindler5561]

My mom and dad had debt growing up. I remember my mom said at one point only ONE PENNY was going to her principle. She said at that moment she had had enough. I remember just how tight our lives became, but it was for the best for a short time and I was as so proud to see my parents finally become debt free!

[@Budgetmeright]

Miko you are my number one inspiration. I still remember watching the first video of you while you were paying off debt and I was in debt too. never thought I will be debt free someday. Followed your journey, found out about the envelope system and two years later I was finally (for the first time in my adult life) debt free! It's been two more years and still following your method. Your free library is gold! Still use the free printable envelope for my emergency fund! I can't thank you enough! You changed my life! I will forever follow you, read your emails and be inspired by your journey. 💜💜💜

[@hanab837]

I think the best decision my husband and I made was for me to stay home when we started our family. It saved us SO much money not having to pay for childcare and because I was able to prepare our meals and make lunches for him to take to work.

[@laurab4570]

Wow. I feel for the wife who seems to be trying. I cannot imagine the weight of this on their family. I hope they take your advice and keep working hard at it!

[@erinsjourney315]

👊 This was brilliant and props to ‘T’ for reaching out - her story will undoubtedly help others!

[@kengearoo]

I found this scenario to be one of the most interesting. And I love the problem solving we get to see. Such important skills for people to be able to learn.

[@user-qe4hc5hm7m]

☝️Text me on watsap... Thanks for watching..

[@simplyrissa1]

I have learned a lot from these real life budget videos. It gives me the momentum to keep going with budgeting and to always figure out ways to cut back. I got a second job back in Feburary and it has helped a lot. I do get to points where I get burned out, but I know that I want to get rid of the debt. It freaks me out that I didn't listen to my parents about credit cards when I was 18. I thought that I knew it all and ended up getting myself into this mess. It's much harder to get out of debt than it does getting into debt. I have learned from these is that pay in cash and to have sinking funds so that I don't go back into debt for things that I could avoid.

[@kathleenward2943]

A couple more ideas in addition to what you've said- husband could work off hours from the wife so he wouldn't have to completely quit but could still eliminate childcare. And a huge one... sell the dang condo. Possibly walk away w enough in equity depending on housing markey to pay off the 2 credit cards... rent a 2 bedroom house for $1600 per mo or less, the kids share a room, make sure it has washer and dryer to eliminate the laundromat fee, completely eliminate the 1700 condo maintenance hoa etc fee... also forget about all the savings categories... big christmas... vacation... major changes but necessary in this situation. Not impossible.

[@sarahtiru3528]

I agree with the rent. The rent would probably still be around $3k in New York but they would be able to get some extra money and allow them not to have to take that as an expense. Owning is expensive because when anything goes wrong, it's an extra expense

[@Michybon]

I love this. You are right. I know someone who has three children and keeps living outside their means. I warned her that she and her husband have to think about how a decision they make will impact them financially. She of course didn’t listen and now she has to work part time in order to try to help pay for things. She was a stay at home mom.

[@reneedejanice]

I believe this is a spending issue, they are living above their means. The condo they currently own in my opinion was a bad investment. Hope they will be able to start making better financial decision.

[@TheThrivingLady]

Agreed.

[@Cordelia0704p]

When I worked for a general practice law firm within the first year I knew I never wanted to have a home or condo or any living situation that involved a homeowners association or a Co op board or anything like that. If they don't lie the wreath on your door they will fine you. It's just insane the number of lawsuits I saw over this stuff. Not worth it. They should move sell the overpriced condo and get a small house they will save money, once the house overpriced us over, which I think is coming to an end or at least not as bad as it was. I know 4 people buying houses, all for much less than the asking prices. Anyway, that's what I would do. Ditching thr car also saves them on car insurance and annual registration fees. Oil changes. They seem like they probably take the cars to thr car wash instead of washing them themselves, didn't even see that accounted for but those are all additional costs they can save. Getting off my soapbox and going back to canning food lol

[@reneedejanice]

@@Cordelia0704p Definitely!! Homeowners associations and co ops are rip offs that’s why its so good to scrutinize everything when buying a home. I think it would be best for them to sell the condo too, they don’t even have a washer/dryer and they can get rid if one car and car pool until their finances are sorted out.

[@Cordelia0704p]

@@reneedejanice Exactly! I'm not sure of they don't have a washer and dryer or if they have one of those services that picks up y I ir clothes, washes them and brings them back.

[@starrchick28]

This is a helpful video, it shows a range of real budget and life mixed with/without debt. I really hope T is doing better after her video! ❤

[@PureLace]

What a blessing it is when debt can bring a parent home to raise they're own children. More often than not parents are taken out of the home due to debt.

[@sandyseibelhager7131]

I would have the husband stay home and take care of the children and clean the house. He brings home $1236 and they spend $3550 on preschool and daycare. I'd also get rid of one of the cars, the house cleaner, cut the cable, and finder cheaper cell phone plans.

[@thepoormansguidetothegalax3981]

Or get cars that are more economical for them.

[@amandamalone2688]

Facts

[@adrianspangler]

💯 hid the nail on the head there! Great advice.

[@Budgetmeright]

omg you are so right!

[@mymommalife8259]

My husband stayed home for a while to help save on daycare. It helped out financially. Then we switched when I had the boys. Might I say that is some expensive childcare. I pray you all reach your goal! ❤️

[@EmsFitVenture]

I would say the home is a primary issue when the mortgage plus laundry plus parking and maintenance is almost half your income. They can not afford to buy ANYTHING outside survival with that much credit card debt.

[@PinkieJoJo]

Yep. They are house poor.

[@zoolzool1]

This was great. People who do indeed make good money but can’t enjoy any of it. If they’re willing to discipline themselves and live with those tough decisions and life changes, they’ll be in a better place even in just one year.

[@Aneedanothaone]

I was a solo parent and had to pay for childcare to go to work and ended up deep in the hole of credit card debt. He is an adult now but it took me many years to get it under control. I still have a credit card but I never let it get to the interest paying stage, and always make the full payment every pay. Thanks Kumiko, I am saving even more :) Great advice, thank you.

[@BrokenKat1]

I love that you use tough love to help people get their life back on track. It's amazing that you are using your knowledge about debt to help people. You are truly an amazing person!

[@denversunday]

I'm brand new to you and I must say this channel is amazing. idk if anyone else uses others financial data but I feel its better than watching someone that has their budget down doing it month after month. You are very skillful and I feel that I'm learning more from watching your videos than what I have seen already. So Dope!!

[@JustCallMeInsane]

time to start selling stuff from that storage unit to pay things down faster. husband could also do a work from home job part time, to increase income while saving more money too.

[@becka8345]

Seems like great advice to me... and yeah, I agree, it's definitely not time to give up. I make less than $2,500 a month and am finally managing to take control of my credit card debt. It's tough, cause I had to give up my car and rely on friends for transportation (I work from home), and I have to stop spending money on things that I enjoy. But it's going to be so worth it to have this debt off of my back and finally be able to put money into savings and look forward to doing more things that I love in the future.

[@kelleydisney31]

I can feel the weight that they must be feeling looking at their numbers. I love that you are giving them a plan and giving them hope for the future. You got this T!

[@jamierussell9143]

I love all of the encouraging comments on here for T. I am just now beginning my journey. When I say just now, the research/videos have been done but it’s NOW time to begin. I would love to do the real life budget on here but terrified. The encouraging community you have built, Miko makes it possible for me to want to have it done. Thank you everyone for being so positive and encouraging.

[@lisagilmore6080]

It is interesting that they budgeted for vacation and Christmas instead of putting that $400 a month towards an emergency fund. I learned that the emergency fund should always be the priority to avoid the trap of needing to use a high interest credit card for emergencies. I also understand the need to want to work for more than surviving and having a vacation/reward planned can help lesson the mental stress. But I learned that it is much more freeing to know that if something happens, I can actually pay for it. I just took my first vacation with my boys in 6 years because I prioritized saving our emergency fund first. The vacation was awesome, but I definitely felt guilty spending the money (even though it was 100% cash). I kept thinking, "how many months of expenses did I just spend?" My question is, once you are more financially stable, how do you break the survival mindset and begin to give yourself permission to spend?

[@NURSESTEPHANIE09]

NY is very expensive to live, I know because I live there. I make that amount on average with multiple streams as a single mom, but I never will let social media lifestyle or my income let me live above my means because you can easily dig yourself deep in debt. I’m glad Miko was able to help guide this family for a better future and help this community get in control of our finances despite how much someone can make. It’s not how much you make, it’s how you spend it/save/invest.

[@leigh6780]

That husband already isn’t on board, so I’m really curious if he’s going to be open to being a stay-at-home dad. She may be stuck between a rock and a hard place here 😕

[@miriam5714]

Sure he will not. Sadly she will be stuck in that position

[@KNevergrowup]

I don't think he will. His paycheck is basically pointless because he doesn't even cover his own personal expenses like car, parking and debt so he is living with her wife money and she is the only one in pain. "There's always debt" is a reality to him because he doesn't make enough money but it's not her wife reality, she can live without debt and that's a mindset problem

[@crystalgale15]

Her husband's mentality about debt and money is concerning. If they can't agree about their financial goals 100%, I am afraid this is going to be an ongoing problem for this family.

[@adrianspangler]

I hope they read these comments together and he realizes him not working is the best option.

[@tater4ever]

he needs to get a better job within 30 days or he needs to stay at home

[@deniselittle5558]

Great video and great recommendations. If this couple chooses to follow your advice the opportunities are endless because the husband can use so much of his time staying at home to start a business - we live in a world where that is so possible! He could start making as much or way more than his job pays and they could get those debts paid off in record time.

[@tinaallen2114]

Excellent advise! I can’t imagine having debt like that, it is soul crushing. I hope they take your advice and achieve their goals.

[@melanierose9015]

My husband stays home. He does deliveries in the evening around my schedule to make some money because daycare often is more or equal to salaries. We don't see each other much but we need to make ends meet and achieve great goals!! It's not easy but it's not forever.

[@Budgetmeright]

bless you and your husband for doing this. not an easy decision, but a wise one

[@caitlinmayi]

Im a stay at home mom , i also watch my sisters baby so she can work. Me and my husband share a car. Use less gas. I make all the meals. I often have guilt I don't contribute financially but seeing these types of situations makes me value my role a little more.

[@melanierose9015]

@@caitlinmayi he will drive ubereats or door dash. He had a business that ended up closing and it was easier having a parent home. Daycare is so expensive but obviously necessary for so many. I get tired from working so much but he's good about letting me relax.... the kids? Not so much 🤣 you definitely contribute! No matter the set up; a parent stays home or both work and use daycare I hope everyone knows they are doing what's best for their family!

[@TheRonskins]

Very good suggestions. Childcare costs are expensive and it makes sense that the partner making less could opt to stay/work from home until their situation changes or until the kids are able to attend school for a full day. I also agree with another responder's comment that the partner making less could pick up an evening/nightime shift to bring in extra money. If the couple can ride this out for a couple of years, then great; however, I'd be looking into a way to sell the condo. White Plains (Westchester County in New York in general) is an expensive area, so perhaps, their condo increased in value since they purchased it. If so, sell and use the proceeds to pay down or pay off credit card debt, while stashing a couple thousand into an emergency fund.

[@CarlySharec86]

Pffft. Of course he’s not worried about the debt. He has zero responsibility here. The financial burden is solely on her.

[@Budgetmeright]

exactly! this is so frustrating!

[@mysterypublishinginc]

She can become a stay at home mom while he work. That will erase the day care bill and pay off the loans off faster. That way they can get out of debt.

[@mysterypublishinginc]

They can move out the condo into a house. And the wife can stay home instead of the husband. She can get a work from home job.

[@vixenday]

@@mysterypublishinginc now imagine how much faster they would pay off debt if the husband stays home 😲

[@summerxia6974]

@@mysterypublishinginc the husband is making a quarter of what the wife is making… and you suggest the wife to quit her job? Great advice

[@sherlinevallier7842]

My hubby and I are also taking on this journey to get rid of debt. It is not easy to say no to some of the activity we used to do but something has to give. Keep pushing!

[@thesaltyhomemaker]

He's HR... there are SO MANY work from home HR jobs (and admin jobs) available on the job search pages. He could stay home, and still work, and cut the crazy childcare costs.

[@user-qe4hc5hm7m]

☝️Text me on watsap... Thanks for watching..

[@charajepson6202]

This was a great example of realizing your full financial situation for the first time. Very eye opening. Miko, you mentioned that the work sheets you use are available in the free resources section but I am not able to find them.

[@thebudgetmom]

They might be lower on the screen. Scroll down🥰

[@thearbitrarylife]

I'd like to hear an update on this one in a month or 2.

[@user-qe4hc5hm7m]

☝️Text me on watsap... Thanks for watching..

[@jianinaregis6693]

I would like to see more of semi-monthly budgeting please. I started budgeting this November and I still struggle as I get paid on the 6th and 21st of the month. I want to pay off bills/debt, I wanted to start saving for 2023 and get a month a head with everything in the future. (Hopefully)

[@sandi6818]

Well said about how you prepare your son. I went from not talking about money with the kids to letting them know more about our household expenses and income. As they get older I don’t wanna sugar coat things, I wanna prepare them for life.

[@jdgolf499]

Living paycheck to paycheck is often a choice. I know many people who lived paycheck to paycheck, and when they got raises or new, better paying jobs, they still lived paycheck to paycheck. Not because they saved, but because they spent more, because they could!

[@nedtechgirl]

Their budget makes me feel really good about my finances, damn

[@mauniep6456]

Same!!

[@Budgetmeright]

hahaha...sad but I was thinking that I am doing great!

[@lcn706]

Unfortunately their expenses are not uncommon. We’re in the Bay Area & ours are extremely close to this. Granted, we have a car loan & only our mortgage. No CC debt. We’d move out of state but all our family is here. 😔 America needs to figure out healthcare & childcare costs. They’re insane.

[@brroookkeee]

The daycare and preschool costs way more than the husband makes per month… ridiculous that he isn’t staying home to SAVE around $1k/mo

[@l.m.schmidt5363]

Had a self awareness moment around consumer debt today...you have said it would happen. 🤯 Thank U.

[@Budgetmeright]

this is probably the first day of the rest of your life! I am so happy for you!

[@natashafreeman2220]

We decided to not use childcare this summer and have my husband work from home. Thank goodness we have that option because it will save us $250 per week. We will then take that $250 and put it back into our emergency savings.

[@rachelgilbert3164]

That’s a great idea! Plus those kids will always remember that awesome summer they spent with their dad 😎

[@natashafreeman2220]

@@rachelgilbert3164 thanks for the support. I don’t think our society gives enough acknowledgment to families where the father takes on childcare responsibilities. Sometimes it’s what’s in the best interest of your finances.

[@Budgetmeright]

this is awesome! wise decision! I would love to spend a summer with my dad and have beautiful memories about this period.

[@mrschefyoda7825]

I'd like to see an update on what this family ended up doing?

[@StefanieB22]

We considered this but my employer insurance is less than $500 per month and my husbands is $1000 per month so we opt to keep mine. Also we're both protected employees in unions and have pensions so the idea of losing such a secure job and pension for our future is scary and difficult to get back.

[@haley4998]

Husband has 2 life insurance policies yet makes a fraction of what the wife makes. Also far more student loan debt if I understood correctly - does that mean he has a job with more earning potential? I know it’s so easy for us to sit here and give what we think are obvious suggestions but it’s true the reality is this isn’t an easy fix and they both need to be on the same page. I wish them all The best and hope they find the strength and empowerment to tackle this!

[@ginamorse6279]

Also, as an HR Manager, he can make significantly more money. Another option for them would be for him change jobs.

[@adrianspangler]

100% agree with this!!! Look around for a new company.

[@nancyblessing8411]

Eye openning. Nothing makes more sence than when all the numbers are laid down and a light bulb comes on. Then and only then can one make changes. Thanks Komiko.

[@bagraves1]

I’m sure there are a lot of people living like this and find this video very helpful.

[@loveandjoy810]

I know it sounded like tough love but girl, you sugar coated it. This family is in $295,000 of debt WITHOUT the mortgage. 🫣 All that “good money” they make is being paid over to creditors. If anything their creditors are making “good money”. Just wow. Even if they filed bankruptcy, they still have $185,000 of student loans that cannot be discharged. They are going to have to make some hard decisions because they can’t keeping spending more than they make. As the saying goes, If you outflow exceeds your income, then your upkeep will be your downfall. 🤷🏽‍♀️

[@nedtechgirl]

Truth

[@strange144]

I'd really like to know what on earth the husband studied that resulted in so much debt yet so little pay.

[@nedtechgirl]

@@strange144 ikr! Doesn't sound like it was a sound investment

[@BethAnnesBest]

This was a really good video analyzing the budget and all the different options. The other option is for the husband to find a night job or even a WFH job that is more flexible so they don't need as much daycare. Or even find a new living situation but I know NY is expensive and with the housing market they may not be able to find another place to live that is cheaper. I feel bad for this family because they have decent income but everything is just getting to be so expensive. :(

[@Cordelia0704p]

The savings things are often called like a Christmas club or vacation account and they do lock your money in. You sign up for this to keep yourself from spending that money. Cleary they knew they had spending problems when they signed up. It's a US thing. It's probably automatically withdrawn from the bank account on paydays, which you can set up too. My grandmother was an accountant and she used to have a Christmas club account at the bank. Everymoth she'd go to the bank with her little pass book and deposit money.

[@nosirrahm]

I didn’t think they had those anymore. They couldn’t even afford to save for those things.

[@elwmcp0910]

Yes they still have them

[@heidibruneau9438]

180 dollars for laundry mat is very high as well as a cell phone at 245 for two adults

[@user-qe4hc5hm7m]

☝️Text me on watsap... Thanks for watching..

[@acarrotte571]

If they get rid of a car and hubby starts working nights they could really have something that works for them we're rooting for you T!

[@Budgetmeright]

I was thinking exactly the same thing. Night shifts could help.

[@vanessaf7259]

More than $100K in student loan debt and he’s netting less than $30K a year?! 🤯 That is just mind boggling! I’m really curious what degree he obtained with that debt. I’m in my very first HR role and I’ll net more than $70K this year. I am lucky to have a debt-free bachelors degree from a private university. But it’s completely unrelated to my current field and could have been from a community college for all my employer cares 🤷‍♀️

[@kindnessm9645]

I see that ring gurl, congratulations! Thank you for being humbly lovable to us!

[@ginnyrust6874]

We lived in westchester county, ny. It’s a no-go. Trust me. Moved upstate NY. We did this in Jan 2014, moved 2 kids to new grade school. We are debt free with 2xs the space.

[@BigPhilly15]

AND I bet you actually have a washer and dryer unlike these two. 😂

[@DeniseSkidmore]

Most expenses besides unsecured loans are flexible. Even credit card debt can be consolidated if you can stop the spending bleed. Moving might solve a lot of problems. A smaller place with lower total costs. Smaller is easier to maintain, won't need that housekeeper. Less space helps you think harder about purchases that overstuff that space. Declutter/downsize that stuff in storage, if it's family heirlooms find a cousin that wants them. They are not doing you any good in storage, and you are nowhere near affording a larger space to start using them. If the smaller place is near public transportation you could drop a car. The lower income job is probably replaceable with one close to public transportation if necessary. Downgrading cars is also an option. Do you have any equity in those cars that could turn into a down-payment on an old car? I do well, but my truck is a decade old because we just don't want more than one car loan at a time on principle. We don't replace one car until the other is paid off, and sometimes we buy vehicles that are already old to reduce how long we are paying on them.

[@amilamixe]

As you say at the end of the video, facing the reality is hard, but continuing blind to it makes the solution harder and harder...

[@BillyTimes-dw7vs]

Love your shows you helped me so much.

[@ShamyraC]

I can see some men saying, “I can’t afford the childcare but I’m paying the car payments.” Sir that’s not the point. YOU need to make more money! Men and their cars. 🙄

[@sharonostrowsky37]

I’m thinking “laundry” is probably dry cleaning because I cannot imagine they’re in a condo w/o a washer and dryer. Better to get a less expensive vehicle than only have one car because what if there’s an emergency at home w the kiddos?

[@kmalexander26]

I agree. With those gas and toll prices, they likely commute to NYC. I’d hate to be at home alone and my spouse with the car is possibly an hour away. But I would get cheaper cars.

[@Sabrina.682]

Right. No way I'd get rid of a car if I have kids, especially if we're staying at home. Like you said, better to get less expensive vehicle.

[@elisetolbert7134]

Excellent. Excellent. Excellent. Did I say Excellent? What I meant to say was you're the bomb diggity girl. This was by far the most helpful video I've ever seen on personal finances.

[@juliannaokike3359]

I love that concept and application of the book and sinking funds.

[@tonimillersmith1009]

Other options, husband works from home if possible/part time or work nights. Until kids are in school. Then go ham on these debts.

[@judymcpheron5955]

What a wonderful financial lifeline you are for those who are wise and ready to change their lives for the best peace of mind and financial independence. Thank you so much. 💗🌹💗

[@caitlinbaker8623]

I'm so glad I saw this video, because I feel like I'm stuck in the same situation. We make good money, but don't seem to be getting any further ahead. This gives me hope!

[@mum2twourbanfarmer229]

11:00 " If the husband stays home and watches the children..." Oh Miko - humble little stay-at-home parent thought - how about ... "if the husband stays home and PARENTS HIS CHILDREN..." (my thoughts:-))) And yes, at this exact point in the video - in my country, the "sensible" decision to have both parents of young children working full time is met with the reality that full time daycare costs MORE than one parent's salary, even a really GOOD salary.

[@Inputdonutz]

I see the husband is okay spending whatever he wants when he isn't bringing in the cash. He has no choice but to get on board

[@tonyamaddox1888]

$10 a month of their $650 payment toward the actual debt. Wow. I bet this was a serious wake up call for T. I really hope they follow your advice. I’ve been in debt and had a horrible credit score in 2005, and it was awful. I was so broke. January was always the worst when those credit card bills would come in after Christmas. I love Christmas - it’s my absolute favorite holiday. But I overspent. I see so many people doing the same, going into debt for Christmas it makes me so sad. I’m debt free (for about 9 years now) and save a little all year in a sinking fund (before I knew what it was called) and even with my kids, work secret Santa, food - everything my budget is only $500 for Christmas. It’s amazing and so freeing. My kids each have a piece of that budget and anything I don’t spend I give them in cash. At 20 & 28, they sure don’t ask for anything so I usually get us something sweet - matching Jammie’s and socks, or cute bags or a clothing item I think they would love. If their budget is $150 each and I only spend $50 - I transfer the $100 into their account as soon as I wake up on Christmas morning. T, your kids are still young enough to really be able to reduce Christmas spending - make it about time together as a family and focus on your reason during the season. Bake cookies and things with your kids. Way cheaper and so many amazing memories. Only buy a few presents for the kids to open and maybe do something else for each other. I made a family cookbook last year! Took a ton of time, but super cheap! It was my present for everyone! Then you can put any leftover toward that credit card debt principal. Same with that vacation fund when you have access to it -> straight to principal for that credit card debt! Another option that is harsh: they could move. I had a lot of expenses living and working in downtown Houston with tolls and parking and it was better for me to take a lesser paying job, with less expenses for work and much cheaper housing outside of the city. I was able to have more leftover at the end of the month. Also he could consider looking for a higher paying/second job! Lastly, maybe he can get a weekend job for pay, and keep other kids during the week as well as his own to bring in some income. I used to work at a hospital from 6a-3p then 3p-11p Saturday and Sunday. They paid me for 40 hours even though I worked only 32. It was hard but very worth it. Hope it all works out for you and your family, T. You CAN do this!!! If you start today you could be debt-free in XX years. If you don’t start today, it will be XX years and 1 day! Do it!

[@MsGechi77]

I love how passionate you are with helping those that are struggling. 💛

[@Faithful2theEND]

I loved your feedback and recommendations!! I was just wondering though… What about finding another school for the kids?

[@tski4526]

It is scary that they do not have emergency fund despite earning 10k a month.

[@Budgetmeright]

exactly! its scary. I live alone and every time I spend money from my emergency fund I feel so uncomfortable until I replenish it

[@sharasahenley3059]

Yes, and what about retirement!

[@herfirstmate]

I love how real you are about finance!

[@KateysAltiguess]

Great strategies Miko! I think it would great to do a where are they now with this couple down the road after they have implemented some changes.

[@Questionablexfun]

This is a great walkthrough for debts and budgets

[@mizzmeliinspires]

This was so helpful to hear your thoughts and feedback!

[@MichelleSanchez-qi6pf]

@thebudgetMom I am obsessed with this budget now. Can we get an update? How they took your feedback? Did they come up with a different solution? ⁉

[@Ellaodi]

Hope this couple can figure it out and hope this man either fully steps up to help be a partner either through a much better job or bring a stay at home dad (hoping doesnt keep a separate savings account like my dad hid from ny mom for years), and I hope they can get it under control. Actual necessity life for a few years will help pay for their kids college and srt them up for life without student debt. Best of luck yall!!

[@123kirmizi]

I really like the real life videos that I can relate. Thank you so much for amazing information

[@chanellewilson7094]

I’m in NY and not far from “plains” NY and it is very expensive living in this area. This is a very good video

[@wunderwriter1]

I would get rid of both cars, and seriously consider selling that condo. The mortgage, the HOA fees and the parking are just outrageously expensive for that income.

[@amandabeachum188]

That's easy to say but you have to get to work and not having transportation when you have a job and two kids is impracticable.

[@wunderwriter1]

@@amandabeachum188 I agree! I would just get something reliable that’s cheaper (once they’re sold and they don’t have the payments).

[@candy2325]

The parking fees are predatory my jaw dropped when I saw that

[@wunderwriter1]

@@candy2325 Wow, I know. Crazy!

[@lornaking2973]

Can you do a video on how to budget when you have two different pay scenarios for income? Biweekly for one income and bimonthly for the other income.

[@nicolebullock8704]

I love your budget channel it has help out a whole lot still working on some stuff that I can lower

[@thehealthyplanner588]

Great video, Interesting how having one spouse stay home would help them so much!

[@kimberlycorrine]

Wow seems hard but it’s doable!! Work the plan!! You got in and now it’s time to dig out.

[@wdeemarwdeemar8739]

We make a lot of money but have no debt except my mortgage. We live on 60 k per year and save the difference. As WSU grad I approve this story is a red light and this can’t go on. However, these credit card and unsecured debts are no beuno.