emergency fund Emergency Fund, Made Doable (Fin’s 3-Stage “No-Shame” Plan) Start small and automate: the buffer ($250–$1,000), one month of core bills, then 3–6 months. Fin’s story + tiny automations that quietly add up.
mortgages Featured Mortgages, Decoded: loan types, first-time buyer perks, USDA benefits, and why ARMs deserve caution Not financial advice. For decisions about your situation, talk with a licensed mortgage pro or a HUD-approved housing counselor. The super-short primer A mortgage is a long-term loan secured by your home. Your payment usually includes: * Principal + interest * Taxes + homeowners insurance (escrowed) * Sometimes mortgage insurance (PMI or an annual fee)
food Eating on a Budget: The Power of Noodles Budget cooking without strict recipes: a 6-part noodle framework, cheap upgrades, and a week of fast, flexible meals.
credit Credit & Credit Cards: Rewards Without the Regret How to use credit cards responsibly: rewards, match-to-spend, protections, and habits that keep interest at zero. Education only.
401k Featured 401(k) Basics: Don’t Leave the Match on the Table 401(k) basics in plain English: employer match, compounding, and simple index options. Education only—no financial advice.
subscriptions Featured Fin’s App Roundup: Track & Tame Subscriptions (No Sponsors… yet 😅) Best apps to track and cancel subscriptions on iOS/Android—plus where to cancel in App Store or Google Play. No sponsors, just tools.
money habits Featured Meet Fin: Small Money Habits That Actually Stick Smart Fin Tips is a calm corner of the internet where we break down everyday money questions into plain-English checklists, simple frameworks, and light analysis of what’s happening in the world. No hype. No “get rich yesterday.” Just practical ideas you can actually use.
