Financial planners use a pyramid as a metaphor for fiscal fitness much like nutritionists use the Food Pyramid.   Fitness (or proper nutrition) is optimized when built upon a solid foundation.   The base of the foundation is about risk management.

One pillar of the financial foundation is the cash fund.   You have probably heard the recommendation to maintain the equivalent of 3-6 months of living expenses as an ‘œemergency’ stash. The use of ‘œemergency’ is common but rather ominous. A better if slightly more awkward description is the ‘œunexpected need’ fund. You can plan for most future expenses such as a new roof on the house or a replacement vehicle because you can reasonably predict their lifespans. If only all of life were so predictable. Stuff happens. If you have a minor car accident and need to schedule a repair, it is not exactly an emergency but it is certainly not something you plan for.   A dip into that cash fund is infinitely better than using credit.

Speaking of credit, let’s talk about debt.   Staying with our metaphor’¦think of it as a sinkhole beneath the pyramid. If it is not filled first (read eliminated) the foundation will be very shaky indeed.

As a couple, even if you maintain separate finances, think like a community for the purposes of calculating the cash fund.   You may be closer than you think!

Please share your thoughts. I love to learn from others and I suspect I’m not alone.

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Carol Christie is a Registered Investment Advisor and has a fee only financial coaching practice serving individuals and small businesses with a special focus on non-traditional couples.

Photo credit: stock.xchng.