As you enter your 30s, it's essential to prioritize building an emergency fund. This fund will help you cover unexpected expenses, such as car repairs or medical bills, without going into debt. Aim to save three to six months' worth of living expenses in a readily accessible savings account.
Consider setting up automatic transfers from your checking account to your savings account to make saving easier and less prone to being neglected.
If you have any high-interest debt, such as credit card balances, focus on paying those off as quickly as possible. Consider consolidating debt into a lower-interest loan or balance transfer credit card.
Remember to always prioritize the debt with the highest interest rate first, and make more than the minimum payment each month to pay it down faster.
Now that you're in your 30s, it's time to start thinking about your long-term financial goals. This includes investing in a retirement account, such as a 401(k) or IRA, and considering other investment options like stocks or real estate.
Don't be afraid to seek professional advice if you're unsure where to start or how to navigate the complex world of investments.