17
Chapter 1: Assessing Where You Are Financially
Book I
Taking
Charge
of Your
Finances
If you ended up with a positive number, your finances may be in better shape
than you think. Or not. If the number is small, you may be just barely stay-
ing ahead. And if your bottom line is positive only because you're paying
just the minimum due on your credit cards each month or because you've
stopped paying some of your debts, you have no cause for celebration. If this
describes your situation, you are treading water, at best, and a financial set-
back such as a job loss or expensive illness could be devastating.
Table 1-1
Annual Income and Spending Worksheet
Annual Income
Your household take-home pay
$_______________
Child support income
$_______________
Alimony income
$_______________
Other income (specify the source)
$_______________
Other income (specify the source)
$_______________
Other income (specify the source)
$_______________
Total Annual Income $_______________
Annual Spending
Fixed Spending
Rent $_______________
Mortgage $_______________
Home equity loan
$_______________
Condo or homeowners' association fee
$_______________
Car payment
$_______________
Other loans
$_______________
Homeowner's insurance
$_______________
Renter's insurance
$_______________
Health insurance
$_______________
Auto insurance
$_______________
Life insurance
$_______________
Other insurance
$_______________
Childcare $_______________
Dues and fees
$_______________
Cable/satellite service
$_______________
Internet access
$_______________
Child support obligation
$_______________
(continued)
