PUTTING MONEY ASIDE "JUST IN CASE" OR RELYING ON CREDIT CARDS?
I lean toward cash buckets too, but I’ll admit I sometimes get tempted by the convenience of credit cards for emergencies. There’s just something reassuring about seeing a “car repair” fund slowly grow, even if it’s not earning big bucks. I like the idea of balancing—having enough liquid for surprises, but letting the rest work harder elsewhere. Credit cards are handy, but I’d rather use them for points than as a backup plan. Peace of mind wins for me, even if it’s not the most “optimized” approach.
PUTTING MONEY ASIDE "JUST IN CASE" OR RELYING ON CREDIT CARDS?
I get the peace of mind thing, but honestly, I’ve started leaning more on credit cards for emergencies. After buying my house, every extra dollar feels like it needs to be working—either paying down the mortgage or invested somewhere. I keep a small buffer in checking, but if something big hits, I’d rather use a card and pay it off quick than have too much cash just sitting there. Maybe it’s risky, but so far it’s worked out... fingers crossed.
PUTTING MONEY ASIDE "JUST IN CASE" OR RELYING ON CREDIT CARDS?
- Totally get the urge to keep cash working, but here’s my take:
- Credit cards are great for points and short-term float, but if a big HVAC repair hits (been there...), interest racks up fast if you can’t pay it off right away.
- I keep 3 months’ expenses in a high-yield savings—boring, but it’s saved me from panic-selling investments or stressing about statement dates.
- Mortgage prepay is tempting, but liquidity has its perks. Just my two cents...
PUTTING MONEY ASIDE "JUST IN CASE" OR RELYING ON CREDIT CARDS?
I hear you on the “boring” savings, but honestly, boring is underrated. I’ve had clients who maxed out cards during a kitchen reno gone sideways—trust me, those points don’t feel so great when you’re staring down 20% interest. I’d rather have a cushion, even if it means my money’s not hustling 24/7. Liquidity just makes life less stressful, especially when the unexpected hits (like a leaky ceiling at 2am... ask me how I know).
PUTTING MONEY ASIDE "JUST IN CASE" OR RELYING ON CREDIT CARDS?
I get the appeal of having cash on hand, but sometimes I wonder if tying up too much in savings means missing out elsewhere. Ever feel like there’s a balance between being prepared and letting your money actually work for you?
