Welcome to The Pickup’s Money Journal series, where we (anonymously) snoop on our Tulsa neighbors’ finances. Want to be snooped on yourself? Fill out our Money Journal submission form, or email Matt Carney at matt@thepickup.com. Thanks to our pals at Racket for sharing this format with us.
Job: Editor
Age: 36
Neighborhood: Near downtown
Education: Master's degree
Estimated annual income: $30,000
Partner's salary: $75,000
Dependents: 1
Estimated net worth: $0
DEBT
Student loans ($63,000)
ASSETS
Car ($30,000), 401(k) ($24,000)
MONTHLY INCOME
Income from contract work (~$3,000)
MONTHLY EXPENSES
Childcare ($1,400), healthcare coverage ($800), healthcare costs ($300), food ($300), car insurance ($90)
MONEY TALK
Did your family talk about money growing up?
It was always something we didn't have. If there was ever "extra" money, I could have Toaster Strudels or a kids' frozen dinner. My mom always sort of wanted someone to rear-end us (causing no injuries, of course) so we could get an insurance payout/a better car.
Did you worry about money growing up?
Yes. There were years we were just getting by. Once my mom had to steal food from a gas station (I think that was the only time that was necessary; I might not be privy to other instances).
At what age did you become financially self-reliant?
18ish. 22 might be a little more realistic.
How did you learn to keep a budget?
lol
Have you ever received inherited income, major financial gifts or a large insurance payout?
Yes. I have been very, very lucky to receive a handful of financial gifts from family.