Personal finance is about meeting personal financial goals, whether it’s having enough for short-term financial needs, planning for retirement, or saving for your child’s college education. It all depends on your income, expenses, living requirements, and individual goals and desires—and coming up with a plan to fulfill those needs within your financial constraints. To make the most of your income and savings, it’s important to become financially literate, so you can distinguish between good and bad advice and make smart decisions.

Ten Personal Finance Strategies

1. Devise a budget
2. Create an emergency fund
3. Limit debt
4. Use credit cards wisely
5. Monitor your credit score
6. Consider your family
7. Pay off student loans
8. Plan (and save) for retirement
9.  Maximize tax breaks
10. Give yourself a break