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Top 10 Personal Finance Articles of the Month — September 2024

Welcome to Fioney’s look at the top 10 personal finance articles of the month. On the first Friday of each new month, we look back at some of our favorite posts published in the weeks prior and highlight them right here. This includes a mix of sites that have become staples of our lists as well as many first-timers.

To start things off this month, we’ll look at some articles focused on rules, numbers, and stats (it’s more fun than it sounds). Then, we’ll muse on money and spending. Finally, we’ll talk about the risks of bond investing, financial planning wins, and how your brain just might try to trick you.

Here are our picks for the top 10 personal finance articles for September 2024.

Rules and Numbers

What is the 20-4-10 Rule? — Jim Wang, Wallet Hacks

For most people, having a reliable vehicle is a necessity. In turn, the time will surely come when it’s time to purchase a new (or new to you) car. But how can you determine how much you can really afford to spend on a car and its monthly payments? That’s where the 20-4-10 Rule comes in, as Jim explains in this post.

The Six Most Important Numbers in Personal Finance — Dr. Cory S. Fawcett, Financial Success M.D.

As you’d imagine, the topic of personal finance is filled with various numbers. Of course, these numerals represent different concepts in different contexts, which can make it difficult to keep things straight. So which of these numbers is most worth remembering? Dr. Fawcett highlights six nominees for that title.

4 Surprising Cost of Living Statistics From Across the U.S. — Kyle Burbank, Fioney

To some degree, we all have a pretty basic understanding of how the cost of living differs in various parts of this large country. Yet, there are a few stats related to this topic that just might surprise you. Kyle highlights some of these numbers while also explaining how these facts could impact you if you’re looking to relocate.

Money and Spending

Put Your Money Fears in Perspective — David Champion, Can I Retire Yet?

When it comes to money, many of us have certain anxieties. Whether it be worrying about what we’d do if we lost a job or wondering whether we’ll run out of money in retirement, there’s plenty of fear surrounding the unknown. However, as David shares, those fretting about their financial futures may want to take a step back and put their concerns in perspective.

Spend Your Money According To YOUR Plans — Darius Foroux

Making a plan and sticking to it are two distinctly different things. For example, even if you make a plan to save and spend your money in a certain way, outside factors might try to mess that up. As Darius explains, when this happens, it’s important to reassess and determine how you want to move forward.

10 Money Revelations in my 40s — Ben Carlson, A Wealth of Common Sense

Mastering personal finance is a lifelong process. For proof of that, look no further than this follow up to Ben’s now 10-year-old post about money revelations he had in his 30s. Now in his 40s, Ben reflects on everything from investment performance to the cost of raising kids and more.

My Spending Rules — Jonathan Clements, Humble Dollar

Those who are “good with money” may actually find it odd to suddenly transition to spending more freely. That’s the case with Jonathan who, due in part to an unfortunate diagnosis, has ramped up his spending. Yet, as he explains, there are still some rules he sticks to — which could also apply to you.

Personal Finance Tips

The 3 Risks of Bond Investing — And How to Beat Them — Dr. Jim Dahle, The White Coat Investor

While it’s true that, by and large, bonds are a safer investment than stocks, that doesn’t mean that they’re completely risk-free. In fact, there are a few factors that could impact your bond investments. In this article, Dr. Dahle lays out what those are as well as how you can try to avoid them.

Putting a Dollar Sign On Financial Planning — Jesse Cramer, The Best Interest

It’s obviously true that being money savvy and planning your finances well can save you money. But just how much are we talking about here? Jesse highlights some recent money wins he advised on — ranging from car buying to annuities — and looks at how some solid planning allowed people to save.

The Hidden Trap in Your Mind — Accidentally Retired

As humans, we can’t help but look back at recent history and compare it to the right now. Unfortunately, in doing so, we may be missing the larger picture. Comparing this mind trap to the weather in Phoenix, this article from Accidentally Retired breaks down this psychological trick.

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Thanks for checking out our top 10 personal finance articles published last month and congratulations to all of the bloggers who made the list. To find more of these great articles on a daily basis, be sure to follow us on Twitter @fioneymoney and of course visit Fioney.com.