What are some smart money moves to make in your 20s, 30s, 40s, and beyond?

Making smart money moves at different stages of life can help you achieve financial security and reach your longterm goals. Here are some general tips for each decade:

In your 20s:
Create a budget and live within your means
Build an emergency fund
Start saving for retirement early through your employer's retirement plan or an IRA
Pay off highinterest debt
Focus on developing your career to increase your earning potential

In your 30s:
Revisit your budget and adjust it as necessary
Continue saving for retirement and increase your contributions if possible
Consider buying a home if it fits into your longterm goals and budget
Build up your emergency fund to cover 36 months of expenses
Start saving for your children's education if you plan to have kids

In your 40s:
Review and update your longterm financial plan
Maximize contributions to taxadvantaged accounts, such as 401(k)s and IRAs
Pay off any outstanding debts, including mortgage and student loans
Consider diversifying your investments and increasing your exposure to lowcost index funds
Reassess your insurance needs and make sure you have adequate coverage

In your 50s and beyond:
Revisit your retirement plan and make adjustments as needed
Take advantage of catchup contributions to retirement accounts
Consider downsizing your home or relocating to a lowercost area
Create an estate plan and update it regularly
Start thinking about longterm care insurance and other healthcare expenses that may arise in retirement.