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MONEY DECISION GUIDE

How to Calculate Monthly Cash Flow

Find the amount actually available for saving, debt reduction, and goals.

Add dependable monthly take-home income. Treat irregular income cautiously rather than assuming every strong month will repeat.

List fixed bills, variable essentials, debt minimums, and flexible spending. Convert annual costs into monthly set-asides.

Subtract total monthly outflow from take-home income. A positive result is surplus; a negative result needs a change in timing or cost.

Cash flow measures movement during a period. Net worth is different: it compares what you own with what you owe on a date.

The CFPB provides a cash-flow budget tool. Recalculate after a move, job change, new debt, or another material change.

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Educational planning only—not individualized financial, tax, investment, or legal advice. You review the plan and move your own money.