Tips for Investing When You Have a Variable Income
When investing, especially with a variable income, maintaining a reserve fund is crucial to weather market fluctuations and income inconsistencies. A robust reserve fund can prevent the need to sell investments during challenging financial months, helping you stay on track with your financial goals.
The Risks of Investing Without a Reserve Fund
One major risk of investing without a reserve fund is the possibility of needing to sell stocks when both your income and the stock market are down. This scenario often arises when you rely on investments to cover living expenses during months of low income. Selling stocks during a market downturn can significantly impact your long-term financial growth.
How Much Should You Save?
To avoid this pitfall, it’s recommended to set aside six months’ worth of living expenses in a savings account as a reserve fund. This fund acts as a safety net, allowing you to cover your monthly expenses without dipping into your investments during tough times. Once you have this fund in place, any income beyond your reserve can be safely invested.
Building a Strong Financial Foundation
The ultimate goal of maintaining a cash reserve is to ensure you have enough liquidity to meet your day-to-day financial needs, even during a downturn. This allows your investments to remain untouched, giving them time to recover and grow in value over the long term. By building a solid reserve fund, you can invest with confidence, knowing you have the financial stability to manage unexpected expenses or income fluctuations.
Casey Smith
President, Wiser Wealth Management
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