When it comes to money, it's hard to not live in a constant stressful state of mind. Where are you spending your money between paychecks? What happens if there's a sudden unexpected expense, and you have no backup plan?
According to data from the U.S. Census Bureau and the Federal Reserve, the average American household has $16,425 in credit card debt, and that number is growing rapidly each and every year.
Although you might feel underwater, you're in luck: debt is not a new concept, and it's been around for years - so people have had plenty of time to come up with ways to manage and track their money. Some ideas are tried and true - coupons have been around since the late 1800s and continue to gain popularity in digital formats, like Target's Cartwheel app. With the introduction of the 401K 40 years ago, more Americans became incentivized to put their money away - and keep it there. In today's digital age, it is easier than ever to sign up for a budget tracker or an investing software.
But in this sea of knowledge, where should you begin? Start simple with our best guide to managing money for beginners.