Question

Betty (25 years old) studied music education in college and graduated a year ago. She currently works as a music teacher at a year-round private middle school. Her gross pay is $39600 a year, or $3300 a month. After taxes, health insurance, and other paycheck deductions, her net pay is $35900 a year. Based on recommended guidelines, how much money should Betty be saving each month

Answer 1

Answer:

Based on recommended guidelines, Betty should be saving at least $598.33 each month.

Explanation:

a) Data and Calculations:

Gross pay per year = $39,600

Gross pay per month = $3,300 ($39,600/12)

Net pay per year after deductions = $35,900

Total deductions for taxes, health insurance, etc. = $3,700 ($39,600 - $35,900)

Net pay per month after deductions = $2,992 ($35,900/12)

b) Based on the 50-30-20 budgeting method of spending 50% income on essentials, saving 20%, and leaving 30% for discretionary purchases, Betty should be saving at least $598.33 per month ($2,992 * 20%).