Lacking a Nail

The mystical, magical three check month. Okay, not that mystical or magical that it’s received. If you are paid bi-weekly there will be two months each year that have a third check.

These checks are magical. They can give a boost to whatever you’re focused on financially. Are you building your emergency fund or other sink fund, here’s a little extra towards that savings account. Are you paying down debt, this month you can give it a one-two punch. Do you want to enter the world of investing, here’s a step towards that goal. Have you been crazy strict on your budget and you want to buy a little something, this will give you that wiggle room. I mean little. We’re not about to buy a car or take an all expenses paid trip.

Which months you have three checks depends which week you get paid on. If January was your first month, your next three paycheck month will be in August. If you got two paychecks in January you have the pleasure of three paychecks in May and October.

Why am I writing this in February? Because for budgetary purposes my third paychecks are February and September. What am I doing with my third paycheck, which will be in the bank tomorrow? A portion is being put aside for consignment shopping. The bear of it is being put into a 529 account. So spending a little, saving most.

P.S. If this was useful my one-page Sinking Funds Tracker is in the shop, or you can tip on Ko-fi or PayPal. One tiny move is progress.

This post reflects my personal experience and opinions. I share our real-life money – rounded numbers, personal choices, (tiny) next steps. It is not financial advice. I’m not a financial advisor. Budgeting and money topics are shared for education and entertainment only. Your situation is unique; verify details before acting. Small steps count.

Personal experiences only—this isn’t professional advice. See Disclosures and Terms.