Debt, Budget and Money Basics
Costly Money Mistakes by Decade
Common money mistakes from your 20s through your 50s, sorted by how often they happen and how much they hurt.
The sheet in words
Up is biggest impact (hurts the most); down is smaller impact (fixable later). Left is less common (not everyone); right is very common (most people).
Cosigning a Loan
40s. You owe it if they stop paying
Cashing Out the 401(k)
40s. Taxes and penalties can eat it
No Will
50s. Courts decide, not you
Skipping the 401k Match
20s. Leaving employer money unclaimed
No Life Insurance, Kids
30s. Income stops, bills do not
Waiting on LTC Planning
50s. Cost and health can limit options
Carrying Card Balances
30s. Interest grows while you wait
No Emergency Fund
20s. One surprise bill becomes debt
Placement is general judgment, not survey data. Top right hurts most and happens most.
General education only, not a recommendation. Which mistakes matter most depends on your income, family, health and goals. Employer match, tax and penalty rules vary by plan and change over time. Education only, not investment, tax or legal advice. Sony Ho, Licensed Life Insurance Agent, NPN 18171750 · wealthprohi.com/check
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