2Stage Two of the Journey
Build
Most people start their financial journey by earning income. Whatever the source, there are things you can do to make your income grow faster and keep more of it — and the more you make, hold onto, and grow, the more power you have to build lasting wealth.
Steps to building wealth
- Make accumulating assets your top priority
- Use every tool available to build your earnings, including retirement plans
- Be a smart spender and avoid unnecessary expenses
- Put off some expenses until you can comfortably afford them
- Adopt a long-term mindset about building wealth
Chapters in this stage
Five chapters that move from earning your first dollar to growing it into wealth that lasts.
Income from a Job
Decisions about withholding, benefits, and retirement plans that help you keep and grow more of what you earn.
Read chapterChanging Jobs
Protect your finances during a transition — emergency savings, your retirement account, and health coverage.
Read chapterSaving
Build the reserve that keeps you out of debt and the buying power to reach your goals.
Read chapterInvesting
Put your money to work so it can outpace inflation and grow into lasting wealth.
Read chapterCollege Finances
Save and invest for education with 529 plans, Coverdell ESAs, and savings bonds.
Read chapter