Money Tips for Some of Life’s Big Events
07/16/2026
Life’s biggest milestones often bring excitement, celebration, and a bit of sticker shock. From saying "I do" to signing closing papers to bringing home a new baby, there are a few money moves to make now to prepare your finances before these major events happen.
Planning Ahead for Life’s Big Moments
Life is full of major milestones. What's the most important thing people should do before a major life event?
Whether you're getting married, buying a home, having a child, or changing careers, start with a plan. Take a close look at your budget, savings, and debt before making any big financial commitment. The more prepared you are beforehand, the less financial stress you'll experience afterward. Try this budgeting calculator to get started.
Money Talks Before “I Do”
Let's talk about getting married. What money conversations should couples have before saying "I do"?
Couples should be honest about their income, debts, spending habits, and financial goals. Money is one of the leading causes of stress in relationships, so it's important to discuss how you'll handle joint expenses, savings goals, and financial priorities before they become issues. For a helpful checklist of key topics to cover, review FORUM’s Money Moves When Adding A Significant Other guide.
Budget Beyond the Mortgage
Buying a home is another major milestone. What's one mistake first-time homebuyers often make?
Many people focus only on the monthly mortgage payment and forget about all the other costs that come with homeownership. Property taxes, insurance, utilities, maintenance, and repairs can add up quickly. Make sure your budget includes the full cost of owning a home, not just the loan payment. Explore FORUM’s First-Time Homebuyer Guide.
Budgeting for Baby
Having a baby is one of life's biggest changes. What financial steps should parents take before the new arrival?
A new baby brings a lot of joy—and a lot of new expenses. Before your child arrives, review your health insurance coverage, build up your emergency fund, and estimate new monthly costs like childcare, diapers, and formula. It's also a great time to update your beneficiaries, consider life insurance, and start thinking about future savings goals. Preparing now can help you focus more on your growing family and less on financial surprises. For more tips, explore FORUM’s Money Moves When Expanding Your Family guide.
For personalized help with budgeting and planning, FORUM offers Financial Coaching. Click here to learn more.