Gen Xers are older today, with many eyeing retirement in the not-so-distant future. As that milestone event looms, how does your financial fitness compare to that of the generation?
Unfortunately, the answer is likely to be negative for some folks. Here are some key signs that you might be doing worse financially than the average Gen Xer.
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You have more than $8,134 in credit card debt
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The average member of Gen X has $8,134 in credit card debt, according to a USA Today analysis of data from the credit-reporting agency Experian.
You could be heading down a slippery financial slope if you have more credit card debt than that. A large amount of credit card debt leaves you with high-interest payments and limits your ability to save and invest for the future.
So, start crushing your debts now so you can save more for the future.
You have less than $40,000 saved for retirement
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According to a report from the National Institute on Retirement Security, the average Gen Xer has about $40,000 saved in retirement accounts. If your retirement savings don't compare, it is time to take action.
Evaluate your current level of annual retirement contributions and explore opportunities to increase savings by contributing more to employer-sponsored retirement plans or individual retirement accounts.
Your household earns less than $117,577
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The average Gen X household earns $117,577 annually, according to a Bankrate analysis of data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
If you earn less than that, consider ways to boost your income. Increasing your household income can positively impact your overall financial health.
Assess opportunities for career growth, negotiate a salary increase, or look to develop additional income streams, such as starting a side hustle to make extra money.
Resolve $10,000 or more of your debt
Credit card debt is suffocating. It constantly weighs on your mind and controls every choice you make. You can end up emotionally and even physically drained from it. And even though you make regular payments, it feels like you can never make any progress because of the interest.
National Debt Relief could help you resolve your credit card debt with an affordable plan that works for you. Just tell them your situation, then find out your debt relief options.1 <p>Clients who are able to stay with the program and get all their debt settled realize approximate savings of 46% before fees, or 25% including our fees, over 12 to 48 months. All claims are based on enrolled debts. Not all debts are eligible for enrollment. Not all clients complete our program for various reasons, including their ability to save sufficient funds. Estimates based on prior results, which will vary based on specific circumstances. We do not guarantee that your debts will be lowered by a specific amount or percentage or that you will be debt-free within a specific period of time. We do not assume consumer debt, make monthly payments to creditors or provide tax, bankruptcy, accounting or legal advice or credit repair services. Not available in all states. Please contact a tax professional to discuss tax consequences of settlement. Please consult with a bankruptcy attorney for more information on bankruptcy. Depending on your state, we may be available to recommend a local tax professional and/or bankruptcy attorney. Read and understand all program materials prior to enrollment, including potential adverse impact on credit rating.</p>
How to get National Debt Relief to help you resolve your debt: Sign up for a free debt assessment here. (Do not skip this step!) By signing up for a free assessment, National Debt Relief can assist you in settling your debt, but only if you schedule the assessment.
You have more than $40,000 in student loan debt
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Members of Generation X carry an average of $40,000 in student loan debt, according to a report from the National Institute on Retirement Security. That is the same amount they have saved for retirement.
Tackling this debt head-on is crucial. Explore strategic repayment plans or refinancing options to alleviate the financial burden and create more room for savings and investments.
Your credit score is below 706
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Experian says members of Generation X have a median credit score of 706. If your score is lower, it might be time to work on boosting it.
Maintaining a healthy credit score is crucial to obtaining competitive interest rates on loans and credit cards. Review your credit report for accuracy, address any discrepancies, and implement strategies to improve your number, such as paying your bill on time every time.
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Your annual expenditures are more than $75,087
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The average Gen X household has annual expenditures of $75,087, according to a Business Insider analysis of data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
If you spend more than this, it might be time to work on managing your budget more efficiently. Look for ways to change your spending habits to free up resources for savings, debt repayment, and investments.
You have a net worth of less than $247,000
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According to a Motley Fool analysis of Federal Reserve data, the median net worth of those between the ages of 45 and 54 — including Gen Xers — is $247,000.
If your nest egg is smaller than this amount, it might be time for a new plan. Even at this point in life, it's not too late to save more and start investing.
The key to increasing your net worth is identifying opportunities to increase assets while actively managing and reducing liabilities. If you're unsure how to start, consider consulting with a financial advisor.
Bottom line
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If you're a member of Generation X, comparing where you stand against the benchmarks on this list can provide valuable insights about what you need to improve in your financial life.
Reflect on money goals and consider a new plan to help you build wealth and give you a sense of financial well-being that matches your fellow Gen Xers.
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