News & Trending Money News

15 Things You Must Do Once You Start Making Over $50,000

Elevate your financial status with these 15 must-do actions after reaching $50K in income.

cheerful young woman holding money
Updated Sept. 24, 2024
Fact checked

We receive compensation from the products and services mentioned in this story, but the opinions are the author's own. Compensation may impact where offers appear. We have not included all available products or offers. Learn more about how we make money and our editorial policies.

Congratulations on reaching a significant milestone in your financial journey — a $50,000 income! This turning point can open up new opportunities and set you on a path toward achieving your financial goals.

However, managing your newfound income wisely is crucial to break the paycheck-to-paycheck cycle

We'll explore 15 things you should consider doing once you start making $50,000 annually.

If you’re over 50, take advantage of massive discounts and financial resources

Over 50? Join AARP today — because if you’re not a member you could be missing out on huge perks. When you start your membership today, you can get discounts on things like travel, meal deliveries, eyeglasses, prescriptions that aren’t covered by insurance and more.

How to become a member today:

  • Go here, select your free gift, and click “Join Today”
  • Create your account (important!) by answering a few simple questions
  • Start enjoying your discounts and perks!

Important: Start your membership by creating an account here and filling in all of the information (Do not skip this step!) Doing so will allow you to take up 25% off your AARP membership, making it just $12 per year with auto-renewal.

Become an AARP member now

Contribute to retirement accounts

Inna/Adobe 401K plan on notebook besides keyboard

Contributing to retirement accounts is crucial to ensure a smooth retirement. Consider opening or maximizing contributions to retirement plans like a 401(k) or an IRA.

This not only lowers your current tax liability but also secures your financial future. The earlier you start saving for retirement, the more time your money has to grow through compound interest. 

It's a smart move that ensures financial security in your golden years and may even help you retire early.

Pay off high-interest debt

M-Production/Adobe man cutting credit card with scissor

Paying off high-interest debt should always be a top priority once your income reaches new heights. High-interest debts, like credit cards or payday loans, can quickly spiral out of control.

Allocate a significant portion of your income toward eliminating these debts. It will save you money on interest, improve your financial health, and free up funds for saving and investing.

Build an emergency fund

Vitalii Vodolazskyi/Adobe jlass jar labeled

Building an emergency fund is crucial when your income hits $50,000. Aim to save at least three to six months of living expenses.

Keeping more money in the bank provides security during unexpected medical emergencies or job loss. 

It also prevents you from dipping into savings or going into debt when facing unforeseen challenges and staying on track with your financial goals.

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

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.

Try it

Create a budget

Paolese/Adobe female accountant reviewing bills at home

Creating a budget is a foundational step that helps you track expenses, allocate funds wisely, and attain financial goals. This clarity allows you to cut unnecessary costs and save for the future. 

Budgeting instills discipline, promotes savings, and ensures your money aligns with your priorities. It's a powerful tool for financial success as your income grows.

Set financial goals

Monster Ztudio/Adobe calculator besides pennies with house sculpture

As your income hits $50,000, setting clear financial goals becomes essential. Define short-term objectives like paying off debt and long-term goals like buying a home or retiring comfortably.

Goal-setting provides direction, purpose, and a roadmap to financial success, regardless of your income level.

Having specific targets motivates disciplined saving and investing. Break them down into achievable steps, and regularly review and adjust your goals to ensure they align with your evolving financial situation. 

Automate savings

fizkes/Adobe woman reviewing bills using laptop

Automating your savings is a smart move, regardless of your income level. Set up automatic transfers from your checking account to your savings or investment accounts. 

This ensures that a portion of your income is consistently saved without thinking about it, making it easier to stick to your financial goals.

Automating savings also takes advantage of the "pay yourself first" principle, helping you build wealth over time without having to think about it constantly.

Invest wisely

Wicitr/Adobe accountant reviewing budget using calculator

Consider diversified investment options such as stocks, bonds, and mutual funds. You might also explore tax-advantaged accounts like IRAs or 401(k)s.

Ensure your investments align with your financial goals and risk tolerance. Diversification spreads risk and enhances potential returns. 

If you're new to investing, consult a financial advisor for guidance. Making informed investment choices can help your money grow and secure your financial future.

Increase insurance coverage

Jo Panuwat D/Adobe hand arranging healthcare blocks

As your income increases, it's wise to increase your insurance coverage. Evaluate your health, auto, and home insurance policies to ensure adequate protection for your growing assets and lifestyle. 

Consider adding umbrella liability insurance to safeguard against unexpected events.

While increasing coverage may raise premiums, it offers invaluable financial security. Review and update your insurance regularly to adapt to changing circumstances and maintain peace of mind.

Upgrade your skills

fizkes/Adobe woman thinking while doing study

With an income of $50,000, invest in upgrading your skills to boost you even further. Enhancing your skill set can make you more valuable in the job market, potentially leading to higher earning potential.

Stay current in your field and adapt to industry trends to secure your financial future. Continuous learning enhances your employability and fosters personal growth and development.

Earn cash back on everyday purchases with this rare account

Want to earn cash back on your everyday purchases without using a credit card? With the Discover®️ Cashback Debit Checking account (member FDIC), you can earn 1% cash back on up to $3,000 in debit card purchases each month!2

With no credit check to apply and no monthly fees to worry about, you can earn nearly passive income on purchases you’re making anyway — up to an extra $360 a year!

This rare checking account has other great perks too, like access to your paycheck up to 2 days early with Early Pay, no minimum deposit or monthly balance requirements, over 60K fee-free ATMs, and the ability to add cash to your account at Walmart stores nationwide.

Don’t leave money on the table — it only takes minutes to apply and it won’t impact your credit score.

Apply for a Discover Cashback Checking account today

Review your tax strategy

fizkes/Adobe businessman working on laptop

With a higher income comes the need for a tax strategy review. Consider consulting with a tax professional to ensure you're taking advantage of all available deductions and credits. 

Explore tax-efficient investment options like IRAs or 401(k)s to minimize your tax liability while securing your financial future.

Being proactive about your tax strategy can help you keep more of your hard-earned money and pave the way for long-term financial stability.

Plan for major expenses

Astarot/Adobe woman looking through airplane window

As your income rises, it's wise to plan for major upcoming expenses. Whether it's a home purchase, higher education, or a dream vacation, setting aside funds for these goals ensures you won't be caught off guard.

Consider opening separate savings accounts or investment vehicles for each major expense and regularly contribute to them. 

Planning ahead ensures you can achieve your aspirations without compromising your financial stability.

Give back

Halfpoint/Adobe volunteers sorting out donated clothes in community charity donation center

It's a good time to consider giving back to your community or causes you're passionate about, especially when you’re doing better for yourself.

Charitable contributions, volunteer work, or even starting your own philanthropic efforts can be incredibly rewarding. 

Not only does this positively impact others, but it can also provide you with a sense of purpose and fulfillment.

Protect your credit

Olivier Le Moal/Adobe excellent business credit score gauge

Now that you're earning more, safeguarding your credit becomes crucial. Maintain timely payments, avoid maxing out credit cards, and regularly review your credit report. 

This ensures you're eligible for favorable interest rates on loans, mortgages, and credit cards.

A strong credit score can also save you substantial money over time and open doors to better financial opportunities.

Track your net worth

safriibrahim/Adobe assets and debt analysis data

As your income grows to $50,000, it's essential to track your net worth. This involves calculating your assets (like savings, investments, and property) minus your debts. 

Monitoring your net worth provides a snapshot of your financial health and helps you with meaningful goals.

Over time, your net worth should increase, indicating financial progress. It's a powerful motivator and a practical way to ensure you're moving in the right financial direction.

Seek professional advice

fizkes/Adobe couple shaking hands with bank worker

When your income increases, seeking professional financial advice is wise. A financial advisor can provide tailored investment guidance, tax strategies, retirement planning, and more.

They can help you make informed decisions to grow your wealth and secure your financial future. With their expertise, you can navigate complex financial matters and optimize your financial journey.

Bottom line

makistock/Adobe beautiful business woman drinking coffee

Earning $50,000 is an achievement worth celebrating, but it also comes with increased financial responsibilities

Managing your finances effectively, securing your future, and becoming financially fit is important. 

Remember, financial success is a journey, and these actions can help pave the way for a brighter future.

Lucrative, Flat-Rate Cash Rewards

5.0
info

Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card

Current Offer

$200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first 3 months

Annual Fee

$0

Rewards Rate

Earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases

Benefits and Drawbacks
Card Details


Author Details

Adam Palasciano

Adam Palasciano is a personal finance-obsessed and money-savvy individual who loves to hash out content on all things saving money. He specializes in writing millennial-friendly personal finance content, covering topics ranging from trending financial news, debt, credit cards, cryptocurrency, and more.