What Is Net Worth? (And How to Calculate It)

Figuring out your net worth isn’t rocket science. It’s like looking at your financial report card. You want to know if you’re in the green (that’s good!), or in the red (not so good).

So, what is net worth, and how do you calculate it? Let’s break it down in simple terms.

What you'll learn:

➤ What Is Net Worth?

Net worth is like your financial score. It’s the total value of everything you own, minus everything you owe. Your assets are the things you own, like savings, investments, and your home. Your liabilities are what you owe, like mortgages, bills, and loans.

Why Does It Matter?

Knowing your net worth is like seeing your financial health in one snapshot. It’s like checking if you’re in good shape before you hit the financial gym. It helps you make smart money choices and avoid financial mistakes.

➤ How to Calculate Net Worth

1️⃣ Count Your Assets

Cash: This is money you can grab easily, like what’s in your bank accounts. Don’t forget about certificates of deposit and savings bonds.

Investments: Add up the value of your stocks, bonds, and retirement savings like 401(k)s and IRAs. Even if you’re into things like gold or artwork, add them up too. If you’ve got cash in your life insurance policy, include that as well.

Real Estate: Your home is an asset. But don’t focus on what you paid for it. Imagine what you’d get if you sold it today. You can use real estate websites like Zillow to get an idea. If you own rental properties, count those too.

Personal Stuff: Your cars and belongings also count. For expensive things like jewelry and art, you might need an appraiser. For everyday things, you can check out similar items sold online or use price guides.

👉 Explore More: Real Estate Investing 101: An Easy Beginner’s Guide

2️⃣ Check Your Liabilities

Now, let’s look at what you owe. This includes:

Mortgage: Even though your house is an asset, your mortgage is a liability.

Bills: Think about bills for things like utilities, medical costs, taxes, and IRS payments.

Loans: Credit card balances, car loans, and student loans all go in the liabilities column.

👉 Explore More: A Beginner’s Guide to Investing: How to Invest in Different Asset Classes

➤ Final Thoughts

Once you’ve added up your assets and liabilities, it’s time for the math. Subtract your total liabilities from your total assets. If the result is positive, that’s good news – your assets outweigh your debts, and your finances are strong.

If it’s close to zero, that means you’re balanced but not cushioned. If it’s negative, your debts are heavier than your assets, and you might need a financial plan.

Don’t worry if your net worth isn’t where you want it to be. You’ve taken the first step to understand your finances, and that’s a great start. You can always make changes to boost your assets and cut down on liabilities, just like making a budget to reach your money goals.

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