12 Signs You’re Doing Well Financially When You’re Over 35

Turning 35 is a milestone that often brings a deeper focus on financial stability and long-term planning.

By this age, you’re likely juggling various responsibilities, from managing a household to planning for the future.

But how can you tell if you’re truly on track? Here are 12 signs that indicate you’re set to get ahead financially in your 30s.

If you’re consistently contributing the maximum allowed to your retirement accounts, it’s a strong sign that you’re on the right financial path.

This habit ensures that you’re building a solid nest egg for the future and takes advantage of any employer-matching contributions. It also shows you’re prioritizing long-term financial security.

For 2024, the IRS 401k contribution limit for employees is $23,000, and the IRA contribution limit is $7,000.

Having an emergency fund that can cover at least six months of living expenses is a key indicator of financial health.

This fund acts as a safety net during unexpected events, such as job loss or medical emergencies. It’s a clear sign that you’re prepared for life’s uncertainties and can handle financial surprises without going into debt.

If you’ve managed to pay off your credit card debt, you’re ahead of the game. Carrying a credit card balance can lead to high-interest charges, which can quickly spiral out of control.

Being debt-free in this area means you’re not wasting money on interest payments and can focus on saving and investing instead.

Owning your home or being on track to pay off your mortgage is a significant financial milestone, especially at a younger age. It indicates that you’ve built equity and are moving toward complete ownership.

This not only provides you with a sense of stability but can also increase your net worth over time. Plus, it frees up resources for other financial goals.

If you’ve diversified your investments across different asset classes, such as stocks, bonds, and real estate, you’re in a strong financial position.

Diversification reduces risk and increases the potential for long-term growth. It’s a sign that you understand the importance of not putting all your eggs in one basket and are actively managing your financial future.

Being on top of your insurance needs, including health, life, disability, and property insurance, shows that you’re protecting yourself and your loved ones from financial hardships.

Having the right coverage ensures that you won’t face overwhelming costs in the event of an illness, accident, or disaster.

If you regularly track your net worth and know exactly where you stand financially, you’re definitely ahead.

Tracking your net worth allows you to monitor your progress toward your financial goals and make informed decisions about your spending, saving, and investing. It’s a clear sign that you’re in control of your finances.

Living below your means is a fundamental principle of financial success. It means you’re spending less than you earn and saving or investing the difference.

This habit prevents you from falling into debt and ensures that you have money available for future goals. It’s a sign of financial discipline and long-term thinking.

By age 35, having at least two times your annual salary saved for retirement is a good benchmark. This indicates that you’re on track to build a comfortable retirement fund over time.

If you have more than two times your salary saved, you’re even better positioned to enjoy financial security in your later years.

Being debt-free or having a manageable debt load is a key sign of financial health. If you’ve paid off student loans, auto loans, or other significant debts, or if your remaining debt is manageable and under control, it shows that you’re making smart financial decisions.

This allows you to focus on growing your wealth rather than servicing debt.

If you have children and have established a solid plan for their college savings, it’s a sign that you’re thinking ahead and taking steps to secure their future.

Whether you’re contributing to a 529 plan or another savings vehicle, planning for your kids’ education expenses shows that you’re prioritizing long-term goals and avoiding future debt.

If you’ve consistently grown your income over the years, whether through career advancements, side hustles, or smart investments, it’s a sign of financial success.  

Increasing your income allows you to save more, invest more, and ultimately achieve your financial goals faster. It’s a reflection of your ability to make smart career and financial decisions.

From maximizing retirement contributions to living below your means, each of these habits indicates that you’re making the right moves to secure your financial future.

Are you checking off these boxes? Taking a moment to reflect on your financial situation now can help you lower your financial stress.