Build Financial Awareness and Take Control of Your Money

Create a Practical Budget for Everyday Life

Start with a simple plan that fits how you actually live here in Brazil. List fixed costs like rent, utilities and boleto payments, then add variable items such as food, transport and leisure. Use R$ amounts so the picture matches your reality.

Adopt a rule that works for you, for example a local take on the 50/30/20 method. Keep categories realistic and revisit them monthly to adjust for festivals, vacations or changes in income from gigs or overtime.

Track Spending and Build Financial Awareness

Make tracking automatic with your bank app and PIX notifications, and keep a quick weekly review every Sunday night. Save receipts, check your account statement and mark recurring charges so nothing sneaks up on you.

Small habits create big clarity. Note one tiny habit to change this week, like preparing lunch at home twice or cutting a streaming service, then track the savings in a dedicated column or app.

Reduce Debt and Improve Credit Health

Prioritize high-interest obligations first, such as credit card balances and personal loans. Call your bank to negotiate juros and ask about consolidation options that lower monthly burden and simplify payments.

Keep an eye on your CPF-linked score and pay installments on time to rebuild trust with lenders. Even modest overpayments can shorten the repayment timeline and reduce total interest paid.

Grow Savings and Invest Smartly

Build an emergency fund equal to two to six months of essential costs, kept in a low-risk account or easy-access investment. In Brazil, consider starting with a poupança or a liquid CDB while you learn other options.

When you’re ready, move toward Tesouro Direto or diversified ETFs, but start small and automate transfers right after payday. Set clear goals like a home down payment, a trip or retirement so your investments have purpose.