Skip to main content
Category

Career & Income

Career & Income articles from the Planned team.

Career & Income
Matt SchubergMatt Schuberg, CFP®

Is a Side Hustle Worth It After Taxes? The Real Math

A side hustle is worth it after taxes when your after-tax hourly beats your day job's. See the full math on $12,000 of side income, plus what to set aside.

·10 min read
Career & Income
Matt SchubergMatt Schuberg, CFP®

Higher Salary or Better Benefits? How to Compare

Higher salary or better benefits comes down to total compensation, not base pay. Price a 401(k) match, an HSA, and PTO against cash with 2026 numbers.

·9 min read
A close-up, high-resolution image of a blank check with a security pattern, showing the dollar sign box and part of the “DOLLARS” line. A metallic ballpoint pen rests near the writing area.Career & Income
Matt SchubergMatt Schuberg, CFP®

What to Do With Your First Real Paycheck

Got your first real paycheck and not sure what to do with it? Here's exactly how to split it, what to prioritize first, and how to build a system that lasts.

·9 min read
Friendly young businesswoman in glasses and suit is interviewing a male candidate for job in office. People are talking asking and answering questions, girl is writing.Career & Income
Matt SchubergMatt Schuberg, CFP®

How to Negotiate a Higher Salary (With Scripts)

Negotiate a higher salary with proven scripts. Research your market value, let them offer first, and counter calmly to add thousands to your pay.

·9 min read