Being in control of your money does not only depend on how much you earn, but on how you manage it. For many domestic workers, organizing their personal finances is a key tool for preventing debt, dealing with unforeseen events, and making decisions with greater clarity.
Whether you work by the hour, by the week, or per service, understanding how your money comes in and goes out allows you to plan better, save, and recognize the value of your work. Talking about money is also part of personal and professional care.
In this article, we share practical tips to improve your financial organization, avoid unnecessary debt, and strengthen your economic stability.
Financial education is also for you
Talking about money has not always been easy for many communities. For years, limited access to banks, advice, and financial education has made it difficult to make informed economic decisions. However, that does not mean you cannot start learning and gaining control.
Having this type of information can make a significant difference, even with variable income. It’s about making more informed decisions, avoiding costly mistakes, and making better use of available opportunities.
As Yanely Espinal, a financial educator, points out: “Financial education is emerging as a crucial tool that enables women entrepreneurs to make informed decisions.”
Where to begin
Organizing your finances doesn’t have to be complicated. With a few simple steps, you can gain greater clarity on how you manage your money and make better day-to-day decisions:
📝 1. Track your income and expenses.
You can do this in a notebook, in the notes app on your phone, or with free apps like Monefy or Wallet. Writing down how much you earn and how much you spend each week will help you identify where your money is going and how to organize it better.
🎯 2. Set realistic goals.
Saving without a clear purpose can be difficult. But if you set a specific goal—such as an emergency fund, a trip, or paying off debt—it will be easier to stay consistent.
💰 3. Save, even if it’s just a little.
It doesn’t matter if you can only save $10 a month. The important thing is to get into the habit. You can also set aside a small amount from each paycheck if you work in different households.
🚫 4. Avoid high-interest loans.
Payday loans or cash advances may seem like a quick fix, but they often lead to unmanageable debt. Before taking on debt, consider alternatives such as credit unions, community funds, or assistance programs.
🤝 5. Talk to other domestic workers.
Talking about money should not be a reason for embarrassment. Sharing experiences with other colleagues can help you discover new strategies, prevent mistakes, and learn together as a community.
Your work has value, and so does your time
For many domestic workers, putting a price on their time can be challenging, especially if it has not been part of their regular conversations with families. However, recognizing the value of your work is part of good financial health.
Having clear information on how to organize money can make a big difference in everyday life. For many domestic workers, strengthening this knowledge not only improves their finances but also allows them to make more confident decisions and plan with greater peace of mind.
