Your net worth in one number

One number shows whether your money is moving the right way.

The simple version

Net worth = everything you own minus everything you owe. It's often negative when you're starting out. Checking it every few months shows progress that month-to-month budgets hide — paying down debt raises it just as much as saving does.

Add up your numbers — rough is fine.

You own

$3,000

You owe

$6,000

Net worth

-$3,000

Negative is normal in your twenties, especially with student loans. What matters is the direction it moves each year.

Open in Tools to save your numbers →

Your move

Your net worth is −$8,000. What does that mean?

✓

Key takeaway

Check it every 3–6 months. Up is good, however slowly.

Quick check · 10 seconds

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Last checked September 28, 2026 · Example figures; rules vary by country · General education, not financial advice

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