‘Should I prioritize paying off the debt first, or would it be smarter to put at least part of this money into index funds to let it grow?’: I have savings and a $5,000 cash windfall. How do I decide between debt repayment and investing?

Hi Money Minder,

I’ve been tweaking my finances and finally saved up a little something! Just hit a jackpot with a Stake parlay and now have $5,000 extra burning a hole in my pocket. I have around $3,000 in credit card debt, so I’m torn between paying it off or jumping into index funds for that long-term wealth.

The interest on my credit card is not the worst, but I don’t want it hanging over me forever. On the flip side, I know investing early can really pay off in the long run.

What’s your take on this dilemma? Pay off the debt first or throw some money into index funds and watch it grow? Any tips on balancing debt and investing, especially for a newbie like me?

Cheers,
Financially Confused Fred

Response from THE MONEY MINDER:

Hello There,

Congratulations on your financial progress and on your recent lucky win on Stake! It’s great to hear that you are thinking about the best way to utilize this extra cash wisely. In terms of your situation, the decision between paying off debt and investing can be a tricky one, but here’s a realistic and practical approach to consider.

Given that your credit card debt is around $3,000 and the interest isn’t exorbitant, it may be beneficial to prioritize paying off the debt first. By paying off the credit card debt, you eliminate a financial burden and free yourself from the pressure of accruing interest over time. This can provide you with a sense of financial security and mental peace.

Once the debt is cleared, you can then shift your focus towards investing in index funds to start building long-term wealth. Starting early with investing is indeed advantageous, so putting a portion of the $5,000 towards index funds after paying off the debt could be a strategic move.

Balancing debt repayment with investing is a common consideration for many individuals, especially in the early stages of financial planning. It’s all about finding the right balance that suits your financial goals and risk tolerance. By paying off the debt first and then strategically investing, you can set yourself on a path towards financial stability and growth.

All the best from THE MONEY MINDER as you navigate this financial decision. Remember, making informed and practical choices now can pave the way for a stronger financial future.