1. What situations might have created the budget deficit for the Constantine family?

2. Describe additional actions for the Constantine family related to their budget or other money management activities.

ADJUSTING THE BUDGET In a recent month, the Constantine family also includes regularly saving and invest. had a budget deficit, which is something ing for the children's education and for they want to avoid so they do not have retirement. future financial difficulties. Jason and Jason asked "How come you never Karen Constantine and their children (ages Ken, 10 and 12) to discuss the seem to have financial stress in your dinner this situation after household?" evening. While at work, Jason was Ken replied, "Do you know where your friend Ken Lopez. Ken talking with his money each month? had been a regular is going saver since he was very young, starting with "Not really," was Jason's response. small savings account. Those funds were "You'd be surprised how much is spent then invested in tocks and mutual on little things you might do without, Ken funds. While in college, Ken was able to pay responded. for his education while continuing to save "I guess so. I just don't want to have to go between $50 and $100 a month. He closely around with a notebook writing down every monitored his spending. Ken realized that amount I spend," Jason said in a troubled the few dollars here and there for snacks and other minor purchases quickly add up. Today, Ken works as a customer Well, you have to take some action if you manager for the online division of service want your financial situation to change a retail Ken countered ing company. He lives with his wife and their two young children. The family's That evening, the Constantine family met to spending plan allows for all their needs and discuss their budget situation