Money Project

Balancing family, life, and finances one
honest conversation at a time.

Real Moms.
Real Numbers.

Candid conversations about grocery bills, childcare costs, and the splurges that feel worth it—no shame, no filters, just honest money talk.

What childcare credits can I claim?

You can claim the Child Tax Credit for qualified expenses for daycare, babysitters, or after-school care.

Can I deduct medical expenses for my family?

Yes, you can deduct eligible medical and dental expenses that exceed 7.5% of your adjusted gross income.

How do gig economy moms report income?

Track all freelance/side work income and report it using Form 1099 or Schedule C.

Money Moves

Simple shifts, smarter choices — mom-to-mom and expert-backed.

getty images WIP7oNK8jXo unsplash - Motherly

How to Plan for Parental Leave Without Losing Money (or Sleep)

5 Financial Habits Moms Swear By

5 Financial Habits Moms Swear By

What Real Families Can Cut When the Budget Gets Tight - Motherly

What Real Families Can Cut When the Budget Gets Tight

A Beginners Guide to Saving for College - Motherly

A Beginner’s Guide to Saving for College

Mom Hacks (Crowdsourced Tips)

Quick tricks moms actually use to stretch dollars further.

Grocery hacks

The two-store rule — buy pantry staples at discount stores, and get produce/meat from your usual grocery store.

Freeze-everything strategy — berries, herbs, leftover broth, kid snacks — less waste = instant savings.

Build-a-leftovers-night — one meal a week where the fridge decides what’s for dinner.

Saving on birthdays & holidays

Set a “Party Budget Formula” — 1 activity, 1 treat, 1 take-home — keeps costs predictable.

Group gifting with family or friends to avoid the last-minute splurge.

Repurpose décor from home — fabric tablecloths, books for theme setups, fairy lights.

Managing surprise expenses

Keep a stash of inexpensive birthday gifts (coloring kits, puzzles) for last-minute invites.

The backpack emergency kit — wipes, a spare outfit, a $5 bill — keeps panic purchases down.

Buy kids’ clothes one season ahead when everything’s discounted.