<prompt> Human: Im turning 35 in a few weeks. I make 60k, I could make more if I had a degree or certifications. My girlfriend makes 35k, also no higher education but works for a large organization with benefits. We have three kids 16, 11, 6, we live in Miami FL.Her credit is pretty good high 600s, we have maybe 5k under her name thats being paid for minimum.I have about 4k in delinquent debt from 6-7 years ago. My score is in the low 500s.She started her 401k a few years ago but I have nothing, we have no other savings. We basically save here and there these months to handle Christmasbdays, and again when it comes time to start school. We certainly arent comfortable but im not saying were having beanieweenie dinners and mayo sandwiches either. Just seems we make enough to survive, but were not living. No vacations etc. Its been years, maybe 10.I know there is a wealth of information but I need to start from the bottom.. I always hear people tell me theres no reason with the money we make that we should be struggling. I guess I need to track our expenditures? Whats the best way? Should we combine accounts? How do we save, how to budget, etc..Pardon the throwaway..  <response>: I guess I need to track our expenditures? Yes, absolutely!!!Whats the best way? There are plenty of budgeting appsservices out there. Im a fan of YNAB. It is one thing to set savings goals, but if you never have the money left over to put towards those goals, then what is the point. Step one is understanding and controlling your spending. If you havent tracked it before, I think youll be in for some surprises and find some easy ways to cut back. It may seem tedious at first, but stick with it. It will be worth it. Step two is likely paying down that credit card debt of your gfs. 