A 23-year-old bartender earns between $3,000 and $6,000 monthly while shouldering rent of $1,250, a car payment initially $568 (refinanced to $411), and about $150 monthly car insurance. Credit card balances total roughly $8,956 across Apple ($2,056), Bank of America ($1,700), Citibank ($4,500), and Discover ($700). No familial financial support exists, and all bills and emergencies are self-covered. Living with roommates reduced housing burden and eliminated prior financial support for her mother. The individual reports feeling overwhelmed and emphasizes the need for a strict, comprehensive budget that accounts for every dollar.
Kicking things off, this Redditor is listing off her monthly fixed costs, which include rent at $1,250, a car payment of $568 per month, and car insurance that's approximately $150 per month. As of the middle of August 2025, she was also facing credit card debt, with balances of $2,056 on her Apple Card, $1,700 on her Bank of America card, $4,500 on Citibank, and another $700 balance on a Discover card.
While these numbers might not seem like a lot, for someone who is 23 years old and working as a bartender making between $3,000 and $6,000 monthly, they feel like they are drowning. There is also no help being received from anyone (e.g., parents), so the Redditor is responsible for all bills and emergency expenses that come up.
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