QUIZ: WHAT'S YOUR MONEY PERSONALITY?

Perhaps the silver lining of "The Great Recession" is that it's taught us the importance of being money conscious — to live beneath our means, pay off debt, and save for that emergency. But it's a lot easier said than done. Where do you fall on the money savvy scale? Take this quiz to figure out if you need a financial tune-up.

1. How often do you have buyer's remorse?
Weekly.
Monthly.
Every 5 years or so.


2. OK, you know you need to have a budget, but do you?
Absolutely. I have a fine-tuned system that keeps me on track.
Honestly? It's a pain; I don't need more work.
I do, but sticking to it is what's hard.


3. If faced with a financial emergency, how much do you have saved for a rainy day?
At least three to six months.
One year, as a result of some tough sacrifices.
How can I put money away when I can barely make ends meet?


4. Quick word-association — no cheating! We say "IRA," you say:
Oh, darn... I'm blanking out.
I know it's some kind of investing plan.
Individual Retirement Account


5. Perhaps the overarching lesson the recession has taught you is:
Find little ways to save, like packing your lunch.
Devote more time to improving your personal finances.
How much better life was before this all started.


6. Do you have a retirement savings plan?
I opened one at work, but I have no idea what's going on.
It seems like a pain. Besides, that's, like, 50 years away!
I feel pretty confident that I’m doing all I can.


7. If you were in dire straits, would you consider at least temporarily moving back, or moving in, with family?
Absolutely not. Just the thought is awful.
Well, sure, if there were no other viable option.
Where do you think I'm taking this quiz from?


8. What do you think of "catastrophic health insurance"?
Anything with "catastrophic" in the title makes me superstitious.
Not for me. I've got a morbid fear of not being totally covered.
It's better than no insurance, especially if you're young, healthy, and kinda broke, but I'm holding out for health care reform in 2014.


9. Let's talk home buying. The idea of putting 20% toward a down payment is:
A pipe dream that'll never happen.
Impossible, but I'll find a way. Hey, it's the American dream!
Stressful, for sure, but I've got it under control.


10. Talking about money with my partner or friends makes me feel:
A bit uncomfortable. It's such a sensitive topic.
Motivated about my goals.
Never would. Too personal and nobody's business but mine.


11. How well-acquainted are you with your credit score?
I don't even know what that means.
I check it somewhat regularly.
I know I should know it, but I've never checked it.


12. You're out to dinner with friends. They order entrées; you have a salad. When the bill comes, one says, "Let's just split it." You say:
"OK." I won't ruin the evening by doing math at the table.
"Does anyone mind if I kick in a little less?"
Nothing, but plan to suggest a cheaper activity next time.


13. Lay it on me: How badly in debt are you?
It's so painful, I can't even open my bills.
It's a constant stress in my life, but I'm managing.
Fortunate to be debt-free.


14. Using grocery coupons is:
So what my mother did, and the savings are pretty minor.
The only way I shop; it's so easy to find coupons online.
A good way to get a deal — if I remember to bring them.


15. My general financial philosophy can be summed up this way:
Hope for the best, but prepare for the worst.
Don't worry, be happy!
You can never be too careful.