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Baby Budget checklist

17 money steps for expecting and new parents, from checking your insurance to planning childcare.

Track your progress with a free accountGet the free Baby Budget Planner

Before baby arrives

The phone calls and numbers that matter most.

  • Estimate your first-year costs with real numbers Guide
  • Ask your health plan for your out-of-pocket maximum Guide
  • Confirm your hospital and providers are in network Guide
  • Write down each week of leave and what it pays Guide
  • Set a monthly save-before-baby amount Guide

Gear and supplies

Buy less, and buy it safely.

  • Get a car seat with a known history (new or from someone you trust) Guide
  • Set up a safe sleep space that meets current standards Guide
  • Make a registry with later-month items on it Guide
  • Compare diaper prices per diaper Guide

After the birth

Deadlines come quickly.

  • Add your baby to health insurance before the deadline Guide
  • Apply for your baby's Social Security number Guide
  • Check birth bills against your EOBs before paying Guide
  • Decide on a dependent care FSA if your employer offers one Guide

The first year and beyond

Look again at the first birthday.

  • Compare at least three childcare options Guide
  • Check which benefits your family qualifies for Guide
  • Keep childcare receipts for tax time Guide
  • Redo the budget around the first birthday Guide