School’s Out, Bills Aren’t: Planning for the Summer Income Gap

Why Summer Planning Deserves a Spot in Every Educator’s Financial Strategy

🎓 Teaching Doesn’t Stop in June—But the Paychecks Often Do

If you’ve ever had to stretch your May or June paycheck to last until August, you’re not alone. Many educators face a frustrating financial gap during the summer months. While some districts offer 12-month pay disbursement, not all do—and even when it’s available, it doesn’t always solve the deeper budgeting challenge.

Summer should be a time to recharge. But for teachers without a financial buffer, it can quickly turn into a season of stress. That’s why planning for the summer income gap isn’t just smart—it’s essential.

⚡ Why 10-Month Pay Doesn’t Fit a 12-Month Life

Most public school contracts are built around a 10-month pay cycle. That means educators are expected to budget for 12 months of living expenses on just 10 months of income.

Even for the most disciplined savers, that’s a big ask.

Teachers who don’t receive paychecks in July and August often resort to:

• ✅ Taking on part-time or summer school jobs (which can undermine true rest)
• ✅ Using credit cards or dipping into savings
• ✅ Delaying important purchases or bills

The long-term result? Financial fatigue and increased vulnerability to unexpected expenses.

📅 Better Than a Summer Job: A Year-Round Income Strategy

Rather than scrambling every June, consider a more proactive approach. Start by identifying how much income you’ll need to cover your summer gap. Then, take these steps:

💸 Create a Dedicated Summer Fund

Start setting aside a small portion of each paycheck throughout the school year.

Even $100–$200 a month adds up and creates breathing room for summer.

📊 Review Your Cash Flow Regularly

Mapping out monthly expenses—housing, food, insurance, utilities, debt payments—helps you get a realistic picture of what you actually need to survive the summer.

Build a budget that reflects your real-world needs, not generic averages.

🧡 Plan for Income Protection

Consider how tools like:

• Disability insurance — replaces income if you’re unable to work due to illness or injury
• Portable life insurance — follows you even if you change schools
• Other supplemental options — like living benefits or annuities

These tools aren’t just for emergencies—they can support income continuity year-round.

🌟 From Survival Mode to Peace of Mind

The goal isn’t just to “get by” each summer—it’s to build a financial rhythm that keeps working, even when you’re not.

Small adjustments now can lead to a stress-free, fully-funded summer later.

Imagine starting next school year feeling rested, not rattled.

🔗 Free Resource to Help You Prepare

👉 Download the Income Protection Workbook
A practical guide designed specifically for educators, covering the financial safety nets that can keep you covered through summer and beyond.

✅ Let’s Build a Summer Plan That Works for You

Whether you’re just starting to budget or want to improve your long-term strategy, we’re here to help.

📅 Schedule your 15-minute planning call

Let’s talk through your options and make sure next summer feels less stressful and more secure.

Gratefully,
Walter Johnson
Protecting Teachers’ Income
CA License OJ15814
📧 walter@ProtectingTeachersIncome.com
🌐 www.ProtectingTeachersIncome.com