How our numbers work
Every calculator here runs on transparent, deterministic math — not a black box. These pages document the formulas, the assumptions, and the limits of each tool so you can check our work.
The principle
Money decisions deserve receipts. Wherever HansonsBudget gives you a number or a recommendation, you should be able to see exactly how we got there. Our rules are deterministic: the same inputs always produce the same output. AI is used to explain results in plain English — never to invent numbers or quietly change a ranking.
We also hold a hard line on recommendation integrity: partner compensation never determines what we recommend or how we rank it. The full policy is in our Editorial Policy and Affiliate Disclosure.
Tool methodologies
- Rent vs. Buy — the monthly net-worth simulation, the fair-comparison rule, and the tax treatment.
- Solar ROI — net cost after incentives, payback, IRR, and the investment comparison.
- Recommendations & card pickers — how the Next Best Move ranking and the credit-card guardrails work.
A standing disclaimer
Every tool here is educational and built on estimates and rules of thumb — not personalized financial, tax, or legal advice. Real markets, rates, taxes, and life are messier than any model. For decisions with real stakes, talk to a fee-only fiduciary advisor, CPA, or attorney. We tell you when something is worth a professional review.