Net worth methodology

A number without a source or date is incomplete. This is the framework for net worth estimates published on Peoplespedia.

1. State what is being estimated

Net worth means estimated assets minus estimated liabilities at a stated point in time. Do not substitute lifetime revenue, annual salary, company enterprise value, or career earnings for personal net worth.

2. Cite the estimate and its date

Attribute published estimates to the reporting source. State the date associated with the estimate, its currency, and whether the number is a range. A publication date should not be represented as the date of a financial valuation unless the source says so.

3. Explain important limitations

Private company interests, real estate, investments, debts, taxes, and ownership arrangements may be difficult to verify. Public sources may not disclose every asset or liability. Estimates are not audited financial statements.

4. Handle conflicting figures

Compare reporting dates and methods before treating differences as contradictions. If sources disagree materially, describe the disagreement and attribute the figures rather than averaging them into an unsupported number.

5. Avoid manufactured precision

Do not imply that an estimate is accurate to the dollar. Preserve the source’s level of rounding and qualify uncertainty. Do not calculate current age from an unverified birth date or current wealth from an old estimate without supporting evidence.

6. Keep the record clear

A published wealth section should include: estimated amount or range, currency, source URL, estimate date, retrieval or review date, and a short explanation of the basis and limitations.