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Part 2 - Sheldon’s Financial situation in Season 2 Penny’s money “troubles” are frequently discussed and sometimes paraded for humorous effect. However, what is perhaps more interesting about this episode is what Sheldon says about his own finances. “My expenses account for 46.9% of my after-tax income. The rest is divvied up between a small savings account, this deceptive container of peanut brittle and the hollowed-out buttocks of a superhero action figure who shall remain nameless for his own protection. Or her own protection.” Let’s put together some estimates … Income assumptions Glassdoor reports that a theoretical physicist at Caltech make around $190K per year[1]. Given Sheldon’s statement is relatively early in the show run - season 2 out of 12 total seasons - this estimate could be accurate given Sheldon’s experience and apparent stature in his field of study. Tax estimators online such as talent.com give an estimate of $123K after state and federal taxes. However, ...

Part 1 - Penny’s debt crisis Penny runs into Sheldon’s apartment as he returns home by himself. She is hiding from the building manager because she can’t pay her rent. Apparently she has had extra bills recently due to her car breaking down ($1200) and the restaurant cutting her hours. “You know it occurs to me. You could solve all your problems by obtaining more money.” “Yes … it occurs to me too.” Sheldon offers to loan Penny money, at which she is taken aback and appears unsure of whether or not she should accept. Eventually she does borrow the money, but mumbles as she leaves “I’m regretting this already.” During the course of the episode this borrower/lender dynamic causes Penny to be uncomfortable around the guys as she receives delivery of a beret that she had previously ordered online, and eats $14 takeout in their apartment. Penny reacts to this overspending by becoming defensive, yelling at Sheldon and Raj. Later Penny reveals to Leonard that her plan when coming to...