Graduating from college is an exciting milestone that also comes with new financial responsibilities. After living on a college budget, receiving your first real paycheck from a post-graduate job may feel like having more money than you know how to manage. Developing smart money habits now can set you up for long-term success.
Here are 10 tips for managing your finances after graduation.
1. Open the Right Bank Accounts
Start with a checking and savings account from Metro Credit Union to manage your money effectively.
Checking Accounts
Choose our easy, no cost checking account to get started, or opt for one with all the bells and whistles if you’re interested in earning monthly interest or enjoying perks like free BillPay and cashier’s checks. Either way, every account at Metro allows you to manage your finances on the go with online banking and our mobile app.
Savings Accounts
With just a $5 deposit, you become a Metro member, gaining access to all our products and services, including a variety of savings accounts federally insured by the NCUA.
When choosing a bank account, compare fees, ATM access, mobile features, and whether the bank offers support for young adults. Remember: even small fees can add up over time, so read account terms closely.
2. Create a Realistic Budget
Budgeting builds financial stability. To make budgeting easier, use Save & Succeed’s budgeting tool to list your income and expenses like rent, groceries, transportation and bills. The tool will show you what you have left and allow you to plan for specific savings goals, like a downpayment on a car or an emergency fund.
A clear budget helps you meet financial obligations, achieve your goals and avoid overspending.
3. Automate Your Savings
Set up direct deposit to automatically send a portion of your paycheck into your savings account. Using direct deposit helps you save before you even see the money. You can create additional savings accounts for different needs, such as emergency funds, travel plans, or larger purchases.
This simple step helps you save effortlessly and build financial security over time.
4. Track Your Expenses
Keep tabs on every expense, no matter how small. Knowing where your money goes helps you stay on track and shows where you can cut back to save. Check your spending weekly and monthly to spot trends, like unexpected costs from dining out or subscriptions.
Download the Metro Credit Union mobile app to access digital banking tools that make tracking expenses and managing money simple and convenient.
5. Avoid Impulse Purchases
Before you buy something, ask yourself if it’s a want or a need. Waiting 24 hours before making a purchase can prevent unnecessary “impulse buys” and help you stay on budget.
Since the ease of online shopping can make quick spending tempting, consider unsubscribing from promotional emails. For larger items, spend more time researching alternatives, reading reviews, and comparing prices before deciding. Sometimes you might find a better deal or decide the item is not a necessity.
6. Build an Emergency Fund
Unexpected expenses happen, like car repairs, medical bills, or job transitions. Try to save at least three to six months’ worth of expenses to cover emergencies without relying on credit cards.
If saving that much feels out of reach at first, start with a smaller target like $500 or $1,000 which can help you cover sudden costs like medical bills or car repairs. Whenever you receive money unexpectedly, like a tax refund or bonus, add it to your emergency fund. Keeping these savings in a separate account makes it less tempting to spend them.
7. Set Financial Goals
Decide what you want to achieve financially. Whether it’s paying off student loans, saving for a car, or planning for travel, clear goals keep you motivated and focused. Break bigger financial goals into smaller steps, like saving $500 toward a car in the next three months and check your progress regularly to help keep you on track. Write down your goals and keep them somewhere you see often, like next to your desk or on your phone.
Open a high-yield account like a Money Market or Certificate for competitive rates to increase your savings.
8. Start Building Your Credit Score
A good credit score opens doors to lower interest rates and better financial opportunities. Pay bills on time, keep credit balances low, and avoid opening too many accounts at once. Each quarter, we provide our members with updates on their FICO® Score, which you can access in online banking under the tools section.
Taking a closer look at your credit report each year can help you spot mistakes and correct them. Consider using a credit card for everyday purchases like groceries or gas and pay the balance in full each month. Be cautious about co-signing loans for anyone else, since their missed payments could affect your own credit.
9. Use Credit Cards Wisely
Credit cards can be helpful but only if used responsibly. Make payments on time each month to keep your balance in check. Spend within your means to build a strong credit history. Even if you qualify for more, set your own spending limit with your credit card to keep your spending within your means of repayment.
10. Get Financial Guidance
You don’t have to navigate your finances alone. Metro Credit Union provides resources like Save and Succeed, the credit union’s personal finance program. Access financial calculators, blogs, and a variety of other member education tools. Empower yourself with financial knowledge to make informed decisions.
Starting strong financially after college is possible with the right habits and support. Metro Credit Union is here to help you make smart decisions no matter where you are financially. Visit our website today to learn more about how we can support your financial journey!
