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While in college, the way you manage money will affect your
financial future. Many students incur too much credit or loan
debt and begin careers with a poor credit reputation — which can
affect the decisions landlords, employers, insurance companies
and other businesses make about them. To avoid future financial
problems, make sure you understand and practice good money
management skills now.
Save First
If you have been saving money to pay for college, keep it up.
Saving helps you prepare for being on your own. Here are some tips
for making it a lifelong habit.
- Pay yourself first. As soon as you receive a paycheck, allowance
or financial gift, save a portion. Financial planning professionals
recommend saving at least the first 10 percent to 15 percent of your net income.
The important thing is to set aside as much as you can afford to save.
- Think of saving as a bill you have to pay.
- Collect loose change. Empty your pockets at the end of each day,
and put the change in a container. Every few months, deposit the change
into your savings account.
Spend Wisely
Before you buy anything, determine if you really need it, or if
it is available for less.
Think about the difference between your needs and your wants. You
need to eat and spend time with friends, but do you need to spend money
on after-class trips to expensive coffee shops or dinner at restaurants?
Know where your money goes. Add up everything you spend for a month
and keep track of what you buy. You may be surprised how much you spend
and on what things.
By doing this exercise for a month or two, you may discover areas where you can cut back and save money.
Create A Budget
If you use it, a budget puts you in control of your money. It is
a tool for knowing where your money comes from (income) and planning
where it goes (saving and spending). Use the
College Budget Work Sheet
to create your own personal budget.
Follow Your Budget
Following a budget is not easy. It forces you to make choices about
what you will do with your money — without letting you spend more than
you have. It also helps you get the most out of the money you have.
Once you create a budget, follow your plan. Do not spend money on
things that are not included in your plan unless you are willing to
substitute another item for it. Adjust your plan if it is not working.
Use Credit Well
Credit is an important financial tool, but it can be dangerous.
Talk to a parent or guardian about whether you need credit while at
college. If you do need to use credit for college expenses, make sure you use it wisely.
- Decide exactly how you will use credit; use it only for items
you know you can repay each month.
- Pay bills on time and in full. Avoid skipping a payment.
- Limit the number of credit cards you own. One is probably enough.
- Know the terms and conditions of your credit card or loan.
- Keep credit card and loan information in a safe place.
- Keep copies of sales slips. Compare charges when your monthly statement
arrives. Call your credit card company immediately if you see a discrepancy.
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Basic Money Management
Basic Money Management