First off—congrats, grad! 🎉 You crossed the stage, tossed the cap, and now you’re officially stepping into the real world. It’s exciting, overwhelming… and, yep, it can get a little expensive.
Whether you’re starting a new job, figuring things out, or enjoying some well-earned downtime, we’ve got your back with real-world money tips to help you start strong.
💵 1. Get to Know Your Paycheck
Your job offer said $50K, but your first paycheck looks… not quite $50K-ish. Welcome to taxes! (And insurance. And maybe a 401(k).)
Your job offer said $50K, but your first paycheck looks… not quite $50K-ish. Welcome to taxes! (And insurance. And maybe a 401(k).)
Take time to understand what’s coming out of your paycheck and where it’s going.
Pro tip: Set up direct deposit into both your checking and savings accounts. It makes budgeting easier—and faster (no waiting on checks!).
💰 2. Build a Budget You Can Actually Stick To
Budgeting doesn’t have to be boring. It’s just your plan for how you want to spend (and save) your money.
Budgeting doesn’t have to be boring. It’s just your plan for how you want to spend (and save) your money.
Try the 50/30/20 rule:
- 50% = needs (rent, groceries, bills)
- 30% = wants (dining out, subscriptions, fun)
- 20% = savings + debt payments
There are tons of free budgeting apps out there, or you can use our online banking tools to keep tabs on where your money’s going.
💳 3. Use Credit (But Don’t Let It Use You)
Building credit is important—but it’s all about balance.
Use your credit card for small purchases you can pay off each month. No need to max it out to “build credit” (that’s a myth—and a money trap).
Building credit is important—but it’s all about balance.
Use your credit card for small purchases you can pay off each month. No need to max it out to “build credit” (that’s a myth—and a money trap).
We offer credit card options designed for young adults. Reach out if you’re ready to start building smart credit habits!
📈 4. Start Saving (Even If It’s Just a Little)
No one expects you to have it all figured out on day one.
But saving even $10 a week adds up.
Set up automatic transfers from checking to savings—so you’re saving without even thinking about it.
No one expects you to have it all figured out on day one.
But saving even $10 a week adds up.
Set up automatic transfers from checking to savings—so you’re saving without even thinking about it.
Emergency fund goal: at least 3 months’ worth of expenses. Your future self will thank you.
🧾 5. Attack Any Student Loans With a Plan
Student loans can feel like a mountain—but you’ve got this.
Know your loan types, grace periods, and minimum payments.
If you can pay more than the minimum, you’ll save a ton on interest over time.
Student loans can feel like a mountain—but you’ve got this.
Know your loan types, grace periods, and minimum payments.
If you can pay more than the minimum, you’ll save a ton on interest over time.
Need help putting together a repayment plan? Our team is happy to point you to helpful resources!
🧠 6. Keep Learning (The Money Stuff Matters!)
You just finished school, but real-world learning never stops—especially when it comes to your finances.
Follow trusted blogs, tune into money podcasts, or chat with us at Palmetto First. We’re always here to help you level up your money game.
You just finished school, but real-world learning never stops—especially when it comes to your finances.
Follow trusted blogs, tune into money podcasts, or chat with us at Palmetto First. We’re always here to help you level up your money game.
🎉 Bonus Tip: Celebrate Smart
You’ve earned the celebration—just try not to blow your whole first paycheck on it. (We’re looking at you, $300 dinner tab.)
You’ve earned the celebration—just try not to blow your whole first paycheck on it. (We’re looking at you, $300 dinner tab.)
Find ways to treat yourself and stay on track. That’s the sweet spot.
