You've just graduated, and now you're facing something you didn’t learn: how to manage your finances. This article will go over 20 financial tips for new college graduates to start good financial habits.
Tip #1: Make a Solid Budget
The first step to sound financial management is creating and sticking to a budget. I know the word budget is a four-letter word to some. I like to call it a spending plan.
Tip #2: Keep an Eye on Your Debts
Write all your debts that have a remaining balance and their interest rate. You want to have your eyes opened and aware of all your debt so you can see where you can make positive progress.
Tip #3: Don't Ignore Your Student Loans
Student debt is not the first thing you think about after college graduation. Recent college graduates should apply for an income-driven repayment plan. Talk to your student loan servicer to lower your student loan payments.
Tip #4: Clarify Your Goals
As a college student, you had goals about your major, GPA, and graduation goals. Now it’s time to start thinking about what you want for your personal finance future. Do you want to have a certain amount of money saved up? How much? Start saving now.
There are many ways to have fun for free. Whether you spend money or not is optional. Especially as new graduates, you can still get away with using your student ID for many things. Let’s just say I have been a recent college graduate for about six years now. Please don’t tell anyone.
Tip #6: Find Good Health Insurance Coverage
You probably qualify for subsidized health care coverage through your state. You want to make sure to check out this page to find out information about your state.