Money Management Tips for College Students

You've finally graduated from college and on your own, so you need to know how to manage your money. Many people will be getting their first job. It's very important to know how to balance your checkbook, and to do that, it's wise to keep your debit card receipts. Keeping your check register updated will help you manage your finances.

When your checkbook is balanced properly, you'll always know where you spent your money and what you spent it on. You can check your monthly bank statements for any discrepancies.

You may wonder how you can keep your financial information safe in a dorm room or apartment you share with someone else. You are smart to be concerned not only with a roommate you just met, but also with that roommates friends. It's a good idea to lock your personal documents such as statements, extra check books, credit cards, account numbers, social security card, etc in a drawer or safe.

Establishing and managing a budget is always a good idea. Know all your sources of income, then track and record all your spending over the course of a few weeks. Project outward to the end of the semester and see how expenses compare to your available funds. Chances are, after a few weeks, you'll be surprised that the little things add up.

For more information, please visit www.newhcu.org.