Graduation Bound – Student
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So you’ve left the nest, or you’re about to, and you’re exploring your independence. There’s no better time than now to learn money habits that reduce stress and promote life-long financial fitness.
Start Here
Make saving part of your daily budgeting.
Save for short-term goals like a vacation and long-term goals such as a car or future education. And, don’t forget to build an emergency fund. Your parents will be impressed. Ask your
VistaBank representative about flexible banking tools.
Check it out.
If you don’t have a checking account, get one. Online banking is a great
tool to manage your money wisely. Make sure you know exactly how your
account works, so there aren’t any surprise fees or charges. Our
“Student Checking” is ideal for first-time checkers.
Before going plastic, go debit.
Debit cards are a great way to enjoy the convenience of a credit card
without actually acquiring debt. Debit cards don’t count toward your
credit score, but they offer an excellent way to “practice” responsible
spending.
Prep for college.
Talk to your parents about your college plans and the cost. Take time to
find out what they’re thinking. Have a clear idea of what your family
can afford and what your contribution will be. Also look into student
loans and Pell grants. There may be money available you don’t know
about. Our
CDs and
savings accounts are excellent tools for saving
towards college.
Establish your credit.
To begin building a credit history, you have to borrow money and pay it
back. Avoid a major credit card until you’re a junior or a senior in
college. Instead, consider a small bank
loan co-signed by a parent and
repaid early, such as a car loan or a small loan for tuition.