![]() ![]() Federal, state, and sometimes local taxes, as well as FICA (Medicare and Social Security) withholding, all shrink your take-home pay. The National Association of Colleges and Employers says most 2022 grads can expect to earn between $50,000 and $76,000 Opens in new window, depending on their field.īefore you estimate your monthly take-home pay, figure in what’s deducted. In general, though, starting pay isn’t lavish. Some entry-level jobs pay well-in banking, for example, top new earners are taking home six figures Opens in new window. Need help deciding? We can help you find the right account for you.Your salary may start small-and get smaller after deductions But if you create a budget you can stick to - and readjust as things change - you’ll develop smart financial habits that will serve you well for years to come. No matter how careful you are, your finances can get off track from time to time. For instance, every time you get a raise, funnel a portion of your increase into your retirement fund. If you can’t contribute a lot in the beginning, start small: consider a 1 percent contribution or the minimum to get your employer’s best matching contribution, and then reassess your budget regularly to make sure you are putting away as much money for the future as you can. Contributions come out of your paycheck, but if you delay enrollment and get used to your full pay, it may be harder to reallocate money into your retirement fund later. The earlier you start saving, the longer your investments will grow and the more money you’ll potentially make over the years. ![]() If not, a Roth or Traditional Individual Retirement Account (IRA) might be a good fit for you. If your company offers a 401(k) retirement savings plan, sign up as soon as possible. If you budget your money from the beginning, you won’t feel a drain on your paycheck when the bills start coming in. The grace period before you’re required to start paying back student loans is a good time to cut credit card debt or save as much as you can. ![]() It’s always important to have an emergency fund in place, but paying off high-interest debt is also a high priority. If you already have high-interest credit card debt, put a large portion of the money you’ve budgeted for savings toward your outstanding balances. While using - and paying off - a credit card regularly can help you build credit, it’s smart to avoid making any purchases you can’t pay for right away. Keeping it separate makes it harder to transfer money for unnecessary purchases with the push of a button. Consider moving it to an account not linked to checking. Once you’ve successfully met this goal, do your best to forget the money exists. Putting extra money away during good times can help you avoid using credit cards and going into debt when things get rough.Įventually, you want to save the equivalent of three to six months’ of living expenses. It will also help you weather unexpected financial storms.Ī layoff, a car accident, or a broken cell phone can disrupt your income and push your expenses over your budget. ![]() Setting up a saving fund from the start will give you the resources you’ll need to make a major purchase down the line. This will help you avoid tapping into your savings for impulse buys.
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