Smart Starts: Money Tips for Heading Back to Campus
New semester. New goals. Smart money moves
A new school year is the perfect time for a fresh financial start — especially if you’re heading to college! Whether you’re living on campus, commuting, or taking online classes, smart money moves now can set you up for success all year long.
1. Build a Simple Budget
Know how much money you have coming in (from a job, family support, financial aid, etc.) and what you’ll be spending it on — think textbooks, food, gas, and fun. Use our mobile app to help keep track.
2. Avoid the “Back-to-School Blowout”
It’s tempting to go all out on new gear but try not to overspend. Look for student discounts, buy used textbooks, and resist impulse buys — your future self (and your bank account) will thank you.
3. Stay Scam-Savvy
College students are a top target for scams, especially online. Never share your banking info or personal details with someone you don’t know and be cautious of too-good-to-be-true deals or urgent messages asking for money.
4. Make the Most of Your Banking Tools
Set up alerts to track spending, set savings goals with our Financial Wellness widget, and make it a habit to check your balances and transactions daily.
Back to school = back to being smart with your money. You’ve got this!
