Getting in the habit of saving doesn't always come easy. Luckily, there's an app for that! The truth is, learning to save and managing personal finances in your twenties can be a challenge. Obstacles such as car payments and student loans aren't making it easy for this younger generation to create a financial plan that includes putting away money for the future.
Today, there are new services to help twenty-somethings get started on the path to saving, and all they need is their smart phone. While the convenience of money management increases with apps and online services, it is important to ensure the security of your personal information. As with any site or service that retains your bank account information, you should review security measures in place.
Acorns is an app that saves and invests your spare change automatically by rounding up everyday purchases that you make with your credit or debit card. For example, if you make a purchase of $19.95, five cents will be deposited into your Acorn account. The money you save is then invested in a portfolio of stocks or bonds.
Stashinvest is a great way for young, first-time investors to get acquainted with the stock market without having a big chunk of money to invest. With Stash, you select and buy fractional shares of an investment, which allows you get started with as little as a $5. The app also includes a glossary to help you learn more about investment related terms.
Digit is a website that communicates with users via text messaging (an app is currently under development). Once you link your checking account up with Digit, the system begins to evaluate your account activity and ability to save. Every few days, Digit checks your spending habits and transfers a few dollars from your checking account (if you can afford it) and makes a deposit into your Digit account. You can withdraw your money anytime you wish.
Managing your personal finances in your twenties may feel impossible, but you need to start somewhere. So what are you waiting for? Pick up your phone and start saving! To learn more about how to take charge of your finances, visit the Protective Learning Center and review our financial checklist for 20-somethings.
