• Home
  • Mobile Banking
  • Personal
    • Certificates
    • Checking
    • Savings
    • Additional Services
    • Credit, Debit, ATM Cards
    • Loans
    • Switch Kit
    • Online Account Opening
  • Business
    • Cash Management
    • Business Checking
    • Loans
  • Mortgage
  • Agriculture
    • Real Estate Banking
    • Loans
  • About Us
    • Giving Back
    • Locations & Hours
    • Careers
    • Contact
  • Local Events
  • Home
  • Privacy Policy
  • Contact Us
  • Blog
  • Site Map
Citizens First Bank Logo Log In Click for contact info
Open an AccountOpen an AccountClick for Mobile bankingMobile Banking Click for online banking Online Banking Click for contact info Contact Us
Citizens First Bank Logo
  • Personal
    • Certificates
    • Checking
    • Savings
    • Additional Services
    • Credit, Debit, ATM Cards
    • Loans
    • Switch Kit
    • Online Account Opening
  • Business
    • Cash Management
    • Business Checking
    • Loans
  • Mortgage
  • Agriculture
    • Real Estate Banking
    • Loans
  • About Us
    • Giving Back
    • Locations & Hours
    • Careers
    • Contact
  • Local Events
Citizens First Bank Logo

You are now leaving Citizens First Bank's website and are going to a website that is not operated by the bank. We are not responsible for the content or availability of linked sites.

Citizens First Bank offers links to other third party websites that may be of interest to our website visitors. The links provided in our website are provided solely for your convenience and may assist you in locating other useful information on the internet. When you click on these links you will leave the Citizens First Bank website and will be redirected to another site.

These sites are not under the control of Citizens First Bank. Citizens First Bank is not responsible for the content of linked third party websites. We are not an agent for these third parties nor do we endorse or guarantee their products. We make no representation or warranty regarding the accuracy of the information contained in the linked sites. We suggest that you always verify the information obtained from linked websites before acting upon this information. Also, please be aware that the security and privacy policies on these sites may be different than Citizens First Bank policies, so please read third party privacy and security policies closely. If you have any questions or concerns about the products and services offered on linked third party websites, please contact the third party directly.

Proceed
Home Blog 5 Money Tips for Fresh Graduates
Single Post Featured Image

April 26, 2021

5 Money Tips for Fresh Graduates

Financial advice for newly minted college graduates.

Adjusting to life after college can be difficult if you are not sure how to handle money wisely. Whether you have a part-time or full-time job, your salary may not be as high as you had hoped it would be. If you’re a recent college graduate or in the process of graduating, here are some tips on how to handle your financials as a job seeker or full-time employee.

Educate yourself on finances

If you’ve never had first-hand experience with handling your own money, the best way to start is to educate yourself with some research. Pick up a book or two on money basics to set a good foundation for yourself. If you are not the biggest fan of reading, find videos of experts that talk about how to best handle your finances. You do not need to go too deep into the subject unless you want to; even some basic knowledge could help you in the long run.

Figure out a budget

The first step to take after graduating from college is to figure out a budget. The best thing you can do for your future is to live below your means for the first few years so you can save up for future financial goals. Even if you are living at home or you do not have a job, you should come up with an estimated post-graduation budget to prepare yourself. You just have to tally up your income and expenses, or you can search for a budgeting method to find what suits you best.

Control your credit

It is never too early to start worrying about maintaining good credit. A credit score in the 600s and higher is ideal for getting the best rates on loans and a mortgage. Even if you don’t have plans on making any big purchases yet, this is the best time to start improving and controlling your credit. So, when the time comes that you are looking to purchase a new home, you can get the best options possible. If you don’t have a credit score yet, you can get started by applying for a credit card.

Start investing

When you think about investing, the first thing that pops into your mind might be to buy individual stocks. Although this is an option, it is not necessarily recommended for beginners. You should prioritize investing in your future by opening a retirement account. It is never too early to think about retirement. The money you consistently put into the account will grow over time due to interest.

Begin making student loan payments

Now that you are out of college, you should try to tackle your student debt as soon as possible. Doing so will save you interest payments in the long run. Even though student loans have lower interest rates, you should take it as seriously as you would any other debt. Start figuring out repayment plans. The earlier you start, the more you will save on interest. Also establish a habit of paying on time. That way, your student debt will not pile on future debts as well.

It is never too early to learn about money and the best way to handle your finances regardless of your situation. Feel free to drop by your local branch to talk to a financial advisor about your options on how to best utilize your money.

Facebook0
Other posts you may like

6 Ways to Save on Date Night

A memorable and fun date night doesn’t need to break the bank! Whether you’re getting to know a new potential match, or are in an established relationship, dates play an important role in making connections. While an elaborate night out can be an exciting occasion, there are many other date night options that won’t break […]

Other posts you may like

How to Protect Yourself from Fraud

Follow these steps to avoid and prevent financial fraud. Discovering fraudulent activity on your account can be a frustrating experience. While you can’t always stop fraud from occurring, there are steps you can take to minimize it. Here are some helpful tips to help protect yourself from financial fraud: Stay alert while online. When you’re […]

Recent Article


6 Ways to Save on Date Night

February 1, 2023

Recent Article Featured Image

You May Also Like


How to Protect Yourself from Fraud

January 25, 2023

Will Your Retirement Savings Be Enough?

January 18, 2023

5 Common Investing Mistakes to Avoid

January 11, 2023

3 New Year’s Money Resolutions

January 4, 2023

  • Home
  • Privacy Policy
  • Contact Us
  • Blog
  • Site Map

©2023 Citizens First Bank. Equal Opportunity Employer. Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender.

FDIC logo