Becoming financially independent as a teen isn’t always simple, let’s face it. Without parental assistance, managing credit cards, teens debit cards, paying off college loans, and budgeting can be stressful. Fortunately, you can become an adult after some time. You can get there gradually!
From opening a teen’s bank account to owning a prepaid debit card for teens, you’ll come a long way.
- Set up a student loan strategy:
Many millennials who depend on their parents for financial support blame school loans, whether they live with them or use their cell phone plan. Therefore, how do you manage them? To start, be aware of your consolidation and repayment choices, as they may lower your payments.
A longer payback time or eligibility for an income-based repayment plan may be options for you, both of which could result in lower monthly payments. If your parents are willing, you might discover after studying that it makes financial sense to accept their assistance for a bit longer. Just remember to take into account their expectations and any quality-of-life issues in your choice.
- Build your credit so you can finally cancel your mother’s card:
Since a more extended credit history is generally better, it’s wise to start building credit early. A good credit score can help you with everything from renting a flat to acquiring a job. You should have your card to control your purchases and payments completely.
Consider applying for a credit card, which employs a security deposit as collateral, if you don’t already have one. This may help improve your credit. You can also do that by giving your parents a card. The card becomes a part of your credit history if you and another person are the cardholders. The card may or may not be reported based on whether you are an authorized user. Depending on the issuer, it relies on your past. If your parents use their credit cards responsibly, this may help you become eligible for your own card.
- Get ready to go:
Prepare to pay rent by making a monthly deposit equating to rent into a savings account. This makes it easier for you to become accustomed to the line item in your budget, and when you’re ready to move out on your own, you may use the funds to pay a security deposit or a down payment. Whether you already pay your parent’s rent, ask them if they’d be willing to use the money to help you get on your feet by making a savings contribution or paying off school loans.
- Open a personal bank account:
You may still share a bank account that you started as a teenager with your parents. Your bank account can be helpful now that you are responsible for paying your bills. When removing someone from a joint statement, planning is often necessary because both parties typically need to sign paperwork in person at a branch.
Open a new account at a bank for teenagers exclusively for you and eventually close the shared one. This is an alternative. Keep your parents informed if you’re managing two accounts, especially if you intend to move funds from your joint account to your own.