At some point, you may find yourself facing a financial decision you've never had to make before. Maybe you're entering adulthood and thinking about money on your own for the first time. Or maybe you're exploring a financial tool, account, or strategy that wasn't part of your life before. 
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Sorting Through Advice

When you're not sure where to start, it's natural to turn to the people and resources you have access to. That might be family, friends, coworkers, teachers, mentors, community organizations, or even social media.

Seeking different perspectives can be helpful, but it can also feel overwhelming, especially when the advice conflicts. For example, one person may recommend opening a credit card right away, while another may tell you to avoid credit altogether. People make recommendations based on their own experiences, goals, upbringing, cultural beliefs, resources, priorities, and comfort with risk, as well as how much they may know about your financial situation..

As you sort through different perspectives, it may help to ask yourself:

  • Does this fit my current financial situation and goals? Or might this be something to explore at another time?
  • Do I have the time, resources, or support to learn about and get started with this?
  • If I have questions or run into challenges later, where can I go for help?
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Common Financial Firsts

While everyone's situation is different, these are common financial "firsts". This isn't an exhaustive list, and there isn't a "correct" order per se to tackle these topics. Think of them as examples of common financial building blocks that may become relevant at different points in your life.

Opening a bank account

A bank account is often one of the first financial tools people use. Many employers offer direct deposit, making it easier to receive your paycheck without waiting for or cashing a paper check. It can also make it easier to pay bills, use digital and contactless payment methods, transfer money, receive tax refunds or government benefits through direct deposit, and manage your day-to-day finances. As more financial transactions move online, having a bank account can open the door to other financial tools and services.

Learn about opening a bank account

Creating a budget

A budget can help you understand how much money is coming in, where it is going, and how your spending aligns with your priorities. Whether you are saving for something specific or simply trying to make your paycheck last longer, having a plan can help.

Create and follow a budget

Learning how credit works

Credit can affect your ability to rent an apartment, buy a home, qualify for loans, and more. If you have little or no credit history, learning how credit works can help you decide when, or if, using credit products makes sense for you.

Learn how credit works

Learning about tax obligations

Starting your first job, a side gig, or becoming self-employed often means learning about taxes. Understanding when you need to file, what documents to keep, and how tax withholding works can help you avoid surprises and claim any refunds or credits you may be eligible for.

Learn about tax refunds and credits

Preparing for a job search

Preparing for a job search with a strong resume and interview skills can help you take that first step.

Update your resume Prepare for an interview

Opening a savings account

If your goal is to set money aside for emergencies, future goals, or larger purchases, a savings account may be something you consider. Some accounts, including high-yield savings accounts, may allow the money you save to earn interest over time.

Learn about savings accounts

Exploring financial assistance or benefits

As you navigate different financial decisions, you may discover programs and resources that can help support your goals or current circumstances. If you have been found ineligible in the past, consider checking again if your financial situation changes, as eligibility requirements may also change over time.

Learn what benefits you may qualify for

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Give Yourself Credit for the Progress You're Making

Learning can be especially challenging if you don't have someone around to explain these concepts or share their experiences.

If you've opened your first bank account, started a savings goal, checked your credit report, filed taxes on your own, or simply learned something new about money, give yourself credit. Every question you ask, every resource you explore, and every step you take helps you get closer to your goal.
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Next steps

Not sure where to start? Answer a few questions and we’ll point you to resources on our website that may be most relevant to what you’re looking for.

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