Financial Milestones: Smart Money Moves for College Students & First-Time Independence
Financial Milestones: Smart Money Moves for College Students & First-Time Independence
Stepping out on your own for the first time—whether heading to college, starting a job, or moving out—brings exciting freedom, but it also comes with big financial responsibilities. Without a plan, it’s easy to fall into debt or struggle to make ends meet. Here’s how to set yourself up for success and build smart money habits from day one.
1. Create (and Stick to) a Budget
When you’re managing money for the first time, a budget is your best friend. Start by listing your monthly income (from a job, financial aid, or parental support) and subtracting your essential expenses, such as:
Rent & Utilities
Groceries & Dining Out
Transportation (Gas, Bus Fare, Rideshares)
Insurance (Health, Car, Renter’s)
Subscriptions (Streaming, Gym, etc.)
Whatever is left should go toward savings, emergency funds, and personal spending. Using a budgeting app or
Read More
Read More
Recent Blog Posts
-
Financial Milestones: Smart Money Moves for College Students & First-Time Independence
Financial Milestones: Smart Money Moves for College Students & First-Time Independence Stepping out on your own for the first time—whether heading to college, starting a job, or moving out—brings exciting freedom, but it also comes with...
Read More -
Financial Milestones: Smart Money Moves for Kids & Early Lessons in Finance
Financial Milestones: Smart Money Moves for Kids & Early Lessons in Finance It’s never too early to start teaching kids about money! Financial habits begin forming at a young age, and the lessons you teach now can set the stage for a lifetime...
Read More -
Tax Fraud Red Flags
Tax Fraud Red Flags: Warning Signs That Could Save You Thousands Tax season is a prime time for scammers to target unsuspecting individuals, aiming to steal identities, file fake returns, and drain bank accounts—including yours. Spotting tax...
Read More -
Community State Bank to Join First State Bank Nebraska
Community State Bank to Join First State Bank Nebraska We are excited to share that we are growing! Community State Bank will be joining First State Bank Nebraska later this year, adding two locations in Saunders County. Community State Bank shares...
Read More -
Understanding the Key Differences Between Two Homeownership Assistance Programs
Understanding the key differences between two homeownership assistance programs. First State Bank Nebraska’s partnership with the FHLBank plays a crucial role in promoting affordable homeownership in our communities with the Homeownership Set-Aside...
Read More -
Navigating Financial Challenges: Options for Farmers Facing Economic Struggles
Navigating Financial Challenges: Options for Farmers Facing Economic Struggles Farming has always been a business of cycles – good years and tough ones. If you’re facing financial challenges due to lower yields, declining market prices,...
Read More -
Celebrating National FFA Week: Nurturing Tomorrow’s Agricultural Leaders
Celebrating National FFA Week: Nurturing Tomorrow’s Agricultural Leaders As we gear up to celebrate National FFA Week, First State Bank Nebraska is proud to stand alongside the Future Farmers of America (FFA) in supporting the next generation...
Read More -
First State Bank Nebraska Announces Exciting Updates to Plattsmouth Locations
First State Bank Nebraska Announces Exciting Updates to Plattsmouth Locations First State Bank Nebraska is excited to announce plans to invest in the Plattsmouth community with significant updates to its facilities, enhancing the customer experience...
Read More -
The Security and Convenience of Debit Cards
The Security and Convenience of Debit Cards At First State Bank Nebraska, your security and peace of mind are top priorities. We understand how important it is to feel confident about your finances, especially when it comes to the cards you use every...
Read More -
Elevate Your Earnings in 2025: Your Step-By-Step Guide to Financial Freedom
Elevate Your Earnings in 2025: Your Step-By-Step Guide to Financial Freedom Ready to take control of your finances and make this the year you achieve financial success? Our First Rate Checking Account is designed to help you earn more while keeping...
Read More