Graduation Season: Smart Financial Tips for High School and College Grads

Graduation season is here—a time for celebration, reflection, and big decisions about what comes next. Whether you’re wrapping up high school or walking across the stage with a college diploma, one thing is certain: your financial future starts now.

At Casey State Bank, we believe financial education is just as important as classroom learning. That’s why we’re sharing some helpful tips to set graduates up for success—because building healthy money habits early can make all the difference down the road.

For High School Graduates: Starting Strong

Graduating from high school often means stepping into new independence, whether you’re headed to college, entering the workforce, or taking time to explore your options. These tips can help you start building a solid foundation:

1. Open a Checking and Savings Account
   Managing your own money starts with having the right tools. A student checking account paired with a savings account helps you track spending, build savings, and get comfortable managing a budget. (Need help choosing? We can walk you through it!)
2. Create a Simple Budget
   Know how much money you have coming in (from a job, allowance, or scholarships) and how much you’re spending. Apps can help, or you can start with a simple notebook or spreadsheet.
3. Use Credit Carefully
   If you’re offered your first credit card, remember: it’s not free money. Only charge what you can afford to pay off in full each month. A small, well-managed credit card can help build your credit score over time.
4. Start Saving Early
   Even if it’s just a few dollars a week, saving consistently creates strong habits. Consider setting up automatic transfers from checking to savings—you’ll be surprised how fast it adds up.

For College Graduates: Building Toward the Future

Graduating from college often comes with big changes—starting a career, managing student loans, or moving into your own place. These tips can help you navigate your next chapter with confidence:

1. Know Your Student Loans
   Understand what you owe, your repayment start date, and your interest rates. Consider setting up auto-pay to stay on track and avoid missed payments.
2. Build an Emergency Fund
   Aim to save at least 3–6 months of basic living expenses. This fund can protect you from unexpected costs like car repairs or medical bills.
3. Start Investing Early (Even Just a Little)
   If your new job offers a 401(k), try to contribute enough to get any employer match—it’s free money! Even a small contribution now can grow significantly over time.
4. Protect Your Credit
   Monitor your credit report regularly and keep your credit card balances low. Good credit opens doors to better loan rates, apartment rentals, and more.
5. Keep Learning
   Financial literacy is a lifelong skill. Read articles, attend workshops, or talk to a banker you trust. The more you learn, the more confident you’ll feel about managing your money.

We’re Here to Help You Succeed

Graduation marks an exciting transition, and at Casey State Bank, we’re here to support you through it. Whether you’re just starting out or planning your next big step, we offer student-friendly banking products, personal guidance, and local experts who are always happy to answer your questions.

Stop by any of our branches to learn how we can help you get started on the right financial path—or bring your parents along and let’s chat together!

Congratulations, Class of 2025—we’re proud of you and excited for what comes next. Let’s build your future, together!