Parents want their kids to be happy, healthy and safe; but what about money management? The average young adult amasses $45,000 in debt by the time he or she turns 29, according to a recent PNC Bank report.
“This generation of 20-somethings was raised during an economically thriving period,” says Mark Hansen, author of Success 101 for Teens (Success101ForTeens.com). “Undisciplined spending habits, student and car loans, and a tough job market have stymied their financial growth. Perhaps the worst culprit is financial ignorance, but we can count this as a lesson for future 20-somethings.”
For young people, organizing finances can be intimidating to the point of prohibitive, he says.
Hansen says all teens should know and practice so they can control their financial destinies:
1) Saving for Dreams—the three-envelope method: Use the first envelope for your day-to-day expenses (i.e., gas or lunch money). Pause before blowing this money at the movie theater or a fast-food restaurant! The second envelope is for short-term goals, which might be clothing or a new laptop. The third envelope is for long-term goals such as a car, college or a future millionaire club fund.
2) Creating a Budget: A budget lets us know what’s possible and not possible with money. There are six steps to creating a budget. 1) List all of your expenses. 2) List all income. 3) List monthly expenses. 4) Add these lists separately. 5) Tweak your budget so you can meet your expenses with money left over for savings. 6) Review your budget every week.
3) Setting and Following Through on Goals: First, figure out what your current finances are, then determine what they will be in the future—one year out, then two years, then four years, etc. How will you get to your one- or two-year goals? You need a plan, and most of the time that means either earning more money, spending less or a combination. Finally, you have to stick to your plan in order for it to work.
4) Understanding Interest Rates Such as Credit Cards: Interest is a fee paid for using someone else’s money. Simple interest is straightforward: 5 percent accrued in your bank account with $100 yields $5 in interest at the end of the year. Compound interest, however, means ever-increasing amounts. This is crucial to understanding debt you may take on from lenders. Know what you are borrowing and the terms thereof; just as your money can work for you in a bank account, money borrowed can work against you if it is not paid back in a timely manner.
5) Balancing a Checkbook: These days, it’s easier than ever to review accounts online, which automatically tracks exchanges. However, banks make mistakes, which is why it’s wise to track your accounts independently. Ask. Don’t be embarrassed. Banks are putting a premium on service and want to establish a positive relationship with young customers. If you have a question, speak to someone at the bank. As you take control of your money, you’ll also take control of your life.
Mark Hansen a businessman, motivational speaker and former school board member who helps young people overcome the challenges of daily living. He is the author of Success 101 for Teens: Dollars and Sense for a Winning Financial Life.
