
7 Financial Tips Every New Grad Should Know
Graduating from college marks an exciting new chapter—but it also comes with new financial responsibilities. According to Investopedia’s top 7 tips for new grads, young adults who start strong financially are better equipped to handle debt, save wisely, and build long-term wealth.
At UNest, we’re committed to setting future generations up for success. Whether your child is starting kindergarten or heading into college, the right habits today can lead to smart financial decisions tomorrow.
Here’s how UNest helps put these seven tips into practice:
- Start budgeting immediatelyA UNest account helps parents model budgeting by showing children how to set goals, track contributions, and monitor growth.
- Build an emergency fundWhile UNest accounts are designed for long-term savings, the same discipline required for emergencies can be built early—teaching kids that saving isn't optional, it’s essential.
- Avoid unnecessary debtBy starting to save for college or trade school with UNest, families can reduce future reliance on loans or credit cards.
- Prioritize investing earlyUNest accounts make it easy for parents to start investing on behalf of their children—so they learn the value of compound interest from an early age.
- Keep learning about moneyFinancial literacy grows with exposure. UNest makes money a regular part of family conversations, supported by resources and account insights.
- Be smart about creditWhile UNest doesn’t provide credit, families can use it as a teaching opportunity to explain the differences between savings and borrowing.
- Set clear financial goalsEvery UNest account starts with a purpose—college, a first car, a future home. Goal-oriented saving encourages lifelong habits.
Investopedia’s advice reminds us that financial independence isn’t about wealth—it’s about strategy. With UNest, families have a powerful head start.
📲 Give your child the financial foundation they deserve.
This material is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, legal, or tax advice. You should consult your own financial, legal, and tax advisors before engaging in any transaction. Information, including hypothetical projections of finances, may not take into account taxes, commissions, or other factors which may significantly affect potential outcomes. This material should not be considered an offer or recommendation to buy or sell a security. While information and sources are believed to be accurate, UNest does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of any information or source provided herein and is under no obligation to update this information.
Don't just take our word for it
Hear what trusted money experts say about why UTMA and UGMA accounts can be a smart way to invest for a child’s future.
There are some tax advantages to using UGMA and UTMA accounts… Since they’re in your child’s name, the accounts will be taxed according to their tax bracket… There are no contribution limits on UGMA and UTMA accounts.
Dave Ramsey
Personal Finance Expert
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Investing for your kid’s future
Dave Ramsey
Personal Finance Expert
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...you could consider opening an account where you can dive deeper with the kids by your side. The easiest way to do so is to open a custodial account, known as an UGMA ... or UTMA ... account.
Jill Schlesinger
Emmy winning Business Analyst
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Straightforward “starter” investing account for kids
JILL SCHLESINGER
Emmy winning Business Analyst
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You can give children money that can accumulate somewhat tax-free over time... I love them (UTMAs) because they were like, trusts that you didn't need lawyers to create.... I think it's one of the better tax breaks around though. I know hunting for tax breaks may not sound very exciting, but that's how you take care of your family.
Jim Cramer
CNBC Host
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Give children money that can accumulate over time
Jim Cramer
CNBC Host
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