Small Steps, Big Wins
Let’s Celebrate America Saves Week
We’ve partnered up with America Saves Week to provide actionable insights that help you take control of your money—one simple step at a time. Whether you're working toward your first savings goal, paying off debt, or planning for the future, these strategies are designed to meet you where you are.
Save Automatically
Automatic savings makes building financial security easy. It ensures consistency, removes the temptation to spend, and works in the background—no extra effort needed.
Tips:
You can set up a recurring transfer from your checking to your savings account—even if it’s just $10 a week. Over time, this creates a habit and helps you build a financial cushion without thinking about it.
Saving your change Use round-up apps that automatically deposit your “spare change” into a savings or investment account. For example, if you spend $2.60, the app rounds up to $3 and saves the extra $0.40. Apps like Qapital, Acorns, and Chime make it easy to turn small purchases into steady savings.
Direct Deposits If your employer offers direct deposit, consider splitting your paycheck so a portion goes directly into your savings account. This ensures part of your income is saved before you have a chance to spend it.
Prepare for the Unexpected
Emergencies don’t wait until you're ready. Start with a small goal like $500 in a separate savings account for unplanned expenses. Add to it regularly, even if it’s a small amount. This fund helps you handle surprise medical bills, car repairs, or job changes without turning to credit cards or loans.
Tips:
You can set up a recurring transfer from your checking to your savings account—even if it’s just $10 a week. Over time, this creates a habit and helps you build a financial cushion without thinking about it.
Pause or cancel unused subscriptions to free up extra cash for savings.
Redirect your tax refund or work bonuses into your savings or emergency fund.
Choose the right savings account by keeping your emergency fund separate from your regular checking to avoid accidental spending. Look for accounts that match your access needs and savings goals. Check America Saves Week financial products to explore more options.
Save for Major Milestones
Big goals like homeownership, having a child, or going back to school require financial planning. Start by identifying the milestone, estimating its cost, and creating a monthly savings goal. The earlier you start, the more manageable it becomes.
Tips Education Savings
Open a 529 Plan Take advantage of tax benefits while saving for future education expenses.
Apply for Scholarships and Grants Reduce out-of-pocket costs by researching and applying for free financial aid.
Set a Clear Savings Goal Estimate how much you’ll need for a down payment and closing costs so you can save with purpose.
Improve Your Credit Score A higher score can help you qualify for better mortgage rates, potentially saving you thousands over time.
Contribute to a 401(k) Make the most of employer-matching contributions to grow your retirement savings faster.
Open an IRA Build additional retirement savings with a Traditional or Roth IRA for more long-term financial security.
Pay Down Debt
Paying down debt isn’t just about reducing what you owe—it’s about increasing your freedom. Start by listing all your debts, focusing on high-interest ones first.
Check out our blog post for tips on how to effectively use the avalanche method (paying off the highest interest rate first) or the snowball method (paying off the smallest balance first) to stay motivated and make steady progress.
No matter where you are in your financial journey, small steps can lead to big wins. Whether you're saving, planning, or paying down debt, the key is to start with one simple action and build from there. Every step forward counts—and over time, those steps can lead to greater stability, confidence, and long-term financial success.