Learning to manage money early is a skill that pays off for a lifetime. For teens and students, budgeting can feel overwhelming at first. But with the right tools, it becomes easier and even fun. Today, I want to share some of the best budgeting tools for teens that can help you track spending, save smartly, and build good habits. These apps are designed to be simple, engaging, and perfect for anyone just starting their financial journey. Why Budgeting Tools for Teens Matter

Why Smart Online Financial Planning Matters Smart online financial planning is about more than just tracking expenses. It’s about setting goals, making informed decisions, and building habits that last a lifetime. When you plan your finances online, you gain access to tools and resources that help you stay organized and motivated. For example, using budgeting apps can help you see where your money goes each month. You can set savings goals for things like college, a car, or e

Clear guidance for parents on teen car costs—purchase, insurance, maintenance, gas—and how to share expenses and set a realistic budget.

Managing money well is a skill that can shape your future in powerful ways. Whether you are just starting to earn your own money or helping your teen prepare for financial independence, understanding how to handle money wisely is essential. I want to share why attending financial workshops can be a game-changer. These sessions offer practical tools and knowledge that build confidence and help avoid common money mistakes. Why the Value of Financial Workshops Matters Financial

When I first started thinking about managing money, it felt overwhelming. There were so many things to consider - saving, spending, investing, and planning for the future. But breaking it down into clear steps made it easier. Effective financial planning is not just for adults with big incomes. It’s something anyone can learn, especially teens and their parents who want to build a strong foundation for the future. Let's go through some essential steps to get started with fina

Learning how to manage money is a crucial skill that sets the foundation for a successful financial future. As a teen, understanding the basics of money management can help you make smart choices, avoid common pitfalls, and build confidence in handling your finances. Whether you’re saving for something special, budgeting your allowance, or thinking about your first job, getting a grip on teen money basics is the first step. In this post, I’ll walk you through the essentials e

When I first started learning about money, it felt overwhelming. There were so many terms, rules, and decisions to understand. But over...

Managing money well is a skill that can shape your future. When I first started handling my own money, it felt overwhelming. Bills,...

Managing money well is a skill that can set you up for success in life. As a teen, learning how to handle your finances wisely can help...

When I first started thinking about money, it felt overwhelming. There were so many terms, numbers, and choices. But over time, I learned...

Learn the difference between 529-qualified expenses and discretionary college spending—and when a student savings account makes sense. Practical tips for parents and students.

Coming up: In-person teen financial education workshops in August

Budgeting might feel like a punishment to some, but in reality it is a tool to help lay out steps to achieve financial confidence and independence. Here is an example of how I helped a client’s son use a budget to lay out his spending and build up a cash safety net.

We look at 3 major budgeting apps and discuss pros and cons. Rocket Money, EveryDollar and NerdWallet

Coming up: In-person teen financial education workshops

A new college graduate, Annie, has a job but also a lot of debt. Why is this a problem? What can she do about this debt?

Coming up: In-person teen financial education workshops at the Sno-Valley Center in Carnation, Washington