Saving money. It can be a tricky thing to do.
New college graduates and those working an entry level job may have a hard time putting away money into a savings account, but developing money saving habits is something every twenty-something should learn.
Especially if Millennials want to retire.
It is estimated that for the Millennial generation to retire, they will need roughly 1.8 million stashed away to maintain their standard of living, according to USA Today.
And that’s just for those born in the early 1980s. Millennials born in the late 1900s will need closer to 2.5 million, according to USA Today.
Saving money and looking at investment options are great to start doing young, especially when millions of dollars are said to be the retirement goal.
Putting aside at least 10 percent of pretax income every year until retirement is recommended, according to Nasdaq. This allows Millennials who start young to build a substantial savings by the time they reach their golden years.
With time job positions and earnings will increase, and the percent set aside every year should ideally increase as well, helping to build an even more substantial savings account.
Starting the habit of setting aside money is also important for emergency situations that happen in life.
If the car breaks down, or the home needs costly and unforeseen repairs, having a savings that is left untouched except for emergency expenses helps relieve the stress of trying to come up with the cash, or having to put the expense on a credit card.
Keeping debt low and paying off credit cards is another way Millennials can help keep their savings account growing.
Credit cards should not be a tool to help supplement your income, according to Bankrate. Rather than put living expenses on a credit card, cut out nonessentials from the budget.
Money left over after monthly expenses should go into a savings account, not to a credit card payment.
Creating and sticking to a budget helps ensure that living expenses are being met. Not living beyond your means or living off credit cards also helps.
By creating good financial habits young the ability to save will only get easier. Meeting with a financial adviser is also an option to help build a plan for financial goals for the future.
No matter how you save, when the time comes to retire you’ll be happy you did.