All Articles | Teen Finances

HSA vs FSA: Let's get real.

HSA: Health Savings Account When I first learned about HSAs, someone described it to me as “a savings account for all the annoying medical stuff you don’t want to pay full price for.” It stuck, mostly because it’s true. You only qualify for an HSA if you’re on a high-deductible health plan (HDHP) , which basically means you’re trading lower monthly premiums for a higher amount you pay before insurance kicks in. My cousin did this when she got her first job because the cheaper

6 days ago2 min read

Debit Cards vs. Credit Cards: What’s Safer for High Schoolers?

When I got my first credit card, it felt like freedom. I was able to swipe it, buy what I wanted, and it felt almost too easy. Little did I know the real risks I was taking whenever I swipped that piece of plastic and metal. Debit Cards: Your Money, Right Away A debit card pulls money straight from your bank account. When you spend, the cash leaves instantly. It helps you see what you truly have and keeps you from going into debt. You can only spend what you own, which makes

Oct 232 min read

The Psychology of Spending: Why We Buy What We Don’t Need

You walk into Target for a notebook. Twenty minutes later, you are standing at the checkout with snacks, pens, and a hoodie you never planned to buy. It somehow felt right in the moment. Spending is not just about money. It is emotional. But guess what? We all do it (unfortunately). Buying something new triggers dopamine, the brain’s “feel-good” chemical. That small burst of excitement makes shopping feel rewarding. The problem is, the feeling fades quickly, but the habit sti

Sep 272 min read

Investing Early: Why Starting in College Pays Off

Most college students focus on surviving classes, covering rent, and stretching a meal plan, not buying stocks or retirement accounts. Yet, the years spent in college are one of the most powerful times to start investing. Even if the amounts are small, the habit of putting money to work early creates a foundation that compounds for decades. Why College Students Have an Edge: Time is the single greatest asset in investing. A student who starts with just $20 a month builds mor

Sep 73 min read

Credit Cards for Students: Building Credit Without Falling Into Debt

A credit card is one of the fastest ways to build credit history. Strong credit later makes renting, borrowing, and even job applications easier. Misused, though, it creates debt that follows for years. Choosing a Card: Student credit cards are designed for beginners. Some secured cards require a deposit but are reliable for credit building. Always look for no annual fees. Responsible Use: Pay the balance in full every month. Keep use under 30% of the limit (spend ≤ $150 if t

Aug 121 min read