Ten Money Saving Tips For Teens

By: Abigail Beed

Work For ItThe best way to save money is to earn money, so start by getting an entry level job (e.g. waiter, grocery store shelves stacker). This will give you a steady amount of income for you to save. The pride you feel about earning your own money, will make you feel more inclined to save it.

Mommy’s Little HelperIf you are too young to get a job, or just want some extra cash, chores are a good way to earn money. Start by helping out around the house (e.g. walking the dog and cleaning the windows), then once you are comfortable with that you can help your neighbours (e.g. raking leaves, mowing lawns, and shoveling driveways). Chores are a good way to learn responsibility and to take pride in the money that is being earned

The 1/3 RuleOnce you earn money you have to know what to do with it. The best way to figure this out is by using the 1/3 rule. Put 1/3 of the money you earned into savings, 1/3 into a bank account, and keep 1/3 in cash. By using this technique, it will allow you to balance out the money that you are earning and not over spend. This way of saving money is slow and is not recommended if you want to save a specific amount of money in a short amount of time.

Shoot For The MoonWhen saving money it is important to have goals, so there is something to work towards. When making goals it is more effective to set short term goals as opposed to long term goals (e.g. save $10 a week for 3 weeks instead of saving $30 in 3 weeks). Creating short term goals is proven to be more motivational than long term goals, and seems more manageable.

Week By WeekCreating a weekly allowance is a great way to manage money. Before the week starts, have a list of items that you wish to buy and a set amount of money that you wish to spend. It is important that discipline is used and this budget is not exceeded. Having a weekly allowance allows you to save as much or as little as needed and can be changed whenever appropriate.

The NecessitiesWhen going out shopping, it is important that you know what you need and what you don’t. When trying to save money you want to try and save as much as you can, so it is important that you only buy the necessities. If you feel like rewarding yourself for how much you have saved, take some time to think about if you truly want the item. Don’t buy something on impulse, as later you might realize you do not want it.

Coupon MasterAnother strategy to save when going out shopping is to use coupons or to take advantage of sales. Always do your research before buying, and try to find the lowest price. This way of saving will help you save on everyday needs, as well as allowing you to treat yourself, if you have a coupon.

Sharing Is CaringWhen looking to buy something, check if you can borrow it from your friends or relatives first. This way you can get the item you need without having to spend a cent. Another way to save money, with the help of your relatives or friends, is to use there hand-me-downs.

Money, Money, MoneyIf you are trying to save money and a holiday is coming up soon, ask others for money instead of gifts. This way you don’t get anything that you will not use, and it is all going towards helping you reach your goal.

Take The Long WayRide your bike or walking is a good way to get exercise, but it is also a good way to save money. By walking or riding your bike you can save the money that would have been spent on gas or bus fair.

Money Saving MasterNow that you have all these tips you are ready to go out into the world and save your money. Remember , when saving money, it is important that self control and discipline is always practiced. Buying something that you want might seem tempting, but holding off will be better in the long run.

Bibliography"54 Ways to Save Money." 54 Ways to Save Money. America Saves, n.d. Web. 08 Sept. 2014. http://americasaves.org/for-savers/make-a-plan-how-to-save-money/54-ways-to-save-money

"Little Steps: 100 Great Tips For Saving Money For Those Just Getting Started - The Simple Dollar." The Simple Dollar Little Steps 100 Great Tips For Saving Money For Those Just Getting Started Comments. Ed. Trent. The Simple Dollar, 19 Aug. 2014. Web. 07 Sept. 2014. http://www.thesimpledollar.com/little-steps-100-great-tips-for-saving-money-for-those-just-getting-started/