Get Smart about Money

Do I need this EduGuide?

Yes, if you want to learn how to manage your money and become financially responsible. Read on for information about financial personality, budgeting for teens, and money management.

How does it work?

Quizzes help you know where you stand.

• How much do you know about financial responsibility? Answering the eight questions in the “How Financially Responsible Am I?” quiz will help you find out.
• How well do you understand money issues such as credit card interest and payroll taxes? Get the answer by taking the “How Smart Am I about Money?” quiz.

Articles give you the background information you need to make decisions.

• If you’re thinking about applying for a credit card, read “Should Teens Have Credit Cards? Yes, No, Maybe.”
• For some great ideas on everyday savings, read “Ten Ways to Save Money and Ten Ways to Lose It: Good Advice for Teenagers on a Budget” from start to finish.

ShortCuts help you take immediate action. Choose one or go through them all.

•  "Find a Budget That Works for Me" If you need help getting started on a personal budget, this ShortCut walks you through the entire process.
• "Stick to My Budget" This ShortCut will help you stay on track once you’ve developed a customized personal budget.
• "Get Ready to Manage My Money in College" If you’re worried about handling your finances once you head off to college, this ShortCut is a must read.
• "Talk to My Parents about Money" Not looking forward to discussing finances with your parents? These helpful hints will decrease the stress.
• "Use a Credit Card Wisely: Stay Out of Debt" It’s not easy to use a credit card wisely. This ShortCut will help.

What will I learn?

• What my beliefs are about money and how financially responsible I am
• How to create and stick to a budget
• How to be financially prepared to go to college
• How to talk to my parents about money
• How to make good decisions about credit cards

Quick Solutions

• What can I do in fifteen minutes? Take the "How Financially Responsible Am I?” or “How Smart Am I about Money?" quiz.
• What can I do in an hour? Discuss answers to the quizzes with your parents, compile a list of wants and needs and prioritize them, or brainstorm ten ways to save money and ten ways to lose money.