Yes, times are tough, as illustrated by the struggles of many Occupy Wall Street protestors. We're here to help with practical steps that young adults should take to maintain financial security.
This chick flick may not be entirely practical, but it's surprisingly fun. Plus, read the true confessions of a young adult adjusting to life on a budget in the real world.
Shrinking investment values and loan availability are forcing families to pay attention to the economics of attending college. And that's a good thing.
Some lenders have stopped making student loans, but don't worry, there is plenty of money available. Here's a simple guide to understanding your options.
Working children may not have to file a tax return, but they should do it to reclaim money withheld from their paychecks. Plus, can you use a 529 plan to repay student loans?
College students are piling on debt to create the illusion of success. But they'll find themselves financial failures unless they wise up and get real.
Find out if your child must file a tax return to open an IRA, what the best investments are for the account and whether an IRA affects college financial aid.
Instead of lavishing grandchildren with meaningless gifts, contribute to a 529 college-savings plan. Parents and kids save money on tuition, and you get attractive tax benefits.
Lenders don't necessarily view education debt as a bad thing. Your ability to buy a house when you owe student loans depends largely on your credit score and how much money you make.
It's natural to want to spoil your grandkids, but you don't want to impede their parents' efforts to teach financial values. Here's how to strike a balance.
When the kids head to college, they'll soon discover it's easier to take on debt than pay it off. Learn how one money-smart grad plans to pay off her loans and start off on the right foot.
Most children want to learn how to handle their finances responsibly. Take time to teach them the basics before they move out on their own. Plus: How to find the best college-savings plan.
Tuition, room and board aren't the only bills a student will rack up at school. Here are six unexpected costs to anticipate, and tips to ease the financial pinch.
To children, credit and debit cards aren't as real as money they can see and feel. To learn basic money skills, they need to get their hands on cold hard cash.
You don't have to report retirement accounts on your FAFSA, but some colleges may include the balances in financial-aid calculations. Plus, answers to other college costs questions.
When starting a new life together, couples should focus on saving for retirement, paying off debt and preparing financially for any children. Here's how to set your priorities.
Eager to start your marriage off on the right financial foot? Start saving as soon as possible. Even small amounts of money will grow into big piles later.
They may seem convenient for both parents and kids, but these cards make it too easy for Junior to spend money without learning the basics of cash management first.
In this electronic age, more parents are dropping traditional allowances in favor of prepaid cards, debit cards and credit cards. But teaching kids to handle cold hard cash is just as important as ever.
Teens with jobs actually get better grades, but working too many hours can cause schoolwork to suffer. Learn how to set limits with your child. Plus, two financial resources for young adults.
Kids may try to sell you on a cell on grounds of safety and convenience. Don't fall for it unless your child is ready for the responsibility -- both in maturity and finances.
Should you open a custodial account in your child's name or keep the money in your own name to gift later? Each option has its benefits. Find out which is best for your family.
Putting a little fear of credit into teenagers is probably a good thing. But remember to point out the positive, too. You want them to be able to make wise decisions when the credit offers come rolling in.
A real-life example illustrates that if children don't have the opportunity to make money decisions when they're young, they won't know how to manage their finances once grown.
No matter how old you are, you can save for your future with stocks and mutual funds. Here are some picks to get you started even if you're low on cash.
Studies show that kids learn most of what they know about money from their parents. Start by passing along your financial values and give your kids hands-on experience in managing cash.
You don't have to schedule a special time to explain money matters to your kids. Instead, take advantage of these situations that come up all the time.
Mixing your children's credit with yours may possibly help them build a history, but resist the temptation. College-age kids can obtain credit on their own without placing a parent's credit score in jeopardy.
You know that saving money is a worthy goal, but how can you get a child excited about doing it? Try these tips to teach young kids and teens the value of a penny saved.
You don't have to be in high school to make some money this summer. Parents and kids can brainstorm ideas and work together to market the child's services around the neighborhood.
At age 14, you can legally work in a place of business, but employers may be reluctant to hire the youngest teens. Here's how to look for and land a job this summer, no matter your age.
It's important that kids learn the value of work, but parents need to establish guidelines to help them set reasonable hours and managing their earnings.
Rates on student loans are rising, so consolidate now -- even if you're still a student. Plus: Find out the best way to finance a car when you're young.
A debit card is a good choice for extended stays away from home. But for shorter trips, consider these alternatives to give your children the money they need.
Getting their financial footing can be tough for young adults when first starting out. It's OK for parents to offer their support -- but how much is appropriate?
Don't let money frustrations get you down. Today's young adults have plenty of opportunities and resources to help them on the path to financial independence.
When teenagers are too young for a checking account, cards like Visa Buxx can be helpful. But kids should first demonstrate smart money habits -- and they should fund the card with their own cash.
The first step to using credit responsibly is learning how to manage cash. Once teens and college students master that skill, they can start building a credit history of their own.
When tuition bills are a ways off, you can afford to take on more risk in pursuit of a higher return on your investment. Start with stocks, then add bonds for balance.
Help! My 23-year-old son is moving back home, and I need to find an agreement as to rules, helping out and paying rent. Is there some kind of document I can print out and sign?
