Out of school with student loans

You have student loans, an entry-level paycheck, and you want a plan that doesn't take 20 years. Here's the plan we'd start you on.

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1
Know your numbers
Put the minimum loan payment in your budget as a need.
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2
Save a $1,000 starter fund
A $1,000 cushion keeps a surprise from going on a credit card.
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3
Get the full 401(k) match
Take the full match even while you pay down loans. It's part of your pay.
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4
Grow your emergency fund to 3 months
Three months of essentials covers a job loss without new debt.
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5
Check and protect your credit
A wrong item on your report can cost you on every loan.
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6
Invest 15% for retirement
Time does most of the work, so starting now matters more than starting big.
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7
Make a plan for your other loans
Know which loans are federal, which are private, and send extra to the highest rate.
Student loans Car loans Repayment plans Personal loans Debt payoff planner Challenge: Two weeks of cooking at home
8
Protect what you've built
One uninsured bill or scam can undo a year of progress.
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