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How to Save and Invest
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Start Your Savings
It's never too late to SAVE. It's okay if you don't have a lot of money to save. You can open an account at some credit unions for as little as $5.00. Then you can add to your account at any time with money from birthdays, from an allowance, or even from a part-time job.
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Power of Dividends
One of the best ways you can grow your savings is to start as early as possible. That's because of the power of dividends, or “the miracle of compounding.” Dividends are similar to interest. It’s important to remember most credit unions call the money it pays you for keeping your money on deposit at the credit union a dividend and that not all accounts pay dividends or interest. So shop around and compare the types of accounts that are available.
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54 Ways to Save (opens new window)
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The Consumer Federation of America provides 54 ways to save, including tips on banking, credit and debit to family and friends, health, home and transportation.
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Youth Savings Infographic
Empowering youth to save can lead to long-term financial success. 7.6 million children live in households that do not have a bank or credit union account. Studies show that financial account experience, combined with financial education at an early age can shape a young person’s habits in a way that can last for a lifetime. Learn about the various approaches to youth savings and financial education that can be applied at home or in the classroom.
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Planning for the Unexpected
A solid emergency fund is perhaps one of the most important tools in developing and sustaining financial security. It is recommended to save six months of living expenses because no matter how well things are going, or well you plan, bad things will happen from time to time.
Disasters don’t plan ahead, but you can! Make a plan for yourself, family and friends.
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Introduction to Investing (opens new window)
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Many people just like you turn to the markets to help buy a home, send children to college, or build a retirement nest egg. But unlike the banking world, where deposits are guaranteed by federal deposit or share insurance, the value of stocks (opens new window) (You will be leaving NCUA.gov and accessing a non-NCUA website. We encourage you to read the NCUA's exit link policies. (opens new page).) , bonds (opens new window) (You will be leaving NCUA.gov and accessing a non-NCUA website. We encourage you to read the NCUA's exit link policies. (opens new page).) , and other securities fluctuates with market conditions. No one can guarantee that you’ll make money from your investments, and they may lose value.
The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) enforces the laws on how investments are offered and sold to you. Protecting investors is an important part of its mission. The NCUA or SEC cannot tell you what investments to make, but the SEC website provides unbiased information to help you evaluate your choices and protect yourself against fraud.
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Investment Fraud Resources
A basic understanding of how scam artists work can help you avoid fraud and protect your money. Learning how to invest wisely can help you reach your financial goals.
Are You Paying Yourself First?
Saving regularly, even if it is small amounts, will help you reach financial success. Once you start saving, it gets easier and easier and before you know it, you're on your way to reaching your financial goals.