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Cornerstone Blog

Set Your Financial Journey

Young adult's road map to financial independence

  • December 30,2025
  • Less than a two minute read

Navigating the early stages of adulthood can feel both exciting and overwhelming. While it's fun to embark on your new journey, this is also the perfect time to build smart financial habits. The steps you take today can help you create a strong financial foundation and set you up for lasting financial freedom. 

According to the Pew Research Center, only 45% of young adults say they are completely financially independent1. It may feel challenging to build your finances, but don't worry, we've got your back. Here are a few simple tips to help you get started. 
 

  1. Prioritize debt - Tackle high-interest debts first. Paying it off sooner not only saves you thousands in interest but can also improve your credit score. As you eliminate debt, the money you were using for monthly payments becomes available to put toward your emergency fund, saving for a home or reaching other financial goals. 
  2. Build your credit - A healthy credit score is essential for securing loans, renting an apartment or buying a home. Always pay your bills on time and aim to keep your credit utilization under 30% because both habits can help boost and maintain your score. You can stay on top of your credit with our free Savy Money tool in Online & Mobile Banking*. This Member benefit provides 24/7 access to your credit score, credit monitoriing and financial education. 
  3. Automate savings - Automating deposits into your Savings Account makes building your financial cushion effortless. With our High-Yield Savings Account, you earn our best rates when you save up to $5,000 and there is no minimum deposit required1. Thanks to compound interest, your money grows faster as your earnings continue to earn more. 

  4. Stick to a budget - Knowing where your money goes is key to long-term financial success. Track your income, list your monthly expenses and take note of your spendinig habits. Our How Much Am I Spending tool can help you evaluate your expenses and find simple areas to cut back so you can contribute more to your Savings Account. 

By adopting a few smart financial habits now, you'll be prepared to build a secure financial future.

Interested in opening a High-Yield Savings Account? Visit your local branch today and start your journey to smarter savings. 

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1https://www.pewresearch.org/social-trends/2024/01/25/financial-help-and-independence-in-young-adulthood/

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2Dividend rates are variable and may be changed or discontinued at any time. Current rates can be found at AboundCU.com/deposit-rates. A blended annual percentage yield (APY) is calculated based on balances in each earning tier, and the exact APY will depend on the balance in the account. Dividends paid and compounded monthly. Limit of one High Yield Savings Account per primary member’s Social Security Number. Available to both business and consumer members. Subject to $10 Membership fee if not already a Member.