4 unique financial challenges facing millennials
Generation Y, or the millennials, get a lot of flack on lots of fronts. While every older generation may hold some resentment towards the new one for not appreciating what they have, times can change for the worse as well. In many ways, millennials are at a disadvantage financially. With the stress of student loans and the complications of finding a job, some young people are discouraged by their futures.
Here are four unique ways millennials might be challenged, and how they could solve these issues.
- Budgeting. Life is unpredictable, and it’s hard enough making a budget. Sticking to a budget can be hard, especially when many young people’s lives are wild and full of opening and closing doors. Big decisions can throw their budget into the trash, or reformat it completely. Make short-term goals, and leave room for changes.
- Debt. From student loans to credit card debt, the age for burden is getting younger. Many people under the age of 26 are already saddled with student loans by the time they get into college, and they can struggle underneath it for years. Don’t ignore your debt, but try to build your life despite it. It shouldn’t own your life or your thoughts, but it shouldn’t leave either. Give it a place to stay, but don’t be your debt’s butler.
- The cost of renting. While in the long run, buying a house can be a much better investment, many young people do not have the resources to sink their teeth into such a permanent agreement. Their lives are rapidly changing, and buying a house can be a ball and chain that could haunt them forever. Try laying your investments elsewhere, and put your money in smart places.
- Emergency funds. Everyone is going to have a few emergencies in their life. From sick family members to injured pets to personal issues, many young people may not have money to sock back for a rainy day fund. Having money put away for a stressful time can be vital to reacting to a situation, so be sure to put a dollar or two into your piggybank every week.
It’s easy to get confused, especially when you’re young and thrust into a world of responsibility. 2BenefitU realizes this, and offers a special service for anyone with questions, no matter their age. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, and build a future you can enjoy.