Washington Saves Week 2024

Looking for an easy way to save? Make it automatic. Consider auto depositing a portion of your pay check into savings or retirement savings accounts.

How to Save Automatically
Information from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.

An emergency savings account is a place to store money for unplanned expenses or financial emergencies How much to save depends on your situation, but a common rule of thumb is between one and six months worth of expenses.

Guide to Building an Emergency Fund
Information from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau

Smart Small, Save Up for Emergencies
Helpful tips and resources from FEMA

Setting aside money specifically for the education of your child/grandchild can be a great way to reduce the burden of paying when that time arrives There are a number of college savings methods and like with any saving or investing, it's best to start early. Below are a few resources to educate you on the available options.

WA 529 College Savings Plan
Washington's college savings plan.

Introduction to 529 College Savings Plans
From the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Starting to save for retirement can be overwhelming, but the key is to start. Once you decide to begin, you should create a plan, gauge your risk-tolerance, and work with a licensed professional if you need help or advice. Below are a few additional resources.

Saving for Retirement Tips from NASAA
Information from the North American Securities Administrators Association

Retirement Savings Tips from DFI
Washington State Department of Financial Institutions

Resources for Planning and Saving for Retirement
From the Securities and Exchange Commission

Guide to Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs)
From the Securities and Exchange Commission

Guide to 401(k) Plans
From the Securities and Exchange Commission

Paying down debt will allow you to save more. Here are some resources to help you get started.

How to Get Out of Debt
From the Federal Trade Commission.

How To Reduce Your Debt
From the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.

Tips for Paying Off Student Loans
From the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.

It's never too early to start teaching basic savings concepts. Below are some helpful resources.

Save, Spend, Donate, and Invest Videos
Money Savvy pig videos.

School Age Children and Saving
Conversation topics and activity ideas from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.

EconEdLink
Savings related materials and curriculum.

Practical Money Skills 
Helpful curriculum and games for the classroom

Washington Financial Education Public Private Partnership
Reviewed curriculum for Washington educators