The beginner's guide to personal finance in your 20s

Your 20s are the best time to build financial habits. Here’s where to start.

Pay yourself first

Before bills, before fun — automate a transfer to savings the day you get paid.

The 50/30/20 rule

50% needs, 30% wants, 20% savings. Simple, flexible, effective.

Start investing early

Even $50/month in an index fund at 22 beats $500/month at 35. Compound interest is real.

Build an emergency fund

Three to six months of expenses. This is your financial immune system.