Your Teen’s First Paycheck: A Guide to Budgeting and Saving

Your teen just got their first paycheck—now what? Explore this friendly guide on budgeting basics, easy saving strategies, and supporting their journey to financial independence with bunq’s smart tools and helpful tips.

June 10, 2025
Woman in a pink sweater smiling while using a smartphone.
Woman in a pink sweater smiling while using a smartphone.

Your teen’s first paycheck is an exciting step towards independence, responsibility, and adulthood! As a parent, it's natural to feel proud (and maybe a little nervous). Wondering how to support them without stepping on their toes? Here’s a friendly, easy-to-follow guide to set them up for financial success.

Step 1: Open Their Own Account

Start by helping your teen open their very own Bank Account. It gives them ownership, independence, and the confidence to manage their finances. With the bunq Pro plan, your teen gets a free Bank Account until they turn 18—perfect for beginning their financial journey.

Step 2: Introducing the Basics

Help your teen make their money stretch further with a simple budget:

  • Savings: Encourage them to put aside a portion each paycheck—it’s rewarding to watch savings grow!

  • Spending: Let them enjoy their earnings with treats or fun activities—it’s important to celebrate!

  • Essentials: Guide them on allocating money for ongoing expenses like transportation, school supplies, or subscriptions.

bunq’s Salary Sorter makes budgeting a breeze by automatically distributing their paycheck into clear money pots. This means less guessing and more clarity!

Step 3: Make Saving Second Nature

Saving money can actually be fun! With bunq’s AutoSave feature, each purchase gets rounded up, effortlessly boosting their savings. Your teen will quickly see how small amounts can turn into meaningful savings over time.

Step 4: Celebrate the Milestone

Their first paycheck is a big deal! It’s about more than just money—it's about growing up, gaining responsibility, and achieving new milestones. Celebrate this moment together and remind your teen that you're always there to support them.

Congratulations on helping your teen start their financial journey! With your guidance and bunq’s smart financial tools, they're set for a bright and confident future.

Happy earning, saving, and spending!

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Find your perfect fit

bunq Core

€3.99/month

The bank account for everyday use.  

bunq Pro

€9.99/month

The bank account that makes budgeting easy.

bunq Elite

€18.99/month

The bank account designed for your international lifestyle.

Find your perfect fit

bunq Core

€3.99/month

The bank account for everyday use.  

bunq Pro

€9.99/month

The bank account that makes budgeting easy.

bunq Elite

€18.99/month

The bank account designed for your international lifestyle.

Find your perfect fit

bunq Core

€3.99/month

The bank account for everyday use.  

bunq Pro

€9.99/month

The bank account that makes budgeting easy.

bunq Elite

€18.99/month

The bank account designed for your international lifestyle.

Start your 30-day free trial

Open your account in just 5 minutes, directly from your phone.

Start your 30-day free trial

Open your account in just 5 minutes, directly from your phone.

Start your 30-day free trial

Open your account in just 5 minutes, directly from your phone.