This list covers everything you need to pack.

Bedding and bath essentials

Bedding:

• Twin XL sheets and comforter: most colleges have XL beds. Check this ahead of time.
• A good mattress topper: dorm beds are notoriously uncomfortable and have been slept on by many others.
• Ear plugs: you never know if your roommate might be a snorer or if the people in the dorm next door will like to play their music loud and late.
• Eye mask: to sleep in on the weekends or when you don’t have class in the early A.M.!

Bathroom:

• Shower caddy to carry your toiletries to shared bathrooms
• Flip flops or shower sandals to protect your feet in shared showers
• Towels: at least two sets
• Basic toiletries: shampoo, conditioner, soap, body wash, shaving cream, razors, deodorant, toothbrush, and toothpaste

Clothing and footwear to bring to a college dorm

Keep your wardrobe practical. You’ll likely be doing a lot of walking across campus to get to classes every day. Pack things that will keep you comfortable and protect you from the weather.

Clothing:

• Casual clothes for everyday classes
• Nicer outfits for presentations or events
• Comfortable shoes for walking across campus
• A warm coat and boots if you’re heading somewhere cold
• Rain coat and boots
• Slippers for cold dorm floors

Accessories:

• Book Bag (can’t forget that!)
• Purse or wallet
• Hats, gloves, or scarfs for cold winters
• Umbrella

A good rule of thumb: bring what you’ll realistically wear in the next few months, then swap things out when you come home for breaks.

Electronics and study supplies

Your laptop is non-negotiable. Beyond that, here’s what makes dorm life easier:

• Chargers and backup cables for all your devices
• Noise-canceling headphones for studying in noisy spaces
• Power strip with surge protector (check your dorm’s rules first)
• Desk lamp for late-night studying
• Notebooks, pens, folders, and paper clips to stay organized
• Fans: oscillating or window fans for when it’s still hot in the early fall and late spring

Many dorms have limited outlets, so a power strip is one of the most useful things you can bring.

Room comfort and personalization

Dorm rooms are small, so smart storage is essential.

• Under-bed storage containers or drawers are great for items you don’t need daily.
• A desk organizer, shelving unit, or over-the-door hooks can also free up floor space.
• Cleaning supplies: dusting supplies, a small vacuum or broom for your floors, and some disinfectant wipes will help keep your room tidy. There is no cleaning crew that will come in to do that for you.

All dorm rooms look the same until we add our own personal flare to them. You can decorate by adding things like:

• Small rug
• Wall decorations
• Photos of friends or family
• A mirror
• String lights
• Curtains

Colleges don’t typically want you nailing or screwing things into their walls, so you’ll want to find ways to hang things that don’t do this. Like using a tension rod if you plan to bring a curtain, or using tape instead of tacks for posters (but be careful what kind of tape you use as well! It could rip paint off the wall.)

Pro tip: Keep it fresh. Most dorm rooms don’t allow flame candles, but there are alternatives you can use to keep your room smelling nice. Like candle warmers, wall plugins, reed diffusers, or basic room spray. Check what’s acceptable in your dorm room.

Personal care and health items

It’s easy to overlook health supplies when you’re focused on packing clothes and electronics. Make sure to bring:

• A basic first aid kit with bandages, antiseptic, and pain relievers
• Cold and flu medications so you’re prepared if you get sick
• Vitamins to support your immune system during a stressful transition
• Sunscreen and insect repellent for outdoor activities and events

Having these on hand means you won’t have to scramble to find a pharmacy at midnight when you’re not feeling well.

How to prepare financially before moving into your dorm

It’s essential to have your own way of accessing money. You’ll be off on your own without your parents money or debit cards anymore, so if you haven’t taken the step to set up your own accounts yet, now is the time.

Before move-in day, sit down with your family to talk through a monthly budget. How much will you need for food, supplies, and activities? What’s coming in from financial aid, savings, or a part-time job?

Opening a checking account with no monthly fees is a smart first step. 91黑料网 First’s First Rate Checking account is designed to make everyday banking simple and affordable. There are no monthly maintenance fees, and you can earn a higher rate on the first $1,000 in your account when you enroll in eStatements and set up direct deposit.

If you pick up a part-time job on or near campus, setting up direct deposit means you could get paid up to two days early. The account also includes a Pay a Person feature that lets you split bills with roommates directly from your online banking, without needing third-party apps.

Read Budgeting for college students: A practical guide for starting out >聽聽

Start your college chapter on the right foot

Packing the right items makes your move-in smoother. Having the right financial tools makes the entire year easier. When you take care of both, you set yourself up to focus on what matters most: making the most of your college experience.

Frequently asked questions

What bedding size do I need for a college dorm?

Most college dorms use Twin XL beds. Before purchasing sheets or a mattress topper, confirm the bed size with your specific school, as sizes can vary by institution.

What electronics should I bring to a college dorm?

Bring your laptop, all necessary chargers and backup cables, noise-canceling headphones, and a power strip with a surge protector. A desk lamp is also useful for late-night studying.

How can I save space in a small dorm room?

Use under-bed storage containers for items you don’t access daily. Over-the-door organizers, shelving units, and desk organizers help maximize limited floor space.

What health supplies should college students pack for their dorm?

Pack a basic first aid kit, pain relievers, cold and flu medication, vitamins, sunscreen, and insect repellent. Having these on hand avoids last-minute pharmacy trips when you’re sick or unprepared.

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Quick answer: Landlords look for renters who pay rent on time, have steady income, and treat the property with care. A good credit score, positive references from past landlords, and clear communication all help. The best tenants make a landlord’s job easier, and that’s what gets your application approved.

Finding your first apartment is exciting, but it can also feel competitive, especially in a tight housing market. When several people apply for the same home, how do you make your application stand out?

It all comes down to trust. A landlord is trusting you with their property, so they want to feel confident that you’ll be a reliable tenant. This means paying your rent on time and taking good care of the home. Building that trust starts from the moment you apply.

If you’re new to renting, you might not know what landlords are looking for. This guide will walk you through the key qualities that make a great tenant, helping you put your best foot forward and land your first apartment.

Why does financial responsibility matter to landlords?

Financial responsibility is often the first thing a landlord checks. They want proof that you can comfortably afford the rent each month. Here’s what they typically review:

• Steady income: Most landlords want to see that you earn at least three times the monthly rent. Pay stubs, tax returns, or an employment letter can verify this.
• Good credit score: Your credit score gives landlords a snapshot of how you handle money. A score of 670 or higher is generally seen as good, though requirements vary by location and property. (See What is a good credit score?)听
• On-time payment history: A track record of paying bills on time signals that you’ll do the same with rent.

If your credit isn’t perfect, don’t panic. You can strengthen your application by offering a larger security deposit, providing a co-signer, or showing months of consistent savings. If you have some time to prepare, a great way to improve your credit score is with a Credit Builder Loan from 91黑料网 First, you can improve your score while earning more savings with terms as short as 5 months. Learn more about the Credit Builder Loan here.

How important is your rental history?

Your rental history tells a landlord how you’ve behaved as a tenant in the past. Positive references from previous landlords carry a lot of weight, since they confirm you’re reliable and respectful.

When a landlord calls your former landlord, they’ll usually ask:

• Did you pay rent on time?
• Did you keep the property in good condition?
• Did you give proper notice before moving out?
• Would they rent to you again?

FAQ: Can I rent with no rental history?

Yes. First-time renters can offer alternative references, such as a letter from an employer, a former roommate, or proof of on-time payments like an auto loan or credit card bill. Offering a co-signer or a larger deposit can also reassure a landlord.

What do landlords expect when it comes to cleanliness and maintenance?

Landlords want tenants who treat the property like their own home. A renter who keeps the space clean and reports small problems early helps protect the landlord’s investment and avoids costly repairs down the road.

You can show you’re this kind of tenant by:

• Keeping the property tidy and free of damage
• Reporting maintenance issues promptly, before they get worse
• Following the lease rules around things like pets, smoking, and alterations

A clean track record here makes it far more likely you’ll get your security deposit back when you move out.

Why is good communication so valuable to landlords?

Clear, open communication is one of the most underrated qualities a renter can have. Landlords appreciate tenants who respond to messages, ask questions when something’s unclear, and raise concerns respectfully.

Good communication prevents small misunderstandings from turning into big problems. If you’re going to be late on rent one month, for example, telling your landlord ahead of time builds trust. Going silent does the opposite.

From your very first email or phone call, aim to be polite, prompt, and honest. First impressions matter, and a respectful tone early on sets the foundation for a smooth relationship.

How to become the tenant every landlord wants

The qualities landlords look for all point to one thing: a tenant they can trust. Pay your rent on time, care for the property, communicate openly, and back it up with solid references, and you’ll be the kind of renter who stands out from the crowd.

Here are a few quick tips to put your best foot forward:

• Gather your documents early: pay stubs, references, and ID
• Check your credit score before you apply, and fix any errors
• Be honest about your situation; landlords value transparency
• Respond quickly and professionally throughout the process

A strong tenant-landlord relationship benefits everyone. When you make a landlord’s job easier, you’re far more likely to land the home you want and keep it stress-free for years to come.

Frequently asked questions+

What credit score do I need to rent an apartment?

Many landlords look for a credit score of 670 or higher, which is generally considered good. However, requirements vary by location, property, and landlord. If your score is lower, you can still qualify by offering a larger deposit, a co-signer, or proof of steady income.

How much income do landlords want renters to have?

Most landlords prefer tenants who earn at least three times the monthly rent. You can verify your income with pay stubs, tax returns, or an employment letter.

What references do landlords usually ask for?

Landlords typically ask for references from previous landlords, who can confirm whether you paid rent on time and cared for the property. Employer references and personal references can also help, especially for first-time renters.

Where can I keep my security deposit savings?

A good place to keep your savings to discourage withdrawing or spending it is 91黑料网 First’s All Purpose Club account. The perfect account to save for a specific purpose while keeping the funds separate from your normal or emergency savings.

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Whether you are a teen looking to fund your own expenses, or a parent wanting to help your child learn the value of a dollar, finding the right way to earn money can be a highly rewarding experience.

Benefits of earning money as a teen

Taking on a job or starting a small venture offers teenagers a range of lasting benefits:

• Gaining independence: Earning personal income gives teens the freedom to make their own purchasing decisions.
• Learning the value of money: When teens work for their money, they quickly understand how much effort goes into earning it. This helps them make smarter spending choices.
• Saving for goals: Whether it is a first car, a new computer, or college tuition, having an income allows teens to set and reach significant financial goals.
• Building real-world experience: Jobs teach important life skills like communication, problem-solving, and teamwork. These experiences look great on future college applications and resumes.

Popular ways for teens to make money

There are plenty of options available depending on a teen’s age, skills, and schedule. Here are a few reliable ways to get started.

Part-time jobs

Working at a local business is a traditional and dependable way to earn a steady paycheck. Common part-time jobs for teens include working in retail stores, grocery store checkout lines, or food service roles like bussing tables and scooping ice cream.

Before applying, be sure to check your state’s labor laws. Many states require workers to be at least 14 or 16 years old, and may restrict the number of hours a student can work during the school week. In the state of Massachusetts, all teens under 18 must secure a聽, and are limited to working 3 hours on a school day and 18 hours total per week. 14 and 15 year olds must obtain a signature from a physician to certify health.

Online opportunities

For teens who are comfortable with technology, the internet offers flexible ways to earn money from home.

Tutoring

If you excel in a specific subject, you can offer online or in-person tutoring sessions to younger students in your school district. Talk to a school counselor or favorite teacher. They can often connect you with students who need academic help so you can get started.

Social media

Managing social media accounts for local small businesses is a great way to use everyday digital skills to earn an income. Teens with skills in writing, video editing, or graphic design can find freelance work on various digital platforms.

Selling handmade crafts

Artists and builders can sell their creations. Whether you make beaded jewelry, knit clothing, or design digital art, a strong market exists for handmade goods. You can sell directly to friends and family, or set up a booth at a local school market. Track your supply costs carefully to ensure you make a real profit. While many online selling platforms have age restrictions, you can still run an e-commerce business with heavy parental involvement. Selling items online requires an adult to set up and manage financial accounts on platforms like Etsy or eBay. You handle the inventory, marketing, and product creation, while your parent acts as the official account owner.

Top neighborhood jobs for teens under 16

The easiest place to find work is right outside your front door. People in your community frequently need reliable help with everyday tasks.

Babysitting

Babysitting remains one of the most consistent ways to earn cash. Parents constantly need trustworthy individuals to watch their children during date nights or busy weekends. You can boost your hourly rate by completing a local CPR or First Aid certification. This proves to parents that you take safety seriously.

Pet sitting and dog walking

If you love animals, pet care offers a highly rewarding income source. Many busy professionals lack the time to walk their dogs during the workday, and traveling families prefer keeping pets at home. Create simple flyers detailing your services and hand them out to pet owners on your street. Always do a test run with the animal before accepting a job.

Yard work and lawn maintenance

Seasonal yard work provides year-round earning opportunities. You can mow lawns in the summer, rake leaves in the fall, and shovel snow in the winter. Pro tip: Offer a subscription model to your neighbors. Instead of asking for one-off jobs, offer to maintain their yard every other week for a set monthly fee.

Where to keep your earnings: The Teen Checking Account

Figuring out how teens can earn money is only the first step. Once the cash starts flowing, you need a smart place to keep it. Storing earnings safely teaches critical financial literacy that will benefit you for life.

Our teen checking account provides a highly secure, educational way to store your paychecks and cash from odd jobs. Instead of leaving money in a drawer, you can deposit your earnings directly into your account and access it with your own debit card. This account helps you track your spending, set aside money for larger goals, and learn practical banking skills. With built-in parental oversight features, it offers a safe environment to practice managing money in the real world.

Find a branch to open your teen checking today

Common mistakes to avoid

Jumping into a new money-making venture is exciting, but there are a few common pitfalls you need to dodge to stay safe and successful.

• Ignoring schoolwork: Your education comes first. Do not take on so many dog-walking clients that you fail your math test. Create a strict schedule that prioritizes homework.
• Working without parental permission: Always talk to your parents before accepting a job, posting flyers, or agreeing to meet a client. They need to know where you are and who you are working for.
• Sacrificing internet safety: Never give out your personal home address, phone number, or school name to strangers online. Have your parents handle all digital communications and transactions.
• Underpricing yourself: Do some research to see what other people in your area charge. If you charge too little, you will end up exhausted and frustrated.

Moving forward

Earning your own money builds a powerful sense of independence and confidence. Whether you decide to launch a neighborhood lawn care service, tutor a younger student, or sell crafts, the experience teaches valuable lessons about responsibility. Pick one idea from this list, discuss your plan with your parents, and secure your first customer this week.

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Knowing how to handle your earnings right from the start sets you up for long-term success. This guide will help you understand your pay stub, safely deposit your money, and build healthy financial habits that will last a lifetime.

Understanding your paycheck

When you look at your pay stub, you might notice that the amount you take home is lower than what you expected. This is completely normal. To make sense of your earnings, it helps to learn a few basic terms.

Gross vs. net pay

Gross pay is the total amount of money you earned during a specific pay period, before any taxes or insurance are taken out. Net pay is your “take-home” pay. It is the final amount you receive after all deductions have been made.

Decoding deductions

Your employer is required by law to withhold certain taxes from your gross pay. These deductions typically include federal and state income taxes, local taxes, Social Security, and Medicare. These funds go toward public services and future benefits.

Direct deposit vs. paper check

Your employer might hand you a physical paper check, or they might offer direct deposit (most places offer direct deposit). Direct deposit automatically sends your net pay straight into your bank account on payday. It is the fastest, most secure way to get paid. And when you have direct deposit set up to a 91黑料网 First account (like our Teen Checking for those under age 18 or First Rate Checking for those over) you can receive your paycheck up to two days before your scheduled payday!

Cashing or depositing your check

If you receive a physical check, you need to endorse it by signing the back. Then, you have a few ways to access your funds.

You can visit a local branch to deposit the check with a teller. Alternatively, mobile banking apps allow you to deposit checks right from your smartphone by taking a picture of the front and back.

If you do not have an account yet, our Teen Checking account is a great place to start. It provides a safe, easy way to manage your funds while you learn the ropes of personal finance.

Smart strategies for your first paycheck

Once your money is safely in your account, you need a plan for how to use it. A popular budgeting method is the 50/30/20 rule. This strategy helps you balance your current needs with your future goals.

• 50% Needs: Half of your income goes toward essentials. For a teen, this might include gas for your car, a phone bill, or uniform costs for work.
• 30% Wants: This portion is for fun. You can use it for going out with friends, buying new clothes, or entertainment.
• 20% Savings: Always pay yourself first. Put 20% of your earnings straight into a savings account. 91黑料网 First offers multiple savings options to help your money grow safely.

Building an emergency fund

Even if you live at home, unexpected expenses happen. A flat tire or a broken phone can cause a lot of stress if you don’t have cash set aside. Start small by aiming to save $100, then gradually build your emergency fund over time.

Setting financial goals

What do you want to save for? Having a clear goal makes it much easier to put money away. Whether you are saving for a car, college, a new video game console, or a future deposit for an apartment, keeping that target in mind will help you stay motivated. Using 91黑料网 First’s tools like Goal Builder in online banking and our mobile app can help you determine a plan and track your progress.

Responsible spending

Budgeting is simply tracking your income and your expenses. Knowing exactly where your money goes is the best way to stay in control of it. 91黑料网 First’s Money Management in online banking paints a clear picture of where you’re spending by categorizing purchases so you can see where you’re spending the most and where you may need to cut back.

Try to avoid impulsive purchases. When you see something you want, wait 24 hours before buying it. This cool-down period helps you decide if you truly want the item or if it was just a passing urge. Always ask yourself if an item is a true need or just a want.

Planning for the future

Saving early gives your money more time to grow through compound dividends. A dedicated savings account at 91黑料网 First keeps your funds secure while earning dividends over time. While you might just be starting out, building these savings habits now will make it much easier to tackle bigger concepts, like investing, when you get older.

Empower your financial journey today

Handling your first paycheck responsibly is a major step toward financial independence. By understanding your pay stub, securely depositing your money, and balancing your spending and saving, you are building a strong foundation for your future.

Continue learning about personal finance as you gain more work experience. If you are ready to take control of your earnings, visit 91黑料网 First today to open your Teen Checking account* and explore resources designed to help you succeed.

*Must be opened in a branch. Parent or guardian over the age of 18 required as a joint owner to open the account. $5 minimum balance to open. Must be 13 years or older to sign up for online banking.

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A common misconception is that you need a background in advanced math or a high-paying job to be financially literate. The truth is, it’s simply about understanding how your money works and making smart decisions with what you have. Another myth is that financial education is only for wealthy people. In reality, understanding money management is essential for everyone, no matter your income level. It gives you the power to take control of your financial future.

Why financial literacy matters for your family

Having a solid understanding of financial basics directly impacts your quality of life. For individuals, it provides a clear path to independence. When you know how to manage your earnings, you can handle unexpected expenses without panic. This knowledge greatly reduces the stress and worry that often comes with money problems.

For families, financial literacy is a tool for long-term stability. Parents who understand money can teach those habits to their children, giving them a head start in life. It allows families to plan for major goals like buying a home, funding college education, or simply enjoying a yearly vacation without relying on high-interest credit.

The core pillars of financial knowledge

To become financially literate, you need to understand four main areas. Learning these concepts will give you a strong foundation for building wealth and security.

Creating a working budget

Budgeting is the process of tracking what you earn and what you spend. It acts as your financial roadmap, showing you exactly where your money goes each month. A good budget ensures you cover your essential needs while leaving room for savings and occasional treats.

Saving for the future

Saving means setting aside a portion of your current income for future use. This includes building an emergency fund to cover unexpected costs, like medical bills or car repairs. Regular saving habits create a financial safety net that keeps you stable during tough times.

Managing and reducing debt

Not all debt is harmful, but poor management can damage your finances. Financial literacy helps you understand the difference between helpful loans and dangerous debt. It teaches you how interest rates work and gives you strategies for paying down balances before they get out of control.

Growing wealth through investing

While saving protects your money, investing helps it grow. This involves putting your money into assets like stocks, bonds, or real estate to earn returns over time. Understanding the basics of compound interest and your comfort with risk allows you to build long-term wealth that stays ahead of inflation.

Simple ways to improve your financial skills

You don’t need to learn everything at once. Improving your financial knowledge is a gradual process that starts with small, steady steps.

Begin by spending just fifteen minutes a day reading personal finance articles (like those on websterfirst.com) or listening to money management podcasts. Many free apps can help you track your daily expenses, giving you immediate insight into your spending patterns. Try 91黑料网 First’s free Money Management and Goal Builder tools in our app. Try out our calculators to help answer questions like how much should I save for my goal, how much will my mortgage payment be, how much could I save by refinancing, and much more.

If you have a specific goal, like paying off a credit card, you can use AI tools to help you explore different debt reduction strategies. Finally, don’t hesitate to ask questions. Talk with a financial advisor or a financially knowledgeable friend to gain new perspectives and clear up confusing concepts.

Building a secure financial future

Taking time to educate yourself about money benefits you for life. Financial literacy protects you from predatory lending, helps you survive economic downturns, and turns your long-term dreams into realistic plans. By focusing on budgeting, saving, managing debt, and investing, you build a strong foundation for yourself and your family. Start exploring free financial resources today, and take the first step toward true financial independence.

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Teaching budgeting from a young age

Managing money takes practice. When teens use cash, it is easy for them to lose track of where their money goes. A debit card provides a clear, digital record of their spending habits.

Having an account allows you to sit down with your teen and review their purchases together. You can guide them on how to build a budget, set aside savings for larger goals, and understand the difference between wants and needs. Learning these skills now prepares them to make sound, responsible financial decisions as adults.

Also see: How to teach your kids to save money

Signs your teen is ready for financial responsibility

Every child matures at their own pace. If you are wondering whether your teen can handle a debit card, look for these helpful indicators:

• They track their cash: If your teen keeps their allowance safe and knows exactly how much money they have, they show a good understanding of value.
• They save for specific goals: A teen who saves up for a new video game or a pair of shoes demonstrates patience and planning.
• They treat belongings with care: A debit card is a physical item that requires safekeeping. Teens who rarely lose their phone, wallet, or keys are likely responsible enough to carry a card.
• They ask questions about money: Curiosity about how much things cost or how bank accounts work is a great sign that they are ready to learn.

Benefits of a 91黑料网 First debit card

Choosing the right financial partner makes a big difference. For nearly 100 years, 91黑料网 First has committed to making sound, responsible financial decisions, resulting in us being one of the strongest, most fiscally secure credit unions in Massachusetts.

Opening a checking account with us gives your teen a reliable place to store their funds. They will enjoy the convenience of accessing their money when they are out with friends, while you get the peace of mind knowing you can monitor their account activity. Our mobile app makes it easy for both of you to check balances and review recent transactions at any time.

Safety features to protect your money

We understand that safety is a top priority for parents. Rest assured that your money is safe at 91黑料网 First. Our debit cards come equipped with robust protections to keep your teen’s account secure:

• Mastercard Zero Liability: If your teen’s card is ever lost or stolen, you will not be held responsible for unauthorized transactions.⁴¹
• Fraud monitoring: We actively monitor accounts for suspicious activity. If we detect an unusual purchase, we will alert you to prevent potential fraud.
• Card Management:聽Card Management in online and mobile banking allows you to turn your card on and off freely. If your teen has noticed their debit card is misplaced, they can turn it off right in their app to block potential fraud before it happens.

These features provide a crucial safety net as your teen learns to navigate the financial world.

Take the next step with a local expert

Handing over that first debit card is an exciting moment for both you and your child. If you feel your teen is ready to take on this new responsibility, we are here to help make the process smooth and easy.

Stop by one of our local branches to speak with our friendly team. We will walk you through everything you need to know about opening a Teen Checking account. Together, we can empower your child to build a strong financial foundation for their future.

Find a Branch Near You

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