Skip to content

Family Money checklist

16 money steps for families with school-age kids, from the back-to-school budget to a college savings plan.

Track your progress with a free account Get the free School Year Planner

The school year

Plan the expensive weeks before they arrive.

List every back-to-school cost from last year Guide
Set aside a monthly amount from early summer Guide
Shop your house before buying supplies Guide
Compare packed and bought lunch, and check meal eligibility Guide

Activities and summer

Count the hidden costs.

Set a yearly activity budget per child Guide
Ask about scholarships and sibling discounts Guide
Plan summer care by winter registration Guide
Start a family list of free things to do Guide

Money skills for kids

Real money, small mistakes.

Choose an allowance system and a pay day Guide
Set up save, spend and share jars Guide
Turn on purchase approval on every device Guide
Open a no-fee savings account when they're ready Guide

The future

Safety net first, then college.

Build an emergency fund Guide
Name a guardian in a will Guide
Set a college savings goal with the calculator Guide
Compare your state's 529 plan with others Guide