I remember daddy told me ‘fairytales can come true’. But you’ve got to make them happen, it all depends on you

– Tiana, The Princess & the Frog

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Let’s talk about this Stimulus/Relief Check that was just recently sent out to the population. It has been a topic of conversation among my family, friends, co-workers, and every social media platform out there. There are blog posts, news articles, and video info sessions answering various questions and concerns regarding the money. I want to focus on a topic that isn’t being heavily talked about:

HOW SHOULD WE (YOUNG ADULTS) SPEND THIS MONEY?!

As a young adult transitioning to adulthood, it can be tempting to see this extra dough as money we can use to buy items we have been wanting for so long! As I share the same thoughts at times, let’s practice the art of self-control and think about what this money could really do.

1. Use This Money As Intended By They Government

This Relief Check is exactly that – meant to provide designated citizens relief on their money woes during this current pandemic. There are hundreds of thousands of people all around the United States (the world really but let’s focus on the ones who received the money), who have lost their jobs because of current circumstances. They need assistance because a roof over our heads is necessary, stomachs still need to be fed, and other bills/debts are not evaporating in thin air because of COVID-19. With that in mind, spend the money on NECESSITIES. Thankfully, it seems like the people are doing exactly that!

2. Out of Sight, Out of Mind

If you are one of the lucky few that are still working and are not in immediate need of the money, put that bad boy away! Whether you cash it out and keep it safely in your house or throw it in a savings account away from direct use, I suggest you do not use it. Currently, the situation does not seem to be getting any better. Top government officials and scientists around the world cannot even agree on when this pandemic will be “over”. A LOT can happen between now and just a few days.

I recommend using money as if the worst outcome could happen. That money could easily be a saving grace when and if you need it in the near future.

HOW SHOULD WE SPEND THIS MONEY, IF WE SAVED IT, AFTER THE PANDEMIC?

As mentioned above, the ending of this current situation is unpredictable. But that doesn’t mean planning for the future is not important. Here are a couple suggestions I would recommend:

1. Pay Off Debt

For most young adults, debt is a normal reality; myself included. If your relief check could clear up 1 or 2 monthly payments; then DO IT! I was talking to my sister the other night and she was asking my advise on whether to payoff a chunk of her credit card or to pay off some debt that was sitting in collections. I suggested the collections! Those dings really hurt your credit score and start to grow fast because they are not typically debt accounts you consistently check in on or make payments to; like your credit card homepage.

When it comes to paying off debt; pick one or two you could possibly wipe out completely. That way you are relieving yourself of a monthly expense going forward. Wouldn’t a 0 balance credit card look divine?!

2. Save It

Maybe you’re in a position where the money is still not something your too worried about. Leaving it in a savings account is always still beneficial. It could be the start of your emergency fund or a contribution to a specific savings fund. Remember we are always aspiring to be a Proactive Savers vs. a Reactive Saver.

3. Invest In Yourself

Notice it does not say TREAT yourself. Even though I am not opposed to treating myself from time to time, I can easily do that with money I was expecting (my paycheck) versus the money I wouldn’t normally receive.

When I say INVEST in YOURSELF, I mean things you can buy that can keep you and your goals relevant and moving in the right direction. My boyfriend is currently working on making a movie, and his current laptop is not ideal. This money is a perfect opportunity to invest in a new laptop that can help him accomplish his goals.

WHATS NEXT?

Before you start spending, take a step back and think about what you are spending that money on. Even though this could be said about any of your personal spending, we will keep it mainly focused on this Relief Check.

Personally, I have thrown that money into savings. As I have friends and family that have lost their jobs, I have put the money in a savings account I can easily withdrawal from if others may need my assistance. In hopes of this pandemic passing, I plan on moving the money to a savings account I have specifically for a down-payment on a house! I promise to talk about that a little later on…