Having a job means understanding how to make the most of your money.

Whether you’re just getting your very first job, or if you’ve just graduated from college and received your first “real job,” you should feel great. It's rewarding to finally be earning enough money to pave your own way into the world.

But, when it comes to earning money, the first thing many people do is to go out and spend it. Experts suggest that this is a fundamental mistake.

The key to getting the most from your job is making sure to get the maximum return for your hard-earned money. Before you spend anything from your first paycheck, take these steps to insure that you are financially successful:

• Determine a budget- Set up a Coastal checking account with a direct deposit option. Sign up for COLTS Online Banking support and a Visa Check Card. Resist the urge to spend 100% of every paycheck on luxury items.
  
  
• Calculate how much you need to save on a monthly basis -Set up a direct deposit to a high yielding Coastal savings account each month to insure that you have enough for emergencies and future expenses.
  
  
• Save all you can – Take full advantage of any non-taxable or tax-deferred retirement plans.
  
  
• Participate in your company’s retirement plan - Whether it's a 401(k), 403(b), 457(b) or other tax-qualified plan, and enroll in it as soon as you are eligible.
  
  
• Increase your contributions to these accounts - As your income raises, be sure to save proportionately as your income rises from pay increases and promotions.
  
  
• Visit a financial service representative from Coastal » – Get the help you need to make smart financial decisions when you visit a branch office near you. And, plan to come to one of our financial resources centers to learn more about managing your wealth and planning for your financial future at every stage of life.