From education-specific accounts to general savings, different vehicles offer different rules, flexibility and potential tax advantages. The right mix depends on your timeline and goals. If you’re starting to save for college, take a look at this helpful overview of college savings plan options: https://bit.ly/3ZDyXPn
Even modest contributions for college funding can add up over time. Automate what you can and review annually as your goals evolve. To get started, estimate how much you’ll need, then use Thrivent’s college savings calculator to map out your larger journey (see resources below).
➡️ How to estimate college costs: https://bit.ly/4aSQvwf
➡️ College savings calculator: https://bit.ly/3OgMYA3
When comparing colleges, look at net price (after scholarships and grants), not just the published cost. A realistic view helps you right-size savings, aid and any loans. Want help understanding your budget and options? Let's connect.
See thrivent.com/social for important disclosures.
2026 IRA contribution deadline: There's still time to maximize your savingsApril 15 is coming up, but you still have time to take action. See all the details on 2025 IRA contributions. ⬇️
Are your retirement savings on track?Schedule a check-in before April 1 to explore options to strengthen your savings and make the most of your retirement years.
Retirement savings by age: What's average & what's recommendedCurious if your retirement savings are on track? Averages can be helpful, but they’re not the whole story. See where you stand and explore tips for retirement savings by age. 👇
If you have family members asking for gift ideas or ways to support your kids, consider inviting them to contribute to an education savings account. You could even gamify the experience by setting a goal, sharing the link or instructions, and celebrating progress together.
Wondering which type of plan or account might be best? Check out Thrivent’s guide to college savings plan options: https://bit.ly/4cpXajB
It’s important to remember that FAFSA must be submitted every year you want aid (grants, loans or work study). Mark your calendar well in advance and complete your application as soon as possible—some financial aid is first come, first served. Typically, the applications open on Oct. 1 for the next school year. Check here for dates and application info: https://bit.ly/4kxTLkO
“Aid layering” is a spending strategy that can help you understand which funding sources to prioritize as you pay for college. This strategy suggests spending awards first and reaching for loans last—because a dollar borrowed is a dollar (+interest) that needs to be repaid. Here’s a snapshot of the spending order:
1️⃣ Need-based aid
2️⃣ Merit and other scholarships
3️⃣ 529 plans and savings
4️⃣ Household cash flow
5️⃣ Student loans
You can discover more tips for prioritizing and planning for college costs here: https://bit.ly/4rS1sVv
Are your retirement savings on track?Want to help boost your 2025 tax savings? Let's connect to explore how you can balance your retirement goals with your day-to-day.
Interest rates are shifting. Understanding the purpose and timeline of your cash can help you decide whether and how to invest it for optimal returns. Ask yourself two questions. ⬇️
See thrivent.com/social for important disclosures.
How an allowance for kids teaches financial lessons for adulthoodLooking for a way to teach your children the value of money? An allowance can help them understand the basics of budgeting and saving. Here are some things to consider before giving out an allowance. ⬇️
Looking to build a new career and new relationships? When you join Thrivent’s Virtual Advice Team as a virtual financial advisor, you can do both while helping clients across the country pursue their financial goals. See how this role can be a starting point for a successful financial professional career: thriventcareers.com/4qbKQH6
Financial literacy for teens: 6 lessons about money managementOne of the greatest gifts you can offer your teenager is teaching them about money. In a few years, they'll face financial decisions that demand a long-term perspective. Here are ways to start the conversation. ⬇️
Helping your kids learn about money is a gift that grows with them. Start early, build gradually and focus on simple concepts at each stage.
These age-appropriate skills can help them develop discipline and healthier money habits as they grow. ➡️ https://bit.ly/4axUyhk
Teens are already learning so much. Why not add investing to the list?
It’s a great way for them to build real-world skills like goal setting and planning for the future. And with a little hands-on guidance, they can start understanding how markets work and gain financial discipline that carries into adulthood.
📌 This beginner-friendly guide is a great place to start: https://bit.ly/4qrOoow
Want to raise a money-smart teen? You don’t need to be a financial expert—just start with a few good conversations.
👉 Talking about money early and often can help teens build discipline, understand their options and feel more prepared for the financial decisions they’ll soon be making.
Here’s how to get started: https://bit.ly/4tuucW0
Little eyes are always watching—especially when it comes to money. The way we manage and talk about money shapes our kids long before they earn their first dollar.
Try modeling these simple habits to help them build a healthy relationship with money:
⭐ Avoid speaking about money with stress or shame
⭐ Narrate your choices (“We’re saving for X, so we’re skipping Y today”)
⭐ Keep a visible savings routine
⭐ Use positive language around budgeting and planning
As a parent, you already know the values you want to instill in your kids. But figuring out how to teach them isn’t always easy, especially when it comes to money.
The good news? Raising money-smart kids doesn’t require a lesson plan—just simple, everyday moments. Small habits practiced together can build financial discipline that grows with them. 🙌
These five are a great place to start. ⬆️
Looking for a kid-friendly way to teach financial literacy? Try the Spend, Save, Give method. It allows them to:
⭐ Spend on things they want
⭐ Save for something big
⭐ Give to make a difference
Kids learn best by doing. This simple approach turns money lessons into real-life choices—helping instill discipline and prioritization. And if generosity is part of your family values, it’s a great way to pass that on early.
