Your first job

Congratulations on reaching an important milestone. These tips can help you get your finances and working life off to a great start.
Keep in mind:
  • Start to pay back school loans, credit cards and other debts
  • Budget against your expected take-home pay
  • Build an emergency fund of six months' worth of living expenses
  • Take advantage of any employer match to start investing for retirement
Browse resources
Watch
Anatomy of a paycheck
See how your paychecks get divided up, and what's left over.
Video: Anatomy of a paycheck
Read
4 tax moves to consider early in your career
Use these tax-efficient strategies to help make the most of your long-term investments.
You & your budget: Live within your means
Creating and following a budget can help you pursue your financial goals.
Your 401(k): 10 things to find out
Starting a new full-time job? If your company offers you a 401(k) plan, you may have decisions to make.
Merrill forms
Forms may be easier to read on a larger screen.
Merrill Guided Investing with an advisor
All the benefits of Merrill Guided Investing with an advisor who will discuss your priorities and provide advice and guidance to help you pursue your goals
Learn more

Important disclosures

Merrill, its affiliates, and financial advisors do not provide legal, tax, or accounting advice. You should consult your legal and/or tax advisors before making any financial decisions.

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