Financial Wellness

You may not have thought about financial wellness before now, but finances impact nearly every aspect of our lives. Making a solid financial plan equips you to acheive your academic goals and succeed in your chosen career. Check out the resources below for help with creating a budget and money saving tips.

If you have questions about your Financial Aid package, student loans, grants, or academic probation/suspension, please contact the Financial Aid office by visiting their page Financial Aid Office.

Financial Planning through MyPlan

MyPlan is your personal guide for career, academic, and financial planning.

  • Explore, identify and clarify your career goals
  • Understand how financial planning relates to your career planning
  • Develop a plan for how to pay for college (now and in the future)
  • Build your academic plan and understand how it relates to achieving your career goals

Your life as a student is busy, so schedule yourself time to start the activities in MyPlan that are most relevant to you. Remember, Clark College faculty and staff are here to help on your journey, so don't hesitate to contact us.

Complete this form for access to planning in MyPlan Canvas.

Plan

The choice to attend college is a big decision - and potentially a big cost, but it doesn't have to be. Check out these budgeting tools and money saving tips.


How to budget in College:

Creating a Monthly Budget:

Learn

 

Free online courses

Paying for  College

Save

Live

Meal Planning

Cheap Things to do

College Budgeting

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

  • Do I need a budget, and how do I create one?
  • What is an emergency savings fund, and do I need one?
    • It is a separate savings that is used in case of emergencies to cover costs that come up such as car repairs, higher bills, and medical needs. Having a savings fund can help cover unplanned costs. 

  • How much do I need to save for an Emergency Fund?
  • Do I need to file my taxes?
  • Can my parents still claim me as a dependent?
    • Yes, your parents can claim you as a dependent after the age of 18 indefinitely if you meet the qualifying household and financial support requirements. To meet the qualifying child test, your child must be younger than you and either younger than 19 years old or be a "student" younger than 24 years old as of the end of the calendar year. There is no age limit if the child is "permanently disabled" or meets the qualifying relative test. Check out the IRS Dependent guidelines for more information.

  • What is the difference between a credit card and a debit card, and how do they work?
    • A debit card is a method of payment that is linked to your checking account that deducts purchases from your checking account automatically. 
      • Overdraft fees are added when there are not enough funds in the checking account to cover the charges.
    • A credit card is a method of payment that is a line of credit that you have agreed to pay any charges plus interest in a certain amount of time.
      • Late fees are added when overdue (late) payments are made. This also has a negative impact on your credit score.

Resources