Can an 'Adulting Class' Actually Help You With Your Finances?

Published in Business and Finance on Monday, June 30th 2025 at 13:01 GMT by Investopedia
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Adulting classes teach budgeting, credit, and other real-world money skills. Here's how they can help fill gaps left by traditional education.

The article titled "Adulting Class: Help With Your Finances" on Investopedia, authored by Julia Kagan and updated on March 28, 2023, delves into the concept of adulting classes, which are designed to equip young adults with essential life skills, particularly in managing personal finances. The piece highlights the growing trend of these classes, which are often offered by community colleges, universities, and other educational institutions, as well as through online platforms. The article emphasizes the importance of financial literacy and how these classes can help bridge the gap in knowledge that many young adults face as they transition into independent living.

The article begins by defining adulting classes as educational programs that focus on teaching practical life skills that are not typically covered in traditional school curriculums. These skills range from basic household management to more complex financial planning. The need for such classes has been recognized due to the increasing number of young adults who report feeling unprepared for the financial responsibilities that come with adulthood. The article cites a survey by the National Financial Educators Council, which found that a significant percentage of young adults lack basic financial knowledge, such as understanding credit scores, managing debt, and saving for retirement.

One of the key areas covered in adulting classes is budgeting. The article explains that these classes teach participants how to create and stick to a budget, which is crucial for financial stability. Budgeting classes often include lessons on tracking income and expenses, setting financial goals, and making informed spending decisions. The article also discusses the importance of understanding the difference between needs and wants, and how to prioritize spending accordingly.

Another critical topic addressed in adulting classes is credit management. The article highlights that many young adults are unaware of how credit works and the impact it can have on their financial future. Adulting classes provide education on how to build and maintain a good credit score, the importance of paying bills on time, and the consequences of high credit card debt. The article also touches on the dangers of predatory lending and how to avoid falling into debt traps.

Saving and investing are also significant components of adulting classes. The article explains that these classes teach the basics of saving money, including setting up emergency funds and saving for long-term goals like buying a home or retirement. Additionally, adulting classes often cover the fundamentals of investing, such as understanding different investment vehicles, the importance of diversification, and the concept of risk versus reward. The article emphasizes that early education in saving and investing can have a profound impact on a young adult's financial future.

The article also discusses the role of adulting classes in teaching about insurance and taxes. Many young adults are unfamiliar with the various types of insurance they may need, such as health, auto, and renters insurance. Adulting classes provide an overview of these insurance types, explaining their importance and how to choose the right coverage. Similarly, the article notes that understanding taxes is crucial for financial literacy. Adulting classes often include lessons on filing taxes, understanding tax deductions, and planning for tax liabilities.

In addition to these financial topics, the article mentions that adulting classes may also cover other life skills, such as cooking, home maintenance, and time management. These skills are essential for independent living and can contribute to overall financial well-being. For example, learning to cook can help save money on food expenses, while understanding basic home maintenance can prevent costly repairs.

The article also addresses the accessibility of adulting classes, noting that they are available in various formats to suit different learning preferences. Some classes are offered in-person, while others are available online, making them accessible to a broader audience. The article mentions that many institutions offer these classes at a low cost or even for free, recognizing the importance of financial education for all.

Furthermore, the article discusses the impact of adulting classes on financial confidence. It cites studies that show participants in these classes report increased confidence in managing their finances and making informed financial decisions. This increased confidence can lead to better financial outcomes, such as higher savings rates, lower debt levels, and improved credit scores.

The article concludes by emphasizing the importance of lifelong learning in financial management. It encourages young adults to take advantage of adulting classes and other financial education resources to build a strong foundation for their financial future. The piece also suggests that parents and educators play a crucial role in promoting financial literacy and encouraging young adults to seek out these educational opportunities.

Overall, the article provides a comprehensive overview of adulting classes and their role in helping young adults navigate the complexities of personal finance. It underscores the importance of financial literacy and the potential benefits of these classes in improving financial well-being. The article serves as a valuable resource for anyone interested in learning more about adulting classes and how they can contribute to a more financially secure future.

Read the Full Investopedia Article at:
[ https://www.investopedia.com/adulting-class-help-with-your-finances-11751125 ]