April is Youth & Financial Literacy Month, and there’s no better time to help teens build money habits that will last a lifetime.
Between first jobs, saving for a car, or just learning how to manage spending, the teen years are where financial confidence begins. At Downeast Credit Union, we believe learning about money shouldn’t feel overwhelming—it should feel empowering.
Here are a few key lessons every teen should start learning now:
1. Saving First, Spending SecondEven small deposits add up. Setting aside money regularly builds discipline and confidence.
2. Understanding Needs vs. WantsThat daily coffee or online purchase adds up quickly. Learning to prioritize is a powerful skill.
3. Setting GoalsWhether it’s a new phone, a car, or college savings—goals make saving meaningful.
4. Building IndependenceHaving their own account helps teens take ownership of their financial future.
To celebrate Youth Month, we’re making it fun to get started:
It’s never too early to start smart—and we’re here to help every step of the way.
👉 Ready to begin? Open a Youth Account today!
As young adults step into independence—college, careers, or managing bills—financial knowledge becomes more important than ever.
Youth & Financial Literacy Month is the perfect time to build confidence with money and set yourself up for long-term success.
Here are essential financial habits to focus on:
1. Budgeting BasicsKnow what’s coming in and what’s going out. A simple plan prevents financial stress.
2. Credit AwarenessUnderstanding credit scores now can make a big difference later when buying a car or home.
3. Emergency SavingsEven a small cushion can protect you from unexpected expenses.
4. Smart Saving StrategiesHigher-yield options—like CDs or Certificates of Deposit —can help your money grow faster.
To help you get started, we’re offering:
No matter where you are in your journey, it’s never too early—or too late—to take control of your financial future.
👉 Take the next step with Downeast Credit Union today. Open an Account today!
*Disclaimers:
1) DEPOSIT MATCH: Must be 17 or younger to earn up to $10 deposit match on one new account opened between 4/1/2026-4/30/2026 with deposits to any youth savings, share certificate, or checking account. When opening a youth account, please bring the child’s social security card. A joint owner at least 18 years of age who qualifies for membership must accompany the youth and bring proper identification. If adult doesn’t have their physical address on their ID, we would need two additional items as proof of physical address (utility bills, etc).
2) CERTIFICATE: APY=Annual Percentage Yield. Members age 17 and under are eligible for this 12-month special certificate rate. One certificate per Youth Member. Youth Certificate Special requires a minimum deposit of $100 or a maximum amount of $1000. Penalty may be assessed for early withdrawal. Special rate available from 4/1/2026 – 4/30/2026.
3) GIVEAWAYS: $100 giveaway offered to each age group 13-17 and 18-21. Prizes: One $100 prize to be deposited to winner’s DECU account per age category. Quiz should be delivered in person, completed online, or mailed to your local branch by the last day of each quarter. One random entrant will be selected each giveaway period and funds will be deposited into their DECU savings account. No purchase necessary; alternate option to enter is to send a postcard with your name, phone and address to your local branch. Winner may be responsible for any taxes on the winnings and may be asked to sign a media release. Member responsible for any applicable taxes. Drawing for winners will be complete by 5/7/2026 at Downeast Credit Union. Odds of winning based on number of entries.
For our members’ convenience, links are available in this website to allow quick access to other sites that may be of interest. Clicking on a third party link will take you out of Downeast Credit Union’s website to an alternative website not operated by DECU. The Credit Union is not responsible for the content of the third party website and does not represent either the third party website or the member if you enter into a transaction. Privacy and security policies of the website to which you are linking may differ from those practiced by DECU.
