5 Ways to Save Smarter During America Saves Week

Since 2007, America Saves Week has encouraged people across the country to take control of their financial future, establish savings goals, and create a plan to achieve those goals. This year’s theme, Saving for Your Past, Present, and Future, is all about making sure you’re prepared for whatever life throws your way, whether that’s paying down debt from the past, building your savings now, or planning for big milestones down the road.

We know that saving isn’t always easy, but with the right tools, it can be simple and rewarding. That’s why from Monday, April 7, 2025, through Friday, April 11, 2025, we’re sharing five easy-to-follow tips paired with PSECU products that make saving automatic, accessible, and achievable.

Ready to give your finances a check-up? Let’s dive into our top savings tips for the week and how we can help you reach your goals.

Day 1: Save Automatically with Direct Deposit

Ever feel like your paycheck disappears faster than you can say “payday”? Setting up direct deposit can help you get ahead by automatically funneling a portion of every paycheck directly into your savings account.

Why is this so effective? Because saving automatically removes temptation. When your savings are tucked away before you even see your full paycheck, it’s easier to stay on track without feeling like you’re missing out. Plus, with our digital direct deposit, you can split your direct deposit into multiple accounts, making it simple to build your savings while covering your everyday expenses.

Pro tip: Even starting small - like allocating $25 from each paycheck to a savings account - adds up over time. And with direct deposit, your savings will grow without you lifting a finger.
Ready to make saving effortless? Set up digital direct deposit today.

Day 2: Save for the Unexpected with a Money Market Account

Flat tires. Vet bills. Surprise medical costs. Life has a way of throwing unexpected expenses our way. An emergency fund is your financial safety net - and a money market account can help you build it faster with higher returns than in a traditional savings account.

Our money market account gives you the flexibility to access your funds when you need them while earning dividends with as little as $500¹. This means your money grows steadily, but you’re never locked out when life’s surprises hit.

Why it matters: According to a 2025 Bankrate survey, nearly 60% of Americans wouldn’t be able to cover a $1,000 emergency from their savings. Don’t let that be you - start building your emergency fund today.
Open yours now: Explore our money market account.

Day 3: Save for Major Milestones with a Certificate

Whether it’s buying your first home, planning a wedding, or finally booking that dream vacation, big milestones often come with big price tags. That’s where our certificates can help.

You can open a certificate (banks call this a Certificate of Deposit or CD) with as little as $500² and accrue dividends with a fixed rate for a set term. Unlike a traditional savings account, you won’t be tempted to dip into it, making it perfect for long-term goals.

Think of it like this: You're making an investment now, and by the time you're ready to hit that milestone, you'll have saved enough to help fund it.
Lock in your rate: Learn more about certificates.

Day 4: Pay Down Debt and Save with a Visa® Balance Transfer

Here’s a little secret: Paying off debt is actually a form of saving. High-interest debt, like credit cards, can drain your finances over time. But with a PSECU Visa Balance Transfer, you can enjoy a lower interest rate, which helps you save on interest while chipping away at what you owe.

Let’s break it down. Imagine you have $10,000 in credit card debt at 24% interest. By transferring your balance to our Classic Card with a lower rate, you could save hundreds - if not thousands - of dollars in interest. And with no PSECU balance transfer fee, that’s money you can put back into your savings.

Small changes add up, and reducing your debt is a big step toward financial freedom.
Conquer your debt: Calculate your savings with a Visa Balance Transfer.

Day 5: Save at Any Age with a Youth Account

Good financial habits start young. Teaching kids and teens to save early sets them up for success later in life. With a PSECU youth account, young savers can learn how to manage their money, set goals, and watch their savings grow over time.

It’s never too early to start. Whether they’re saving birthday money, allowance, or their first paycheck, having their own account gives them a sense of responsibility - and a head start on building a solid financial future.

Fun fact: Studies show that children who have savings accounts are more likely to attend college and manage their finances better as adults.
Help young savers get started: Open a Youth Savings or Teen Banking account today.

America Saves Year-Round

America Saves Week is a great time to kick your savings into high gear, but these tips work year-round. Whether you’re building your emergency fund, planning for something big, or teaching young savers the ropes, PSECU is here to help every step of the way.

Ready to save smarter? Explore our savings options.

¹Rates and information are subject to change at any time. Fees could reduce earnings on the account(s). The disclosed dividend rates are variable and may change after the member opens the account(s). Money market accounts require a minimum of $500 to earn dividends. For consumer accounts, view Truth in Savings Account Disclosures.  Business Accounts: Business money market accounts require a minimum of $2,500 to earn dividends

²Open with $500: If your withdrawal plus penalty takes the certificate below the required minimum $500 balance, your certificate will be closed and the penalty will be calculated on the entire balance.