Let’s be honest, saving money doesn’t look the same for everyone – and that’s totally okay. You’ve got expenses, plans, and maybe a few surprise costs (looking at you, vet bill), and somewhere in the middle, you’re trying to save for the future.
Some people thrive on structure and color-coded spreadsheets. Others take it day by day and save when they can, and some are just getting started. And many of us fall somewhere in between.
That’s where this quiz comes in. In just a few minutes, we’ll help you better understand your saving style and give you some tips that actually match how you manage your money.
Take the Quiz: What’s Your Saving Style?
Answer these quick questions, tally your answers, and scroll down to see which saving style best matches you, plus get custom tips to make the most of it.
1. Payday just hit. What’s your first move?
- A chunk automatically transfers to savings before I even breathe.
- Treat myself a little, save a little – balance, right?
- Scroll through my banking app and see what’s what.
- Oops…I already spent some of it.
2. Budgeting makes you feel:
- I love knowing where my money is going.
- In control…when I actually stick to it.
- I think about budgeting more than I do it.
- Confused and maybe a little allergic.
3. You check your account balance:
- Got to stay on top of things!
- Once or twice a week.
- When something seems off.
- Only when I need to.
4. Your saving strategy is best described as:
- Planned and automatic – no surprises here.
- Flexible – I manually move money when I can.
- Wishful thinking with occasional effort.
- Not sure yet – still figuring it out.
5. When unexpected expenses pop up, you:
- Pull from your emergency fund – this is what it’s for.
- Adjust your budget and shift things around.
- Put it on a credit card and hope you can pay it off quickly.
- Panic a little, then figure it out...somehow.
6. Saving for long-term goals – like retirement – feels:
- Essential – I’m already contributing regularly.
- Important, but I’m not as consistent as I’d like to be.
- Intimidating – I know I should start, but haven’t really yet.
- Like something for “future me” to deal with later.
7. When it comes to financial tools and technology, you:
- Use apps, account alerts, and automation to stay organized.
- Use a few tools but prefer to keep things simple.
- Don’t use much, just check balances manually.
- Could honestly use some help figuring it all out.
Your Results
Mostly A’s: The Planner
You’ve got a system, and it works. You’re the type to label your folders, track every expense, and schedule savings transfers like clockwork. Saving is part of your daily routine, and you’ve probably got a spreadsheet (or three) to prove it. Honestly? You’re crushing it!
Your Tip:
Set up additional savings shares for different goals – like travel, holidays, home upgrades – you name it. Use direct deposit to automatically send money into your additional shares before you even see it (Bonus points if you’re already doing this!). Then, review your savings plan quarterly to make sure it’s still working for where you’re headed.
Mostly B’s: The Practical Saver
You’re doing it your way. You’ve found a healthy middle ground that lets you save and enjoy life. You’re thoughtful with your money, even if you’re not glued to a budgeting app. You know what’s important, and you’re doing your best to build in savings where you can.
Your Tip:
Choose a realistic savings target, like 10% of your paycheck, and set up direct deposit to send it straight to savings. Create a “fun fund” for guilt-free spending (yes, really!). Track your wins - seeing your savings grow, even slowly, can motivate you to keep going.
Mostly C’s: The Work-in-Progress
You’re figuring it out. You’re not ignoring your finances; you’re just still building habits. Saving might not be second nature yet, but you’re aware of what needs to change - and that’s half the battle.
Your Tip:
Start small. Set up automatic transfers of $5 or $10 per week. Use direct deposit to send a small percentage of your paycheck to your savings account before it hits your checking – it’s all about saving without thinking. Pick one goal and write it down, and don’t forget to reward yourself for sticking to your plan.
Mostly D’s: The In-the-Moment Spender
You live for today, but your future self could use a little TLC. We get it – life is busy and savings can feel complicated. But if you want to start building a little cushion without giving up your lifestyle, there’s an easier way to do it.
Your Tip:
Choose one simple, painless action, like setting up a $5 or $10 deposit from your paycheck into your savings. That’s it. Label your savings account with something fun like “Future Me Fund” or “Pizza Emergency” so it feels more motivating. Don’t stress about being perfect, just focus on being consistent. Keep track of it for the first month. Seeing even a small amount saved can flip the switch from “maybe later” to “I’ve got this.”
Why Knowing Your Style Matters
Savings doesn’t have to be perfect; it just has to be personal. When you understand your natural saving style – planner, procrastinator, or somewhere in between – you can stop forcing what doesn’t work and start building habits that do.
If this quiz called you out a little…same! But here’s the truth: you don’t need to do everything at once. You don’t need to have it all figured out. You just need to start. And one of the easiest ways to move forward? Setting up direct deposit. It works quietly in the background, so you don’t have to think about it every week. Simply log into digital banking, go to the menu and select Direct Deposit, then follow the prompts to start your setup.
No matter where you are on your savings journey, you’ve got options. Whether you’re starting small or fine-tuning your routine, we’re here with tools, tips, and support to help you reach your financial goals, your way. Check out our Resource Center.
The content provided in this publication is for informational purposes only. Nothing stated is to be construed as financial or legal advice. Some products not offered by PSECU. PSECU does not endorse any third parties, including, but not limited to, referenced individuals, companies, organizations, products, blogs, or websites. PSECU does not warrant any advice provided by third parties. PSECU does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the information provided by third parties. PSECU recommends that you seek the advice of a qualified financial, tax, legal, or other professional if you have questions.