7 smart money tips for autistic adults in 2025

• Focus on one small change at a time
• Celebrate every win, no matter how small
• Remember, your strengths matter in money decisions

You’ve got this!

Key Takeaways

• Begin with easy budgeting habits to feel less stressed and have more control of your money. Use budgeting tools that fit you best, like apps, paper, or spreadsheets.
• Set up automatic savings to make saving money simple and less stressful. Set reminders and use pictures or charts to help you remember important money tasks.
• Protect your money by being careful with cash and using ATMs safely. Look into public benefits and community resources to help with your money needs.
• Shop smart by buying used things and searching for discounts. Grow your money skills slowly and ask trusted people for help when you need it.

1. Simple Budgeting

Routines

Building a money routine can make your life easier. You might feel less stressed when you know what to expect. Routines help you remember important tasks, like checking your balance or paying bills.

You can set a regular time each week to look at your money. For example, you could pick every Sunday afternoon to review your spending. This habit can help you spot problems early and feel more in control.

Start with just one routine. Once it feels comfortable, add another.

Tools

You have many choices for budgeting tools in 2025. Some people like using apps, while others prefer paper. Try a few and see what fits you best.

• Budgeting Apps:
  Many apps now offer simple layouts and visual charts. Some even have features for neurodiverse users. Here are a few to try:
  • You Need a Budget (YNAB): Helps you plan every dollar.
  • Goodbudget: Uses digital envelopes for spending.
  • SimpleBudget: Designed for easy use and clear visuals.
• Paper Systems:
  If you like writing things down, grab a notebook or print a budget sheet. You can use colored pens or stickers to make it fun.
• Spreadsheets:
  Google Sheets or Excel can help you track spending. You can use templates or make your own.

There’s no “right” way. The best tool is the one you’ll use.

Visual Aids

Visuals can make money tasks less overwhelming. You might find it easier to understand your budget when you see it.

• Weekly Spending Tracker:
  Draw a simple table like this:

  Day	Money In	Money Out	What For?
  Monday	$0	$5	Coffee
  Tuesday	$20	$0	Birthday gift
  …	…	…	…

• Color Coding:
  Use colors for different spending types. For example, green for food, blue for bills, red for fun.
• Sticky Notes:
  Place reminders on your fridge or desk. Write down your budget goals or next money task.

Try This: Make a chart or tracker you enjoy looking at. It can help you stick with your budget.

Small steps matter. Pick one tool or visual aid to try this week. You’ll build confidence as you go!

2. Automate Savings

Saving money can feel hard, but you can make it much easier by letting technology do the work for you. When you automate your savings, you don’t have to remember to move money or worry about forgetting. This can help you feel less stressed and more in control.

Set Up Transfers

You can set up automatic transfers in most banking apps. This means your bank moves money from your checking account to your savings account without you having to do anything. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Choose which account you want to take money from and which account you want to save in.
2. Make sure both accounts allow automatic transfers and have enough money.
3. Log in to your bank’s app or website.
4. Find the “Transfers” or “Payments” section.
5. Pick the option to set up a new automatic transfer.
6. Type in how much you want to save, how often (like every week), and when to start.
7. Double-check your details to make sure everything is right.
8. Confirm the setup. Your bank might send you a code to finish.
9. You’ll get a message or email when it’s ready.
10. If you want to change or stop the transfer, just log in and follow the steps again.

Start small. Even $5 a week adds up over time!

Choose Accounts

Picking the right savings account can help you save more with less effort. Look for accounts that let you automate as much as possible.

Some banks offer special features for automatic transfers and bill payments. This way, you don’t have to remember to move your money or pay bills by hand.

• High-yield savings accounts often give you more interest.
• Online banks sometimes have better tools for automation.
• No-fee accounts help you keep more of your money.

Automating your savings can help you avoid spending money right away. It makes saving feel easy and natural.

Small Goals

Big savings can start with small steps. You don’t need to save a lot at once. Try setting a simple goal, like saving $5 or $10 each week. Over time, these small amounts can grow into something bigger.

You can use colorful charts or stickers to track your progress. Seeing your savings grow can feel rewarding and keep you motivated.

Try This: Set a reminder to check your savings once a month. Celebrate your progress, no matter how small!

Automating your savings takes away the stress of remembering and helps you build good money habits. Give it a try and watch your savings grow—one small step at a time.

3. Reminders & Visuals

Visual supports and reminders can help you with money tasks. Many autistic adults like seeing information or getting gentle nudges.

These can help you remember what to do next. You may feel less worried when you know what is coming. Visuals and reminders can make hard money chores easier.

Reminders

Reminders help you keep track of bills, savings, and spending. A system can stop you from missing payments or getting late fees. You have many choices:

• Phone alarms: Set alarms for bill dates or budget checks.
• Calendar alerts: Mark payment days on your phone or paper calendar.
• Sticky notes: Put notes on your fridge, computer, or wallet.
• Apps: Budgeting apps send notifications when it’s time to pay.

Try one reminder tool for a month. See if it helps you stay organized.

Programs like ARIS Curriculum and AutismUp use visuals and practice to teach money skills. You might like charts, picture guides, or task cards.

Here are some resources:

Checklists

Checklists break money jobs into small steps. Make a list for bills, saving, or shopping. Crossing off each item shows you your progress.

• Write your checklist on paper or in an app.
• Use boxes, circles, or stickers for finished tasks.
• Keep your checklist where you will see it every day.

Make a bill checklist. List each bill, the due date, and a box to check when paid.

Alerts

Alerts help you remember important payments. Many apps and banks send automatic alerts for bills and transfers. You can get emails, texts, or app notifications.

Here is a table with tools and ways to remind you about bills:

Set up automatic payments for rent, phone, or utilities. You do not have to remember each bill. Apps like YNAB send alerts so you never miss a payment.

If you like paper, use a wall calendar. Mark each bill’s due date with a bright color.

Reminders and visuals can make money tasks part of your routine. Try one new tool this week. You will feel more sure and less worried about your money.

4. Safety with Money

Keeping your money safe matters every day. You can feel more confident when you know how to protect your cash, cards, and personal information. Here are some easy ways to stay safe with your money.

Carrying Cash

You might like having cash for small purchases. Carrying too much can be risky. Try to keep no more than $25 in your wallet or pocket.

This amount covers snacks, bus fare, or a quick meal. You lower your risk if you lose your wallet or someone tries to take your money.

• Put your cash in a secure spot, like a zippered pocket or a money belt.
• Keep your wallet close to your body, not in a backpack’s outer pocket.
• Count your cash before you leave home. You know exactly how much you have.

If you feel nervous carrying cash, use a prepaid card for small purchases.

ATM Safety

ATMs help you get cash fast, but you need to stay alert. Pick ATMs in bright, busy places. Try to use machines inside banks or stores. Daylight hours are safer than late at night.

Here’s a quick checklist for ATM safety:

When you enter your PIN, cover the keypad with your hand. Look for signs of tampering, like loose card slots or strange attachments. If something feels wrong, walk away and find another ATM.

• Use a pump close to the store in the line of sight of the attendant.
• Prefer ATMs with chip technology.
• Be cautious of phishing scams. Always check the sender before clicking links.

If someone stands too close, ask them to step back or wait until they leave.

Protecting PINs

Your PIN keeps your money safe. Never share it with anyone, even friends or family. You can protect your PIN with these steps:

• Cover the keypad every time you enter your PIN.
• Use strong passwords for your banking apps.
• Turn on two-factor authentication for extra security.
• Change your PIN if you think someone saw it.
• Watch out for emails or texts asking for your PIN. Banks never ask for this.

🛡️ Stay safe: Your PIN is private. Only you should know it.

You can feel safer when you follow these steps. Personal safety comes first. Trust your instincts. If something feels off, stop and ask for help. Small habits make a big difference in keeping your money secure.

5. Benefits & Support

Getting help can make money choices easier. You can use public benefits, toolkits, and community groups. Let’s look at what is out there for you.

Public Benefits

Some programs help with living costs, health care, and savings. These benefits can give you more freedom and less worry.

Here are some options:

You need to meet some rules to open an ABLE account:

ABLE accounts let you save money and keep your benefits. You can use this money for rent, school, or health needs.

Financial Toolkit

Planning tools help you feel more in control. You can use them to set goals, track spending, and plan ahead. Here are some good ones:

• Charting the Lifecourse framework: Helps you and your family plan and ask for help.
• Financial Planning And Management Strategies: Gives you steps for handling money now and later.
• ABLE Accounts: Lets you save for disability costs with tax benefits.
• Autism Speaks Financial Planning Toolkit: Has guides and worksheets to help you plan.

Try one toolkit first. It may be easier to start with a worksheet or checklist.

You do not have to do this alone. These tools work best with someone you trust.

Community Help

You can get support from groups that know your needs. Many nonprofits and advocacy groups give advice, workshops, and one-on-one help.

Here are some to check out:

You can reach out to these groups for advice, workshops, or just to talk. Support can help a lot. Try talking to one group this month. You might find new friends and tips for your money journey.

6. Smart Shopping

Shopping can feel overwhelming, but you can save money and stress with a few smart moves. These autism money tips help you keep more cash in your pocket and make shopping easier.

Buy Used

You don’t have to buy everything new. Used items can save you a lot of money. Thrift shops are great for clothes, kitchen tools, and even furniture.

You can also check online platforms like Craigslist or Nextdoor for deals in your area. Many people find that buying used helps stretch their budget further.

• Look for gently used clothes at thrift stores.
• Search for furniture or electronics on local online groups.
• Ask friends or family if they have items they no longer need.

Try shopping during low-traffic times. Stores feel quieter, and you can take your time. If you feel anxious, bring a friend or shop online for comfort.

Discounts

Discounts are everywhere if you know where to look. Many employers offer special deals on things like phone plans or internet service.

Some banks give perks, such as cashback or discounts at certain stores. Always ask if a store has a discount for students, people with disabilities, or rewards members.

• Check with your job for any employee discounts.
• Ask your bank about cashback offers or special deals.
• Sign up for store emails to get coupons and sale alerts.

You can also cut costs by eliminating car expenses. If you live near public transportation or can walk or bike, you might not need a car. This autism money tips strategy can save you hundreds each month on gas, insurance, and repairs.

Make a shopping list before you go out. Lists help you avoid impulse buys and stick to your budget.

Rewards

Rewards programs give you points or cash back for shopping. Grocery stores, pharmacies, and hardware stores often have free programs.

Sign up and use your rewards card every time you shop. Over time, you can earn discounts or even free items.

Price comparison tools are another autism money tips favorite. Use apps or websites to check prices before you buy.

This way, you always get the best deal. Keep your receipts and track your savings. Seeing your progress can motivate you to keep using these autism money tips.

• Try to keep shopping trips short to avoid fatigue.
• Plan your trips during quiet hours.
• Take breaks in quiet areas if you feel overwhelmed.

Smart shopping is all about planning and using the right autism money tips. You can save money, reduce stress, and feel proud of your choices.

7. Build Skills & Ask for Help

Learning about money can seem hard at first. You can get better by practicing a little at a time. There is no need to hurry or do everything right away. Go slow and see what works best for you.

Learn Money Skills

There are many ways to learn money skills. You can use online classes, apps, or workshops. These make learning easier for everyone.

You get to pick when and how you want to learn. Some programs are made for autistic adults, so you feel understood.

Here are some good choices you can try:

• Financial Planning for Adults with Autism: Shows you daily money habits and tips.
• Autism Speaks Financial Planning Tool Kit: Has guides and worksheets for the autism community.
• National Financial Educators Council (NFEC): Shares programs for learning about money.
• FDIC’s Money Smart Program: Gives you simple lessons about money.

Apps can help you practice with your budget and spending:

• Autism Speaks Financial Planning app: Gives you tools and ideas for handling money.
• Bankability: Lets you use pretend banking to learn about money.
• EveryDollar: Shows your budget with pictures and charts.
• Intuit Mint: Helps you track spending in a fun way.

Pick one class or app to try this month. You can go at your own speed and feel more sure of yourself.

Trusted People

You do not have to handle money by yourself. Trusted people like family, friends, or mentors can help you make good choices. They can answer questions, give advice, or listen if you feel stuck.

Here is how others can help you with money:

You can ask someone you trust to check your budget. They can remind you about bills or help you set savings goals. Talking about money can make things easier to understand.

autism money tips

There are special resources for autistic adults. These tips and programs help you save, plan, and keep your money safe.

Other helpful programs are:

• Medicaid: Pays for doctor visits, therapy, and medicine.
• Supplemental Security Income (SSI): Gives money for basic living needs.
• Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA): Makes sure you get free public education and services.
• ABLE Accounts: Let you save for the future and keep government help.
• Special Needs Trusts: Manage money for long-term needs.
• Child and Dependent Care Credit: Helps pay for child care.
• Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC): Gives tax refunds for families with lower incomes.

Use these autism money tips to build a safety net and plan for your future.

You can learn new skills, ask for help, and use autism money tips to make good choices. Every skill you learn brings you closer to being independent with your money.

Making small changes can help you feel more sure about money. These steps can also help you become more independent. Try starting with one or two tips from this list.

Many autistic adults do well by learning simple money skills. They use budgeting apps and learn the difference between needs and wants.

• Try using tools like Mint or YNAB to make money jobs easier.
• Be proud of every goal you reach, even the small ones.
• Join community groups to get help and learn new things.

Everyone’s path is different. Each step you take matters. 🎉 Keep trying—you are really moving forward!

FAQ

What is the easiest way to start budgeting?

You can start with a simple notebook or a free app. Write down what you spend each day. Review your notes once a week. This habit helps you see where your money goes.

How much should I save each month?

Try saving a small amount, like $5 or $10 each week. If you can, increase it over time. Even small savings add up. Use automatic transfers to make it easier.

Are there apps made for autistic adults?

Yes! Some apps have clear visuals and simple steps. You Need a Budget (YNAB) and SimpleBudget work well for many autistic adults. Test a few to see which one feels right for you.

What if I forget to pay a bill?

Set reminders on your phone or calendar. Many banks and apps send alerts before bills are due. You can also ask a trusted person to help you remember important dates.

Can I get help with money decisions?

Absolutely! Family, friends, or mentors can support you. Local autism groups and nonprofits offer workshops and advice. You do not have to do this alone.

How do I keep my money safe?

Carry only small amounts of cash. Use ATMs in safe, well-lit places. Never share your PIN. Turn on alerts for your bank account. Trust your instincts if something feels wrong.

Where can I find more autism money tips?

Check out resources from Autism Speaks, The Arc, or the Autistic Self Advocacy Network. Many websites and local groups share tips, guides, and workshops just for autistic adults.