5 Financial Blog Ideas for September
August 1, 2024
What should financial marketers talk about this month? Our monthly roundup has you covered with timely topics for blog posts, social media campaigns, and other marketing ideas.
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Topic #1: College costs creep
Now that the first semester of a new school year is underway, it’s a great time to check in on the reality of student expenses versus the budget.
It’s common for both students and parents to underestimate some costs — or vice versa — so some course correction may be in order. According to College Board data, typical spending for books and supplies can run $1,240 a year, and transportation adds another $1,230 annually. But what about all the other incidentals, like food beyond the dining plan, entertainment, fraternity/sorority dues, tech services, parking fees, and dorm life?
The angle
- For the younger set, focus on budgeting tips for college students. Learning to track and manage spending responsibly helps build an early financial foundation.
- For parents, consider a checklist of typical ancillary expenses, plus a wrap-up of frequently forgotten costs that often miss the budget plan. Or, offer guidance on having a helpful money conversation with your college student.
Blog inspiration
- Don’t learn about money the hard way — get ahead with this guide for college students (Yahoo! Finance)
- The Student’s Guide to Budgeting in College (BestColleges.com)
- How to Talk Money With Your College Student (SAFE Federal Credit Union)
Topic #2: National 401(k) Day
The first Friday after Labor Day is officially National 401(k) day. Your goal should be to educate and engage your audience about the importance of retirement planning, the benefits of 401(k) accounts, and strategies for maximizing their retirement savings.
The angle
- Benefits of 401(k) accounts: Highlight the advantages of contributing to a 401(k) account. Discuss potential employer matching contributions, tax benefits, and the power of compound interest over time.
- Contribution strategies: Discuss various contribution strategies to help individuals make the most of their 401(k) accounts. Explain concepts like contribution limits, dollar-cost averaging, and the benefits of consistently contributing over time.
- Importance of diversification: Emphasize the importance of diversification within a 401(k) portfolio. Explain different asset classes and how diversifying investments can help manage risk.
- Retirement planning calculators: Provide links to retirement planning calculators that can help individuals estimate how much they should be saving to meet their retirement goals. Encourage readers to actively engage with these tools.
Blog inspiration
- The Many Benefits of a 401(k) Plan (Smartasset)
- Why Diversifying Your 401(k) Is Crucial (US News and World Report)
- 401(k) Retirement Calculator (Bankrate)
Topic #3: Spotlight on the Backdoor Roth IRA
Roth IRA conversions have become more appealing this year as sharp stock market declines mean you may be able to convert more of existing investments for the same tax bill. Plus, thanks to the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, low tax rates will continue until the end of 2025, at which point they will increase to 2017 rates. The upshot? Converting assets to a Roth now may offer a rare chance to pay taxes up front at a discount.
Still, Roth conversions can be complex strategies, so it’s important that your audience understands the pros and cons — and how their individual financial situation and preferences should guide the decision to make the switch. And reminding clients that a review with a financial or tax advisor is always a must when weighing this strategy — as Roth conversions aren’t reversible.
The angle
- Roths can make sense for younger investors, who are probably taxed at a lower rate now and can look forward to tax-free withdrawals from the account during retirement — when their tax bracket is likely to be higher.
- But Roths are not just for young people. With a Roth, there are no required minimum distributions during the life of the original owner, and beneficiaries can take withdrawals tax-free — which may make them intriguing estate-planning options.
Blog inspiration
- Is a Roth Conversion Right for Me? (Wealthfront)
- When Roth Conversions Go ‘On Sale’: Discounted Roth Conversions During A Bear Market Decline (Kitces.com)
- Why Your Younger Years Are the Best Time to Open a Roth IRA (Motley Fool)
Topic #4: Insurance Awareness Month
September is Insurance Awareness Month, aka an opportunity to educate your audience about the importance of various types of insurance and how it plays a crucial role in financial planning and protection.
The angle
- Highlight why insurance is an essential component of a comprehensive financial plan. Discuss how insurance provides financial security and peace of mind, covering risks that could otherwise lead to significant financial losses.
- Guide readers on how to assess their own insurance needs. Discuss factors like family size, financial responsibilities, assets, and potential risks to determine what types and levels of insurance are appropriate.
- Address common misconceptions or myths about insurance. Clear up any misunderstandings and provide accurate information to help readers make informed decisions.
- Offer practical tips for shopping for insurance, including comparing quotes, understanding policy terms and conditions, and asking questions to ensure comprehensive coverage.
Blog inspiration
- How Much Car Insurance Do I Need? (The Wall Street Journal)
- Homeowners Insurance Guide: A Beginner’s Overview (Investopedia)
- 5 Term Life Insurance Myths That Can Cost You (Fidelity)
Topic #5: Prepping for the holiday season
Many people start planning for their holiday spending as the season turns to fall. You can help your audience out with practical tips from a financial perspective.
The angle
- Emphasize the importance of setting a realistic budget for holiday spending. Provide step-by-step guidance on how to create a detailed budget that includes gifts, decorations, travel expenses, food, and any other holiday-related costs.
- Discuss the importance of avoiding excessive credit card spending during the holidays. Offer strategies to stay within budget, such as using cash or setting a credit card limit specifically for holiday expenses.
- Encourage readers to consider the financial impact of the holiday season even after it’s over. Discuss ways to recover financially like creating a plan to pay off any credit card debt incurred during the holidays.
Blog inspiration
- 8 Tips To Help You Control Holiday Spending (Investopedia)
- How to Build a Holiday Budget That Works Every Year (NerdWallet)
- Five Ways to Prepare Your Finances for the Holidays (Equifax)
Want to look further ahead? Download our Financial Marketing Calendar to stay up-to-date on financial events and themes all year round.
