Becoming a Parent

Parenthood is a big change. Use our tools to help make sure you're financially prepared.

Preparing to have or adopt a child

It's time to look at your family needs and decide if you should make changes.

Figure out your budget.

Set goals and figure out how to meet them with a financial plan.
Growing kids can affect your spending habits. Stay flexible where possible.

Explore finance resources

Look at your car situation.

Decide if you need to buy or trade in a vehicle to fit a growing family.
If you need a new car, you can estimate your payment with our auto loan calculator.

Know how much car you can afford

Think about housing.

Determine if a bigger family may mean a bigger home. If it does, we have resources to help support your move.
Whether buying or renting, consider upfront and long-term costs as well as what’s best for your family’s wellbeing.

Explore home resources

Review your health coverage.

Make a list of your family’s needs to help decide what kind of health care plans can work for you.
Before you make a switch, get information about shopping for health insurance.

Learn about health insurance

Consider life insurance.

Determine if you need to update beneficiaries on employer-provided polices and retirement plans.
With another person relying on your income, it's important to have life insurance in case anything happens to you.

Learn about life insurance

Compare childcare options.

Consider the pros and cons of each type of childcare to decide which one fits best for your family.
By stopping to review the options, you can help put time and money back in your pocket.

Read about childcare options

Update your member profile.

Add your loved ones to get the most relevant guidance. For help, call us at 800-531-8722 (USAA). Or chat online.

Update my profile

Support for military spouses

Parenting when you're a military spouse comes with a unique set of challenges. Fortunately, there’s help.

Find military spouse resources

Planning for the future

It's never too early to start.

Save for Education

Take advantage of tax benefits with a 529 education savings plan.

Learn about a 529 plan

Youth Banking

Help your kids build credit and good financial practices while they're young to help them succeed as adults.

Learn about youth banking

Children's Life Insurance

Get coverage for your child that will grow with them, even if their health changes.

Learn about life insurance for kids

Don’t forget about estate planning.

What if something happens to you? You'll want to have a will and other legal documents ready that establish guardianship for your children. Determine where any assets will go to help care for them.

Learn about estate planning

Having a baby while active duty

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Read article: Having a baby while active duty

Life insurance for new parents: What you need to know

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Read article: Life insurance for new parents: What you need to know

5 ways to pay for college

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Read article: 5 ways to pay for college

Becoming a parent