Quick Checklist — Budgeting & Saving

First Apartment Checklist

One page. Fill in your numbers and check every box before you sign a lease.

TVACU
Financial Wellness

Fill in your information, then click to save or print.

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Before You Sign

Total monthly rent confirmed in writing
Utilities responsibility clarified (what's included?)
Security deposit amount and refund terms documented
Lease term confirmed (month-to-month vs. 12-month)
Pet policy and fees reviewed (if applicable)
Early termination clause read and understood
Move-in walkthrough completed, damage documented in writing
Renter's insurance quoted and purchased before move-in
Total move-in costs saved and ready (deposit + first month)

Move-In Cost Budget

Item	Amount
Security deposit	$
First month's rent	$
Last month's rent (if required)	$
Renter's insurance (first month)	$
Moving costs / truck / help	$
Utility deposits / setup fees	$
Immediate essentials / supplies	$
Total needed to move in	$

First Essentials

Bed / mattress / bedding
Basic kitchen (plates, pots, utensils)
Cleaning supplies
Shower curtain / bath mat / towels
Toilet paper, hand soap, paper towels
Light bulbs (check what's provided)
Basic tools (screwdriver, hammer)
First aid kit
Extension cords / power strips

Monthly Budget Snapshot

Expense	My Amount
Rent	$
Electricity	$
Gas / water / sewer	$
Internet	$
Renter's insurance	$
Groceries	$
Transportation	$
Phone	$
Other	$
Total monthly	$

Admin Setup

Update mailing address (USPS, bank, employer)
Transfer utilities into your name
Set up internet service (schedule install in advance)
Update driver's license address within 30 days
Update vehicle registration address
Set up rent autopay or recurring reminder
Save landlord contact info and lease in a safe place
Photograph entire apartment on move-in day (timestamped)

Financial Health Check

Rent is 30% or less of gross monthly income
Have 1 month extra savings beyond move-in costs
$500–$1,000 emergency fund in place or being built
No new credit card debt taken on for move-in costs
Auto-savings set up (even $50/paycheck counts)