Gen Z grads have arrived: Here's how your RIA firm can help with financial planning tips

Each year, millions of students earn their college degree¹ and are eager to step out into the world. Their families (your clients) aren't so sure. Can they budget? Save? Invest for a future they can't even imagine yet?

As a financial professional, you're in a unique position to guide new grads and reassure their loved ones. With a little help from you, and a few practical tools, they can establish smart money habits and build a foundation that can last a lifetime. Stepping up at important moments like graduation can also help you strengthen current client relationships while planting the seeds for new relationships in the future.

Here are a few things you should know about Gen Z and tips to help them and their families plan for a bright future.

Gen Z meets world

Gen Z (born between 1997 and 2012) is the most racially and ethnically diverse generation in the U.S.² They're digital natives who want purpose in their work and to make a meaningful contribution to the world but also worry about financial security.³

Many in Gen Z feel a sense of economic or financial cynicism, likely shaped by soaring housing costs and economic crises that dominated the news when they were children. And while Gen Z is investing earlier than previous generations, they're more likely engaged in complex or higher-risk investments.⁴

Investing early matters for Gen Z because they're likely to live longer than previous generations.⁵ At the same time, Social Security reserves are dwindling, making it likely that Gen Z receives less in benefits than their parents.⁶

Bottom line: Gen Z has a lot on their minds. Are they ready to navigate adult life in an increasingly complex world? That's where you come in.

Help clients start the conversation

New grads may not be ready to work with a financial advisor just yet, but you can help your current clients feel comfortable talking about money with their kids.

Consider creating a "resource kit" for your clients with tips on topics like:

• Setting up auto pay for regular bills
• Record keeping (tracking apartment deposits, tax receipts, etc.)
• Helpful apps and online tools
• Building good credit
• Budgeting best practices

When you give clients a go-to resource, they'll be ready—and more likely to have a conversation—when an opportunity comes up.

Talk about gifts with long-term benefits

The National Retail Federation estimates that $6.8 billion was spent on graduation gifts in 2025, with more than half of it given as cash.⁷ A lot of those gifts will be forgotten or spent quickly. Clients who want to give a gift that lasts may be interested in:

• Matching savings contributions. A savings account can open the door to a savings habit. Families can make the initial deposit, then match a portion of their graduate's own contributions to encourage regular contributions throughout the year. (Note: In 2026, you can give up to $19,000 per recipient without incurring the gift tax, $38,000 if you're giving as a couple).⁸
• Funding or matching contributions to an IRA. Opening a tax-advantaged Individual Retirement Account (IRA) could be the right move if the graduate is freelancing or ineligible for a 401(k) through their employer. Roth IRAs, funded with after-tax dollars, offer tax-deferred growth and tax-free withdrawals, and are a practical option for those with lower incomes.
• Giving stocks with youth appeal. Ask your clients to think about what their grad is into. Stocks tied to what a grad knows and likes can make investing feel more relevant. Entertainment, technology, or socially responsible investments are a few popular options.
• Gifting appreciated stocks. Gifting appreciated stocks helps build the graduate's assets while reducing your clients' capital gains. This could also be a natural segway to a conversation about generational tax planning.

Prepare for the next generation of clients

The years after graduation are a chance to start building relationships with the next generation of clients. Start by creating gatherings that bring together junior advisors, current clients, and their adult kids. If advisors and kids hit it off, develop a plan for nurturing the relationship further. It may take years, but as careers grow and wealth transfers, today's new grad could someday become an important client.

But graduation isn't only about biz dev. It's a big life event for your clients, one where they're looking for, and could benefit from, your perspective. With all the excitement and nerves, your presence and wise counsel can mean a lot to them and their children. It's times like these they'll be especially glad you're in their corner.

What you can do next

• Managing wealth isn't "one size fits all." That's why Schwab offers wealth services designed for how you work. Explore our mix of banking and investment products.
• Curious about how Schwab helps RIAs? Wealth services, technology, and business support are just the beginning. Whether you're exploring independence or considering a custodian swap, we're here to help you take your next step.