If you or someone you know could use a little help in the financial planning department, check out these tips from Forbes Magazine Contributor, Kerry Hannon.

Upon graduation from college, most students have worked a few part-time or summer jobs to earn some extra cash. But when they graduate, it becomes more of a responsibility to work full-time and budget all earnings.

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These tips from Kerry Hannon, a Forbes Magazine Contributor, provide a basis for college graduates on what to do with their finances:

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    Hannelore Foerster, Getty Images
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    1

    Read a book on money basics.

    Hannon recommends books written specifically for young adult audiences.
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    JenWaller, Flickr
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    2

    Make a tentative budget.

    Be cautious of your activities - eating out, shopping, overbuying products, etc.
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    Dave Goldman,Townsquare Media
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    3

    Look for free rent.

    Hannon says that living with one's parents can cut back enormously on costs. Plus, it allows one to save more money.
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    Joe Raedle, Getty Images
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    4

    Stay away from debt.

    Hannon advises that "Debt is a dream killer."
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    Kevin Winter, Getty Images
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    5

    Get rid of debt quickly.

    Hannon believes in thinking of debt as your worst enemy.
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    Chung Sung-Jun, Getty Images
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    6

    Start an emergency fund.

    This is a TOP priority. Set aside a certain amount of income each month, and don't touch the stash until you've built it up to at least 6 months worth of living expenses.
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    7

    Invest.

    Buy stocks, and let your money grow. Don't move it around too soon.
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    8

    Take advantage of retirement plans.

    Employers will offer such programs to you as an employee, it is important to understand and utilize them.
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    9

    Don't use your 401k too soon.

    Let the money values build over time, you'll need it once you retire.
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    Adam Berry, Getty Images
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    10

    Take health insurance when it's offered to you.

    Just because you're young does not mean you won't need health insurance. Take advantage of the offer when it's presented to you.
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    Brendon Thorne, Getty Images
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    11

    Splurge on life experiences.

    Hannon says that trips or once-in-a-lifetime opportunities are worth the cost.

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