It’s time to empty out those lockers and log out of Zoom because summer is OFFICIALLY here! 😎

That’s right, for three glorious months you can hangout with friends or finally spend some time working on the business idea you’ve been kicking around all school year. Or, perhaps you already have a side hustle going that you want to turn into a full-fledged business.

Summer is the perfect time to reinvest in yourself and explore your entrepreneurial aspirations. So, for all you go-getters, we’ve decided to give you the inside scoop, sharing a few tips to help you #StepUpYourSummer.

1. First things first. Set up direct deposit.

If you’re planning to work a more traditional summer job with set hours –– like lifeguarding, bussing tables at a restaurant or working at your favorite clothing boutique –– it’s likely you’ll receive a paper check each pay period (typically every two weeks).

Do your future self a favor and ask your employer if you can set up direct deposit. All you have to do is give them your Step account and routing numbers. This will enable your employer to electronically deposit your paycheck straight into your account, saving you many trips to the bank and giving you immediate access to your earnings!

2. Got more of a side hustle going? Then Step’s P2P payments platform is for you.

If you’re looking to have a little bit more flexibility over your schedule –– starting your own vintage t-shirt business or serving as a social media consultant (both of which allow you to set your own hours and rates) –– then Step’s P2P payments platform is going to become your new best friend.

Instead of having to handle a mix of cash and checks, trying to keep track of who’s paid you and finding time to run over to the bank to deposit everything, Step can do all of this for you in an instant (without all of the paper)!

Simply ask your clients to download Step’s free app (those under 18 will just need a parent or guardian to quickly approve their account) and then you can easily send payment requests and receive instant compensation for your services. Your clients will thank you for saving them a trip to the ATM and it’ll be much easier for you to keep track of your earnings.

3. Still figuring out your summer plans? Stash away some extra cash by referring friends to Step.

If you’re still figuring out your summer plans or will be traveling a lot (making it hard to keep a summer job) but need a little extra cash and love using Step, then make it your side hustle!

You can earn $5 for every friend who signs up with your unique referral link and unlocks their account. Consider sharing this link on platforms like Instagram and TikTok to up your referral dollars. And, to reach #StepSquad status, all you have to do is land three referrals, send one P2P payment and make at least one transaction with your Step Visa Card. After that, each referral will earn you a whopping $10. 💰Can it get any easier?!

4. Ready to spend some of your hard-earned cash? Swipe with Step.

Okay, okay, okay. I know we’ve been talking A LOT about how to earn and manage money with Step, so now let’s discuss how to spend some of your hard-earned cash.

The Step Visa Card gives you the freedom to spend your money when and how you want, both in-store and online. But that’s not all. It also helps you keep your spending in check – sending you a push notification each time you make a purchase, letting you know how much you spent and what’s left in your account. It’s budgeting made easy. And as a bonus, you’re able to start building positive credit by simply swiping your Step Visa Card.

5. Misplaced your card or don’t have it handy? Go all-in on digital with the Step Virtual Card.

Last, but not least, let’s talk about what to do when life happens. With all of these summer activities and running around, there’s always a chance you could misplace your Step Card (whether you left it at a friend's house or buried it under a pile of clothes from your latest shopping haul).

Not to worry, we also provide you with a Virtual Step Card which is linked to the funds in your account but has its own unique card number and details, allowing you to tap and spend instantly. So, if you’re worried about checking out at Starbucks or snagging those new GOAT sneaks while they’re still 30% off, know that Step’s always got your back!

If you’re still figuring out your summer plans, including what type of job you might like, make sure to check out our recent article on earning money.