Financial Advice on Social Media: What to Ask Before Taking It

Learn how to question financial advice on social media so you can protect your budget and make smarter money choices.

Smiling Young Female Influencer doing Content

It is easy to find advice online, especially financial advice. Social media is part of our daily life, and many people now turn to it for help with their budget and finances. We see millions of posts and videos every day, but not all advice is helpful.

Social media has become a common place to get money advice. People of all ages now follow “finfluencers” who talk about budgeting, saving, and spending online. Here’s what you should know before taking financial advice from your feed.

1. Is This Real Advice or Just for Fun?

Some financial content is made to be fun, fast, or dramatic. While it may be interesting to watch, entertainment is not the same as real advice.

For example, a short video might claim, “I saved $10,000 in three months doing this one trick,” without explaining income, rent, or other expenses. That kind of content is designed to grab attention, not teach long-term money skills.

Ask yourself:
  • Is this trying to help me learn?
  • Or is it mainly trying to get views and likes?

Advice meant for entertainment may leave out important details. This kind of content is often made to get clicks, not to support long-term financial health.  

2. Does This Fit My Budget and Life?

Everyone’s money situation is different. Online advice often gives the same tips to everyone, even though income, bills, and goals are not the same.

For example, a post might say you should always pay for a yearly subscription to save money. While that works for some people, paying a large amount upfront may strain your budget if you rely on monthly income. 

Ask yourself:
  • Does this fit my budget?
  • Is this a smart choice for me right now?

Advice that doesn’t match your life can create stress or problems instead of helping.

3. What is Missing?

Good financial advice explains both benefits and risks. If a post only shows positive results, important information may be missing.

For example, a video promoting investing or side hustles might show quick profits but skip over fees, taxes, or the possibility of losing money. 

Ask yourself:

If something sounds too easy or too good to be true, it is worth slowing down and thinking carefully.

4. Is Someone Trying to Sell Me Something?

Some financial content includes ads, sponsorships, or affiliate links that aren’t always obvious. For example, a creator might recommend a budgeting app, credit card, or investment platform without clearly stating they’re being paid to promote it.

Ask yourself:
  • Is this advice connected to a product or service?
  • Does the post focus more on selling or promoting than explaining the strategy clearly?

Advice tied to sales may not be in your best interest.

5. Should I Get a Second Opinion?

Before making financial changes, it helps to check more than one trusted source.

For example, instead of relying on a single video or post, compare the advice with information from your bank or a financial professional.

Ask yourself:
  • Am I making decisions based on one source, or multiple perspectives?
  • Would talking to a professional change how I approach this tip?

Trusted advice can help you feel more confident in your decisions.

Make Informed Financial Choices

Online content can help, but you should still think carefully before acting. By asking these questions, you can protect your budget and build better finances over time.

Jefferson Bank is here to support you with reliable information and trusted guidance when you need it.  

The information provided in these articles is intended for informational purposes only. It is not to be construed as the opinion of Central Bancompany, Inc., and/or its subsidiaries and does not imply endorsement or support of any of the mentioned information, products, services, or providers. All information presented is without any representation, guaranty, or warranty regarding the accuracy, relevance, or completeness of the information.