Consider obtaining the actual stock certificate and having it framed to make it more tangible. If you want to increase the gift, offer to contribute an additional amount to an investment of their choice and help them open a brokerage account. Remember that the graduate has to be at least 18 to have a solo account; otherwise, there needs to be a custodian.
- A Roth IRA. The last thing new graduates are thinking about is retirement, but it's the best time to start saving. To put them on the right track, make an initial contribution to a Roth IRA and offer to match their savings for a period of time. Or you might consider pooling resources with other family members to make the first year's contribution (up to $5,000). Just remember that the graduate has to have earned income to qualify for a Roth IRA.
- Career help. For college graduates, this could be just the ticket. From career counseling to assistance with writing a resume to buying a business wardrobe, getting out into the real world costs money. Offering to pay for some of these services or picking up the tab on a new suit could help smooth the transition from student to professional.
These are just a few ideas to help you think more creatively about graduation gifts. If you're still having trouble choosing, here's what I use as my personal guideline. When I give a graduation present, I think of it as a reward for a job well done, but it's also a little something to help send the graduate on to new things.
A gift of money is always a welcome reward. A present that helps put the money to good use can be even more valuable. And maybe a gift that does a bit of both is the best way to celebrate present accomplishments as well as future potential.
Congratulations to all this year's graduates and best wishes for continued success!