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Getting Started

Setting up your accounts, step by step

No confusing jargon here. Just plain, simple steps to get each tool up and running. Most take less than 10 minutes.

Opening a Brokerage Account (Public)

~5 min
1

Tap "Explore This Option" on the Financial Tools page

This takes you to Public's sign-up page using our link.

2

Create your account

Enter your email and set a password. You'll also confirm your name, address, and Social Security number, this is required by law for any brokerage account.

3

Link a bank account

Connect your checking account so you can transfer money in.

4

Make your first deposit

Even $5-$10 is enough to get started and unlock your welcome bonus.

Opening High-Yield Checking & Savings (SoFi)

~5 min
1

Follow our SoFi link

Found on the Financial Tools page under High-Yield Savings.

2

Apply for Checking & Savings

You'll enter basic personal information. Approval is usually instant.

3

Set up direct deposit (optional but recommended)

This is how you unlock the largest part of the welcome bonus.

4

Turn on round-ups or auto-transfers

A simple way to build your emergency fund without thinking about it.

Turning On Free Credit Monitoring (SoFi)

~2 min
1

Follow our SoFi credit monitoring link

Found on the Financial Tools page.

2

Verify your identity

This lets SoFi securely pull your credit score without affecting it.

3

Turn on alerts

You'll get notified any time something changes on your report.

Setting Up Rocket Money

~5 min
1

Follow our Rocket Money link and create an account

Use an email you check often, that's where subscription alerts will go.

2

Connect your bank and card accounts

This is what lets Rocket Money spot your recurring subscriptions and spending patterns.

3

Review your subscriptions

Cancel anything you don't use directly from the app.

4

Set a budget or savings goal

Optional, but this is where the automatic savings features live.

Applying for a Credit-Building Card (Capital One)

~5 min
1

Follow our Capital One link

Found on the Financial Tools page under Credit & Financial Tools.

2

Check if you're pre-approved

Capital One usually lets you check without a hard inquiry on your credit.

3

Complete the application

You'll confirm your income and address.

4

Use it for a small recurring bill

Something like a streaming subscription, then pay it off in full each month. That's what actually builds your credit history.

Ready to take the first step?

Pick one account from above and get it set up today, small consistent steps are what build financial confidence.

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