Problem
American Teachers need cash savings.
America’s preschool teachers are often low-wage earners, making $19–24 per hour and frequently paid only during the ten-month school year. At the same time, nearly 40% of Americans have less than $500 in savings, leaving many educators financially vulnerable. Increasing their savings is essential to building stability, helping them stay in their roles and continue supporting young learners.
Solution
Build automatic savings based on the user’s available cash.
Research shows that low-income households need about $2,500 in cash savings to remain financially stable, which is far less than the typical 3–6 months guidance, making it a more realistic starting goal.
Automatic savings is the most effective approach, removing emotion and willpower by consistently paying yourself first.
Context
While creating a cash flow plan in The Beans app, users are guided to set up a savings automation as part of their financial foundation.
The app introduces a $2,500 savings goal and explains its impact.
Experience
Based on income and expenses, it estimates how much the user can save.
A slider lets users choose an amount to automate, within range of their recommendation, and preview the date they will reach their first $1,000.
Engagement
Once activated, users receive transaction reminders through their preferred channels such as app notifications, SMS, or email.
They can track automated transfers alongside other activity and are rewarded at key milestones including $500, $1,000, and $2,500. Reaching $1,000 unlocks a $100 bonus.
A Sample of Additional Screens in the Experience
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Reward at $500
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Next Milestone— $2,500
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Celebration at $2,500
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Transactions Reaching $2,500
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Savings Milestones Reached
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Select funding account
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"Know Your Customer" SSN Requirement
Communications
Alongside designing the in-app experience for this savings feature, I also designed and wrote the copy for the end-to-end communication strategy supporting it. This included creating all marketing visuals (product introductions, seasonal campaigns, etc.), as well as writing all in-app and SMS notifications across each stage of the user journey from awareness to transfer notifications and accomplishments.
An email reminder of an upcoming transfer from a user’s checking account into the app’s savings account.
Beyond Savings
I began designing this product in October of 2021 while on retreat with Techstars in Denver, CO.
I personally reached out to every person who signed up for this feature and either coached and/or UX tested many of them over the years. Want to hear about its impact? Let’s connect.