What the 52-week challenge is
The 52-week savings challenge is a simple habit: save $1 in the first week, $2 in the second, and keep adding $1 a week until you save $52 in the last week. By the end of the year you have $1,378. This planner lets you change the first amount and the weekly step, save every two weeks instead, start with the biggest deposit, and tick off each deposit as you make it.
How it is worked out
Deposit n = first deposit + (n − 1) × the amount you add each time. The total is the sum of all deposits: with a $1 start and $1 steps, 1 + 2 + … + 52 = 1,378. With $5 to start and $5 steps, the total is $6,890. Every two weeks, 26 deposits of $2, $4, … $52 add up to $702.
Tips to finish the challenge
- Start with the biggest deposit if the end of the year is a costly time for you; the weeks get easier as the holidays come.
- Set up an automatic transfer to a separate savings account on payday.
- If you miss a week, add it to the next one or keep going: any amount saved counts.
- A federally insured savings account keeps the money safe; a high-yield account adds some interest.
Frequently asked questions
How much do you save in the 52-week challenge?
$1,378 if you start at $1 and add $1 each week. The planner shows the total for any amounts you choose.
Can I do the challenge every two weeks?
Yes. Choose "Every two weeks" for 26 deposits, which can fit a biweekly paycheck better.
Is it easier to start with the biggest deposit?
Many people find it is: the hardest weeks come first, when the plan is new, and the smallest deposits fall in December.
Are my ticks saved?
Yes, only in this browser on this device, so you can come back to them. Nothing is sent to us, and "Clear my ticks" removes them.