Earning money through Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) opportunities can be life-changing. For the first time, many student-athletes are seeing real income flow into their bank accounts—whether from sponsorships, social media partnerships, appearances, or merchandise sales. But with new income comes new responsibility. Without a plan, it’s easy to overspend and miss the chance to […]
When you start earning money from your Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL), it’s easy to focus on the excitement of cashing your first check. But here’s the truth: the IRS is paying attention, too. Unlike a traditional job where taxes are withheld from your paycheck, NIL income usually comes with a different set of rules—and […]
Your First NIL Check: What to Do Before You Spend It For many student-athletes, getting that first Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) check is an exciting milestone. It’s validation of your hard work, talent, and brand. But before you rush out to celebrate, it’s important to pause and think strategically. How you handle this first […]
As a student-athlete earning NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) income, you might be hearing advice like “save your money” or “invest it while you’re young.” Both are smart moves—but they aren’t the same thing. Knowing the difference between saving and investing (and when to do each) is key to building a strong financial future. Saving: […]