22 years old, about to start first job with no savings to my name and am expected to move out and get my own car within 1-2 years with no credit score. What is the best I can do for the time being?

General
1

So I am 22 years old, and Im currently living with my dad and stepmom. I will try my best not to spend too much time on the backstory, but pretty much, a part of the deal I made moving in with my dad and stepmom ( from my moms house) is that im responsible for all of my own finances. That means my own groceries, own items and subscriptions etc etc.

Soon after moving in with them, ive been working atleast for my stepmoms company as a housecleaner and my dads audio company. My dad doesnt pay me but my stepmom does. paychecks range from $100 to $275. My problem is I didnt efficiently budget or handled that money well. But now im looking to change that since I had the whole summer to recognize the importance of money and managing finances.

My dad and stepmom also have an expectation of me moving out within 1-2 years as well as getting my own car again since they prefer I dont keep on using theirs for a long time. Agreeable on the car part but the apartment part is where im struggiling.

I dont have any credit score because ive never owned a credit card (didnt want to get into debt.) I want to start one up but am concerned ill screw myself over because of past mistakes of mis-managing money ive aquired. but I know I need one if I want/need to get both the car and the apartment.

I moved in with them with a vehicle that was operational that was paid for by my mom, but the transmission is fucked and since the repair is $4000 id rather just finance a car. the down payment on the car I want to get is $2,500.

For the apartment, I live in dallas tx. I have some apartments in mind that are less than $1000 a month, best I can do since I know im not gonna be able to afford more than that without already struggiling than I already will.

For budgeting I use an application called YNAB, which when I took it seriously in the past, was fruitful, but I often got frustrated with the UI, But I know its something I need to get used to again.

For Income, I have a Job lined up with target where they are starting me off as a cashier for $15 an hour. I dont know my schedule yet, but if it allows me some free time, im going to get a second job or a gig to boost my income.

Im currently trying to make my gig to be a photographer or videographer since thats ultimately what I want a career in. Ive been posting on socials recently to have work prepared to show to potential clients whenever I start working.

My question is, is there anymore that I can do? or what can I do to make the future better for myself? So far what I have in mind:

1: Start and maintain job at target, put 50% - 60% of paycheck into savings

2: Apply for a credit card and start credit score

3: If possible, use gig work or a secondary job to maximize income

4: create a better budget and stick to it.

Is there anything else?

2

If your dad isn’t going to pay you, stop working for him. Set aside those hours for your target work in order to increase your revenue.

3

Has the OP considered applying to be a management trainee at Target? That would be a fantastic method to start developing your professional skills and demonstrating to your prospective employers that you take your work seriously. In a few months, they might fast-track you, assign you more duties, but most importantly, pay you more money!

4

For reduced expenses, consider public transportation (no car)
and a shared apartment

5

Work at Target and save every dime you can until your parents practically force you to leave. Make sure the monthly rent for the apartment you receive doesn’t surpass thirty percent of your total income. Additionally, avoid car debt at all costs—it can turn nasty very quickly. Get an automobile that will last you a few years by saving up $4–$5,000 for it.

6

To learn how to raise your credit score, speak with the credit union in your area. I discovered that you can request that your phone provider report your on-time payments. Along with landlords, there will be other companies that follow suit. It only requires a question and an answer. You are wise to be staring at this right now, so good luck!

7

Never finance a vehicle. You cannot afford the car if you are unable to pay for it with cash. This is especially true for someone with as little money as you do, but it also holds true for folks who make $200,000 and purchase $100,000 Teslas.