Wealth isn’t just for the elite, it’s for us, too. For Black millennials, building wealth isn’t simply about making more money; it’s about reclaiming financial freedom, breaking generational cycles, and building a legacy. But the truth is, building a financial system isn’t a one-way journey. So, how do we navigate it, beat it, and thrive?

Here are 10 money moves to build wealth in your 30s and beyond.

1.  Start with the Right Mindset

Financial success starts with a shift in perspective. We must stop thinking wealth is out of reach and begin seeing it as a right. Healing from money trauma, family financial struggles, and a scarcity mindset is the first step. Your mindset fuels your money moves.

2.  Prioritize Credit Health

Many of us weren’t taught the value of credit until it was too late. But your credit score isn’t a death sentence, it’s a tool. Pay down debt, pay on time, and use credit like cash. Treat your credit like your passport, it opens doors.

3.  Stop the ‘Lending Trap’

Loaning money to friends and family is often seen as love, but when your foundation isn’t steady, you’re building on sand. Create boundaries. Offer advice, resources, even a meal, but not your savings. Protect your peace and your pockets.

4.  Choose Partnership Wisely

Whether romantic or business-related, partnerships impact your money. A partner with shared financial goals and discipline can accelerate your wealth journey. Shared vision equals shared victory.

5.  Max Out Tax-Advantaged Accounts

401(k)s, IRAs, HSAs, these are not just for wealthy folks in suits. They’re for you, too. Use them to your advantage. The earlier you contribute, the more compound interest works in your favor. Think long game.

6.  Create Multiple Streams

One income won’t cut it. From side hustles to real estate, find additional ways to earn. This doesn’t mean hustling 24/7, it means creating freedom options. According to the Federal Reserve, Black households are less likely to own investment assets. Let’s flip that.

7.  Live Below the Hype

Luxury doesn’t equal wealth. Skip the brand-new car. Delay the designer’s fits. Redirect that energy toward assets, not liabilities. Remember: Quiet money moves loud in the long run.

8.  Invest in Self and Community

Your greatest asset? You. Learn. Read. Build skills. Then turn around and uplift others. Financial literacy isn’t selfish, it’s revolutionary.

9.  Automate and Elevate

Set your savings and investments to auto-deduct. Remove the emotion, build the habit. This strategy helps avoid lifestyle creep and ensures money moves before it tempts you.

10.  Know Your Why

Whether it’s your kids, your legacy, or your freedom, knowing your “why” keeps you grounded. When things get hard (and they will), your purpose will remind you why you started.

Wealth is not just a dream—it’s a decision. And Black millennials are more than capable of rewriting the rules. Financial literacy is our power. Let’s use it.