Why we’re conditioned to overspend on holidays (and a festive budgeting challenge that can help)

Holiday spending has a way of sneaking up on even the most responsible planners.  You head into December with a clear budget in mind, yet somewhere between gift exchanges, year-end sales and last-minute gatherings, the total creeps far higher than you expected. Reality sets in: The holidays are a real budgeting challenge.  If this feels […]

The new freelancer’s guide to money management

Freelancing comes with benefits — more control over your time, the work you take on and how much you earn. But becoming self-employed also means handling a few financial tasks that used to happen automatically in the background. For traditionally employed people, things like taxes, health insurance premiums and retirement contributions are deducted by their employer automatically. Now, you have to make those […]

How to use a credit card to get ahead financially

Credit cards often get a bad reputation — and for good reason. When used carelessly, they can lead to mounting debt, high interest charges and lasting damage to your credit score. But when used wisely, they can be one of the most powerful tools for improving your financial health.  Credit cards are convenient and secure. […]

How to avoid travel scams this holiday season

The holiday travel season is a time for family, fun and unfortunately, sometimes, fraud.  According to the Federal Trade Commission, thousands of travel-related scams are reported every year, with losses reaching tens of millions of dollars. Whether it’s fake travel agencies, a bogus too-good-to-be-true vacation package or a website selling counterfeit documents, scammers are ready to take advantage of travelers in a hurry.  […]

Financial education is a feminist issue: Why every woman needs a wealth strategy

For women to control their futures, they must control their finances.  That idea is simple, but for too long the systems supporting it haven’t been. Women continue to earn less, invest less and retire with smaller savings than men — even though studies show they’re better at investing when they do.  A recent report from […]

5 smart ways to use your extra paycheck during three-paycheck months

If you’re paid biweekly, you may already be familiar with the “three-paycheck months.” If you budget based on earning two paychecks a month, those third paychecks feel like getting a biannual bonus: Extra money without any extra work.  For those paid biweekly, as opposed to monthly or twice a month on set dates like the […]

12 things our financial experts wish they knew in high school

When you’re a teenager, money is usually earned through part-time jobs, allowance, or the occasional birthday check. Even though the cashflow may be limited, it’s important to remember that the financial habits you start now can shape your entire future.   That’s why we asked our team of experts to share the financial advice for […]

3 budgeting methods to help you take control of your money

Everyone wants to be better with money, but few people are ever taught exactly how to manage it. That’s where budgeting comes in. While there’s no perfect one-size-fits-all plan, there are several proven budgeting methods that can help you manage your income, avoid debt, and stay focused on your savings goals.  We’ll break down three […]

The benefits of credit union membership in uncertain economic times

In a time when financial uncertainty is top of mind, many people are rethinking their banking relationships. Amid rising interest rates, economic uncertainty, and increasing pressure to make smart financial decisions, you naturally seek out a trusted partner — not just a place to store your money, but a financial institution that genuinely invests in [...]

The 5 most important financial steps to take after a job loss

Whether it comes as a shock or part of a long-expected transition, losing a job can leave you feeling uncertain, anxious and overwhelmed — especially when it comes to your money.  But here’s the good news: With a little planning and a few smart moves, you can regain control of your finances and build a […]

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