As inflation hits home and prices continue to rise, budgets must be adjusted. Whether in good times or bad, keeping track of your money is always a smart move. Everyone needs a budget. Although the belt-tightening may be uncomfortable, it doesn’t have to be painful. Sometimes, the best advice on spending habits is just common Read more
Personal Finance
What’s the Score on Your Credit?
Do you know your credit score? It’s an important number. Your credit score can cost you a lot of money or save you a lot over your lifetime. An excellent score can land you lower interest rates, meaning you will pay less for any line of credit you take out. The strategy for achieving a Read more
Red Flags to Consider When Getting a Mortgage
Buying a house can be one of your most wonderful experiences. It can also often be one of the most stressful. Getting a mortgage? That process is not usually considered wonderful, but it doesn’t have to be a stressful experience if you prepare. While being ready to apply or having gotten pre-approved for a mortgage Read more
Credit Union or Bank: What’s the Difference?
The choice, if you have one, between putting your money in a bank or becoming a member of a credit union can seem tricky. But it doesn’t have to be. As with any decision about your personal finances, it’s important to know which kind of financial institution is best for your specific needs. Banks and Read more
Holiday Tidings: Time for Year-End Planning
The holiday season is a time for good cheer, family and friends, celebration of the present (and presents) and reflecting on the past year. And what a year it’s been…global pandemic, a race for a vaccine, or better testing. With your requests to Santa out of the way, it’s good to look at another important Read more
Financial Lessons Learned from the Pandemic
The coronavirus pandemic has been a challenge, affecting how we work, play, and interact. While individual situations surely differ, general financial lessons, which can help you better position and support yourself in the future, have emerged from the pandemic. Build Up an Emergency Fund Record numbers of people were laid off or furloughed at the Read more