The typical family spends an average of $2,200 per year on utilities, according to the Energy Department. Tweaking your usage can lower your spending by as much as 25%. Check out this infographic for 10 easy ways to save on your utility bills.
Research shows that most Americans don’t have enough savings to cover an unexpected emergency. There’s no time like the present to start putting money aside for financial security in the future. Here are a few tips to help you get started. 7 Tips to Start Saving Today If you’re a beginner, start small. Even if you start by saving a small amount, focus on the fact that you’re saving something. Celebrate the $5 you stash away each week: It will…
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There are a number of financial management tools and resources available to help make the goal of improving finances an achievable undertaking, whether viewed as a New Year’s resolution or a consistent, long-term objective. If you’ve resolved to improve your finances in the new year, consider these money management and resolution tips from U.S. News & World Report. 10 Tips to Improve Your Finances in the New Year Identify your financial goals – Whether you’re planning to buy a home,…
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Are you adding a child to your family? Congrats! Whether it be through birth or adoption, parenthood is very fulfilling for many people. Preparing to add a child to your family can be a daunting task. As with any major life change, if you have a better grasp of the financial requirements and tasks, you can be prepared and have a high chance of success. According to a 2017 study by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), it will cost approximately…
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Understanding behaviors that impact credit score is important According to a 2018 Credit Health survey by Discover, 85 percent of U.S. consumers are aware of their credit standing, a statistic that increased 12 percentage points over the previous year. Consumers across the U.S. seem to grasp the importance of the credit score – but may fall short of understanding the specific behaviors that affect it. A study from U.S. News & World Report on Americans’ understanding of credit scores suggests…
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Teaching your kids financial concepts takes more than just saving change in a piggy bank. To give your kids a solid understanding of how to manage their money as an adult, you need to teach them three key financial concepts: 1. The Difference Between a Need and a Want This is a concept that you can begin teaching your children as early as preschool and should continue to model for them well into their teen years. Teaching your kids the…
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Are you planning for college? Getting a college degree is a great investment, but it does come at a significant cost. In addition to tuition, there are a few other expenses you’ll have to plan for. While it may seem daunting, don’t let the cost prevent you from getting a degree. By planning ahead and putting money into an education savings account as soon as you can, you’ll put yourself in a better position to handle your college expenses. Creating…
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Did you know that the easiest and most effective way to save is automatically? It’s how millions of employees save through 401(k) and other retirement programs at work. It’s also how millions of Americans save at their bank or credit union. It’s a great way to build wealth and financial security, and it’s easy to set up! How to Save Automatically Every month, have your bank or credit union transfer a fixed amount (like $25, $50 or $100) from your checking…
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Every year, the middle of April marks the end of the federal tax return filing season. For many Americans, that can mean seemingly endless forms, paystubs, and other paperwork. However, tax time can also be a unique opportunity for saving for your future! You can maximize tax time in three easy ways and have your tax refund work for you. Put your refund into a saving account For people claiming some of the unique tax credits that benefit hardworking families…
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