Is a Free Checking Account Really Free?

Inflation can have a serious effect on your finances. When prices start to rise, consumers lose their purchasing power, which means your money won’t go as far as it used to. You may not be able to control inflation, but you can change the way you manage your finances during these uncertain times. Learn more about the effects of inflation and the impact it can have on your savings and income.

Getting a check in the mail or automatic deposit from the federal government after you submit your tax return is a great opportunity to whip your finances into shape. Don’t let that money burn a hole in your pocket. Use these tips to make the most of your tax refund.

There’s more than one way to make a budget. Use this guide to learn about the different ways you can manage your expenses as you work toward your financial goals.

Many companies have started letting their employees work remotely. You can attend meetings, take calls and answer emails without going to the office every day. Working from home helps to improve worker retention, work-life balance and can even reduce certain expenses. The average person saves around $4,000 a year by working remotely. So, what are some things you can do to put that extra money to work? Use this guide to make smart money management decisions and get the most of every penny you earn while working from home.

As a consumer, you have choices on where to buy the things and services you need, from cars to home goods and everything in between. If you’re trying to save money, you might try comparing prices from more than one store or vendor. Finding the lowest price can help you save money, leaving you with extra cash to invest and pay down debt or work towards other financial goals. Comparison shopping is easier than ever with online tools and shopping. Use this guide to find the best deals online or in-store.

You may be intrigued by all the free checking accounts you see advertised. No one likes to pay fees, especially when accessing your own money. Those fees can eat away at your budget. Therefore, free must be good, right? Yes, but free checking is not always completely free. You just need to know what to look for.

If your child is responsible enough to manage their own money, you can set up a checking account that comes with its own debit card. Here’s what you need to know about opening a bank account for your child.

Around this time every year, countless people spend time pondering and planning goals and resolutions for the upcoming year. Whether your new year’s resolutions are big or small, improving your personal finances can probably help you reach them. A foundational piece to improving your finances is learning how to save more and spend less. Read this article to learn about some of our Community Education Team’s favorite money tips to try in the new year.

With the New Year rapidly approaching, many take this time to reexamine and reprioritize every aspect of their life, including their finances. The end of the year is a great time to reflect on everything you’re doing right and how you’d like to improve. Many of us make New Year’s resolutions, vowing to change our behavior for the better. If you start meaningful financial habits, you will be one step closer to achieving financial health. If you’re looking to improve your finances, add these New Year’s financial resolutions to your list.

Americans are more in debt than ever. The pandemic may be to blame for part of the increase, but studies have also shown that Americans are less financially literate than they used to be. If you’re struggling with debt, or you just want to live within your means, the first step is to create a budget.

Philanthropy and charitable giving, once thought to be reserved for the wealthy and the elite, has become a common theme across much of today’s society. Charitable organizations fill a vital niche in our communities. They serve the public and support initiatives that may not be covered by the public or private sector and help create thriving societies and economies. Charitable giving can be both personally and financially rewarding, which is why it’s important to know what your options are so your gift has the biggest impact.

If you’re looking to make the most of your money, it’s time to set a financial goal. Everyone has dreams of a better tomorrow, and saving money is usually a big part of making your dreams come true. Setting a goal is like setting a budget. You should work towards saving as much money as you can every week/month until you reach your goal, whether it’s buying a new car, saving for retirement, or paying off your student loan debt. Setting a goal for your finances is the best way to turn your money into something of value. Learn how to take control of your money with these personal finance tips.