How to Balance Long-Term and Short-Term Savings Goals
We all know it’s important to save money. But how do you balance saving towards both your short-term and your long-term goals? I recommend creating a savings plan that takes your budget, goals, and timeframe into consideration. This can help you be successful in saving in both the short and long-term. Define Your Goals First,…
Read MoreHow to Manage What Gets Charged to a Credit Card
Credit can be a valuable tool in your personal finance arsenal. It allows you to buy things you need and earn points or cash back. It also offers a way to conduct secure transactions online and provides some protections against theft and fraud. But, if not managed properly, it can be a road to high-interest…
Read MoreEverything You Need to Know About High-Yield Savings Accounts
When it comes to saving money, where you save it can be almost as important as saving it. There are many different savings options available today. One that is often talked about is the high-yield savings account (HYSA). But what is a high-yield savings account and when is it the best choice for your savings?…
Read More8 Tips for Financial Planning During an Economic Downturn
It’s difficult to create a solid financial plan when the economy is booming. Add an economic downturn and creating a financial plan can seem impossible. Here are eight tips for financial planning during a downturn that can help you stay the course. 1. Be Sure You’re Thinking Clearly It’s easy to give in to panic…
Read MoreWhat loan options do I have for helping my child afford college?
Starting college is an exciting time for parents and students alike. But this excitement often comes with stress and uncertainty about how to pay for school. You may be wondering what options are available for you and your child. If you want to help your child cover the costs of higher education, you have many…
Read MoreHow to track and trim your subscription costs
The subscription industry is huge in our world today! The average person spent $237.33/month on subscription services in 2018. These services include internet, cell phone coverage, streaming services for video and music, food delivery, health and fitness apps, and more. With the vast number of subscriptions you can sign up for and the large portion…
Read MoreFive Ways to Manage Financial Stress During COVID-19
Even under the best circumstances, most of us deal with financial stress in our daily lives. With the additional stress that has been placed on many individuals and families as a result of COVID-19 from job loss or changes in income, and uncertainty about the future, financial worries are even more common. Dealing with your…
Read MoreWhat to do if you lose your health insurance during COVID-19
Things in our personal lives are changing at the speed of light right now. Each day there is new information. We are constantly learning how to navigate the changing landscape in which we find ourselves. For many, these changes can include a reduction or complete loss of income and benefits as job hours are reduced…
Read MoreApplying for SNAP Benefits if You’re Newly Unemployed
If you’ve lost work or earnings, you may be curious about programs that you can use during this difficult time. Your first move should be to apply for unemployment insurance. This is likely the most valuable benefit, especially while the additional $600/week is available through late July 2020. Unemployment insurance often replaces only a portion…
Read MoreSix Activities to Keep Your Kids Engaged at Home that Won’t Break the Bank
These times are completely unprecedented. Stay at home orders and school closures have us all spending more time at home. And for many, this time also means more time entertaining and educating kids at home, and often on a budget. As the time at home has stretched from days to weeks, people are looking for…
Read More