Category: budgeting

With the Holidays Fresh in Mind …

Here we are, a week into the new year! Along with taking the tree down and putting the decorations away for another year, there are several things you should do now while the holidays are still fresh in your mind. 1. Gather all your leftover paper goods into one place — the gift wrap, cards,…


Family Finances: Paying Down Your Credit Card Debt Is a Good New Year’s Resolution

By Sandra Block From Kiplinger’s Personal Finance Carrying a balance has always been costly, but it’s particularly expensive now. The average credit card interest rate in mid-December was 19.42 percent, the highest rate since 1992. As the Federal Reserve Board continues to raise short-term interest rates to throttle inflation, average rates could rise even higher,…


7 Tips for College Graduates Looking to Jump Into the Small Business World

By Joseph Camberato As a recent college graduate, you have your degree and possibly some experience from an initial job or internship. But now, you’re interested in acting on your entrepreneurial ambitions and starting your own business. Starting a small business is an increasingly popular option for young people, 17 percent of college graduates run…


Answers to Your Questions on Credit Unions, Banks and Deadbeat Parents

Credit Unions Versus Banks Dear Mary: What is the difference between a bank and a credit union? —Justina Dear Justina: Great question! A bank is a for-profit financial business run by paid board members that’s primary purpose is to make profits for the shareholders. A credit union is a nonprofit financial business that’s owned by…


Sneaky Ways Inflation Affects Your Money in 2023

By now, you’re probably familiar with the more obvious ways inflation affects your finances. Your money doesn’t go as far at the grocery store, for example. Credit card and other variable-rate debt is getting more expensive as the Federal Reserve raises short-term interest rates to combat inflation. Rates are also rising, albeit more slowly, on…


How to Use a Digital Wallet

That wallet in your pocket or handbag is probably stuffed with credit cards, store discount cards, insurance cards, etc. Every transaction you can think of likely can be made using your wallet’s contents. Keeping it safe is the priority. A digital wallet also holds everything you need to make a transaction. The difference between a…


What Would You Choose as a Consumer: Living a Good Life or Saving for Retirement

Most people fall into one of two categories. They are either savers or spenders. Savings are often prioritized for the future to secure retirement and financial security. Spenders prioritize their everyday desires and requirements while maintaining a sound financial situation with the idea of covering their retirement obligations in the future with better income or…


12 Best Fundraising Ideas for Your Organization

By Entrepreneur Staff As an organization, finding new and innovative ways to fundraise is essential for your success. Not only does fundraising allow you to bring in much-needed revenue, but it also raises awareness for your cause and helps you connect with potential donors. This blog post will share 12 easy fundraising ideas for your…


4 Commitments All Truly Inclusive Leaders Must Follow

By Chuck H. Shelton 2022 was the first year of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion accountability for inclusive leaders. Our future will be filled with increasing expectations from employees, customers and business partners, looking for us to step up and courageously respond to societal needs and problems across human differences. It won’t be easy, but it…


Online Credit Reports & How They Are Tracking Everything You Do

Imagine that you’ve been invited to join a friend on a weekend getaway. The only problem? Your dog has to stay home. Thankfully, you can solve this problem by hiring a pet sitter. Of course, you aren’t going to have anyone watch over your four-legged friend. You’re going to ask them some questions first. Primarily,…