Life & Money
How to Balance Saving and Investing When Money’s Tight
When every dollar counts, trying to save and invest can feel impossible. But you don’t need to do everything at once — just start where you are, and build from there. Start with Savings: Your Emergency Fund The first step is building a small emergency fund. While...
How Much Should You Save vs. Invest?
Trying to figure out how much money to save and how much to invest? You’re not alone — it’s a common question. Most of us have limited income and lots of things to pay for, like rent, groceries, and bills. So how do you decide what to do with the extra money you have?...
5 Ways to Lower Your Taxable Income
If you’re tired of seeing more of your paycheck go to Uncle Sam, it’s time to make tax planning a priority. Here are 5 smart ways to lower your taxable income: Max Out Your 401(k) & IRA 401(k)s: For 2025, the maximum contribution is $23,500 if you’re under age...
How to Simplify Your Budget
Millions of people feel that budgeting is a chore they’d rather avoid, or they may feel overwhelmed by the need to wrap their arms around their money. But the good news is that the simpler your budget, the more likely you are to stick with it — and simple budgets can...
Avoid Car Warranty Scams
If you own a vehicle, you’ve probably received a robocall about extending your warranty. If we’re being honest, you’ve probably received these calls even if you don’t own a vehicle. In 2022, the FCC banned groups that made billions of robocalls from running...
Is Your Phone Cloned? SIM Swaps Explained
That tiny little card inserted into the side of your cellphone can lead to a heap of trouble. It’s called a SIM card and cybercriminals “SIM swap” it to clone your phone and steal your money. It’s sneaky, it’s unfair, and it’s a crime. Here’s what you need to know...
December is National Identity Theft Prevention and Awareness Month
Shop Smart Online During Holiday Sales The holidays bring irresistible deals—but also fake websites and scams. Stick to retailers you know and trust. If you’re browsing for last-minute gifts, avoid clicking on flashy ads or links in social media posts, as they could...
How to Choose a Reputable Charity Where Your Money Can Make A Real Impact
If you’re fortunate enough to have more than you need, it’s always nice to give back, especially around the holidays. But where should you give? There are so many charities that could do amazing things with your money — the challenge is determining where your gift...
Financial Planning Month Tools for You
October is National Financial Planning Month. This is a great time to remind you that your finances go beyond your current checking account and monthly budget. Your finances affect your future, your relationships and even your stress levels. In the midst of a tight...
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