Start 2024 Off with the 52-Week Savings Challenge



2024 is upon us, and one of the most common New Year’s resolutions for everyone is to save more and improve your finances in the upcoming year. However, saving money can be challenging, and saving even $500 may sound like a difficult task. So how can you easily save enough money for an emergency fund or meet a savings goal while also not feeling restrained by a budget? There is a strategy you can use to make saving easier this year. 

It’s called the 52-Week Money Challenge. Read on to learn how it works.

Fraud Prevention Series: Charitable Giving Scams



If you plan on partaking in charitable giving this holiday season, it is important to be cautious when making your donations. Scammers can prey on your generosity by pretending to be fundraising for charity.

The Best Apps for Managing your Finances



From budgeting to building an emergency fund, sometimes you need a little help from technology to meet your financial goals. Here are the best financial wellness apps for managing your finances so you can achieve your dreams.

Your Checklist for Financial Independence



Whether you’re planning to start college soon or in a couple years, it’s never too early to begin building strong money management habits. Taking control of your finances now will help you create a bright financial future long after graduation. Use this checklist as your roadmap toward financial independence.

Get Your Finances in Shape



Summer is in full swing and as you prepare for vacations, go out to eat more, or start on home improvement projects, you may be spending more than usual. Taking the time to look over your accounts and reviewing your budget now can help prevent stress in the future. Here are three ways to help improve your finances.

Tips to Manage Finances after College



Whether starting your first full-time job, applying to grad school, or moving across the country, life after graduation can sometimes feel overwhelming. Knowing how to budget, pay off debt, or begin saving for retirement can help make these transitions easier. Here are three tips for managing your finances and setting yourself up for success after graduation.

What to Expect as a First Time Homebuyer



If you are looking to purchase your first home, being prepared is key. Buying your first home is an exciting time as you make the important decisions that come along with any large purchase. Familiarizing yourself with each step in the homebuying process can help make these big decisions easy.

Pay Down Debt Faster with Changed from The Lab at MSUFCU



Debt repayment can feel overwhelming, no matter what stage you’re at in life. According to Bankrate.com, Forty-two percent of U.S. adults report that money concerns and dealing with debt negatively impacts their mental health. Changed, a debt repayment app, can help ease some of that financial anxiety.

3 Creative Money Saving Habits



Finding new ways to save a little extra each month can be challenging. Thankfully, there are many creative ways to cut costs around the house that will help you grow you savings but won’t force you to dramatically change your lifestyle.

Financial Conversations to Have with Your Partner



When you are planning a future with your partner, many different factors come into play in the equation. But, ask yourselves this, are you having a dialogue about financial matters too?

Finding the Right Visa Credit Card for You



Are you in need of a new credit card but don’t know how to go about finding one? We have three steps to help you navigate Visa Credit Cards and find which one may be the right choice for you.

How to Help Build Your Credit Score



A strong credit score is a great tool for financial success. Here are some helpful pointers to keep in mind as you use your credit card this holiday season and in the future.

How Podcasts Can Help Improve Financial Literacy



From seminars to social media, financial education comes in many forms. If you are looking for a new way to improve your financial literacy, listening to podcasts may be a good resource to turn to.

The 5 Best Ways to Manage your Student Loans



Do you have student loans to manage this year? At OU Credit Union, we understand that student loan debt can be overwhelming. We’re sharing 5 of the best ways to manage your student loans and become more confident in your finances.

Teaching Children Budgeting Basics



Just because school is back in session doesn’t mean your child’s at-home learning has to stop. There are many opportunities for youth to continue learning at home. How to handle and budget money, for example, is a great topic to introduce to children at home.

Financial Education Tools for Different Age Groups



It is never too early – or too late – to learn about money. There are many forms of financial education available to benefit you in whatever stage of life you’re in. Here are a few different financial education tools you might find helpful depending on your age group.

A Guide to Becoming Financially Fit and Well



August is National Wellness Month and one of the most beneficial ways to contribute to your well-being is by reducing stress. A great way to minimize this feeling is by getting in control of your finances. Follow along as we discuss stress-free tools to help you manage your finances.

The Best Ways to Save Around the House This Summer



Cutting costs around the house doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice the way you live. There are many simple ways to save money this season in your very own home.

Planning A Wedding? Follow These Budget-Friendly Tips



Wedding planning is meant to be an enjoyable experience for both you and your partner, yet it is easy to get overwhelmed by the seemingly “endless” to-do list. A perfect way to start feeling excited for your special day is by feeling in control of your finances — get started with these budget-friendly tips.

Ways to Handle the Cost of Inflation



With costs rising due to inflation, it can be hard to know where to start when dealing increased prices. We have some tips to help you handle the cost of inflation.

Debunking Common Retirement Savings Myths



How’s your retirement planning going? No matter what stage of life you are at, investing in your retirement fund is important. There are many unforeseen challenges that could make retirement planning difficult, including reduced Social Security and Medicare benefits, higher taxes and inflation rates, fewer traditional pension plans, lower market returns, and rising life expectancies and health care costs. Let’s talk about — and debunk — some common retirement planning myths.

Get Your Car Ready for Summer Road Trips



Summer is just around the corner — which means it’s time for summer road trips. Follow our tips to help get your car in shape for summer. 

Why Financial Wellness Matters



No matter where you are in life, whether newly graduated, buying your first house, or getting closer to retirement, it is important to be knowledgeable about personal finances. When you understand the basics, you set yourself up for success and build a healthy financial future. Here are three strategies to help you be successful with your personal finances.

Fraud Prevention Series: Watch Out for Insurance Fraud



Insurance fraud doesn’t just happen to insurance companies. An individual like yourself can become the target of a scam to take advantage of your personal home and auto insurance policies. The average family in the U.S. pays between $400 and $700 a year in increased insurance premiums due to insurance fraud, according to the FBI. 

Build Your Rainy-Day Fund



Unexpected expenses can be challenging on many levels, but if you are financially prepared by setting aside savings for a rainy day, you can better weather a storm when it rolls in.

What to Consider When Shopping for RVs, Boats, and Motorcycles



As the weather turns warmer, many of us start planning fun summer activities and weekend getaways – on the water or on the road. If you’re thinking of purchasing an RV, boat, or motorcycle, there’s several things to consider to ensure you get the best deal.

How to Help Your Children Become Financially Savvy Adults



Teaching children about money early in life can help them learn healthy financial habits that will last a lifetime. Children who learn how money works at an early age often make better financial decisions — whether it's budgeting to buy a toy they want or determining which car to buy.

Helping Your Teen Finance the Next Stage in Life



As your children grow older and enter high school, their expenses will grow with them. Buying a car, saving for college, signing up for a camp, or pursuing a hobby all have significant costs associated with them. So, it’s important at this stage of life to teach them how to manage their personal finances in pursuit of their goals and dreams.

Four Tips to Consider When Buying A House



If you are in the market for a house, being prepared is key. There are several things to do before you even begin your search. Here are four steps to consider when buying a house.

Save For Retirement or Pay Off Debt?



When it comes to making decisions on how to spend your money, one challenge determining how to both save for retirement and also get out of debt. Here are some ways to figure out how you can do both.

How to Avoid Overdraft Fees



If you’ve ever made a purchase resulting in a negative balance on your account, you may have been charged an overdraft fee by your financial institution. This can be a costly process that is avoidable if you follow these strategies.

Take The Frugal February Challenge To Save



Need a jump start to get your finances on track in the New Year? Consider starting a Frugal February challenge. Here’s how.

Create a Budget In Three Steps



While there are many methods and tools you can use to establish a budget, it can still be a challenge to stick with it. Here are some steps you can take to learn how much money you have available to spend, and how to decide where to spend it.

How Online Bill Paying Can Save You Money



Online bill paying allows you to view, schedule, and pay your bills right from your computer or phone. Learn more about what online bill pay is, how it works, and its pros and cons.

Fraud Prevention Series: Avoiding Identity Theft



Even if you believe financial fraud happens to other people, it's easy to become a victim of criminal activity, especially identity theft. Here are some ways to avoid that type of financial fraud in 2022.

How to Pay Off Credit Card Debt Quickly



With the holidays behind us, mounting credit card debt can seem overwhelming. Here are some steps to take that can help you pay off your debt quickly.

Financial Resolutions You Can Make and Keep In 2022



Choosing the right resolutions for you can make all the difference when it comes to improving your financial health. Here are three financial New Year’s resolutions to help you start 2022 off right.

Save Money By Refinancing Your Auto Or Home Loan



If you’re looking for ways to reduce your expenses, refinancing your auto or home loan could help drive down your monthly payments and save you money in the long run. Here are the benefits of refinancing.

Teaching Kids How to Handle Money At A Young Age Can Really Pay Off



Helping children to build a strong financial foundation is an important lesson that contributes to lifelong well-being. It’s a lesson parents and caregivers play a key role in teaching. Here are several ways to share lessons about money with children.

Is It Better To Buy A Home Or Continue To Rent?



When it comes to housing, is it a better financial decision to keep renting or to buy a home? How do you know if buying is the right move for you? Here are some questions to ask yourself to help you make the best decision for your situation.

How Shopping on Small Business Saturday Helps The Local Economy



First established to encourage consumers to shop locally during the holiday season, Small Business Saturday has become an annual event taking place on the Saturday after Thanksgiving. Here are some ways you can support small businesses during the holiday season.

Fraud Prevention Series: Avoiding Holiday Shopping Scams



With the holidays approaching, ‘tis the season for scams as cyber thieves look for ways to exploit consumers’ holiday shopping and donating habits. To keep your finances safe, here are some tips to avoiding holiday scams.

Five Ways to Get Your Finances on Track



Your financial situation includes a combination of your income, expenses, and debt as well as your goals and dreams. To achieve financial wellness, you should have a plan which will help reduce stress and allow you to be more productive. To set yourself up for success, consider following these five steps to improve your financial well-being.

Three Ways to Improve Your Credit Score



Did you know that making simple changes can improve your credit score? With a higher score you may receive more favorable loan rates, so it pays off to improve it. Here are three ways to get started.

How to Answer This Question: Should I Save or Pay Off Debt?



If you believe paying off debt is your only financial priority, consider this: saving is also an important way to keep your finances stable. Here are some ways to make progress on your debt, and put some savings aside at the same time.

How Saving for the Holidays Now Will Pay Off Later



It may be early to start thinking about the holidays, but waiting until November or December to begin saving for these expenses may result in paying for them — plus interest — into 2022. Here’s how to get started saving now to avoid overspending in a few months.

Bogged Down By College Loans? Here’s How to Pay Them Off Faster



If you borrowed money to attend college, you are not alone. According to The Federal Reserve’s report, Economic Well-Being of U.S. Households in 2020, nearly one-third of all American students have student loan debt. Here are some strategies to pay off your student loan debt faster.

Three Ways to Rebuild Your Finances After COVID



While the pandemic continues, many people are back to work. But they may still be recovering financially, having used up savings to pay bills or stopped making payments on credit cards and other debt. Here are three ways to rebuild your finances after COVID.

Five Habits of Highly Successful Savers



When planning for your future you should also plan how you will finance it. Understanding how budgeting, saving, and managing debt can help you reach your goals is important. But the key may be adapting habits so you can save as much as possible. Here are five habits of successful savers.

When You Support Local Businesses, You Support the Local Economy. Here’s How You Can Make a Difference



You’ve heard the statement: Buy local, eat local. But what is the impact of shopping at local, small businesses? Here is why supporting community businesses is important and worth encouraging others to do so, too.

Five Ways to Create a Budget You Can Live With



What can a budget do for you? A budget helps you manage your spending, track your expenses, and allows you to save more money. It can also help you be more prepared for emergencies, reduce debt, and remain focused on your long-term financial goals. But how do you create a budget you can live with? Here are five ways to do so.

The Lab at MSUFCU Helps Members Achieve Financial Success



To replicate the interaction a member might have with an MSUFCU employee through a digital channel, The Lab at MSUFCU was established to identify technologies and partner with fintechs to produce viable apps. Learn more about The Lab and the innovative solutions that have been introduced to help employees and members achieve financial success.

How to Prepare High School Seniors for Financial Independence



If you have a child going off to college soon or in a couple years, being a role model for positive personal financial management is a great way to help him or her be more prepared for financial independence. But there is more you can do. Here are a few lessons to teach your high school student before he or she leaves the nest.

Providing Innovative Solutions for Members Resulted in The Lab at MSUFCU



With more MSUFCU members interacting with the Credit Union digitally, we’ve created additional ways to connect beyond the mobile app through The Lab at MSUFCU. Established in 2020, The Lab team identifies, creates, and executes opportunities for innovation at the Credit Union. By devoting resources to cultivate an entrepreneurial mindset, collaborative ideas are generated for pilot programs and eventually introduced as new products and services for members and employees.

Fraud Prevention Series: 5 Tips to Avoiding Online Shopping Fraud



Online shopping is fun, but does not always go as planned. In 2020, the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s (FBI’s) Internet Crime Complaint Center received 791,790 complaints from the American public including reported losses of more than $4.1 billion, according to its annual report. This was a 69% increase in the number of complaints over 2019. Here are five ways to protect yourself from online shopping fraud.

5 Actions That Can Hurt Your Credit Score



A good credit score can mean better lending opportunities, but there are many unexpected ways you may be unknowingly lowering your credit score. Here are five.

It Might Be Time to Change Financial Institutions; Here’s How



There are many reasons for wanting a new financial institution, such as paying less fees, having digital account management options, or accessing more in-network ATMs. When selecting a new financial institution, these steps can help make the transition a smooth one. Here’s where to start.

If Finances are Tight, Here’s What to Pay First



If you are having financial difficulties, it may become challenging to pay all of your monthly bills. While everyone’s financial situation is different, here are general guidelines for how to prioritize payments.

Fraud Prevention Series: Recent Graduate? What’s Changed with Your Financial Account



When entering college, many students open a free student checking account with a local financial institution, but often lose those benefits upon graduation. This can lead to fees and overdrafts. If your current financial institution charges account fees now that you’re out of college, it’s time to start shopping for a new checking account. Here is what to look for.

Selling Your Home? Making Small Improvements Can Add to Resale Value



If you are thinking of putting your home on the market, it may be a good idea to make a few small improvements before listing it. Some improvements add resale value, while others are not worth the cost or effort. Here are some home improvements that would be worth your time and some that wouldn’t.

Watching a Financial TikTok Video? Why Doing Your Own Research Matters



You can learn a lot from TikTok, such as popular dance moves, the latest cocktail creations, and how to make hot cocoa bombs. You may also see unsubstantiated financial information and advice from unreliable sources. Just because Financial TikTok (also known as “FinTok”) videos happen to go viral, doesn’t mean that they are the best (or the only) source of financial information you should rely on to make financial decisions. Here are some guidelines to viewing FinTok videos.

5 Financial Steps to Take After College Graduation



If you have recently graduated from college or know someone who has, now is a great time to start building a solid financial foundation. Here are five ways to get started.

Become a Car Buying Expert: 5 Tips to Getting the Most Car for Your Money



Ready to hit the road this summer? If you are in need of a car, you can prepare yourself for the purchasing process with these five tips.

Fraud Prevention Series: Your Password May Be One of the Weakest at Protecting Your Information



Every year fraudsters are successful in gaining access to consumers’ personal information, costing millions of dollars in losses. Unfortunately, many of these hacks are successful because of weak passwords.

Make a Difference in Your Community By Supporting Small Businesses; Here’s How



National Small Business Week, May 2-8, 2021, is a celebration and appreciation of small businesses. It highlights the role they play in the U.S. economy with an emphasis on shopping local and supporting entrepreneurs. Here are some ways you can support local businesses and why it matters.

Video Tellers Provide Face-to-Face Account Access from Comfort of Your Vehicle



As you look for more efficiency and flexibility from your financial institution, consider using a video teller to receive personalized-service on the go. Here are ways video tellers are making account management quick and easy.

Financial Account Alerts You Should Activate Today



Monitoring your financial accounts can help you in many ways, including keeping track of your spending, and alerting you to possible fraud. Here are some eAlerts you should activate to help automatically track your accounts.

Fraud Prevention Series: How to Avoid the Latest COVID-19 Scams



According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) as of March 16, 2021, more than 388,000 complaints related to COVID-19 and stimulus payments have been reported, costing consumers $372.6 million.

Thinking of Adopting a Pet? Consider the Costs First



National Pet Day is April 11! As many as 68% of U.S. households own a pet, and you may be looking to become one of them. Before adopting a pet, evaluate your financial situation to ensure you can afford to take care of your pet’s needs.

3 Tips to Help Your Child Become a Financially Successful Adult



One of the best ways to build a secure financial future for your children is by helping them develop saving skills at an early age. Here’s how to set an example for the next generation by teaching children the importance of saving.

Smart Ways to Spend Your Stimulus Check



If you are in a solid financial place, you may be wondering “what are some smart ways to use my stimulus money?” Here are several ideas to make the most of your stimulus check.

3 Steps You Can Take Today to Get Out of Debt



One of the most satisfying financial decisions you can do for yourself is to create a plan to get out of debt. The problem might be where to start. While it can seem overwhelming, you can take steps to make being debt free a reality.

Buying a car? Here’s how to be more prepared to hit the road.



If you are thinking about buying a car, there are many things to take into consideration, such as what type of car you can afford, where to shop for your car, and what financing you will qualify for. There are also pitfalls you should avoid in the process to make sure you get the best deal you can. Here are a few to consider.

Quick and Easy Ways to Improve Your Credit Score



Having a good credit score has many benefits, including helping you receive competitive interest rates for cars loans, credit card offers, insurance premiums, mortgages, and more. Maintaining a high credit score is worth the effort because it can save you money. Here are a few tips to improve your score.

Fraud Prevention Series: COVID-19 Scams Continue to Happen. Here's How to Protect Yourself



As the pandemic continues to change everyday life, scammers remain hard at work trying to access personal information and gain access to financial accounts. Here are some ways to protect yourself from ongoing COVID-19 fraud.

Savings Is Important Now More Than Ever. Find Out Why.



In 2020, many consumers found it necessary to use savings to help cover expenses, and it became clear why having a financial cushion is important. Clever Real Estate COVID-19 Financial Impact Survey conducted in September 2020 found that 28% of Americans used savings or an emergency fund to cover living expenses.   Now that we’ve been navigating through a pandemic for nearly a year, it’s time to get serious about saving — even if you think you’re in a solid financial position.

Set Financial Goals. Achieve them with a Plan.



Setting financial goals are a common New Year’s resolution. Although following through takes effort, creating a workable plan to achieve them is simple. Begin by setting some financial goals. Here are a few suggestions to get you started.

Best Ways to Spend Your Stimulus Check



Although many U.S. consumers have received the second round of stimulus checks, they may not have specific plans for the funds. Because everyone’s financial situation is different, here are some ideas to consider when deciding how to spend your stimulus check.

How to Save More Than $1,300 by the End of 2021



What would you do with an extra $1,378 in your account by this time next year?   Saving money can be challenging and trying to save even $500 may sound difficult. But there is a strategy you can use to make a $1,378 savings easier this year.    It’s called the 52-Week Money Challenge. Read on to learn how it works.

How to Both Pay Off Debt And Save More



Consumers intended to spend just over $1,000 for the holidays in 2019, according to a survey from The National Retail Federation. For those who don’t budget for holiday spending each year, this could mean accumulating debt, and it also could lead to difficulty in trying to pay it off come January. Read on to learn some strategies to pay off holiday debt and save more.

How to Set and Stick to a Budget



We are continuing our financial New Year’s resolutions discussion with how to set up and stick to a budget. Read on to learn some tips to create and stick to a budget.

3 Financial Resolutions To Help Make Your 2021 Successful



  Making the right resolutions can make all the difference when it comes to improving your financial health. Here are three financial New Year’s resolutions to help you start 2021 off right.

Be Aware of a New Online Scam: E-Skimming



Although the increased use of credit and debit cards with chip technology has resulted in a decrease in fraudulent purchases, this technology offers no protection for online purchases. A newer and expanding threat to online shopping known as E-Skimming is occurring more often. Here is more information about E-Skimming and some ways to protect yourself from this latest form of fraud.

Three Fraud Trends to Watch for this Holiday Season



Due to the ongoing coronavirus, holiday shopping will look different this year. However, fraudsters are poised to take advantage of consumers who may be more distracted dealing with unprecedented change.

Five Myths about Credit Cards



A good credit score can help you do more than be approved for a credit card, auto loan, or mortgage. Credit scores demonstrate your bill and debt paying history to those who provide services or loan you money. Learn more about credit scores and five myths about credit cards.

Getting a Jump Start on Holiday Shopping? Consider Using a Rewards Credit Card



If you are already doing some early holiday shopping, you may also want to use a credit card that offers rewards. Here’s a few things to consider when deciding if using a rewards credit card for holiday purchases may make sense for you.

On-The-Go Tips to Keep Your Accounts Safe



When you are out and about, you should not need to worry about security for your financial accounts. Here some ways to keep your accounts safe when you are on the go.

Hidden Holiday Costs and How to Reduce Them



You may already have a list for the holidays: traditional food, gifts, ornaments, lights, and more. Here are a few expenses you may not have added to your budget and ways to reduce them.

Never Been Able to Save Before? Here's How to Get Started



It’s possible for anyone to begin saving money no matter where you are on your financial journey. Sometimes all it takes is that first step to get things started. Here are some suggestions on how to kick off your savings strategy.

How to Get Your Retirement Savings On Track



Whether your retirement is in 15 years or 45 years, saving for your future is important. Here are some guidelines on how to get your retirement savings on track for your future.

The Secret (and Easy) Way to Build Your Savings



Want to know the secret to increasing your savings? It’s easy: pay yourself first.

Three Ways to Improve Your Credit Score



Having a strong credit score can mean saving money, earning perks, and more. It is considered by lenders before you are approved for a loan. Employers and landlords may also check your score before deciding to hire you or rent you an apartment. If you want to improve your credit score, here are three steps to take.

How to Clean Up Your Finances



This is a great time of year to clean up your finances and get organized. You will be in a better place to take action on your budget and other financial goals once your finances are in order. Here are some tips to get you started.

September is Disaster Preparedness Month



National Preparedness Month (NPM) is recognized each September to promote family and community disaster planning. As we all continue to respond to COVID-19, there is no better time to become more organized than this September. Learn more about how to be prepared for a disaster.

Value of Using a Digital Wallet



Our smart phones can allow us to make safer, contactless purchases using digital wallets, eliminating the need to use a physical credit card and reducing the risk of COVID-19 exposure. Learn more about using digital wallets as a way to make purchases with minimum exposure.

Protecting and Building Your Credit in 2020



As the economy gradually continues to reopen, consumers’ credit will play an important role in the recovery. Here are some strategies to protect and build your credit in 2020.

Video Chat Increases Account Access for Members



During these times of social distancing, digital technology has made it possible for consumers to continue interacting with each other as well as the organizations they do business with. For example, video chat has allowed financial institutions to help maintain and improve a personal connection with their members. Learn more about how video chat is changing the way consumers are accessing their financial accounts.

Video Tellers: Enhancing Member Service and Engagement



Video Tellers are becoming a more common part of many financial institutions’ digital portfolios. With this technology, members can quickly and easily access their funds on-the-go. Learn more about the services Video Tellers provide.

How to Maintain Your Financial Health During COVID-19



Staying healthy is our number one priority, but it’s important to be extra mindful of your financial health — even if your income hasn’t been impacted by COVID-19. Here are some ways to keep your finances in good shape during these unprecedented times.

We’re In This Together: Helping Our Members Through COVID-19



Communities worldwide are struggling with the temporary closing of businesses, schools and public facilities affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. As many people continue to cope with these drastic developments, the Credit Union is here to help its members during this time of uncertainty.

How to Help Children Become Financially Savvy



Teaching children about money early in life can help them learn healthy financial habits that will last a lifetime. Research shows that children who learn how money works, make better financial decisions — whether it's budgeting to buy a toy they want or applying for student loans.

Ready for a New Home? Here Are Some Factors to Consider First



With spring right around the corner, it’s a good time to begin your house search if you’re in the market. But, there are many factors to consider when looking for a home. Here are some tips to help get you started on your search.

Taking an Entrepreneurial Leap? Here's What to Look for in a Business Loan



Have a new idea you would like to put into action? You may need some help to get your idea off the ground. Once you create a functional plan, applying for a business loan could be your next step.

Budgeting for New Parents



Becoming a parent is one of the most joyful and exciting times of your life, but it can also be financially overwhelming. You must prepare for everything from buying diapers, to paying for doctor visits and daycare, all while trying to achieve your financial goals and sticking to a budget. Here are a few tips to help build a baby budget into your financial plans.

Create an Emergency Fund
Consider all of your financial needs when trying to prioritize your expenses. It’s important to have an emergency fund with at least three to six months’ worth of expenses. Once you reach this goal, contribute a set amount each month to continue growing your account. Having this fund established will help bring you peace of mind.

Keep Saving for Retirement
Even though you have additional expenses with a new baby, you should continue to contribute to your retirement savings.  According to Investopedia, it's a good idea set aside at least 15% of your income or contribute to a 401(k) if your workplace offers one to help set yourself up financially for retirement.

Reduce Debt
Costs for child care will add up quickly. Work to pay down and pay off credit cards, car loans, student loans or any other debts you may have. These debts will prevent you from focusing on your financial priorities. Paying these down quickly will help you get on the right track and give you more money each month to put toward your savings.

Update Your Budget
When your baby arrives, your household income may be affected. One or both parents may take unpaid maternity leave, or one might stop working. Cutting your expenses or practicing living on less will put more money in your pocket for costs that come with a new child. Getting used to a smaller budget can help you save for daycare and other immediate expenses.

Shop Smart
Most expenses for a new born baby won’t last forever, but new expenses may arise as your child gets older. To help reduce these costs try these options:

• Buy secondhand and shop Mom2Mom sales
• Shop around for different child care providers
• Look for discounts on items such as diapers, formula, and strollers.

Planning goes a long way, even though unforeseen circumstances may arise and you may not be able to contribute to all of your financial priorities every month. Having a baby is a wonderful gift, but there are costs involved. Creating a plan beforehand will help you reach your financial goals and make the transition a little easier.

 


 

5 Ways to Start the New Year on the Right Financial Track



January is a great time to start something new. When it comes to your finances, the New Year also is a good time to set goals and strategies. Here are five ways to help you start 2020 on the right financial track:

Ideas for Creating DIY Holiday Gifts



Do it yourself (DIY) gifts are great ways to personalize and save a little money when you are making your list this holiday season. Here are some ideas for simple DIY gifts.

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