Making Money Personal

Have you ever wondered what it takes to become a truly impactful leader? In this episode, we'll explore practical strategies for cultivating leadership skills that can transform both your personal life and your professional life. Join us as we discuss some actionable insights and a few stories to help you become a more effective and influential leader.  Links: Leaders Eat Last by Simon Sinek Dare to Lead by Brené Brown Winning Leadership by Sherry Winn Follow Adriana's Business on Facebook: The Process Reinvention LLC Email Adriana: theleanidea@gmail.com Check out TCU University for more financial education tips and resources!  Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter!  Learn more about Triangle Credit Union

Struggling with debt can feel overwhelming, but with the right strategies, it's possible to regain control and build a more secure financial future. Fortunately, there are practical and proven methods to reduce and manage debt effectively, no matter your financial situation.    Links: Check out NerdWallet's Top Budget Apps for 2025 Learn more about Triangle's personal loan options for debt consolidation Financial webinars for Budgeting and Paying Off Debt Check out TCU University for financial education tips and resources! Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter! Learn more about Triangle Credit Union  Transcript: Welcome to Money Tip Tuesday from the Making Money Personal podcast.    Debt is a tool, and it can be very useful when used properly. Borrowing money can help us buy our first car, get into our first home, or even pursue that degree for our dream job. But like any tool, it's possible to get into trouble if we don't understand how to use it.    Taking action when debt becomes burdensome is essential. Recognizing the various signs can detect unmanaged debt, and this awareness can bring a sense of reassurance.    Unmanageable debt can reveal itself in some or all of the following ways: There's no ability to save money because it's all going to payments, you have a heightened sense of worry, stress, or anxiety over financials, and your debts aren't being paid on time and are heading towards or currently in collections.   Based on these factors, reducing debt to a manageable level is a net positive for your life. It's not just about the numbers; it's about the hope and freedom it can bring. Reducing debt not only improves financial health but may also improve mental health.    Pursuing and achieving financial freedom usually starts with some form of reducing debt and proper management is essential to get there. Once managed, you can push that throttle forward and speed rapidly toward finally getting it under control.   Here are three top strategies to reduce and manage debt effectively:    Simplify your payments by organizing and consolidating. Budgeting is a key part of this process. We often stress the importance of budgeting because it's the foundation of successful debt management. It's hard to plan without a budget, and your debt payoff effort won't be as effective. Educate yourself on successful budgeting tactics and find the one that works best. Whether it's pen and paper or a digital app, it is essential to keep your budget organized. You can also explore some of the top budgeting apps. For example, Nerdwallet published a list of the top budgeting apps for 2025, so check out the link in the show notes.  Explore consolidation loans or other debt assistance programs. If debts are tough for you to manage, a debt consolidation might take that pressure off and give you the necessary breathing room. It enables you to group some or all your various debt bills into one consolidated payment that's easier to manage. For help, contact staff at your local bank or credit union. They could help illuminate the right options for your situation and cover the various details involving a debt consolidation.   Find a way to lower your bills. Cut back on spending if possible. Avoid unnecessary purchases and cancel unused subscriptions.  You can also explore ways to refinance your debts, whether auto, personal, credit cards or student loans to a lower interest rate. By shopping around for lower rates, you may be able to decrease your monthly payment, freeing up more cash to put towards your existing debt. This can also be a significant saving over the life of the loan, making it a worthwhile strategy to consider.  And you can lower bills by negotiating with providers and businesses for better rates or payments.  Cell phone providers, car insurance companies, cable and internet providers, and even gym memberships will likely try to work with you on a better deal. If not, shop around and see if you can find that better deal elsewhere.   The third way to start managing debt better is to find ways to increase income. If you're currently working, consider asking for a raise, or even working overtime to bring in a little more each paycheck.  Explore a new job for opportunities that might land you a better salary or consider picking a second job to work a few extra hours each week. Even working an extra 10 hours per week could provide the right amount of buffer in your budget to chip away at that big debt pile.   If you need something more flexible to bring in more money consider gig work or freelance work on the side to bring in extra cash. You could try delivery or Uber driving, pet sitting, or dog walking, which are all popular ways to easily try out gig work. Also, don't forget about other opportunities like tutoring, graphic design, photography, or babysitting. If you decide to try this, remember to set aside a portion of your earnings for taxes.   If you need help getting started on your debt payoff plan, we offer webinars to watch on YouTube that cover a variety of budgeting tools and strategies as well as putting together a debt payoff plan tailored for your situation. Watch on demand using the links posted in the show notes.  If there are any other tips or topics you would like us to cover, let us know at tcupodcast@trianglecu.org. Like and follow our Making Money Personal FB and IG page and look for our sponsor, Triangle Credit Union on social media to share your thoughts.   Thanks for listening to today's Money Tip Tuesday and check out our other tips and episodes on the Making Money Personal podcast.   Have a great day!   

Figuring out where to live is a significant and costly decision everyone has to make at some point. If you want to purchase a property to make your home, condominiums, and houses are what you want to look at. Each has pros and cons, and depending on your lifestyle, you may lean towards one over the other. Keep listening to learn which option is right for you.   Links: Learn more about Triangle's mortgage products Check out TCU University for financial education tips and resources! Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter! Learn more about Triangle Credit Union  Transcript: Welcome to Money Tip Tuesday from the Making Money Personal podcast.      The main difference between a condominium and a house is that when you buy a house, you purchase the land and the building on it. With a condominium, or condo for short, you buy the unit and share the land with other condo owners.    Unlike apartments, you don't pay rent on houses and condos; you pay your mortgage and a condo HOA fee (more on that in a minute). However, some condos are available to rent if you prefer, but that means you won't build equity over time. When you buy a house or a condo and start paying your mortgage, you'll build up equity.    One compelling reason to consider a condo over a house is the pricing. Condos are typically more affordable, making them an attractive option for first-time buyers. A study by the National Association of Realtors found that the median price of detached single-family homes was $42,000 more than the median price of condos, a significant difference that could make homeownership more accessible.   However, condos usually have additional fees attached. Condos typically have a Homeowner Association, or HOA for short, which comes with fees. Some HOA fees include utility fees such as water, electricity, and more, which you would've had to pay anyway if you bought a house.    An advantage of condos over houses is that upkeep is a lot easier. Due to the HOA fees mentioned, someone will handle all the exterior maintenance, like lawn mowing, snow removal, and general outdoor upkeep. With a house, you'd have to do everything yourself or hire someone else.    While this has advantages, a condo may not be for you if you enjoy taking care of your lawn and garden and don't want to share it with your neighbors. Similarly, a condo is probably not the way to go if you value your space. With some condos, not only are you sharing your outdoor spaces, you might also be sharing walls. Many condos are attached so you will be very close to your neighbors. However, there are detached condos that aren't. Depending on your lifestyle, you might value this tight sense of community, or you might want your space away from others.    A downside to condos is you have less autonomy over what you can and can't do with your space. Some HOAs have stringent rules, such as how you can decorate the outside of your unit and what pets are allowed. While some neighborhoods where you buy a house might have an HOA, you typically are not restricted with what you can and can't do to your home.    Condos might also be harder to sell than houses, especially if the HOA is mismanaged. If you notice that many condos in the area are for sale, that might be a red flag that people are trying to leave this community.    There are upsides to condos in that the insurance is generally cheaper than buying a single-family home. This is because you are only responsible for the inside of your home, compared with having the land and house insured.    Which is the better choice for you, a house or a condo? The answer lies in your lifestyle and what you value most. A condo could be the perfect fit if you're looking for a more affordable option and don't want to worry about outdoor upkeep. On the other hand, if you value your personal space and prefer more autonomy, a house might be the better choice. It's all about finding the right balance that suits your needs and preferences.    Whatever you choose, if you're looking for a mortgage, Triangle Credit Union has got you covered. Triangle offers affordable mortgage solutions for whatever your situation might be. Visit trianglecu.org today so we can help you start on your housing journey.   If there are any other tips or topics you'd like us to cover, let us know at tcupodcast@trianglecu.org. Also, remember to like and follow our Making Money Personal Facebook and Instagram to share your thoughts. Finally, remember to look for our sponsor, Triangle Credit Union, on Facebook and LinkedIn.         Thanks for listening to today's Money Tip Tuesday. Check out our other tips and episodes on the Making Money Personal podcast. 

What does it take to become a great leader? Leadership skills aren't only for high-ranking executives and key decision makers. They can be used by people in all stages of life and occupations, from teachers and household managers to small business owners and team leaders. In this episode, we welcome back Adriana Torres, a dedicated SCORE volunteer and successful entrepreneur, to share her insights and some practical tips on how all of us can elevate our own leadership skills.  Links: Leaders Eat Last by Simon Sinek Dare to Lead by Brené Brown Follow Adriana's Business on Facebook: The Process Reinvention LLC Email Adriana: theleanidea@gmail.com Check out TCU University for more financial education tips and resources!  Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter!  Learn more about Triangle Credit Union

Recession, crisis, tariffs, inflation—all these words circulating around the media and internet for the past few weeks have made many people uneasy and a little frightened about the future. Stories of an alarming nature are circulating daily, so if you're beginning to feel spooked, you're not alone. Whether or not a real economic crisis will happen is hard to predict, but setting some safeguards for your financial future can give you some solid peace during turbulent times.   Links: Set aside cash in a savings account for potential emergencies Explore our many Financial Planning Services Watch our Debt Reduction Webinar to learn how to put together your own debt reduction strategy  Check out TCU University for financial education tips and resources! Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter! Learn more about Triangle Credit Union  Transcript:  Welcome to Money Tip Tuesday from the Making Money Personal podcast.   If you've been following the news lately, you're likely hearing alarming messages warning of a looming recession, empty store shelves, economic uncertainty, and the possibility of a global financial crisis.    Many of our brains are wondering how likely we are to experience these challenges and, if so, when.    First and foremost, it's crucial to stay calm. Remember, news stories are often sensationalized for attention-grabbing headlines, with little substance behind them.   This doesn't mean that there might not be some financial challenges coming down the pike, but the good news is that, we can take specific, measurable steps to safeguard our finances for the possibility that something might occur.   If you're feeling uneasy about your financial future, here are a few ways to safeguard your finances during economic challenges and even recessions.    Save money. If economic uncertainty increases, the chances of job loss, price increases, and unplanned expenses go up. Having money set aside for those purposes is not just wise, it's a crucial step towards feeling secure and prepared. Having money saved in an emergency fund can also keep you from relying on credit or dipping into retirement if you need money. It's wise to have some saved in an account you can easily withdraw from, and to even have a portion of it as cash at home in case there are tech disruptions, or you don't have the time to get to a bank or ATM.  Work to pay down excessive debt. When it comes to economic uncertainty, crippling debt can be a liability. Many Americans carry a variety of debts, but if your debt has become burdensome to the point that it's causing stress, you owe it to yourself to do something about it. Those carrying crippling debt don't have the freedom to adapt which proves so valuable during economically challenging times. To safeguard your financial health against economic challenges, it's important to start paying down your debt. Focus on an effective debt-reduction plan like the debt snowball or debt avalanche method. If you're unsure where to start, check out our debt reduction webinar on our YouTube channel for a practical and easy-to-follow debt-reduction strategy.  Don't panic and feel that you have to be fully debt-free to weather an economic storm. Instead, focus on minimizing your debt to free up more income for your needs as they arise.  Review existing investment portfolios. If you're worried about future economic challenges, it's a good time to look at your current portfolio. The point of this isn't to panic, but to determine whether it's time to make strategic moves in the market. Doing this can provide reassurance and a stronger sense of control. Economic factors impact investment and retirement accounts, so at times situations may arise to make adjustments. For those unfamiliar with investing and markets, it's ideal to sit down with a professional who can review everything and provide a custom assessment regarding your portfolio. Financial planners with investing experience can be excellent guides because they've been watching markets, can see trends, and have a comprehensive understanding of the various factors at play within the economy. If you're interested, Triangle's financial planning services offer expert advice on making the right investment moves in a volatile market. Visit trianglecu.org to explore resources for investing and preparing for the future.   Cut back on expenses and practice frugality. When times get lean, making the most of what you have, and cutting back on spending can give you an advantage. Practicing this gives you control over your money and lifestyle in a way that can shield you against the many unexpected possibilities like unemployment and rising prices. Unemployment isn't always a result of challenging economic times, but if history is any teacher, the likelihood of layoffs increases. Positioning your finances to shield yourself against a potential job loss is essential. Along with having an emergency fund and working to pay down debt, mentioned earlier, it may be worthwhile trying to cut back on unnecessary expenses. Use more of what you have, cut back on purchasing things you don't need, and get creative by substituting the purchase of expensive items and activities with more inexpensive ones.   Look for ways to build skills to help with everyday life. Sometimes, with some vision and creativity, you can turn a misfortune into an opportunity. Building new skills may be able to help relieve the economic burden. This may be the time to learn skills that can assist with providing for daily needs. Activities like gardening when done effectively, can help reduce food costs, and skills like clothes making or mending can make your current clothes last longer plus cut down on the need to purchase new ones. You can also explore other skills like simple car repairs, simple plumbing, home repair, wood working, construction and more. Building skills in these areas could open doors for opportunities to help yourself and others in a time of need. Explore some resources like DIY books, YouTube channels, or online groups to get instructions and advice from experienced people covering all kinds of projects. Plus, becoming proficient in new skills can also open doors to potential future income streams that would help supplement your existing income.   In times of financial uncertainty, taking proactive steps to secure your financial situation can provide a sense of control and stability. By saving money, reducing debt, and reassessing investments, you can better prepare for potential challenges ahead. Remember, staying informed and making thoughtful decisions now can lead to a more secure financial future, no matter what comes your way.  If there are any other tips or topics you would like us to cover, let us know at tcupodcast@trianglecu.org. Like and follow our Making Money Personal FB and IG page and look for our sponsor, Triangle Credit Union on social media to share your thoughts.   Thanks for listening to today's Money Tip Tuesday and check out our other tips and episodes on the Making Money Personal podcast.   Have a great day! 

With cryptocurrency's increasing popularity, it's crucial to be aware of the prevalence of crypto scams. Cryptocurrency is a digital currency that uses cryptography to secure transactions. However, the rise of crypto has also led to a surge in scams. It's important to stay alert to spot these scams and avoid falling victim to them.    Links: Report any crypto scams you encounter to any or all of the agencies below: https://www.fbi.gov/contact-us https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/ https://www.cftc.gov/complaint https://www.sec.gov/submit-tip-or-complaint/tips-complaints-resources/report-suspected-securities-fraud-or-wrongdoing https://www.ic3.gov/Home/Index Check out TCU University for financial education tips and resources! Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter! Learn more about Triangle Credit Union  Transcript: Welcome to Money Tip Tuesday from the Making Money Personal podcast.      One important thing to note about cryptocurrency is the U.S. government does not back it. If your crypto account gets hacked or the company that provides storage for your wallet goes out of business, your money is gone. The government has no obligation to step in and help you get your money back. In comparison, U.S. dollars deposited into an FDIC or NCUA-insured account are safe. Those coverages insure deposits up to $250,000 in the event of a financial institution failure.    That said, it's important not to fall for a cryptocurrency scam. Here are some common scams and their warning signs. First, suppose someone you're considering doing business with only accepts cryptocurrency payments. That should be a red flag, especially if the company demands that you send the payment before receiving any product or service.    A common crypto scam is an investment scam. If someone asks you to invest in a new crypto coin that guarantees quick and significant returns, it's most likely a scam. Crypto investment scams can come in many forms. A scammer might pose as an investment manager promising to make you rich if you buy cryptocurrency and transfer it to their account. They might even create a fake website to trick you further. It's also known that scammers have tried to impersonate celebrities, offering to multiply any cryptocurrency you send them. Scammers will also go on dating apps to find their targets. They might seem interested in you, but it's a red flag if they start talking about crypto and try to get you to invest with them.    Rug pull scams are also very common with cryptocurrency. Rug pull scams are when investment scammers pump up a new NFT or coin to raise funds. Once they get the money that people invested, they disappear. The way these "investments" are coded prevents people from being able to sell or trade them, making them effectively worthless.   Another crypto scam is when fraudsters impersonate a business or the government. They might say they're from Amazon, EZ-Pass, or even your financial institution and claim that there's fraud on your account or your money is at risk. They'll say that to fix the issue, you have to send them crypto. Don't click links or respond to their messages; it is a scam.   One last crypto scam is blackmail. Scammers might contact you saying that they have compromising photos, videos, audio, or information about you. If you don't send them crypto, they'll send it all to your friends, family, place of work, and school. Don't do it and report it to the FBI immediately.    If you encounter a crypto scam, there are a few things you should and shouldn't do. First of all, don't engage with the scammer. Many of these scams are mass messages that the scammer sends out and are not explicitly targeted at you. Responding to the scammer lets them know you exist and can be targeted for their scam. What you should do is ignore the message. You can also report the fraud to multiple places, including the Federal Trade Commission, the Commodity Futures Trading Commission, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, the Internet Crime Complaint Center, and the cryptocurrency exchange company you encountered the scam on. Links to all of these resources will be available in the show notes.  If there are any other tips or topics you'd like us to cover, let us know at tcupodcast@trianglecu.org. Also, remember to like and follow our Making Money Personal Facebook and Instagram to share your thoughts. Finally, remember to look for our sponsor, Triangle Credit Union, on Facebook and LinkedIn.         Thanks for listening to today's Money Tip Tuesday. Check out our other tips and episodes on the Making Money Personal podcast. 

Managing personal finances can be daunting in today's fast-paced world. However, with the emergence of personal finance apps, individuals now have powerful tools to simplify and enhance their financial management. These apps transform financial habits and empower users to take control of their overall financial health. This tip will delve into the top benefits of using personal finance apps, shedding light on how they can put you in the driver's seat of your financial journey.   Links: Explore the benefits of Triangle's mobile app and online banking services with TCUGo Check out the useful benefits of personal finance tools like Goal Builder and Money Management Check out TCU University for financial education tips and resources! Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter! Learn more about Triangle Credit Union  Transcript: Welcome to Money Tip Tuesday from the Making Money Personal Podcast.   Personal finance apps continue to rise in popularity as people grow more digitally savvy and tech expands in processing and functionality. Using a personal finance app can significantly improve your financial game by helping you overcome challenges, get organized, and stay on track to meet goals. A report from Future Data Stats states that 70% of users improved their financial habits and budgeting skills when they used a personal finance app.    The key to achieving financial independence is to build the skills of managing personal finances effectively. The hard part for many is determining where to start. That's where personal finance apps and tools come in. They provide a sophisticated, user-friendly way to conveniently set up and manage finances. If you're not currently using a personal finance app or tool, consider using one. Here are a few top benefits of using a personal finance app.     The first benefit is that personal finance apps allow users to manage their finances anytime, anywhere. It's hard to beat the convenience and flexibility of on-the-go financial management. They keep all your information within arm's reach and provide functions and tools like access to real-time financial data and integration with bank accounts and credit cards for seamless tracking. Explore your app store for common, highly rated apps to try out. Also, consider exploring your financial institution's mobile app, which provides many of the same tools at no added cost.    The second benefit is that these apps offer robust tools for budgeting and tracking expenses. Although some might still prefer using pen and paper, for most people today, this method is waning. Personal finance apps provide budgeting tools with the latest technology and sometimes even AI capabilities to keep you on track with budgeting and tracking expenses. They provide ways for you to categorize spending to help identify patterns and areas for improvement, they offer alerts and reminders for upcoming bills and due payments, and they can provide you with deeper insights into your spending habits to help you stay within your budget.   A third benefit is that personal finance apps can significantly enhance financial security and instill user confidence. Storing your banking information digitally, especially when linked to different platforms, can concern many. However, reputable apps have robust security measures to protect your personal information. These apps use encryption and other security measures to protect your financial data.  To sum up, to successfully accomplish financial goals, you need to build effective money management skills, and using a personal finance app is a great way to get started.    When it comes to financial management, choosing the right app based on your needs is critical. Explore your app store for different options, read reviews, and look through functionality to determine the best app for you. If you're a Triangle member, consider exploring the various tools within your online and mobile banking account, like Money Manager and Goal Builder, to organize budgets, pay down debt, and set savings goals.    If there are any other tips or topics you would like us to cover, let us know at tcupodcast@trianglecu.org. Like and follow our Making Money Personal FB and IG page and look for our sponsor, Triangle Credit Union on social media to share your thoughts.   Thanks for listening to today's Money Tip Tuesday and be sure to check out our other tips and episodes on the Making Money Personal podcast.   Have a great day! 

Insurance is a common expense for many people but understanding the ins and outs of coverage can be challenging. In this episode, we delve into the vital role of the New Hampshire Insurance Department in safeguarding your personal and financial well-being. Join us as Deputy Insurance Commissioner Keith Nyhan shares insights on common insurance issues essential coverage tips and the many resources available to help you navigate the complexities of insurance. Links: For insurance information or assistance contact the Consumer Services Hotline at 800-852-3416 Contact the NH Insurance department at: consumerservices@ins.nh.gov Learn more about insurance assistance and help at: insurance.nh.gov Explore video resources on the NH Insurance Department YouTube channel To find a local insurance agent visit Big I NH at biginh.com, or call 603-224-3965 Check out TCU University for financial education tips and resources! Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter! Learn more about Triangle Credit Union 

Spring is finally here! With renewed energy and brighter, warmer days, you might be motivated to do spring cleaning. Of course, this time of year is a great time to organize, refresh, and clean around your home, but this season, take some time to do the same with your finances.   Links: Learn more about checking your credit score with the Better Checking Account app Set up automatic savings goals with the Goal Builder tool in online and mobile banking Check out TCU University for financial education tips and resources! Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter! Learn more about Triangle Credit Union  Transcript: Welcome to Money Tip Tuesday from the Making Money Personal podcast.    This season is an excellent time to do a lifestyle refresh, especially regarding your finances. For those feeling motivated to tackle a new project, channel that seasonal energy to review and reorganize your current financial situation for a few ways to save yourself some dough. Here are five ideas to help you spring-clean your finances this season.   Review your budget. Take some time to look closely at your expenses and income. Have you been spending more than anticipated? Do you need to tweak a few budget items to adjust for recent economic changes? Look through where you're spending money and re-allocate your budget if necessary. This responsible action puts you in charge of your financial decisions.   Check your credit report. Get a copy of your credit report from all bureaus. At the very least, get one copy, even from one bureau. Look over it. Check your score, lines of credit, and any changes or updates made over the last quarter. Reviewing your report is a great way to determine any changes you need to make to improve your score and to see if any past changes have impacted it. For those with a Triangle Better Checking account, you can access your credit score and report through the dedicated Better Checking app. If you haven't registered yet, check the link in the show notes on how to get started.   Automate savings. If you haven't been regularly transferring money into a savings account, take some time to set up automatic savings. It's easier than you think. Use tools like Triangle's Goal Builder within online and mobile banking to set goals that make building that savings account much easier. The tool automates saving a portion of income into a set category over time so you can set it and forget about it, giving you reassurance and confidence in your financial management. Consolidate debt. Look into all the existing rates on your car, home, credit cards, and more. If you think those rates you're currently paying are higher than you'd like, do some shopping around for lower rates. If you are in a good position to refinance or do some debt consolidation, take the opportunity to restructure your debts and free up some money.  Review subscriptions and memberships. If you're juggling a lot of subscriptions, take control. Note how much you're paying and whether or not you're using them. If you're paying for some that you're not using, now's a good time to cancel or downgrade your plan to a free tier if available.  If there are any other tips or topics you would like us to cover, let us know at tcupodcast@trianglecu.org. Like and follow our Making Money Personal FB and IG page and look for our sponsor, Triangle Credit Union on social media to share your thoughts.   Thanks for listening to today's Money Tip Tuesday and check out our other tips and episodes on the Making Money Personal podcast.   Have a great day everyone! 

Today, overconsumption has grown pervasively in many of our lives. Or at least the temptation to overconsume. In this time of influencers, shopping hauls, and restocking videos, it's important to remember the effects that overconsumption can have on not only our lives but also the lives of others and, ultimately, the environment. If you're hoping to combat overconsumption habits in your own life, there are ways to recognize and bar yourself against the habit, leading to a more fulfilling and mindful lifestyle.   Links: Check out TCU University for financial education tips and resources! Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter! Learn more about Triangle Credit Union  Transcript: Welcome to Money Tip Tuesday from the Making Money Personal podcast.   What is overconsumption? Overconsumption happens when we buy more stuff than we need. If you're perpetually on the internet like I am, you've probably seen restock videos, unboxing videos, shopping hauls, and influencer must-haves. These are items that influencers, who have a large following on social media, often promote as essential or trendy, leading their followers to believe they need these items too. More often than not, these videos showcase extraordinary purchases to show off their collections or entice you to buy the item presented. They're almost always aesthetically pleasing and show off in carefully crafted ways to get viewers to picture themselves owning or using the item.    But this is all part of the vast overconsumption environment we're in.    You may know what I'm talking about, as some signs in your home may point to this phenomenon. An overflowing closet, overstuffed drawers, and piles of things littering the hallway are all examples of what can happen when we overbuy. Recognizing these signs is the first step towards a more mindful and sustainable lifestyle.    Some common signs of overconsumption are buying clothes you'll only wear once, wasting food because of overbuying, upgrading your phone too often, and using too much energy at home.    We're fortunate to live in a time when almost anything we want can be delivered to our doors within a couple of days. The convenience of online selling and delivery apps has given us many wonderful opportunities to live and build the lives we want, but they also give us more reasons to shop and spend.    Not to mention the barrage of advertisements on social apps, streaming services, influencer videos, and targeted emails constantly reminding us of that nifty new gadget, skincare product, or clothing item. Plus, payment options like 'Buy Now, Pay Later' (BNPL) have entered the arena, allowing even more people to purchase items they would otherwise have had to wait for or passed on altogether.    To better identify the effect of overconsumption on society, it's essential to recognize its dangers.    From an Individual perspective, overconsumption can negatively affect our finances due to increased spending on things that we either never use or use once and then discard. Not to mention, if you're one to stockpile, a buildup of items can lead to a cluttered living space, inhibiting our ability to feel at peace or relaxed in our homes.    The dangers of overconsumption affect not only you but also your environment. Overbuying can lead to greater waste and an increase in items sent to landfills. More trash can lead to more pollution, which affects our environment.   What's the best method of avoiding overconsumption? First, be honest with yourself and recognize if you're doing it. Then, pay attention to the signs in and around your home and your spending transactions to check your consumption habits.    It's also good to start being more mindful about why you're buying something in the first place.    You can also try an underconsumption challenge. You may have seen people online touting their own underconsumption journeys also known as “underconsumption core”. These are lifestyle changes where they focus on not buying more things than they'll use or need. Some examples you may see range from people using all existing skincare products before buying anything new, learning how to mend their own clothes instead of tossing used and buying new ones, or trying to make dinner from whatever is available in the fridge rather than running to the store for more ingredients or ordering out. For instance, you could try a 'no-buy month' where you commit to not purchasing any non-essential items for a month. Or, you could challenge yourself to use up all the food in your pantry before buying more groceries. Some of these ideas work as lifestyle habits; others might be fun to try as challenges. Reflect on your situation and determine whether you would benefit from some underconsumption habits to live a more sustainable life.   If there are any other tips or topics you would like us to cover, let us know at tcupodcast@trianglecu.org. Like and follow our Making Money Personal FB and IG page and look for our sponsor, Triangle Credit Union on social media to share your thoughts.   Thanks for listening to today's Money Tip Tuesday and check out our other tips and episodes on the Making Money Personal podcast.   Have a great day! 

In today's media, it is impossible not to see an ad for the latest gambling service. If you don't already know, gambling is risking money or something of value on an event with an unknown outcome and can be done both online and in-person, on anything from slot machines to a sports game. While it may seem fun to win some money on something, gambling comes with a bunch of risks, and it's not just losing money.    Links: If you or someone you know might struggle with gambling visit https://www.nhproblemgambling.org/ for information and resources Explore psychology resources and therapy services on Psychology Today's website Explore Gamblers Anonymous website for resources and services Check out TCU University for financial education tips and resources! Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter! Learn more about Triangle Credit Union  Transcript: Welcome to Money Tip Tuesday from the Making Money Personal podcast.      If you decide to gamble, it is very important to gamble safely. Before you try your luck, consider setting some guidelines to stick to. Limit how much you want to gamble, and don't exceed that limit. If you have the unfortunate experience of losing all the money you set aside to gamble, walk away. Don't put any more money down to chase a win. If you decide to gamble, keep it in a social setting with supportive friends who can help you stick to your plan. Also, try to avoid excessive alcohol and drug use while gambling, as that might influence you to make rash decisions and gamble more.    While most people who have placed a bet have done so without problems, some have gone on to develop a gambling addiction.  The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th edition, which is a diagnostic tool published by the American Psychiatric Association, classifies gambling problems as an addictive disorder. Similarly to drugs and alcohol, a gambling addiction involves an increased tolerance that results in the feeling of gambling even more to feel satisfied. People with a gambling addiction who try to quit will go through similar withdrawal symptoms, such as an urge to gamble and irritability.     With unchecked gambling issues, it can quickly turn from a fun way to win or lose money to costing you a fortune, going into debt, mental health issues, and even bringing harm to your friends and family. The first part is obvious: the more you gamble, the more likely you will lose more and more money. Watching your finances go down the drain will impact your mental health. Often when this happens, a gambling addict will keep going back in an attempt to win their money back. This spiraling behavior can strain your loved ones, especially your family or people who might rely on you.    An estimated 0.4% to 2% of the world's population has a gambling addiction. You are more likely to develop a gambling addiction if you have any other addictions or have a psychiatric condition. For example, an estimated 4% of people treated for substance abuse also have a gambling addiction. A lower income is also linked to having a gambling addiction, as people are looking for a big win to give them a step up.    If you believe you may have a gambling problem or addiction, there are options to help you. Going to therapy is a significant first step. Many therapists are knowledgeable about gambling addictions and trained to help you overcome them. You can visit psychologytoday.com to find the right therapist for you. There are also support groups like Gamblers Anonymous, where you can talk to other people with gambling problems and share experiences.    Gambling can be fun, but it's risky. Please play responsibly.    If there are any other tips or topics you'd like us to cover, let us know at tcupodcast@trianglecu.org. Also, remember to like and follow our Making Money Personal Facebook and Instagram to share your thoughts. Finally, remember to look for our sponsor, Triangle Credit Union, on Facebook and LinkedIn.           Thanks for listening to today's Money Tip Tuesday. Check out our other tips and episodes on the Making Money Personal podcast.

Understanding financial aid and student loans is crucial for anyone planning to fund higher education, whether you're a student, parent or even an educator, having someone available to help you navigate the complexities of funding higher education is essential.   In this episode, we're chatting with Shawn Kithcart-Bulk, Education Funding Specialist at Granite Edvance, about the different types of financial aid available, how to apply for them, and what you need to know about managing your student loans.   Links:  Learn more about Granite Edvance's resources and opportunities Contact Granite Edvance to get in touch with a counselor or other staff Explore Upcoming Events for college planning and funding webinars Check out TCU University for financial education tips and resources! Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter! Learn more about Triangle Credit Union 

Your credit score is an important factor in your financial journey as it represents your potential risk of repaying your loans to lenders and creditors. Your credit score may also impact loan interest rates and term lengths which is why it's crucial to be aware of your credit score and any changes that may occur.  Links: Learn more about the benefits of a Better Checking account Access your better checking benefits through the Better Checking website Check out TCU University for financial education tips and resources!  Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter!  Learn more about Triangle Credit Union Transcript: Welcome to Money Tip Tuesday from the Making Money Personal podcast.  There are five factors to how your credit is scored – payment history, balances owed, age of credit, credit mix, and recent activity. Payment history and balances owed have the largest impact on your score.  Credit score ranges may vary based on the credit bureau's scoring model, however they are similar to:  300-579: Poor  580-669: Fair  670-739: Good  740-799: Very good  800-850: Excellent  The higher your credit score, the better rate you will get and the lower your payment will be. Your credit score can also influence your approval rate for many other things besides loans. It can determine if you get approved for a credit card and how much you get approved for. Property owners look at credit scores to decide who they want to rent to. Insurance premiums can also go up if your credit score is low.   Valuable Insights into Your Credit with Better Checking  Now that you know how your credit score works and why it matters, let's focus on some benefits you get with your Triangle Credit Union Better Checking account.  Credit Score Tracking  Receive valuable insights into your credit score and see your score plotted monthly in a chart so you can easily see your changes over time. Your credit score is analyzed with different factors by TransUnion—total of all account revolving balances, real estate information, oldest account, loan balances, recent account delinquencies, and derogatory payment status.   You can also receive monthly notifications right to your email to easily track your score.  Credit Report  Your personal credit report contains details about your financial behavior and identification information. Each credit reporting agency collects and organizes data about your credit history from your creditors and public records.   Reviewing your credit report allows you to check for mistakes or fraud and it's a good way for you to understand what lenders see when they check your credit history.  Credit File Monitoring  Credit File Monitoring consistently reviews your credit history in order to detect any key changes and verify the accuracy of what is reported.   With IDProtect, you have access to credit file monitoring – your credit report will be checked daily and you will be notified by email when key changes or important activity related to your credit report are detected, such as: credit inquiries, public records, delinquencies, negative information, employment changes, new accounts opened.   Alerts may also be sent directly to your mobile phone via text and can be set up on our dedicated Better Checking website.   In addition to credit score tracking and identity theft protection, your Triangle Credit Union Better Checking account also offers enhanced cell phone protection for up to four phones on your account—up to $400 per claim! Visit our checking account page to learn more and open an account today! 

What do you think has more impact on your financial decisions, your income or your mindset? Would you believe that how you view and think about money matters more than how much money you make? If you're striving for financial success and want some insight into how your thinking impacts your probability of building wealth, then I have a book for you!  Links: The Psychology of Money by Morgan Housel Check out TCU University for financial education tips and resources!  Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter!  Learn more about Triangle Credit Union Transcript: Welcome to Money Tip Tuesday from the Making Money Personal podcast.  Financial education can come from so many places. Lessons can be learned through experience, observing the actions of others, formal education or exploring resources across the internet. For those who like to learn through reading, one financial book you should read is called The Psychology of Money by Morgan Housel.  I really enjoyed this book. I found it really easy to understand and relatable.  This book was written to explain away the notion that only highly intelligent people of great means can be successful and to make specific points on how mindset and behavior impact our ability to build and maintain wealth.   Originally written in 2018 as a short report, the content was later expanded on and published as a book. It's not a long read as Housel's choice was to make book of smaller, shorter points that someone would finish reading than one long one they wouldn't.  The book starts off with lessons from the lives of two men. One who was incredibly wealthy, loved to show it but eventually lost it, and another of a man who didn't appear wealthy but stunned everyone when he left multimillions in inheritance and endowments upon his death. One went broke, the other left a financial legacy. The question these two very different stories raise is “What made the difference in these two people's lives that led to such contrasting outcomes?”  Housel attempts to answer this question in his book when he states, “doing well with money has a little to do with how smart you are and a lot to do with how you behave.”  The goal for readers is that they'll apply the principles outlined in the book, to cultivate a healthier relationship with money, make more informed decisions, and ultimately achieve greater financial stability and peace of mind.  Throughout the book, Housel lists up to 20 points on how our psychology around money affects our behavior, but because I don't have time to go over them all, here are some of the notable points that stood out to me most:  In the book, he mentions how important it is to remember how the decisions people make with their money are tied to their individual experiences with the way the world works. Because those experiences vary widely, such as a child growing up in poverty versus another raised in luxury, the financial behaviors of one would seem completely foreign to the other.  Housel states, “what looks crazy to you might make sense to me. But no one is crazy – we all make decisions based on our own unique experiences that seem to make sense to us in a given moment.” I felt that this point is serves as a good reminder that there should be no expectation that everyone will have the exact same behavior around money, as they're not all influenced by the same experiences. We should be understanding enough to know that poor financial habits or decisions are not due to lack of intelligence, they are more simply due to someone acting on the way they've grown to understand the world.  He addresses what can happen when what you have is never enough. The subtitle to this point is when rich people do crazy things. The whole purpose of this point is to emphasize how important it is to know when you have enough, as greed can drive people to do crazy things, and, as he further illustrates, drive rich people to do crazier things. Housel shares stories of a few wealthy individuals, like Bernie Madoff, whose push to accumulate more wealth led to compromising decisions and ultimately jail sentences. I felt this point was a good reminder of how easy, and dangerous, it can be to fall into this mindset. It's important to recognize the impact and challenges having wealth can have on us like the added pressure from social comparisons, the moving of financial goalposts, and the temptation to take unethical risks in an effort to gain more money. Another point that stood out to me is his assertion that controlling your time is the highest dividend money pays, in other words, seek freedom. For many people, the desire to be wealthy is rooted in the desire to be happy. The book lists some scientific research showing that there's a strong correlation between someone's happiness and their ability to control their own life. He states, “more than your salary. More than the size of your house. More than the prestige of your job. Control over doing what you want, when you want, with the people that you want to, is the broadest variable that makes people happy.” The idea from this point is how important it is to make intentional decisions with your money; decisions that bring you closer to being able to enjoy this freedom. This type of freedom could be anything like having peace during an unexpected job loss, the ability to choose a new job with lower pay but with more flexible hours, or the ability to retire when you want and not when you have to. He shares, “You realize that aligning money towards a life that lets you do what you want, when you want, with who you want, where you want, for as long as you want, has incredible return.” I've chosen to apply this point as a personal ethos in my own life because I believe that investing in financial freedom enables a lifestyle that can sustain new opportunities and the true enjoyment of vocations.  As mentioned previously, there are so many more points in the book about building wealth like the importance of compounding yet how it can be confusing to implement, that others are not as impressed with our possessions as we might be and that real wealth is not always obvious and recognizable. If you're interested in checking them out, get the book. It's worth the read.   To sum it all up, I'll use a final quote from the book, "Financial success is not a hard science. It's a soft skill, where how you behave is more important than what you know." This perspective underscores the book's relevance, highlighting that our actions with money are often driven by emotions, biases, and personal experiences rather than purely rational calculations. By recognizing and addressing these psychological factors, you can better navigate your financial journey and achieve greater financial well-being.  If there are any other tips or topics you would like us to cover, let us know at tcupodcast@trianglecu.org. Like and follow our Making Money Personal FB and IG page and look for our sponsor, Triangle Credit Union on social media to share your thoughts.   Thanks for listening to today's Money Tip Tuesday and check out our other tips and episodes on the Making Money Personal podcast.   Have a great day! 

Buying a car is a big deal. Unless you live in a walkable area, your car is likely the primary method of transportation used to get around. If so, you'll want something reliable as well as affordable. Many factors affect the price of vehicles from inflation, chip shortages, supply chain interruptions, and even the possibility of looming tariffs. At the time of this recording the average new car price is around $48,000 and with a price tag like that, it may be wise to make sure the next car you choose is reliable. But with so many cars to choose from, how do you know which is the best for you? Keep listening to learn what cars should be your next ride.  Links: Check out the Consumer Report for the Most Reliable Cars for 2025 Shop for a new car with Triangle's AutoSmart tool Learn more about Mechanical Repair Coverage Check out TCU University for financial education tips and resources!  Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter!  Learn more about Triangle Credit Union Transcript: Welcome to Money Tip Tuesday from the Making Money Personal podcast.   A good place to start when looking for a reliable vehicle is Consumer Reports. Consumer Reports is a nonprofit organization that unbiasedly tests products with consumers in mind, to educate and inform potential buyers. For this particular report, they asked their members about the variety of car problems they encountered in the past 12 months. As a result, Consumer Reports gathered information on over 300,000 vehicles with model years ranging from 2000 to 2025.   They then looked at problem areas, from minor inconveniences such as squeaky brakes and broken interior trim to major problems like engine or transmission issues. Consumer Reports then used the results to score the reliability of vehicles in all the different areas, with the major problems being weighted more.  According to Consumer Reports' findings, the top 3 most reliable new car brands for 2025 are Subaru, Lexus, and Toyota. On the other side, the bottom 3 unreliable new car brands turned out to be GMC, Cadillac, and Rivian. For those looking to buy a used car, the top 3 most reliable brands are Lexus, Toyota, and Mazda. The bottom 3 unreliable brands are Dodge, Jeep, and Chrysler.   If you were considering getting an electric vehicle, Consumer Reports found that hybrids are the way to go. Results showed they are incredibly fuel efficient and just as reliable as gas powered cars. It was revealed that pure electric vehicles, on the other hand, have 42% more problems than gas-powered and hybrids and plug-in hybrids have 70% more problems than gas-powered and conventional hybrids. For those thinking of purchasing an electric vehicle it's important to consider how much driving you plan on doing. They don't have as far a range as gas-powered and hybrid vehicles, so make sure the infrastructure around you and wherever you plan to travel supports electric vehicles. Remember to check beforehand to see if there are any charging stations near you.  To explore more information and data on this particular report, visit consumerreports.org or check the link in the show notes.  Another great way to determine a car's reliability is to ask a trusted mechanic. They work constantly on cars and know which ones come in the most and what common issues are. Before buying a car, you can take it to a mechanic for an inspection. Similarly, ask friends and family what kind of car they drive, if they like it, and how dependable it is.  Okay, so what if you're considering a car that maybe wasn't on the Consumer Report's top reliable vehicle list. Maybe you've been eyeing that Jeep, Cadillac or Rivian for quite some time now? That's completely fine! Just do your research beforehand, talk to friends and mechanics to make sure you're fully aware of any long-term costs and maintenance associated with your vehicle. Another great way to make sure your car doesn't end up costing you more than you initially planned, is to consider getting Mechanical Repair Coverage, or MRC for short. MRC can help limit unexpected, covered repairs as your vehicle ages, potentially saving you thousands of dollars. Learn more about MRC and how to get it today at Triangle Credit Union. Visit trianglecu.org to check it out!  If there are any other tips or topics you'd like us to cover, let us know at tcupodcast@trianglecu.org. Also, remember to like and follow our Making Money Personal Facebook and Instagram to share your thoughts. Finally, remember to look for our sponsor, Triangle Credit Union, on Facebook and LinkedIn.         Thanks for listening to today's Money Tip Tuesday. Check out our other tips and episodes on the Making Money Personal podcast.    

You want to find that perfect home, but how do you know where to start? The home-buying process can be tricky and confusing. That's why it's essential to understand the right things to consider before you begin the mortgage process.       Links: Find out how much you may qualify to borrow. Get a mortgage pre-approval now! Check out current mortgage rates and other special offers Check out TCU University for financial education tips and resources!  Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter!  Learn more about Triangle Credit Union Transcript:  Welcome to Money Tip Tuesday from the Making Money Personal podcast.     Buying a home is one of the most significant financial decisions ever. It's natural to have concerns and questions about the process, from finding the right house to securing a mortgage. Suppose you're ready for this journey but need help understanding where to start. Here are five things that you should consider before buying a house.    Affordability and Budget The first thing you'll want to know, and perhaps the most important, is how much house you can afford. Housing prices have climbed significantly in certain areas, and mortgage rates aren't as low as a few years ago.    The good news is that rates and prices fluctuate, so they can go down just as they went up.    Get a good idea of a monthly payment you can reasonably afford. One rule of thumb is that your yearly mortgage costs should be around 25% of your annual take-home pay. An affordable monthly payment provides a reasonable margin, so you're not spending too much on housing month over month. Calculate your annual household income, take 25% of that, and divide it by 12. You can then use that rough monthly payment calculation to determine the home price that best fits your budget.    Monthly payments are significant, but they're not the only cost you should know. Before shopping, consider other hidden costs, such as closing fees, property taxes, inspection fees, and the consistent, ongoing maintenance a house requires when calculating affordability. For instance, closing fees can include appraisal fees, title insurance, and attorney fees. Property taxes can vary depending on the property's location and value. Ongoing maintenance can consist of lawn care, repairs, and utilities.      Location and Neighborhood The next thing you'll want to consider is the location of your home.  What kind of neighborhood do you want to live in? What types of conveniences and local attractions would you like to be around? Are you one for solitary, remote locations, or do you like populated urban surroundings?    Explore the local spots and attractions to get an idea of the overall feel of the environment. Also, keep an eye out for planned developments in the area, as those can also affect property values.      Take into consideration any town amenities and services. Some towns provide trash pickup while others don't, which will become an additional expense to budget for. When researching potential buying locations, consider the cost of any further service you may need to pay out of pocket or find a location where those services are available through tax funding and other programs.    Property Condition and Inspection Another important factor to consider is the condition of the property. That home may have a low, attractive price, but it might need a new roof, a new furnace, or have some flooring issues.     First, take some time to ensure the house is structurally solid for safety. Have an inspector check on any plumbing issues, electrical issues, roof condition, etc., because issues involving maintenance and repairs all come with dollar signs. One positive thing to remember when inspecting the property is that sometimes, needed repairs provide an opportunity to negotiate pricing with the seller.    If there are things that need improving, consider whether you're equipped to fix them yourself or willing to pay a professional.  For some, buying a home that needs work is precisely what they're looking for.   Think about whether you're ready to put in some work and make some renovations or opt for a house that's more move-in ready. A clear idea of your intentions will help guide you toward the property you're most comfortable managing.     Understanding the Mortgage Approval Process Review your credit history, as it's a significant factor in determining how much you'll be able to borrow. Lenders use your credit report to determine your creditworthiness and as a benchmark of financial habits. If you recognize your credit isn't as healthy as it should be, think about improving it before applying for a mortgage.      Ensure you make all payments on time, do not max out credit cards, and maintain a healthy debt-to-credit ratio.   Once your credit is in good shape, take some time to get a mortgage pre-approval. Getting pre-approved is a great way to determine how much you can borrow and will provide a reasonable price range for your house hunt.   Loan Types A final thing to consider when buying a home is the mortgage type. There are a variety of mortgage loan types with different terms and rates. Some mortgage options have fixed rates, where the rate doesn't change throughout the life of the loan, while other types are adjustable-rate mortgages, where the rate adjusts periodically throughout the life of the loan. Finding the right loan type depends on how much you can afford for a monthly payment, the size of your downpayment, and how long you plan to be in the home.    If you're unsure what type of mortgage product will work best for your situation, talk to a Triangle Mortgage Loan Officer. They'll review all the aforementioned factors, ask you about your financial situation and goals, and listen to your overall expectations of being a homeowner. As mortgage professionals, they're also very aware of the housing environment and market and can guide you toward other little-known benefits and programs for which you might qualify. Visit trianglecu.org to learn more about Triangle's  mortgage products and contact one of our Mortgage Loan Officers.    If there are any other tips or topics you would like us to cover, let us know at tcupodcast@trianglecu.org. Like and follow our Making Money Personal FB and IG page and look for our sponsor, Triangle Credit Union on social media to share your thoughts.   Thanks for listening to today's Money Tip Tuesday and check out our other tips and episodes on the Making Money Personal podcast.   Have a great day! 

It's important to make good financial decisions, especially as a young adult. If you set yourself up for success while you are younger, you'll thank yourself later in the future. If you're a young adult, here are some tips to get you started.  Links: Explore a variety of financial resources at mycreditunion.gov Learn more about Triangle's financial planning services Check out TCU University for financial education tips and resources!  Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter!  Learn more about financial planning with Triangle's financial planning services  Transcript: Welcome to Money Tip Tuesday from the Making Money Personal podcast.    The first tip we have is to avoid debt as much as you can. This tip might seem obvious, but it is still important. When purchasing something, try to use only your debit card or cash. There are pros and cons to using your credit card. Using a credit card will help you build up credit and many cards offer rewards for using them. However, if you do use your credit card, make sure to pay it off when it's due. Otherwise, you could go deeper into debt, especially if your credit card has a high interest rate.     If you are in college, or thinking about going to college, you need to be strategic about how you pay for it. Scholarships are a great way to lessen the cost of a college education.  Countless organizations, corporations and other entities provide a variety of scholarship options that can be awarded based on merit, need-based, hobbies, religion, ethnicity, and more. To be awarded a scholarship, look online and start applying to ones that you might qualify for and are likely to win. Another way you can save money on college tuition is through work-study programs. This allows students to have a part-time job related to their field of study, with the money going to pay off their tuition.   To make sure you set yourself up for success, you should create a budget. Budgeting involves you looking at your income and deciding where you want your money to go. For example, you will allocate a certain amount to food, housing, debt, savings, entertainment, and whatever else you spend money on. It may seem daunting at first, but when you know the exact amount you have to spend on something, it will make your life a lot easier in the long run.  Similarly, you should consider creating an emergency fund. This fund is money that you set aside in case of an emergency, like the loss of employment, housing displacement, or medical issues. It is typically a good idea to put away enough money to live off of for 6 months.   As a young adult, you should start saving up for retirement now. Consider setting up a Roth 401(k) or a Roth IRA, which allows you to save for your retirement, with no tax on the growth*. You can also see if the company you work for offers any retirement plans. Some companies will match part of how much you put in, which is free money for you.   Investing harnesses the power of compound interest, so the earlier you start saving, the greater your wealth will be when you are ready to retire. Keep in mind that as the amount grows over time you might be tempted to use some of that money. However, it should be noted that there are penalties for early withdrawals so thoroughly research the rules and tax implications regarding the withdrawal of any investment account funds.   Another great way to make good financial decisions is to educate yourself. Read books, listen to podcasts, and watch videos on how to handle your money. Google some of the top-rated financial books for young adults and check out other resources like the articles and tools at mycreditunion.gov. You can also check out triangle's financial literacy content at triangleuniversity.org for webinars, videos and articles that cover a variety of topics. Being educated in finance is a good way to better understand your own personal finances. That way, you can make the best financial decisions for you.  Finally, consider getting a financial planner. Financial professionals can take a deep dive into your finances and using their knowledge can set you up with a plan. If you are looking for a financial planner, Triangle Credit Union has the resources to help you find one. Check out the financial planning page at trianglecu.org for more information.   If there are any other tips or topics you'd like us to cover, let us know at tcupodcast@trianglecu.org. Also, remember to like and follow our Making Money Personal Facebook and Instagram to share your thoughts. Finally, remember to look for our sponsor, Triangle Credit Union, on Facebook and LinkedIn.         Thanks for listening to today's Money Tip Tuesday. Check out our other tips and episodes on the Making Money Personal podcast.    *PLEASE NOTE - investment references are for educational purposes only.   

Saving doesn't have to be boring. If you're looking for an enjoyable way to save money, try a savings challenge. Whether you're planning to build an emergency fund, save for a dream vacation, or develop better money habits, savings challenges can transform your saving journey and set you on a rewarding path to achieve your financial goals.   Links:  Download the Roll-the-Dice Savings Challenge tracker Download the 100 Envelope Savings Challenge tracker Check out TCU University for financial education tips and resources!  Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter!  Learn more about Triangle Credit Union Welcome to Money Tip Tuesday from the Making Money Personal podcast.  Saving money can be overwhelming. You may not know where to begin, how much to save or even HOW to save money. Saving money doesn't need to be stressful and it can actually be fun if you participate in a savings challenge.    Here are 4 savings challenges you can try this year to grow your savings account and improve your financial future.     Roll-the-dice Challenge   Gamifying savings is a great way to turn something that might be stressful or scary into something entertaining and enjoyable!       This challenge is flexible and can be done daily, weekly, or monthly depending on your goals and financial situation.    Simply roll a die and set aside the cash OR transfer that amount to your savings account.    For example, if you roll a 1, save $1; if you roll a 6, save $6, etc.    Looking to save a little more each time? Roll a pair of dice (or one die twice) and save that amount.    Make sure you record your rolls and track your progress on our Roll-The-Dice savings tracker. You can find the link in the show notes and at triangleuniversity.org.    Pause Your Subscriptions Challenge   Streaming services, food delivery services, and product boxes are monthly subscriptions that most American consumers pay for; some people have multiple subscriptions for the same service– for example, some consumers subscribe to both DoorDash's DashPass and Uber Eats' Uber One.    Too often, one signs up for a free trial with the intent to cancel before the free trial ends, only to forget and be charged for the service. If you're not keeping an eye on your finances and tracking all your expenses diligently, it's possible you're paying for subscriptions and not even aware of it.    Take some time to go through all your bank accounts and credit card statements for the past few months and highlight any recurring charges.  Then, analyze the charges and decide which subscriptions could be paused or canceled for a while. Maybe you subscribed to a streaming service to watch one show a few months ago but haven't watched anything on that platform since. Or maybe you've decided to stop getting food delivered anyway so you no longer need those subscriptions.    Pause or cancel any subscription you're not currently using and instead put that money in your savings account or investments. You may even find that after a few months, you don't miss those subscriptions anyway!     Round-Up Challenge   When it comes to savings, no amount is too small. Every penny you can put towards your savings goals adds up! That's why a round-up challenge is perfect for people who are not ready to make large, one-time, contributions to their savings accounts.    Every time you spend, calculate the number of cents it would take to round up to the next dollar, then transfer that much into your savings account. If you're using cash, put the change in a jar at the end of every day.   Rounding up your purchases and setting aside the difference may seem insignificant at the time, however the amounts will quickly add up and you will see how each drop in your savings account helps it grow.      The 100 Envelope Challenge   If you've participated in our other savings challenges, you may be familiar with the 100 Envelope Challenge but since we've seen success with this savings challenge, we decided to include it again.    The challenge is simple: Choose a numbered envelope at random and set aside that amount to save. Once all 100 envelopes have been filled, you'll have $5,050 to either spend or put towards a bigger savings goal you have.     This savings challenge works best when done with cash so it's perfect for cash budgeters!   Here's how it works:     Head to your nearest Dollar Store and buy a pack of envelopes (enough to label them 1-100 individually)    Take the envelopes out of the box and label each envelope with a number (start at 1 until you have labeled all 100 envelopes)    Give the envelopes a shuffle and put them back in the box    When you want to begin this challenge, take an envelope randomly from the box and fill with the appropriate amount (For example: If you pull the envelope labeled “42”, you will fill with $42)    Put the completed envelope in the back of the box behind the empty envelopes or bring that money to the bank and deposit that money into your savings account.      To keep track of all your completed envelopes download and use our 100 Envelope Savings Tracker through the link in the show notes or at triangleuniversity.org.  Now's the time to start savings and try the savings challenge that intrigues you the most!  If there are any other tips or topics you would like us to cover, let us know at tcupodcast@trianglecu.org. Like and follow our Making Money Personal FB and IG page and look for our sponsor, Triangle Credit Union on social media to share your thoughts.   Thanks for listening to today's Money Tip Tuesday and check out our other tips and episodes on the Making Money Personal podcast.   Have a great day! 

We love an amazing alliteration, so it makes sense that we would focus on five financial moves for February. In this episode as we talk about why February is the best month to review your finances and how your plans will impact the rest of your year for financial success.  Links: View our existing videos on budgeting and paying down debt Download the Legacy File Checklist for your legacy drawer Check your credit score and report with the TCU Better Checking App (for Better Checking account holders) Google Play Store Apple App Store Check out TCU University for financial education tips and resources!  Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter!  Learn more about Triangle Credit Union

Artificial Intelligence, commonly known as AI, has permeated our way of life. It feels like every tech corporation is pushing their latest AI tool or feature to help make your life better. Unfortunately, with AI going mostly unchecked, it can easily become a detrimental tool for the wrong people. Deepfakes in particular can be manipulative and dangerous. Here's what you need to know about deepfakes and how to combat them.  Links: Report deepfakes with the Internet Crime Complaint Center Check out TCU University for financial education tips and resources!  Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter!  Learn more about Triangle Credit Union Transcript: Welcome to Money Tip Tuesday from the Making Money Personal podcast.    If you don't already know, deepfakes are videos, images, or audio of someone or something that has been altered by AI. These deepfakes can be used to portray a person doing something that they haven't done and or wouldn't have done. This can easily be a conduit to spread disinformation.  For example, deepfakes can be made of politicians to make it seem like they said something or did something, when in reality it was created by AI. The deepfake can make the politician say something that might be controversial or visually put the politician in a compromising position. This can be devasting to their campaign, especially if people believe it is real.   Similarly, celebrities have been mimicked by deep fakes. Some of it is innocent, such as de-aging an actor for a movie. However, celebrity deepfakes have been used to endorse products or politicians without the celebrity's consent.  You don't have to be famous to be a victim of deepfakes. If scammers can get a recording of your voice, they can make you say whatever they want with AI. They can then call people that you know and talk to them with your voice. Scammers use this technique to then scam your loved ones into thinking you're in some kind of trouble and need money. Similarly to politicians and celebrities, your likeness can be recreated with deepfakes. If someone has images or videos of your face, they can make a deepfake of you doing whatever they want.   Fortunately, there are ways to decrease the likelihood of having a deepfake made of you, or at the very least make it more difficult for scammers to create one of you. Be careful with what you share online and who you share it with. Scammers need images, videos, or audio of you to create a deepfake. The more media they have of you, the easier it is to make a realistic deepfake. Only share your photos and videos with people you trust. If you use social media, limit who can see your posts. You can also watermark your media which makes it harder to make a deepfake and also makes it easier to trace who created it.  If you find deepfake content of yourself or someone you know, report it on the platform it's hosted on. You should also report it to the Internet Crime Complaint Center. If you are the victim of a deepfake, you may want to consult legal counsel and find out what your next steps are.  If there are any other tips or topics you'd like us to cover, let us know at tcupodcast@trianglecu.org. Also, remember to like and follow our Making Money Personal Facebook and Instagram to share your thoughts. Finally, remember to look for our sponsor, Triangle Credit Union, on Facebook and LinkedIn.         Thanks for listening to today's Money Tip Tuesday. Check out our other tips and episodes on the Making Money Personal podcast.    

Valentine's Day is when people show extra love and affection for a special person, but showing your love should not break the bank.  With a little planning ahead and some creativity, you can easily find ways to enjoy this special holiday without blowing the budget. Links: Explore Triangle's Purchase Rewards programs to earn cash back on purchases at over 200 vendors Check out TCU University for financial education tips and resources!  Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter!  Learn more about Triangle Credit Union Transcript: Celebrating holidays is exciting. There's a lot of anticipation to show that special person in your life you care. But, holidays can bring expectations to spend, often for festive food, fun experiences, and special gifts. Valentine's Day is no exception, and like many other holidays, it's important to consider beforehand just how much we're willing to spend.   If you plan to celebrate Valentine's Day this year, here are four ideas to save money while still having a fun and romantic holiday.    1. Celebrate at Home   Avoid the long waits and high cost of a night out and spend the night celebrating at home.    If one of you knows your way around the kitchen, cooking dinner together is a great way to spend quality time together.   If you want a night off from cooking, getting food delivered or picking up food at a local restaurant and bringing it home is another option. However, make sure to order the food ahead of time, as wait times are sure to be longer than usual.   There are also fun but inexpensive activities that you can do at home with your loved one. You can play board games or card games, put together a puzzle, rent a movie you've been dying to see, or even follow a YouTube tutorial for your own paint night. Check out your local dollar stores and discount stores if you need supplies for these activities.      2. Make Your Gifts   Showing your love and appreciation for your special someone on Valentine's Day does not need to involve flashy, expensive gifts that drain your bank account.  Instead, tap into your creativity and make your gifts.   Want to give your significant other a bouquet of flowers? Instead of spending hundreds of dollars at a florist, look up tutorials on putting together a bouquet and then head to your local grocery store or farmers market to pick up the flowers you need. Not only will this cost a fraction of the price, but it will also mean more that you put in extra effort to make your person feel special.   If flowers aren't your thing, consider other DIY kits and ideas, such as a candle-making kit, a photo album or decorated photo frame, a custom playlist with songs that remind you of them, etc.     3. Utilize Gift Cards   According to a Bankrate survey, 47% of adults had at least one unused gift card, store credit, or voucher in 2023, totaling an average of $187 per person. Don't let your gift cards go to waste! Valentine's Day is a great time to use any gift cards you may have lying around from Christmas, birthdays, anniversaries, etc. Even if your gift cards will not cover the full cost of your dinner or activity, it will help reduce the cost and save you some money.      4. Take Advantage of Rewards   Like gift cards, many credit card holders do not use their rewards year after year. Leaving accumulated card rewards unused can feel like throwing away free money.   In some instances, it makes sense to build up your points for a more specific, high-value reward such as a hotel room or flight, but if you don't have any travel plans soon, it might make more sense to redeem your points for something else.  Look at your credit card's rewards center and see what retail stores or restaurants you can redeem your points at.    Credit cards are not the only cards that offer rewards. Your Triangle Credit Union debit card gives you access to Purchase Rewards.  With Purchase Rewards, you have access to special offers from over 200 retailers, unlimited cash back deposited each month for the rewards earned the previous month, and easy access to activate and view your rewards through online and mobile banking.    Don't let Valentine's Day blow your budget. Consider cutting back on costs this year and taking advantage of these low-cost date ideas.    If there are any other tips or topics you would like us to cover, let us know at tcupodcast@trianglecu.org. Like and follow our Making Money Personal FB and IG page and look for our sponsor, Triangle Credit Union on social media to share your thoughts.   Thanks for listening to today's Money Tip Tuesday and check out our other tips and episodes on the Making Money Personal podcast.   Have a great day!   

While falling snow may look pretty, it can also be pretty dangerous for drivers. Winterizing your vehicle is a good precaution as it can save you money on car repairs and help you stay safe while on the road. If you own a car, here are some tips to get it winter-proof if you haven't already. Links: Visit our Auto page to explore current rates and learn more about GAP and MRC coverage for your vehicle Check out TCU University for financial education tips and resources!  Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter!  Learn more about Triangle Credit Union Transcript: Welcome to Money Tip Tuesday from the Making Money Personal podcast.   Roads often become slippery during the winter months. To counteract this, consider putting winter tires on your vehicle. You can use all-season tires during the winter, but when it gets cold, the rubber in these tires hardens, decreasing the grip on the road. Winter tires use a special compound that can resist the cold and won't harden. Winter tires also have better traction in snowy and icy road conditions, which means that they have better acceleration and are better at stopping than all-season tires. However, winter tires can be costly. Winter tires can cost over $600, plus you'll have to pay for the tire-swapping fees unless you do it yourself. A cheap alternative is putting chains on your tires to help with traction.  Regardless of what tires your car has, you'll want to check the tire pressure. Tire pressures drop 1 pound per square inch, or PSI for short, every 10 degrees Fahrenheit. You can check the correct tire pressure for your car in the manual or on the car door jamb. Another way to get your car winter-ready is to have the battery tested. Your car battery is essential for starting your car. Colder temperatures can affect the chemicals in the battery, which may result in a car having trouble starting or not starting at all. Consider buying a portable jump starter for your vehicle in case your car doesn't start due to low temperatures. Next, you'll want to make sure you have good visibility while driving. Check your windshield wipers to see if they are working properly, and don't leave smudge marks on your windshield. Fill up your windshield wiper fluid too. You can also get a hydrophobic repellant to add to your windshield, making scraping ice and snow off your car windows easier. Headlights are another thing to consider when winterizing your car. Snow can cause limited visibility when driving, but having a good set of headlights can help you see better, especially during the dark hours of winter. If you've noticed that your headlights aren't as bright as they used to be, you should get a headlight restoration kit or replace them altogether.  You should have a winter emergency kit in your car. If you get stranded with your vehicle, this kit will help you get back on your drive or at least keep you comfortable while waiting for help to arrive. In this kit, you should include a snow shovel, a snow broom, an ice scraper, a portable jump starter, warm clothing, including hats and gloves, blankets, a first-aid kit, a basic tool kit, traction mats, and flashlights.  If you're considering buying a car that's more suitable for winter, look for one that has 4-wheel drive or all-wheel drive instead of front-wheel drive. Vehicles with 4-wheel drive and all-wheel drive provide better traction on icy roads than front-wheel drive vehicles.  If you decide to buy a more winter-proof car, Triangle Credit Union offers auto loans tailored to fit your ride. If you get into an accident, Guaranteed Asset Coverage, or GAP coverage, is designed to reduce or eliminate the difference between the insurance settlement and the loan balance. This protects you from owing more than the vehicle is worth. Mechanical Repair Coverage, or MRC, can help limit unexpected, covered repairs as your vehicle ages, potentially saving you thousands of dollars.  If you're interested in either one of these coverages, contact the credit union or visit your local branch to learn more. If there are any other tips or topics you'd like us to cover, let us know at tcupodcast@trianglecu.org. Also, remember to like and follow our Making Money Personal Facebook and Instagram to share your thoughts. Finally, remember to look for our sponsor, Triangle Credit Union, on Facebook and LinkedIn.        Thanks for listening to today's Money Tip Tuesday. Check out our other tips and episodes on the Making Money Personal podcast.   

Maintaining digital security is vital, whether you're an individual using your computer or phone or a business using organized networks and complex systems. The sad reality is that threats exist across the vast digital environment that every one of us should be taking steps to avoid. In this episode, we're chatting with Chris Conway, owner of CEJ technologies, and security expert, about the many dangers cyber threats impose on all digital users and what kinds of systems and safeguards we can incorporate to protect ourselves and our devices.  Links: Learn more about CEJ Technologies: 395 Daniel Webster Highway, Merrimack, NH CEJ Technologies Contact Chris or his team at: 603-424-3117 Check out TCU University for financial education tips and resources!  Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter!  Learn more about Triangle Credit Union  

It's national data privacy day! What better day to focus your attention on keeping your data secure than now. Take a couple of moments today and throughout the week to evaluate and safeguard your identity so you can effectively protect yourself from current or future threats.   Links: Check out resources from the National Cybersecurity Alliance and the Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency  Learn more about the features and benefits of a Better Checking Account with IDProtect Register or log into our Better Checking portal to access the credit score tracker, credit report and other account benefits Transcript:  Welcome to Money Tip Tuesday from the Making Money Personal podcast.   One of the most important things you can do for yourself is to take identity and privacy threats seriously. There are new breaches occurring every day that choosing to not take steps for proper security could be costly. It's critical to put guards in place before any threat arises.   If you use digital services, tools and technology, National Privacy Day, and Week, is a great time to assess your existing security protocols and determine whether you're adequately protected.   With fraud threats everywhere, it's important to remember to stay on top of current scams to keep your privacy secure. Familiarize yourself with common tactics scammers use to trick you as well as stay abreast of new tactics arising. Check out the National Cybersecurity Alliance at Stay Safe Online for up to date information and resources about proper cyber protection. You can also explore resources and tools from the Cyber Security and Infrastructure Security Agency at CISA.gov.   Other, more active steps to take involve reviewing your current situation and identifying any areas where security could be improved.   Ensure all account passwords are secure, that you have proper PIN or biometric authentication on all devices and that all have been maintained with the most recent updates.   Monitor all your credit and credit card information. Make sure you're paying attention to all your credit cards and have sufficient access to card controls to easily turn them off if they're lost or stolen. Set up notifications for immediate awareness any time your cards are used. Receiving a simple message on card usage gives you the ability to act immediately if a suspicious charge occurs.   Keep an eye on your credit score for any inconsistencies or anomalies. Familiarize yourself by checking your score and viewing your current credit report. Your credit report will list out all your open credit lines, loans and other information like credit inquiries, payment history and other personal data regarding your credit activity. Look over the report to ensure all the activity is legitimate and accurate.  Finally, consider identity theft protection. Having identity theft protection offers benefits that help prevent fraud as well as cover you in case fraud occurs. These services monitor data bases and the dark web for sensitive information that way if any issue arises, you can act swiftly to resolve any issues. They also offer expense reimbursement, case managers and recovery assistance to help all throughout the recovery process.   With a Triangle Better Checking account you can get affordable access to amazing identity theft protection benefits for a small monthly fee of $4.99. With this one account you'll gain access to identity theft monitoring, reimbursement coverage, a credit score tracker, credit reporting, card registration as well as reimbursement coverage and full service identity recovery with a case manager if you ever become a victim. To learn more about the benefits and for further account information, visit trianglecu.org.  If you already have a Better Checking account you're already enrolled in the protection service but to access the other great benefits register at betterchecking.trianglecu.org to get started there.   If keeping your identity and sensitive information is high on your priority list, take some time today or throughout the week to set up additional protections for your devices and identity.  If there are any other tips or topics you would like us to cover, let us know at tcupodcast@trianglecu.org. Like and follow our Making Money Personal FB and IG page and look for our sponsor, Triangle Credit Union on social media to share your thoughts.   Thanks for listening to today's Money Tip Tuesday and check out our other tips and episodes on the Making Money Personal podcast.   Have a great day! 

It's a new year, and for many, that means new year's resolutions. One of the most common resolutions is to get physically fit and healthy by working out. Another common resolution is to save money and take control of your finances. In this tip, get ready to learn how to become financially fit.   Links: Financial Wellness Experience assessment Check out TCU University for financial education tips and resources!  Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter!  Learn more about Triangle Credit Union Transcript: Welcome to Money Tip Tuesday from the Making Money Personal podcast.   The first thing you should do to become financially fit is assess your overall financial objectives. What is your current lifestyle like, and what would you like it to be? How much money does that cost? Take everything into account, from eating out to vacations. This will help layout a financial road map to follow as you set strategic goals along the way.  Next, while assessing your finances, compare your monthly expenses to your monthly income. Do you have money left over to save? If not, take a look at what you can cut from your expenses. To make it easier, create a budget that you can stick to. That way, you know exactly where your paycheck is going and what you can spend and what you can save. Not having enough money coming in to cover monthly expenses should be an obvious sign that your money needs closer management.   Just like physical fitness, financial fitness takes discipline. Achieving success won't happen without planning or effort. For example, if your assessment reveals overwhelming debt, becoming financially fitter means it's probably time to lower that debt. Through planning and discipline, take incremental steps to pay off the debts you've been carrying. Establish a payoff plan to either pay off the loans with lowest balances first or those with the highest interest rates first. If you can, pay more than the minimum amount owed monthly. Change your spending habits to stay on track. Don't borrow money if you won't be able to pay it off. Save the money you do have so you can buy the big-ticket items you want. Use loans for purchases that will increase in value, like real estate.    Saving your money is the next step in your financial fitness plan. If your assessment reveals lack of savings, either for short term like emergencies, or long term for retirement, plan to increase savings contributions. Create an emergency fund; that way, if something happens, you aren't scrambling to come up with funds. Seek out interest bearing savings accounts that are easy to access for effortless, automatic contributions. It's also important to save money for your retirement. The earlier you start saving, the better so make an effort to explore retirement plan options and once it's set up, regularly contribute to it.   Becoming financially fit might seem daunting at first, but don't worry, there are tons of resources to help you! If this is the year you're excited to change your financial future, the simplest way to start is to take a financial assessment. Triangle Credit Union offers a fast and free assessment tool that'll provide a snapshot of your current financial status and provides suggestions and assistance from our financial planning services. It takes less than 8 minutes, so check it out today!  If there are any other tips or topics you'd like us to cover, let us know at tcupodcast@trianglecu.org. Also, remember to like and follow our Making Money Personal Facebook and Instagram to share your thoughts. Finally, remember to look for our sponsor, Triangle Credit Union, on Facebook and LinkedIn.         Thanks for listening to today's Money Tip Tuesday. Check out our other tips and episodes on the Making Money Personal podcast.       

Building a financially free life is a journey that takes time, dedication, and, most importantly, financial education. Understanding your finances is a crucial step towards a secure future. It's not just about learning the lessons but also about putting them into practice. Taking a proactive approach to financial literacy is one of the most important decisions you can make for your life and future.   Links: Financial Books to explore: The Psychology of Money, The Millionaire Next Door, & The Richest Man in Babylon Explore the TCU University course catalog for educational webinar videos Check out TCU University for financial education tips and resources!  Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter!  Learn more about Triangle Credit Union Transcript: Welcome to Money Tip Tuesday from the Making Money Personal podcast.    Education is a powerful tool that empowers us to make significant changes in our lives. As Benjamin Franklin wisely said, "An investment in knowledge pays the best interest." When it comes to financial knowledge, the interest you gain is not just figurative; it's a real sense of control and confidence over your financial future. This empowerment is the key to unlocking your financial potential.    If you're ready to level up your financial game, there's a reliable way to get started. It's all about actively learning about money and finance; the good news is that anyone can do it.    Here are a few ways to get proactive about your financial education this year.   Read or listen to finance books. Various books have been published over the years that offer excellent financial advice and strategy. Plus, more are published every day. A simple Google search will bring up long lists of top financial books that could change your life. Start with one, but don't stop there. With finance books, the more you read, the better. Different authors provide all kinds of insights and experiences they weave into their financial philosophy, so the more exposure you get to various points of view and perspectives, the more you'll learn from a bigger pool of knowledge and will be more likely to strategize and build a customized plan for your specific financial situation. Some of my personal favorites are The Psychology of Money, The Millionaire Next Door and the Richest Man in Babylon. Take online courses or in-person workshops. Books are great for building knowledge, but online courses and live workshops provide carefully developed activities and worksheets to help you practice hands-on action plans. They also offer opportunities to engage with a teacher or professor who can answer questions and guide your situation. Explore Triangle's Financial Literacy course catalog for free webinars you can watch on your own time. We cover topics like getting out of debt, budgeting, preparing for an auto purchase, and buying your first home. We will continue to add new lessons, so check TCU University for regular updates.   Practice is key to financial learning. As the saying goes, practice makes perfect. But if, at first, you don't succeed, try, try again. You can read all the books and take all the courses, but all that knowledge won't work if you don't implement it. This is where the rubber meets the road. If you've been holding back from getting active with your finances, now's the time to jump in. We learn some of our best lessons through experience. You won't know everything when you start, and that's okay. Taking action is part of the learning process. Try out the lessons you've learned and test the theories you've read about by applying them in your own life. Get that budget together and work it out. You've got this!   Here are a couple of extra tips for those interested in putting their financial education and knowledge into practice.  First, it means paying attention to your money. Check it often. Give it the attention it needs. Know how much money you have in your accounts, credit balances, debt balances, credit score, and net worth (the total value of your assets minus your liabilities). Know how much money you bring in monthly and how much you spend on groceries.  Second, do the math and do it often. Get really familiar with a calculator. Use your phone or computer to calculate important balances to stay on track. Calculate how much you'll have in your accounts once you pay a bill, and do the math on how much more you will save if you increase your retirement contributions by 1%. Get familiar with calculating interest rates and payment amounts so you know exactly how much you'll pay over a year. If there's a number you don't know pertaining to your finances, find it out. You'll always be better off knowing more about your money than not knowing enough.    Third, explore and use financial tools to your advantage. Financial institutions invest a lot of time and money into providing easy and available tools to help you organize, manage, and track your money. Your bank likely already offers tools like budgeting apps, automated bill payments, and credit score trackers to help you set and track goals, automate payments, and provide alerts that keep you in the know. All you have to do is use them. Explore the interfaces and features and get familiar with how they work. You may discover they'll save you time and empower you to advance farther than you initially thought possible.   If there are any other tips or topics, you'd like us to cover, let us know at tcupodcast@trianglecu.org.  Like and follow our Making Money Personal FB and IG page and look for our sponsor, Triangle Credit Union on social media to share your thoughts.   Thanks for listening to today's Money Tip Tuesday and check out our other tips and episodes on the Making Money Personal podcast.   Have a great day! 

It's a new year and many of us are looking forward to all the new changes they hope to make over the next 12 months. Common resolutions involve taking steps to improve health, upgrade skills, or achieve something new.  Another important resolution to include in your plan is to improve financial health. In this tip I'll share a few financial resolutions to consider for a financially successful 2025.  Links: Explore debt management articles on TCU University and our Pay off Debt webinar on YouTube Us our Money Management tool in online banking to set savings and debt payoff goals Learn more about our Goal Builder tool and how to use it for setting savings goals. View overview. Check out our Budgeting 101 workshop on YouTube or explore upcoming live financial literacy events Explore the benefits of a Better Checking account including a credit score tracker and report Explore our Financial Planning Services to get started with investing, estate planning, social security help and more Check out TCU University for more financial education tips and resources!  Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter!  Learn more about Triangle Credit Union Transcript: Welcome to Money Tip Tuesday from the Making Money Personal podcast.   As the new year begins, it's the perfect time to reflect on your financial habits and set new goals. Creating financial resolutions can be a powerful way to take control of your finances, reduce stress, and build a more secure future. Whether it's saving more, reducing debt, or investing wisely, setting clear and achievable financial resolutions can help you stay focused and motivated throughout the year. By making thoughtful financial decisions now, you can pave the way for a prosperous and financially stable future.  Here are a few popular financial resolutions to consider for the new year.  Resolution 1: Pay Off Debt: Think about making this the year to finally work to lower or even eliminate debt.  If paying off all your debt over the year isn't that doable, set a number on how much you want to pay off instead like “I want to decrease my debt by $10,000 this year” or “I finally want to pay off a certain credit card debt”. Setting this specific goal makes it easier to stay focused and motivated throughout the year as you can track your progress through to completion. If you're unsure where to begin, explore some of our debt resources like videos on YouTube, articles on Triangle University or even attend one of our free webinars to establish your debt payoff plan.   Resolution 2: Saving More Money: Many people admit they need to save more, but often fail or seriously miss the mark because they never took action on how to do it in the first place. To get started with this resolution, choose a set dollar amount from every paycheck and deposit it into a savings account as soon as you get your check. Prioritize your saving as the first thing you do whenever you get paid, then work out the rest of your expense items from there. If you have direct deposit, set it up so a portion of your check is automatically deposited into a savings account. This is an easy and effortless way to save because you won't have to manually transfer the money yourself. Additionally, for anyone saving for a specific goal like a car, emergency savings, vacation, or home downpayment, use Triangle's Goal Builder tool in online and mobile banking to automatically allocate money from your savings account towards that specific financial goal.  Resolution 3: Creating and Sticking to a Budget: Many of us know we need to budget. Make it a priority to set up a budget and work according to it throughout the year. Using a budget helps with income and expense management by giving you the power to determine exactly where your money goes every time it comes in. If you're new to budgeting, there are many tools available to help you get started. Check out some books or explore online lessons like our Budgeting 101 workshop available to watch on YouTube or occasionally as a webinar you can attend. These tools will help you understand the process of budgeting and provide hands-on activities to get you started right away.     Resolution 4: Improving Credit Score: If you're unhappy with your credit score, set a resolution to improve it this year. Because a credit score impacts your ability to borrow and also determines which interest rate you'll get, having a higher credit score is a noble goal to pursue. If your score is lower than you'd like, take proactive steps and lay out a plan over the year to improve it. Be diligent with all your payments by consistently paying them all on time. For those who struggle with this, set up auto payments if possible, to help automate the process and avoid any missed payments that can affect your score. In addition, use a credit monitoring tool. Some credit cards offer complimentary credit reporting so get familiar with the platform and get used to checking your score. For those with a Triangle Better Checking account, you can access your credit score and report using the Better Checking ID Protect service.    Resolution 5: Investing Wisely: Make this the year you finally start investing. If you're not on this path yet, investing is an important part of building a healthy financial future. For those a little intimidated by the world of investing, don't feel like you have to figure it all out on your own. There are many resources and professionals available to help you determine important investing factors like risk tolerance, projected retirement dates, investment sectors and more. If you're interested in getting started with investing in 2025, check out triangle's financial planning services for retirement and estate planning services, as well as insurance and social security planning. Visit trianglecu.org to get in touch with one of our financial professionals or to learn more.    If there are any other tips or topics, you'd like us to cover, let us know at tcupodcast@trianglecu.org.  Like and follow our Making Money Personal FB and IG page and look for our sponsor, Triangle Credit Union on social media to share your thoughts.   Thanks for listening to today's Money Tip Tuesday and check out our other tips and episodes on the Making Money Personal podcast.   Have a great day and a happy new year! 

This is a hectic time of year, and with all the activities and events occupying our attention, it can be difficult to plan for all the possibilities life might throw at us. When it comes to your vehicle, there are a lot of things to prepare for, especially when winter weather takes an unpredictable turn.   Links: Learn more about GAP benefits and check out our Auto Refinance promotional rates! Check out TCU University for more financial education tips and resources!  Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter!  Learn more about Triangle Credit Union Transcript: Welcome to Money Tip Tuesday from the Making Money Personal podcast.   Nearly 70% of the United States population lives in regions that experience winter weather. The roads can get icy, snow impacts visibility, and drivers slow down on the highways—all these factors impact travel and increase crash risks.   Even if you've lived in these regions for a while or your whole life, there are steps you should still take to prepare yourself and your car for winter weather.    Check Lighting In addition to snow impacting visibility during winter, visibility is limited because the days are shorter. For your safety and the safety of others on the road, check your headlights, taillights, and turn signals to ensure all are working properly. If any bulbs are dull and/or require replacement, this is the perfect time to do that.  Install Winter Tires All tires are not created equal! If your vehicle has standard tires, they might not have the tread to handle snow and ice. Snow tires offer better traction during inclement weather than all-season tires. While vehicles with all-wheel drive are better in snowy conditions, snow tires on front-wheel-drive cars can be similar or more effective.    GAP Coverage Guaranteed Asset Protection (GAP) is optional auto coverage that pays the difference between your car's value and the remaining balance on your loan if it is totaled in an accident or stolen.   According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, 24% of weather-related accidents occur on snowy or icy roads. With winter weather making road conditions dangerous, GAP keeps you secure if something were to happen.  How does GAP coverage work?   Let's say you have $15,000 left on your auto loan, but your car is only valued at $10,000. The difference in value means if something happened to your car, such as an accident that totals your vehicle, you would pay $5,000. With GAP coverage, this cost is reduced or eliminated, which means that instead of worrying about having to pay off the rest of the loan before getting a new car, you can focus on finding the right deal and auto loan rate.       These three steps will help you protect yourself and your vehicle this winter. Looking to refinance your current auto loan so you can start the new year with a lower rate? Triangle Credit Union has a limited-time special for auto refinancing. Learn more and apply today!  If there are any other tips or topics, you'd like us to cover, let us know at tcupodcast@trianglecu.org.  Like and follow our Making Money Personal FB and IG page and look for our sponsor, Triangle Credit Union on social media to share your thoughts.   Thanks for listening to today's Money Tip Tuesday and be sure to check out our other tips and episodes on the Making Money Personal podcast.   Have a great day! 

As the year winds to a close and we shift our attention to the new year that's about to begin, the next few weeks may be the right time to assess our existing financial situations and consider what new plans we'd like to implement for the following year. For many Americans, one of those plans could be to finally get debt-free.   Links: For a more visual explanation of the debt snowball method watch this short debt snowball explainer video on YouTube Watch our Pay Off Debt: Your Path to Financial Freedom webinar  Check out TCU University for more financial education tips and resources!  Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter!  Learn more about Triangle Credit Union Transcript: Welcome to Money Tip Tuesday from the Making Money Personal podcast.   Getting out of debt is a noble goal, one worth pushing towards. If you're feeling the burden of debt, one very effective method can help you pay down that debt and reach financial success. But when it comes to this venture, where does one start? How do you know the plan will be a success? That's what this debt snowball method is for.    In this tip, I'll explain the debt snowball, how to use it to eliminate debt, and share a few additional thoughts to keep in mind while following the plan.   One of the biggest challenges many people face when paying down multiple debts is determining which debts take priority. Do you pay off the oldest debt first? The largest debt first? A certain type of debt first? This often paralyzing decision can make it hard to advance toward the goal. Juggling different bills with varying balances can be tricky to organize, so you need a solid and practical plan to focus on and eventually eliminate debt.    That's where this plan comes in. The debt snowball works by organizing your payoff plan to pay down your lowest debt first, then using that freed-up cash to put towards the next largest balance, and so on.    Start by putting all your debts in order by total balance from smallest to largest. Then focus on making larger payments to the smallest debt while making only the minimum payments on the other ones.   For example: If you have three debt balances, one for $3,000, one for $8,000, and one for $10,000, focus on paying more towards the 3K one and pay just the minimums for the 8k and 10k ones. Keep paying your bills this way until that lowest debt is completely paid off.   With one debt gone and out of the way, take all the money you were paying towards it and now put it towards the $8k one, continuing to pay the minimums on that $10k debt.    Keep doing this until the 8K bill is gone.  Then, put all that freed-up cash from both eliminated debts towards that last 10k debt.    The effectiveness of this strategy is that it increasingly builds your cash contributions towards debt every time one balance is paid. So, by the time you're on that last debt, you're shoveling money at that balance, and it will decrease at a more rapid pace.  For anyone prepping to give this a go, here are a few things to keep in mind when you work your own debt snowball:   This plan works best with a budget. Your debt snowball method won't work if you don't budget. The budget provides a framework that distributes your income in a specific manner. To pay off debt, you need to know how much money you have coming in and going out. It'll also help you determine how much to allocate toward each balance as you build your snowball, putting every free dollar toward your debt.  Get organized and stay organized. Even though you have a budget, keeping all your information organized is essential. Set up dedicated folders in your email for electronic bills or statements, so you know exactly where to go to see them. If you get paper bills, store them in a dedicated folder or envelope so they don't get lost. Also, create a spreadsheet or use a debt payoff app to keep all your balances logged and up to date. It'll also allow you to watch each bill as it gets paid down and eventually eliminated.  Keep your focus with visual reminders. Find a way to keep your goal top of mind. Some people write it on an index card and leave it by a mirror or on a fridge so they'll see it every day. Keep one in your car or on your phone as a constant reminder that you're working towards something important.   Celebrate the small wins. The journey isn't any fun when you can't enjoy the process. When you pay off a debt, celebrate the victory. Find a way to treat yourself for your hard work and accomplishments. Just make sure to keep it within budget.    Be patient. A system like this doesn't work immediately. It takes time and diligence to get rolling. Keep a steady pace and understand that with some time, patience and perseverance you'll reach your goal and look back on the long journey that brought you there.    For a deeper explanation of paying down debt and a visual walkthrough of the debt snowball method, check out our Paying Down Debt webinar and our Debt Snowball Method video clip on our YouTube channel.    If there are any other tips or topics you'd like us to cover, let us know at tcupodcast@trianglecu.org, and don't forget to like and follow our Making Money Personal FB page and look for our sponsor, Triangle Credit Union, on Instagram and LinkedIn to share your thoughts.    Thanks for listening to today's Money Tip Tuesday. Check out our other tips and episodes on the Making Money Personal podcast.    Have a great day! 

Local credit unions offer amazing benefits that can help us save money and time every day. In this episode, we'll be discussing a few of those benefits you might not be aware of, but they could make a world of a difference in your money management strategies, your savings and your financial future.  Links: Learn more about our Purchase Rewards program Shop for a new car with our AutoSmart tool Find shared branching locations and fee-free ATMs with our ATM locator Check out TCU University for more financial education tips and resources!  Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter!  Learn more about Triangle Credit Union

The holidays are coming up very soon, and it's time to get in a festive mood! If you're on a budget but still want to get into the holiday spirit, here are some activities you can do.   Links: Watch free movies (with ads) on Tubi & Freevee Learn more about VolunteerMatch Check out TCU University for more financial education tips and resources!  Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter!  Learn more about Triangle Credit Union Transcript: Welcome to Money Tip Tuesday from the Making Money Personal podcast.       Watching festive movies is a great way to get into the holiday spirit. Set up a movie night with friends and family and watch your favorite holiday classics or find a new favorite! Movies are a great way to celebrate the holidays on a budget, as they are relatively cheap, or even free. Streaming services like Tubi or Freevee have a large selection of holiday movies that you can watch free with ads.    Another great way to celebrate the holidays on a budget is to bake and decorate cookies. Buying all the ingredients you need at a store is relatively cheap. If you hesitate to do this because you're not good at baking, you can also buy plain cookies and decorate them yourself. Make it an event and invite your loved ones to help decorate the baked goods with you. Similarly, you can buy gingerbread house kits to decorate and display around the house.   You can also explore other fun ways to decorate your home for the season. String up colorful lights or some garland inside and out. You can purchase affordable decorations at a budget store or make some on your own. Find templates and patterns for paper snowflakes, fabric decorations, paper chains and other types of homemade decor. If you don't have the space for a tree in your house, take some time and decorate a tree outside and if there's snow on the ground, make a snowman with a fun outfit to add to the festivities.   If you're in need of some inspiration take some time to see how other people are decorating for the holidays. Get in your vehicle and go for a drive around neighborhoods at night. Lots of people put up holiday decorations outside for people to look at, and sometimes you can find holiday "tours" online that show which neighborhoods go all out on their decorating. If you're feeling brave, knock on some doors in your local neighborhood to sing a few holiday carols.   You can also get into the holiday spirit by volunteering. Show goodwill to others this season by helping. Visit VolunteerMatch.com for a list of organizations near you that are in need of volunteers. Look for a cause you're passionate about and start helping!   However you celebrate, there are many ways to get into a festive mood, even on a budget. Let us know how you like to celebrate the holidays, and if you have any special traditions that you love to do!    If there are any other tips or topics you'd like us to cover, let us know at tcupodcast@trianglecu.org. Also, remember to like and follow our Making Money Personal Facebook and Instagram to share your thoughts. Finally, remember to look for our sponsor, Triangle Credit Union, on Facebook and LinkedIn.        Thanks for listening to today's Money Tip Tuesday. Check out our other tips and episodes on the Making Money Personal podcast.       

Finding the perfect gift for those on your list can sometimes be puzzling. If you're racking your brain looking for a gift for someone, and you want that gift to be of good use and value, consider the benefits of a simple financial gift instead.   Links: Start them early with one of our youth accounts! Check out Triangle's Financial Planning Services Check out TCU University for more financial education tips and resources!  Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter!  Learn more about Triangle Credit Union Transcript: Welcome to Money Tip Tuesday from the Making Money Personal podcast.    Finding the right gifts for our loved ones can be challenging.    For many, choosing the right gift can be difficult because you want to make sure whatever you select for the person is something they can use and like.    One great gift that most anyone can use is money. If you're at a loss for a gift idea this year, there are some awesome financial gift ideas for many different ages that can be both useful and appreciated.    For the young ones in your life:   Don't overlook the simplicity of giving cash or gift cards. If you want to make it fun for littles, give them a couple of fives or a bunch of ones. Maybe throw in a cute piggy bank or a new wallet for those a little older. Gift cards work great if you would rather give something a little more personal. Select some gift cards to places that provide them opportunities for fun memories that'll last.    Fund an account like a savings account or a Flex CD. Starting a savings account helps them build savings habits, and a Flexible CD gives them the benefit of an interest-bearing account that compounds over time.    Set aside money for college with a 529 plan. Start building an account that they can use toward college and college-related expenses. The earlier they get started, the better.   Financial gifts for adults might be a little more tricky since there's a chance that most already have established banking relationships and funding. But there are still options for the adults in your life:    You can gift them money for a celebration or special event. If they're planning an upcoming event like a vacation, birthday party, or wedding, consider offering cash towards the special event as a holiday gift.   Consider offering money towards their financial needs – If you know your friend or family member is working to pay down student debt, medical expenses, or saving for a home downpayment, it might be a nice gesture to offer some funds towards those needs.  Consider giving investment assets as financial gifts. Stocks, bonds, or other investment assets might be good gifts for those who value building wealth. Because of regulations and rules surrounding gifts like these, research beforehand and even talk to a financial professional or accountant. But it can be an excellent idea for those interested in giving something that will grow in value over time and contribute to their net worth.    You could give the gift of a financial plan. If you know someone starting out in life or trying to organize their finances, you can offer to cover the cost to meet with a financial planning professional as a gift. Sometimes, people intend to connect with a financial planner, but because of schedule conflicts, financial constraints, or other reasons, they haven't been able to complete the effort. Giving the gift of a financial plan to a loved one might be the first step they needed to build a bright financial future.  In summary, this time of year, considering financial gifts for friends and family could be an excellent way to provide a quality gift that will continue to pay into the future.  For any advice or assistance needed in getting started with giving any of the gifts mentioned in this tip, feel free to contact the credit union staff or consult our financial planning professionals at trianglecu.org   If there are any other tips or topics, you'd like us to cover, let us know at tcupodcast@trianglecu.org.  Like and follow our Making Money Personal FB and IG page and look for our sponsor, Triangle Credit Union on social media to share your thoughts.   Thanks for listening to today's Money Tip Tuesday and be sure to check out our other tips and episodes on the Making Money Personal podcast.   Have a great day! 

While this time of year has us rushing around and planning for all the festivities and activities of the season, it's also an important time to take a step back and recognize the fundamental purpose of the season in the first place – the practice of generosity.   Links: Learn more about the mission at givingtuesday.org Check out some tips and ideas on how to participate Check out TCU University for more financial education tips and resources!  Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter!  Learn more about Triangle Credit Union Transcript: Welcome to Money Tip Tuesday from the Making Money Personal podcast.   We've passed through the hectic Black Friday and Cyber Monday shopping to come out on the other side to the official launch of the Christmas season.   With all the attention we give to finding deals, preparing parties, planning travel and signing Christmas cards, it's helpful to remember that the heart of the season lies deeper than just the parties and the shopping- it's about giving.   For those who may be unaware, today is Giving Tuesday. Officially established back in 2012, it was intended to ignite a movement reminding all of us to take some time to serve others and our communities through volunteerism or financial means.   The website givingtuesday.org states boldly that the overall purpose of the movement is to “Unleash the power of radical generosity around the world.”  I don't know about you, but that sounds like a movement I can get behind.  Since its creation, the movement has gained international traction. Every year, people and organizations unite across the globe from India, Africa, Europe, and more to recognize the importance of serving others through giving.   So the question some may have is, “what's the best way to give?”  The good news is that there are no requirements. Participation counts in whatever way you choose to give back.  Try a random act of kindness like complimenting a stranger, carrying someone's groceries, leaving positive notes for someone to find or pick up litter on a walk.   You can participate through financial generosity like paying for the next person in line, rounding up your purchase to donate to a charity, collecting goods for a soup kitchen or buying presents for children in need.   Volunteerism is another great way to participate like serving others at a shelter or soup kitchen, walking dogs at a shelter, or reading to kids at a local school or daycare.   If you're interested in participating this year, check out givingtuesday.org for a list of ideas on how to join in the mission. The site also offers a variety of giving tools and other inspiring resources to ramp up the Giving Tuesday energy.   For many of us, the holidays are so busy, and rapidly speed by so when they're finally over, we sadly realize we missed some beautiful opportunities to share in the glorious practice of generosity touching the many around us who could benefit most this season.   For those familiar with the famous Charles Dicken's story, A Christmas Carol, here's a relevant scene from the story about the importance of generosity.   Quick backstory: Scrooge, stunned by Jacob Marley's ghost wrapped in chains, is baffled that a man so successful in life could be so burdened afterwards. The quote goes:   “But you were always a good man of business, Jacob,' faltered Scrooge, who now began to apply this to himself.  Business!' cried the Ghost, wringing its hands again. "Mankind was my business; charity, mercy, forbearance, and benevolence, were, all, my business. The deals of my trade were but a drop of water in the comprehensive ocean of my business!”  When we reflect on the significance of this season and the true need of the many people around us, this day, Giving Tuesday, serves as reminder that our real business on earth is to give and share with those around us who are in need.   Participating in Giving Tuesday is a great way to practice generosity and share in the joy of helping others.   If there are any other tips or topics, you'd like us to cover, let us know at tcupodcast@trianglecu.org.  Like and follow our Making Money Personal FB and IG page and look for our sponsor, Triangle Credit Union on social media to share your thoughts.   Thanks for listening to today's Money Tip Tuesday and be sure to check out our other tips and episodes on the Making Money Personal podcast.   Have a great day! 

Black Friday is coming soon and is the perfect time to get your shopping done for the holidays. Many deals are happening in-store and online that it's easy to get caught up in the chaos so beware because there are some common mistakes to avoid while shopping during Black Friday.  Links: Check out TCU University for more financial education tips and resources!  Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter!  Learn more about Triangle Credit Union Transcript: Welcome to Money Tip Tuesday from the Making Money Personal podcast.      Before you even go into a store or visit any website online, you should devise a plan for your shopping spree. One big mistake that many people make is going shopping without a plan. They often will overspend, buy things they don't need, and miss out on some deals. When putting together a plan, start by setting a budget for yourself so you don't overspend. With all of the deals happening on Black Friday, it's common for people to spend more than they meant to. Come up with an amount or at least a range of how much you are comfortable spending.    As part of your plan, it's also important to make a list of potential items you'd like to buy. Then, before you go shopping, look up deals for items on your list. This gives you the chance to compare deals between different retailers and figure out what works best for you.   A second common mistake people make while Black Friday shopping is thinking they'll get the best price on anything they buy. Many stores will have a big sale based on a limited amount of one product. Then, once that limited amount is gone, they will slowly mark the price again. Some retailers will even mark up a product's price before the sale begins so that when they put it on "sale" it's actually marked back to the original price.    A third mistake that people make during Black Friday is prioritizing quantity over quality. Just because the deal looks good doesn't mean the product is good. Buying an item just because it's cheap is not always a smart idea. Do your research on any product before you buy it to ensure you're getting the proper value for the price you'll pay.  A fourth mistake some make is thinking that they have to wait until Black Friday arrives to get any deals at all. Many stores offer pre-Black Friday deals that are just as good as deals offered during Black Friday events. Savvy shoppers can also get plenty of great deals after Black Friday by shopping on Cyber Monday.   It's important to remember that some products might also be best avoided on Black Friday. That's not to say you won't get a good deal on them; it's because there are better times of the year to buy them. For example, exercise equipment, winter clothing, and holiday decorations are actually the cheapest in January. Make sure you know the best time to buy the right deals before making an impulsive decision to buy on Black Friday.   If there are any other tips or topics you'd like us to cover, let us know at tcupodcast@trianglecu.org. Also, remember to like and follow our Making Money Personal Facebook and Instagram to share your thoughts. Finally, remember to look for our sponsor, Triangle Credit Union, on Facebook and LinkedIn.       Thanks for listening to today's Money Tip Tuesday. Check out our other tips and episodes on the Making Money Personal podcast.         

This is a favorite time of year for so many but this season does not come without financial strain and stress. Today we're going to talk about how to save money this holiday shopping season.  Links: Try out our budgeting spreadsheet to finally get organized this season! Watch our Budgeting for the Holidays webinar on YouTube Check out TCU University for more financial education tips and resources!  Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter!  Learn more about Triangle Credit Union  

While the holiday season ramps up, it's important to remember that holiday shoppers aren't the only busy ones this year. Identity thieves and scammers take advantage of this busy season to steal information. While you're out there in-person or shopping online, make sure you guard your cards and card information to ensure your transactions are secure.   Links: Learn more about secure password managers like LastPass Learn more about Google Pay, Apple Pay, PayPal Add your Triangle cards to a mobile wallet for secure and convenient payment Check out TCU University for more financial education tips and resources!  Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter!  Learn more about Triangle Credit Union Transcript: Welcome to Money Tip Tuesday from the Making Money Personal podcast.   We all do our shopping however we feel most comfortable. Some love going out to a physical store to explore the shelves and find that perfect gift. Others like to comfortably camp out on the couch and browse websites for their holiday hunt.  Whichever way you choose to shop this year, remember to keep security top of mind.   Fraud attempts increase significantly during the shopping season so it's important to consider whether anything insidious is hiding behind that tempting email, social media ad or website.  Scammers want your payment information. They target credit card transactions both in-person and online in hopes to steal information from as many unsuspecting shoppers as they can.   This holiday, remember to guard your payment information whenever and wherever you pay.   For those who prefer shopping online keep these security tips top of mind before you go through the checkout.   Make sure the website is secure. Look for the lock icon at the top URL address bar to ensure information being transmitted is encrypted.   Don't save your card information in browsers.  Instead use a secure digital wallet or vault like LastPass.  Don't make payments over unsecured WI-FI or mobile networks. Scammers and hackers can monitor public, unsecured Wi-Fi sources to intercept sensitive data that might be transmitted  Use an online payment company that doesn't use card numbers like Google Pay, Apple Pay or PayPal.   For those who still shop in-person bad actors can still target your physical card transactions. Remember these tips when using your cards out in public.   When using self-pay locations like gas stations, stand-alone ATMs and parking terminals, remember to examine the pump or terminal for any signs of tampering, cameras or card skimmers.  Use the contactless payment method for physical cards instead of inserting the EMV chip or swiping the magnetic strip. Contactless methods are more secure when transmitting data  Don't shy away from using your phone's mobile wallet to store your cards. Mobile wallets keep all your card information secure; they transmit encrypted codes rather than card information during payment and you get the bonus of no longer needing to carry around physical cards.  If you lose your physical card, immediately lock it from any future use until you can find it or report it as lost to the credit card company   One final way to keep your cards secure is to get into the habit of monitoring all transactions. Set up transaction alerts to get instant notifications any time your card is charged so that way if suspicious activity occurs you can report it right away.  If there are any other tips or topics you'd like us to cover, let us know at tcupodcast@trianglecu.org.  Like and follow our Making Money Personal FB and IG page, and look for our sponsor, Triangle Credit Union, on social media to share your thoughts.    Thanks for listening to today's Money Tip Tuesday, and be sure to check out our other tips and episodes on the Making Money Personal podcast.    Have a great day! 

The holidays are coming fast! There will be a lot of scheduling, planning, and prepping for the busy season's festivities, especially holiday travel. For those of you hitting the road or flying out to celebrate the holidays or even to get away, you can do a few things to save a little money on this season's holiday travel planning.   Links:  Learn more about Triangle's Holiday Cash personal loan promotion to get a great rate for holiday spending needs Save money with popular travel apps like: Expedia Priceline Skyscanner Check out TCU University for more financial education tips and resources!  Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter!  Learn more about Triangle Credit Union Transcript: Welcome to Money Tip Tuesday from the Making Money Personal podcast.   The holidays are known for fun festivities and moments of cheer and delight, but if you remain unprepared for too long it can get stressful fast.   For those who know they'll be traveling to see friends or family, it's time to start planning that travel so you'll have one less thing to worry about during the peak season.    In this episode I'll share a few strategies to save some money on any upcoming travel expenses.    Set a budget. Have a clear budget in mind on what you'll be spending on holiday travel. Set up a separate budget sheet for flights, any car rentals, lodging, food and holiday activities. Use a spreadsheet, budgeting app or even old-fashioned pen and paper to lay out every expenditure. Setting a budget and planning out how much you can spend for the holiday trip will help keep your expenses within affordable means and prevent the post-holiday spending hangover that can occur once the bills start rolling in. For those worried about affording holiday travel expenses this year, check out seasonal holiday loans, like Triangle's Holiday Cash personal loan. These loans offer a great opportunity to borrow plenty of cash to afford most holiday expenses at an affordable rate. Book early. If you're flying, book as early as possible to ensure you get the right deals and competitive pricing. Also, be selective about which days to travel. Some days are less busy than others, which means you could score lower ticket prices. Rearranging your travel schedule to avoid heavy travel days can save you quite a bit of money. If you're looking for an easy way to help price out and compare flights, try using flight comparison and travel apps like Expedia, Priceline and Skyscanner.  If you have credit card points, now is a good time to cash them in. Regardless of how many you have, look into applying them towards as many travel costs as you can. Any opportunity to save on expenses during the holiday season is great!   Explore benefit programs and travel bonuses. Many credit card companies offer travel bonuses and perks just for being a cardholder. You may get complimentary access to airport lounges, discounts, and other travel benefits for low or no cost.   Take some time to explore your credit card program benefits to see what additional perks might be available for your holiday travel.   Set aside a little extra money to prepare for the unexpected. It's the holidays, and you're traveling. There's a chance that spontaneous delays and cancellations can occur. If travel issues do arise for whatever reason, make sure you have some emergency money available. A mixture of cash and credit cards are good to have on hand while traveling so you can relax knowing there's additional money available for any unexpected needs.   If there are any other tips or topics you'd like us to cover, let us know at tcupodcast@trianglecu.org.  Like and follow our Making Money Personal FB and IG page, and look for our sponsor, Triangle Credit Union, on social media to share your thoughts.    Thanks for listening to today's Money Tip Tuesday and be sure to check out our other tips and episodes on the Making Money Personal podcast.    Have a great day! 

As fraud continues to increase across the country and the globe it's no surprise that scammers fix their eyes on high-prized targets- people's bank accounts. Financial institutions make a strong effort to keep your financial accounts safe from threats, but you're still the last line of defense when it comes to safeguarding your membership.   Links:  Learn more about Triangle's Better Checking account with identity theft protection Check out TCU University for more financial education tips and resources!  Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter!  Learn more about Triangle Credit Union Welcome to Money Tip Tuesday from the Making Money Personal podcast.   We've seen increased fraud activity over the past year. Scammers are using advanced and convincing techniques to trick unsuspecting members into handing over their personal banking information.  One particular tactic we've seen is fraudsters calling or texting members, posing as employees from the TCU Fraud Department, and have replicated our 603-889-2470 phone number. Once the conversation starts, the fraudsters request confidential online banking information and passcodes.  Some who have received these alarming calls and texts inadvertently provide all the requested information.   As a result, the fraudster uses the login information to access the accounts and steal their money.  Unfortunately, these convincing threats have continued to hit unsuspecting victims and there's no reason to think that threats like this will decrease over time.  As a member, it's important that you stay aware of these tactics so if you ever receive one of these calls or texts, you'll know the proper actions to take.  Keep these following key steps top of mind to safeguard your membership and personal information.  Do not provide your online banking credentials, one-time passcodes, or multi-authentication codes to anyone over the phone or text, regardless of who they claim to be.  If you receive a suspicious phone call, hang up immediately or ask the caller for a return phone number. After disconnecting the call, contact the credit union through secure email within online banking, or call the number found on the credit union's website.  If you receive an alarming text, do not open it and delete it immediately. Triangle does not use text messaging, commonly referred to as SMS, to communicate with members.  Get identity theft protection. Even the most guarded person can become a victim through channels outside of their own control. Having identity monitoring and id protection benefits can keep you aware of anything suspicious that may happen with your identity and provide resources and assistance to deal with any resolution. Triangle offers Better Checking with Identity theft protection through ID protect that can serve as an additional layer of defense between you and the dangerous effects of ID theft.  Lastly, become familiar with the specific ways your financial institution will and will NOT communicate with you. Triangle Credit Union in particular will never request online banking passwords from members, ask you to change your username or password, or request that you log into your online banking. Triangle Credit Union will never solicit confidential information via an unexpected call, text, email, social media message, or voicemail, and we will never ask you to enter this information through a generic web link.  We hope that this tip will help remind you to keep your defenses up if you ever encounter one of these suspicious calls or texts so you can keep your money and personal information safe.   If there are any other tips or topics you would like us to cover, let us know at tcupodcast@trianglecu.org. Like and follow our Making Money Personal FB and IG page and look for our sponsor, Triangle Credit Union on social media to share your thoughts.   Thanks for listening to today's Money Tip Tuesday and be sure to check out our other tips and episodes on the Making Money Personal podcast.   Have a great day! 

Money myths abound. Over time, we hear messages from various sources that influence how we view and use our money. Some messages are accurate financial truths, while others are misguided myths. For anyone looking to boost their financial game, recognizing and avoiding some common money myths is an important place to start.    Links: Need investing help? Explore Triangle's Financial Planning Services Check out TCU University for more financial education tips and resources!  Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter!  Learn more about Triangle Credit Union Transcript: Welcome to Money Tip Tuesday from the Making Money Personal podcast.   Whether it's from an internet article, online video, or social media, there's a lot of financial "advice" out there. But sometimes, even with the best intentions, messaging might still be a little off base.   There are many money myths out there, you've likely heard, that aren't necessarily true.   Here are seven common money myths you might have heard circulating the internet or even in your social circles.  The belief that money is the root of all evil. Many listening to this may already be aware, but for those who don't, the saying goes, "The LOVE of money" is the root of all evil. Being obsessed with money and pursuing it without any thought for others around you is when money can be a problem. Some use this myth to stigmatize money, saying that it's a negative thing and that we shouldn't work for it, spend it, or save it. But the truth is that money can provide us opportunities and means to take positive actions, like donating to a charity, covering a meal for a friend, buying someone a gift, and enjoying a night out. You can't negotiate bills. Many people don't bother to dispute a bill because they feel it won't make a difference. But it can work. I've settled a medical bill for way less than the billed amount – I ended up paying a little over half the price. If you're struggling with some bills, like medical, phone, cable, and others, try calling the companies and asking if they offer any way to settle the bill for less. You may be surprised by what they say because sometimes the company would instead get at least some of the bill now than let it extend into the future. If you're not already rich, you can't build generational wealth. With planning, consistency, and dedication, you can take the steps to build wealth to pass on after you're gone. Exploring investing options, saving money regularly, and paying attention to your finances are all positive money habits that ensure you'll have some generational wealth to leave to future generations– even if you never made a fortune. The cheapest option is always the best way to go. When purchasing anything, price is one of the biggest factors in our decision especially when we have to choose between multiple items at different price points. For many, the obvious choice might seem to be the cheaper option. But are there instances where that's only sometimes the case? What comes up then is the question of value. The old saying, "You get what you pay for," is spot on here. Sometimes the cheaper option isn't the best value. Cheaper electronics may need replacing sooner, cheaper clothing and shoes might wear faster, and cheaper food might not provide the best nutritional value. Take the time to weigh the prices with the product's value. Some cheaper items are the way to go, while other times, it may be better to pay a little more money for a lasting, higher-quality product. You need to have a lot of money to invest. This is a big misconception. Many people feel that they aren't able to invest because they don't have enough to start with. Today, there are plenty of ways people can get started investing with even small amounts of money. I'm talking $50 or $100 into good-quality investment choices. With any investment consideration, it's always a good idea to talk to a financial professional to explore investing options and determine how much money is adequate for your financial situation.  You don't have to think about retirement until you're older. It's not uncommon to disregard future planning for immediate needs. Many of us think more about what we're doing now as we live daily because that's where we focus our immediate attention. This can lead to the thinking, particularly of retirement, that "I'll start thinking of that as I get older" or "I'm too young to have to start worrying about retirement." That thinking couldn't be farther from the truth. One of the best ways to have a healthy retirement by the time you reach that age is to start saving as soon as possible. The years of contributions and compounding growth will build up over time, so a person putting a small amount away at the age of 23 will likely amass a significant amount more than someone contributing a lot of money at 40. It's never a bad time to start saving for retirement, and the sooner you start saving, the better. Your 401K can act as a good emergency fund. Okay, if you have been putting aside money over time in a retirement account like a 401k, you're likely looking at a good-sized dollar amount whenever you check it. But it can happen that when one sees that healthy savings amount, they feel that they don't have to worry about having additional savings, like for emergencies, because they can withdraw money from their 401k... right? There are a few things to consider. First, it's not easy to withdraw money from your retirement account. Depending on the type of account, the use of the money, and how much you're withdrawing, fees and taxes may be associated with taking that money from the account. Second, taking money out of a retirement account lowers your retirement accumulation and overall yearly compounding, resulting in too little in your account by the time you reach retirement age. The best way to avoid this is to keep your retirement accounts off-limits and focus on building up a healthy emergency fund in a separate bank account to cover the unexpected expenses that pop up throughout life's journey.  If there are any other tips or topics you would like us to cover, let us know at tcupodcast@trianglecu.org. Like and follow our Making Money Personal FB and IG page and look for our sponsor, Triangle Credit Union on social media to share your thoughts.   Thanks for listening to today's Money Tip Tuesday and be sure to check out our other tips and episodes on the Making Money Personal podcast.   Have a great day! 

It's that magical time of year again—the decorations are coming out, the music is playing in the malls, and for us in NH, cold crisp winter is in the air. Nestled in all of this is holiday shopping! Today, we're going to share 5 tips to help you save money and reduce financial stress this season. Links: Learn more about Triangle's Goal Builder tool Check out TCU University for more financial education tips and resources!  Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter!  Learn more about Triangle Credit Union Transcript: Welcome to Money Tip Tuesday from the Making Money Personal podcast!  Let's be real: this is a favorite time of year for so many, but this season does not come without financial strain and stress. We have five top tips to help save you money this shopping season.  Tip #1 – Make a list!  Write down everyone you plan to give gifts to, including family, friends, neighbors, coworkers, your mail carrier…you get the picture! Then put a dollar figure next to each name.   Once you complete the list (and associated dollar figures), add it all up to see if it hits the mark in your holiday spending budget. If your budget can handle the gifts and amount, then let the shopping begin; however, if your budget is taking a big hit and can't cover the expenses of your gift giving list, it's time to set some price limits to keep your holiday budget on track!  You can write out your list with a pencil and paper or use an Excel spreadsheet, which is what we recommend. Excel will allow you to modify the list easily.   If you are in the predicament of having way too many names and dollars than your budget allows, here are some ways to limit your list:  Simply cut the budget by making some baked goods or a cute home-made craft for everyone other than your immediate family.   If you have a sizable family, suggest a Yankee Swap or drawing names and make sure you set spending limits – this is often an approach many use especially for siblings.  Tip #2 – Use sleuth shopping techniques  When you're out shopping, don't buy the item without searching for a better deal. Using your phone, do a quick online search to see if you can find it elsewhere at a lower price.  Online shopping has revolutionized sleuth shopping – with a simple Google search you can find the best prices for almost any product! Use this to your advantage! Once you find the best price—show it to the store representative and ask for a price match. If they want your business, they will make every effort to match the price you found online.   Shoppers are more comfortable with this technique if they have the time, so start shopping early! One of the surest ways to overspend is to wait until the last minute and buy all your gifts in a rush. Not only are you more likely to overspend, but it also makes an already stressful time of the year even more so, which brings us to…  Tip #3 – Start early and save money, time, and aggravation  Set a start date and a wrap-up date (pun intended) – the earlier you finish, the more time you will have to enjoy the holiday festivities without the stress! Another benefit of starting early is establishing a longer period to save money for gift giving, which will reduce the impact on your monthly budget. And speaking of saving money…  Tip #4 – Use Your Goal Builder Tool  Check your financial institution for goal building tools and use them to save money for special occasions, like holiday shopping. For example, Triangle Credit Union's Goal Builder tool allows you to set a goal, the amount you want to save, your start and end dates, and there's even an auto save option which allows you to select the frequency of how often you want to put money in your savings account.  For more information on this option, check out trianglecu.org/bank/tcu-go-services or our blog on Triangleuniveristy.org.  Goal builder tools allow you to save money over a period of time which reduces a load of stress. The principle of a Goal Builder tool is very much the same as the old Christmas Clubs where you would put money in an envelope or deposit into an allocated account at your financial institution. With Goal Builder, saving is just easier and more convenient because it's all within your online or mobile banking platform.  Tip #5 – Buy the Product, Not the Marketing   For some of us, the latest and greatest tech is very important! For the rest of us, the latest and greatest tech isn't important at all. If the people on your list are more interested in features than fanfare, you can save big on buying last year's model for tech items, such as phones, TVs, audio equipment, etc.   But buyer beware: You may have to sleuth shop a little more to find the earlier models simply due to retail-mania where retailers want to showcase the latest and greatest, so you overspend! Sadly, we can buy into this and spend hundreds on insignificant upgrades and features that we'll never use or miss. To look for earlier models on phones, I use eBay (just make sure you purchase from a reliable and credible reseller).  And here's a bonus tip: Doorbuster deals are not all that! You probably started hearing about “doorbuster” deals already, but these specials rarely pay off! A lot of retailers simply markup items to give you the illusion you are getting a real deal at 50% off. Don't fall for this—rather look for the everyday deals, save early and shop early, and stick to your plan and your budget!  That wraps up today's Money Tip. If you have any questions or comments or have suggestions on future topics and tips, please email us at tcupodcast@trianglecu.org.   For more great content, remember to subscribe to the Making Money Personal podcast wherever you listen to podcasts and follow us on Facebook.  Have a great day!   

Starting and building a business can be intimidating and challenging, especially for women and minority business owners. As these challenges are illuminated, many organizations step up to help reshape the economic landscape and encourage successful outcomes for future leaders. In this episode, we're featuring women leaders from two organizations working hard to empower and build a better future for generations to come. Links: Girls Inc. NH website: Girls Inc. | Inspiring All Girls to be Strong, Smart & Bold (girlsincnewhampshire.org) Learn more about the Girls Inc Raffle: Strong Smart & Bold Raffle | Inspiring All Girls to be Strong, Smart & Bold (girlsincnewhampshire.org) Explore resources and learn more about the REDC: Regional Economic Development Center | Raymond NH (redc.com) Explore the REDC and Kiva webinars: Kiva | REDC Check out TCU University for more financial education tips and resources!  Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter!  Learn more about Triangle Credit Union

When it comes to financial institutions, we often select where to bank based on a particular product or service, but there are other reasons why choosing a financial institution is an important decision. Credit unions offer up an ethical banking option for those looking to do business with companies that value people and their social impact as much as their own growth.  Links: Learn more about Conscious Capitalism Check out TCU University for more financial education tips and resources!  Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter!  Learn more about Triangle Credit Union Transcript: Welcome to Money Tip Tuesday from the Making Money Personal podcast.    There's a growing interest among consumers to support and do business with ethical companies, and there are many companies that want to be ethical and still maintain steady business growth.   Because of this, there's a movement spreading called conscious capitalism, promoting the idea that businesses within a capitalist system can seek financial growth and profits while at the same time maintaining strong ethics and a powerful focus on its social and environmental impact.  The idea of conscious capitalism came from Whole Foods Co-founder John Mackey and author/marketing professor Raj Sisodia.   They wanted to spread the idea that businesses can pursue growth and profits in a way that also serves the interest of all stakeholders rather than just corporate management groups and shareholders.   The two men co-authored a book and eventually developed the organization Conscious Capitalism, Inc.  Since then, many high-profile companies have joined the movement, such as Starbucks, Whole Foods, Trader Joes, Alphabet and others.   When businesses adopt this philosophy, they choose to recognize the four principles of conscious capitalism listed out by Mackey and Sisodia.  These four principles are: Higher Purpose, Stakeholder Orientation, Conscious Leadership, and Conscious Culture.   By incorporating these principles into their internal and external operations, businesses hope to improve customer and employee relationships, build brand loyalty with customers drawn to their mission, and engage more effectively with their communities.  If you're looking for businesses practicing a similar philosophy that seeks to impact their community and their environment in an ethical manner, look to local credit unions.  Credit unions have woven the concept of providing quality financial products and services with a conscious, ethical mindset.   Through cooperative finance, credit unions shine in many ways as a satisfactory way to access quality banking services and products while also making a positive impact on the community. Here are some of the top reasons to consider a credit union as your trustworthy and ethical financial institution.   Great products: First, people want great financial products that fit their needs. They want capabilities that work well for their lifestyle and financial tools they can use to live their best life. Tools like mobile banking, contactless payment solutions, mobile wallet capabilities, and online applications are all features many people are looking for from a bank. The hunt for low fees and great rates – high deposit and low lending rates- also draws people to a great financial institution. Credit unions have continued to roll out all the digital tools and capabilities that serve all kinds of financial needs. They also historically offer better lending and deposit rates than commercial banks, making the credit union choice great for affordable auto loans and mortgages.   Social responsibility: Second, many people care a lot about how socially responsible their financial institution is. They want to know their institution cares about people more than just making a profit. Credit unions do! They make a strong effort to participate in efforts that financially benefit their communities and focus on the social impact of their decisions. They consider their constituents' economic and environmental factors and strive to offer products and services that help underserved groups in the communities they serve.    Customer service: Who wants to bank with an institution that only sees names as numbers? Being recognized and known as an individual is a key to member satisfaction. Credit unions pride themselves on customer service. Their member focus creates a communal atmosphere where every member is recognized and listened to. Members are the credit union's foundation, and time after time, many have shared how they love that they're treated like family when they walk in.    Local involvement: No one knows the local community better than a credit union. It's made up of people living and working within the community, so it makes a dedicated effort to participate in local activities and events through sponsorships and engagement. Credit unions love to give back and show support to all the citizens striving to improve their local environment. It's essential for many people to know that their bank is committed to the many people living and working within the community, and credit unions do that all year round.     If there are any other tips or topics, you'd like us to cover, let us know at tcupodcast@trianglecu.org.  Like and follow our Making Money Personal FB and IG page and look for our sponsor, Triangle Credit Union on social media to share your thoughts.   Thanks for listening to today's Money Tip Tuesday and be sure to check out our other tips and episodes on the Making Money Personal podcast.   Have a great day!   

Artificial Intelligence, commonly referred to as AI, is becoming more and more prominent in our everyday lives. Unfortunately, AI scams are becoming more common due to this technological advancement. Here are some AI scams to look out for and how you can avoid them.   Links: Additional AI scam education and resources: https://www.experian.com/blogs/ask-experian/what-are-ai-scams/ A Safe Word Can Protect against AI Impostor Scams | Scientific American https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/ https://www.identitytheft.gov/ Check out TCU University for more financial education tips and resources!  Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter!  Learn more about Triangle Credit Union Transcript: Welcome to Money Tip Tuesday from the Making Money Personal podcast.    AI scams can take many different forms. The first type we'll talk about is voice cloning. AI can take clips of audio from a person and clone their voice. Fraudsters use this clone voice to say whatever they want. They can then use the cloned voice to impersonate the person the voice belongs to and call people. They might be impersonating a celebrity or politician, asking for money to donate to a charity, but the money goes to the fraudsters.    Fraudsters can get even more personal with AI voice cloning. They can clone the voice of someone you know. It may sound like a friend or relative asking for financial help, but it could also be AI. A good way to protect yourself from scams like this is to create a safe word with friends and family. This safe word is something only you and the other person know. If you get a suspicious-sounding phone call, ask them for the safe word. If they can't answer correctly, you know it's a fraudster.   The next form of AI scams is deepfakes. Deepfakes are images or videos created by AI that can look and sound like anyone. This can be a very dangerous tool, allowing scammers to impersonate anyone they want. Like the voice clones, scammers can be celebrities or politicians asking to donate money or even someone you know and love asking for money.    There are some ways to detect a deepfake. Look at the skin of the person. Does it look very polished and smooth? It may be AI-generated then. Does the skin tone of the face match the rest of the body? If it doesn't, the video or image may have been face-swapped. However, there are prompts that scammers can put in to fix this. Look at the shadows and lighting. Is it consistent? Usually in deepfakes, the focus is on the person, not the background. If the background doesn't look real, it probably isn't.   You can also look at the mouth of the person in the questionable video. Does the audio match up with the lip movements? Do the person's teeth look blurry? These are both ways to see if it is a deepfake or not.   You can also just use common sense to spot a deepfake. Is this something that the person would be saying or doing? If it's someone you know, reach out to them and ask them about it.   If you are the victim of an AI scam, here are some things you should do. First, if you paid a scammer, try to get it back. Contact your financial institution and see if they can stop the transaction from going through. Next, secure all your accounts if you think they might be at risk. Reset all passwords and set up a multi-factor authentication if you haven't already. Report the scam to the Federal Trade Commission, or FTC for short. This will allow the FTC to track scam trends, warn others who might be at risk, and charge scammers with their crimes if caught. If you think the AI scam was after stealing your identity, you can also report it to the FTC.   With the rise of AI, it's more important than ever to be vigilant and always think before sending someone money online. It's also important to educate people who might be less tech-savvy so they don't get scammed.   If there are any other tips or topics you'd like us to cover, let us know at tcupodcast@trianglecu.org. Also, remember to like and follow our Making Money Personal Facebook and Instagram to share your thoughts. Finally, remember to look for our sponsor, Triangle Credit Union, on Facebook and LinkedIn.      Thanks for listening to today's Money Tip Tuesday. Check out our other tips and episodes on the Making Money Personal podcast.       

If you've been feeling that the cost of groceries seems too expensive and your budget is taking a hit, it may be time to reevaluate your grocery shopping strategy. Fortunately, there are a variety of ways to cut down on the amount of money you're spending on your weekly grocery bill.   Links: USDA Seasonal Produce Guide Explore meal-planning apps: Yummly Mealime Meal Prep Pro Check out TCU University for more financial education tips and resources!  Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter!  Learn more about Triangle Credit Union Transcript: Welcome to Money Tip Tuesday from the Making Money Personal podcast.   The price of groceries continues to climb for many Americans across the country. If you're one of those noticing the rise in the cost of groceries, try some of these strategies to save money the next time you head to the supermarket.   Shop seasonal produce. Depending on where you live, you may find that certain produce is cheaper depending on its season, especially if it's local. In-season produce is more abundant and doesn't need to be transported from distant locations. Both these factors contribute to lowering the price, which makes it easier for customers to save money when they shop. If you're unfamiliar with when to shop for your favorite produce, the USDA published a list online to make it easier for people to recognize what seasons are the best times to buy certain produce items. You can check that link out in the show notes.    Use store apps and rewards programs. To increase brand loyalty, many stores roll out rewards programs for shoppers. They offer store cards or use their own branded apps to track and use rewards points, offer discounts on store brand items, and even provide manufacturers coupons on name brands. If you find yourself going to the same grocery store regularly, check to see what kind of rewards program they offer. Using a store program that provides good discounts can save you a lot of money over time.    Get organized to stop yourself from overbuying. Have you ever gone to the store and purchased an item you were sure you were out of only to find out you already had it stocked at home? Before shopping take a picture of your fridge or pantry to have a visual reminder of what you already have stocked. You can also create and display inventory sheets that track items in your pantry or freezer as you use them. If you keep it updated regularly, you'll never wonder again while you're at the store if you were out of ketchup or soy sauce.  Don't underestimate the value of frozen produce. Oftentimes, frozen fruits and veggies are cheaper than their fresh counterparts and because they're frozen at their peak freshness, they're likely the more nutritious option. If you find yourself purchasing the same types of veggies or fruits regularly try buying them frozen instead. It could save you money, cut down on spoilage and overall help your health.  Commit to meal planning. Getting organized about what you'll make during the week is an effective way to avoid the wastefulness of overbuying. Use a planner or notebook to plan out meals ahead of time. For those more technologically savvy, try an app like Yummly, Mealtime [Mealime], and Meal Prep Pro to help you stay organized with meal planning. Not only can you schedule meals, but they also automatically build shopping lists for you based on your meal selections, so you'll know exactly what to buy next time you go to the store. They also offer additional features and tools like nutrition guidance and dietary suggestions.  Consider buying more dry bulk items like beans and lentils. These items are usually very low in cost, and they offer a lot of nutritional value. One part of dried beans can equal three parts cooked. This makes it easy to cook a large meal out of seemingly small ingredients. With the addition of all kinds of seasonings and spices, beans and lentils can make a flavorful dish that can last all week; ultimately a great meal prep item. Explore the internet or one of the apps mentioned earlier for a variety of recipes you can make with these affordable and nutritious ingredients.   For anyone trying to keep their grocery shopping within a set budget, try out some of these suggestions. If you have any other tips not covered here, go ahead and share with us on social media. There might be someone out there who can benefit from it.   If there are any other tips or topics you'd like us to cover, let us know at tcupodcast@trianglecu.org. Like and follow our Making Money Personal FB and IG page, and look for our sponsor, Triangle Credit Union, on social media to share your thoughts.    Thanks for listening to today's Money Tip Tuesday. Check out our other tips and episodes on the Making Money Personal podcast.    Have a great day! 

Our financial system is kept in balance through the federal reserve assessing and adjusting the federal funds rate. Due to the recent rate change earlier this month, you'll likely see some new changes coming down the road that will affect your savings and borrowing rates. What do the changes mean for personal finance planning and what financial opportunities could a rate change provide?  Links: Read the Forbes Advisor article mentioned Check out these additional resources for more information about the Fed rate and its impact on your money: MSN: The Fed just cut interest rates. How will your finances be impacted? Forbes: What Happens when the Fed Raises Rates? CBS News: The Fed cut rates for the first time in 4 years. What does that mean for your money? ABC News: The Federal Reserve is finally lowering rates. Here's what consumers should know CBS News: The Fed just made a jumbo rate cut. Here are 5 takeaways on what it means for mortgages and more. Learn more about our financial planning services at Triangle Credit Union Get in touch with one of our Mortgage Originators to learn more about a home purchase or refinance Check out TCU University for more financial education tips and resources!  Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter!  Learn more about Triangle Credit Union Transcript: Welcome to Money Tip Tuesday from the Making Money Personal podcast.   If you've paid attention to financial news recently, you'll have noticed there was some media attention regarding the Federal funds rate.   On Wednesday, September 18, 2024, Federal Reserve Chairman, Jerome Powell, announced that the federal funds rate would decrease by .50 percentage points, or ½ a percent.   For anyone unfamiliar with the federal funds rate, it's the rate set by the Federal Open Markets Committee that banks use to lend money to each other overnight. What makes this rate so special is that it impacts everything for us as consumers like any APYs earned on savings accounts to the interest rates we pay on loans and credit cards.   One Forbes Advisor article simply stated, “The fed funds rate effectively dictates the cost of money in the U.S. economy.”   The Federal Reserve regularly meets to assess the economy, reviewing important aspects like inflation and unemployment. During this meeting a decision is made to do one of three things, raise the rate, lower the rate, or keep the rate the same.   It's not entirely necessary to know all the ins and outs of how the rate is determined and its role in the financial market, but it is important to be aware of how a rate change can affect your finances.  When the fed rate changes, it affects all aspects of the financial market so there are many signs you should recognize when news hits that the rate was raised or lowered.   When the rate goes up you may notice a few of these changes:  Interest rates on savings accounts and CDs go up  Rates for loans and credit cards go up  It can strengthen the dollar thereby attracting foreign investors   It can slow down economic activity and decrease the rate of inflation  Similarly, when the rate goes down, you'll notice these changes:  Borrowing rates get cheaper, decreasing rates for loans and credit cards  Rates on savings accounts and CDs go down  It can weaken the dollar and deter foreign investors  Boost the stock market and stimulate economic growth by decreasing the borrowing costs for companies  The good news is that there are opportunities for all of us whatever the rate situation. We can use the rate environment to gauge what types of financial decisions we need to make.  This recent rate decrease should spark some considerations for anyone monitoring their financial position.   It may provide an opportunity to tweak some budget items. Pay attention to your interest rates. If they go down, it could free up some cash that you could then reallocate to other budget line items.   Talk to a financial professional about your investment mix and ask whether adjustments should be made. Because the stock market is likely to be affected by the change in interest rates this might be a good time to reevaluate your investment portfolio to adapt to the changing economic climate.   It might be a good time to refinance any existing loans like your auto or house loan or even a good time for debt consolidation. Talk to a financial professional or mortgage originator to get an idea of any new rate and term options that may now be available.  For those waiting for lower rates, it might finally provide an opportunity to make that larger purchase, like a house.  Due to the recent decision to lower the Fed rate, we are likely to see changes coming across the financial world in the coming months that will likely usher in new financial opportunities.   To learn more about the fed funds rate and how it can impact your finances, as well as the Forbes article mentioned earlier in this episode, check out the list of links in the show notes for more information.  If there are any other tips or topics, you'd like us to cover, let us know at tcupodcast@trianglecu.org.  Like and follow our Making Money Personal FB and IG page and look for our sponsor, Triangle Credit Union on social media to share your thoughts.   Thanks for listening to today's Money Tip Tuesday and be sure to check out our other tips and episodes on the Making Money Personal podcast.   Have a great day! 

In today's housing market, prospective buyers face numerous challenges that make purchasing a home seem almost unattainable. From high prices to limited inventory, the dream of home ownership feels increasingly out of reach for many. In this episode, we're chatting with Ryan Campbell, mortgage originator, about the strategies and tools buyers can use to finally get that house they've been dreaming of.  Links: Learn more about our affordable 40-year mortgage program Check our current closing costs offer Get in touch with our Mortgage Team Check out TCU University for more financial education tips and resources!  Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter!  Learn more about Triangle Credit Union

When it comes to budgeting, how many of us get started, work through it for a few months, and then stop using it altogether? What is it about budgeting that is particularly difficult to stick with? If you're struggling with maintaining a budget for longer than a few weeks or months, there are various ways to keep that budget running for years. Links: Check out our Goal Builder tool to help automate saving Watch out Budgeting 101 webinar Triangle Financial Planning Services Check out TCU University for more financial education tips and resources!  Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter!  Learn more about Triangle Credit Union   Transcript: Welcome to Money Tip Tuesday from the Making Money Personal podcast.    We make budgets to improve our financial situation. And they only work if they're maintained.   Putting together the budget is the first step and usually the easiest step but after that, sticking to it over a worthwhile period is the real challenge.      There are many reasons why budgets fail. Lack of discipline, lifestyle changes, emergencies, and disorganization can all contribute to losing control of a budget.    With the right strategies, you can turn your failing budget into a successful one that helps you reach your financial goals.    Here are a few ways to ensure your budget gets the attention it deserves.    Set clear financial goals—the more precise, the better. By setting clear short-term and long-term goals, you'll know exactly what goal to work towards, providing a clear direction and adequate motivation to achieve it.   Create a budgeting schedule. Set aside a little bit of time each day or week to review your budget. Make this your time to focus on your finances. If you want a budget to work, you must pay regular attention to it. Be consistent, show up, and make your budget a priority.  Track your expenses. Keep a consistent and detailed record of every expense you make. Tracking expenses will keep you aware of where your money is going and can help you highlight spending trends that need to be adjusted or tweaked.   Plan for irregular expenses. Life is unpredictable, and many things can pop up out of nowhere. Make sure you're planning for seasonal or irregular expenses in your budget. These don't have to be emergencies. Things like birthday gifts, wedding gifts, and shower gifts can all fall under unexpected, irregular expenses.   Use budgeting tools. Various budgeting tools are available that help people put together and regularly manage their budgets. Find these tools and use them to keep your budget running like a well-oiled machine.   Review and adjust regularly. The budget you put together a year ago may not be the same budget you'll make today. Many things can change over a year, so regularly reviewing and adjusting your budget is essential. Did you get a promotion? Buy a house? Have a baby? All those life changes are significant enough to force you to review and adjust your budget to keep up with the changes in your life.   Automate your savings. Set up automatic savings to keep money funneling towards healthy savings. Saving is often one of the last things people think to do, but it should be the first. Automating savings through tools like direct deposit and even goal-building tools is an easy way to make sure you're regularly paying yourself first. Stay educated. Keep your financial knowledge up to date. Research, read, listen, and learn. There are so many ways to keep informed of economic news and changes that will impact your budget. You'll be more enabled, confident, and motivated to run and adjust your budget to improve your financial future exponentially. For news, tools, and trends, check out our vast collection of webinars and financial articles at TCU University and explore the many financial planning services on our website.    Staying on top of your budget can be challenging, but with the right strategies and discipline, you can manage your finances effectively.    If there are any other tips or topics you'd like us to cover, let us know at tcupodcast@trianglecu.org. Like and follow our Making Money Personal FB and IG page, and look for our sponsor, Triangle Credit Union, on social media to share your thoughts.    Thanks for listening to today's Money Tip Tuesday. Check out our other tips and episodes on the Making Money Personal podcast.    Have a great day! 

In today's digital age, text message scams are becoming increasingly sophisticated. These scams can lead to significant financial loss, identity theft, and even compromise your personal data. It's more important than ever that you learn how to detect the key signs of fraudulent messages to protect yourself from falling victim to these common scams.  Links: Read more about fraud awareness tactics and view recent fraud alerts Learn more about the benefits of Better Checking with ID Protect Check out TCU University for more financial education tips and resources!  Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter!  Learn more about Triangle Credit Union Transcript: Welcome to Money Tip Tuesday from the Making Money Personal podcast.   There has been an increase in all kinds of scams targeting almost everyone they can. Fraudsters attempt to get unsuspecting victims in almost any way. They'll use fake ads, fake websites, cleverly disguised emails, phone calls from seemingly recognizable companies and even text messages with links.   The danger of these scams is that with only a little bit of personal information, they can wreak havoc on your life and finances for years to come.  Lately there's been a large increase in scams targeting individuals, coming specifically through text messages. It's important to know the signs of these types of scams so you don't become a victim.  Here are some of the more common text message scams you might run into.  Bank Alerts: Scammers often impersonate banks, sending texts that claim there's an issue with your account. These messages are designed to create a sense of urgency, prompting you to click on a link or call a number to “resolve” the issue or verify personal information. Delivery Notifications: You might get a text saying there's a problem with a package delivery. The message includes a link to a fake website asking for personal information or payment details to correct the problem.   Fake Fraud Alerts: Scammers send texts pretending to be from your bank or credit card company, warning you of suspicious activity. They ask that you confirm account details to keep your account secure, but it's their way of getting your login information so they can access your accounts and steal your money. Prize Notifications: You receive a text claiming you've won a prize or a lottery. To claim it, you're asked to provide personal details or pay a fee. Scammers use your excitement of being a winner to trick you into giving away sensitive information.   Impersonation of Friends or Family: Scammers might text you pretending to be someone you know, claiming they're in trouble and need money urgently.  Job Offers: You might get a text offering a high-paying job with minimal effort. These scams then ask for personal information to continue forward with the job or they'll request an upfront fee for job-related training or equipment.   Fake Invoices: Scammers send texts with fake invoices for services or products you didn't order. These texts then include a link to dispute it that leads to a fake site asking for sensitive information.     Scammers are getting increasingly clever and crafting believable messages disguised to look like urgent alerts from companies and individuals you trust.   It's more important now than ever to familiarize yourself with these tactics so you won't be caught off guard next time you're targeted by a scammer.  So what actions should you take if you get any of these messages?  Don't act on the message out of fear! These texts rely on the tactic of creating urgency to get you to act without thinking. Don't follow the prompts or click any links.   Contact your financial institution, the company or individual through an access point you know is safe. Open a new browser and go to the company's website to get their contact information. If it's a suspicious message from an individual like a friend or colleague, contact them through a method you know to be safe, like a trusted messaging app, their phone number in your contacts or a known email address.  If you get a message of fraud activity on our card like, “fraud use detected: verify this purchase was yours or not.” Investigate on your own first. Open your mobile app or visit your online banking account using the browser and check your transactions there. If there's no reflected transaction, then the message was a scam.   Finally, set up identity theft protection for yourself and family members. There are a lot of great products out there that provide identity monitoring, expense reimbursement, and case managers to provide assistance in case you ever become a victim. Check out Triangle's Better Checking account with ID Protect for identity theft protection and other resources to keep you and your family safe.   If there are any other tips or topics you'd like us to cover, let us know at tcupodcast@trianglecu.org.  Like and follow our Making Money Personal FB and IG page, and look for our sponsor, Triangle Credit Union, on social media to share your thoughts.    Thanks for listening to today's Money Tip Tuesday. Check out our other tips and episodes on the Making Money Personal podcast.    Have a great day! 

Financial anxiety is a common yet often overlooked issue that affects millions of people all over the world. It can stem from various sources and can significantly impact one's mental and physical well-being.  Whether you're struggling with financial stress or looking to support someone who is, understanding financial anxiety is the first step towards a healthier, more secure future.  Links:  Check out TCU University for more financial education tips and resources!  Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter!  Learn more about Triangle Credit Union Transcript: Welcome to Money Tip Tuesday from the Making Money Personal podcast.   If you're someone struggling with feelings of financial anxiety, it's necessary to manage those feelings and overcome them before they take a significant toll on your mental and physical wellbeing.  What kinds of situations tend to cause financial anxiety in many Americans today? Here are a few reasons people might be facing the challenge of financial anxiety.  It can stem from having too much debt. Carrying high balances on credit cards, student loans or even a mortgage can lead to levels of anxiety. Income instability can cause financial anxiety because taking in irregular income makes it difficult to plan out a consistent budget and maintain regular payments from month to month.   Unexpected expenses are another cause of financial anxiety. When sudden costs come up like medical bills, car repairs, home repairs or more, it can cause a disruption in your financial stability that can significantly increase your stress. A lack of overall savings is also a cause for financial anxiety. If you don't have enough money set aside for the future it could lead to constant worry.   The dangers of financial anxiety can cause many negative effects on your body and habits. High levels of anxiety can cause physiological responses like insomnia, headaches and racing heart whenever you think about finances. You might also notice behavioral changes like obsessively checking your bank balances, avoiding certain financial decisions, and feeling overwhelmed by small expenses.   Struggling with these emotions and not tending to the root cause can lead to behaviors that negatively affect habits and lifestyle. Some people might practice avoidance by ignoring their bills, statements, and other financial responsibilities. Some might engage in impulse spending by making unnecessary purchases to relieve stress and help themselves feel better. Some may even turn to substance abuse to cope with anxiety and others might face isolation by withdrawing from social interactions to avoid embarrassing conversations about money.  Fortunately, there are many ways to properly manage and overcome the pressures of financial anxiety. Here are a few tactics you can try to minimize financial anxiety and start improving your financial life.  Start with creating a budget and stick with it. This will keep you organized, gives you control and helps reduce your overall feeling of uncertainty when it comes to money.   Get in touch with a financial professional who can assess your current situation, provide some clarity on your financial shape and give you actionable steps that will move you on the right path.   Take time to practice mindfulness and relaxation techniques. Taking time to calm yourself and your mind can improve all kinds of anxiety. Meditation apps and yoga practices are great ways to practice self-care and improve your overall mood giving you more energy and confidence to tackle challenges.   Get on building that emergency fund so you'll have a comfortable cushion of cash sitting on the side for unexpected expenses and an added sense of security. If there are any other tips or topics, you'd like us to cover, let us know at tcupodcast@trianglecu.org.  Like and follow our Making Money Personal FB and IG page and look for our sponsor, Triangle Credit Union on social media to share your thoughts.   Thanks for listening to today's Money Tip Tuesday check out our other tips and episodes on the Making Money Personal podcast.   Have a great day! 

In this short follow-up segment to our latest episode, Adriana Torres discusses insights from her conversation with Elizabeth Costa about the complexities of entrepreneurship. She highlights the importance of recognizing and overcoming biases, emphasizes that the entrepreneurial journey is personal and non-linear, and advocates for understanding customer problems and providing effective solutions to succeed in business. Links:  The Process Reinvention LLC Contact Adriana: theleanidea@gmail.com Check out TCU University for more financial education tips and resources!  Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter!  Learn more about Triangle Credit Union

Junk fees are those unexpected, often hidden charges that can turn a seemingly good deal into a costly affair. Whether you're booking a flight, renting a car, or signing up for a new service, these fees can sneak up on you, adding significant costs to your final bill. Fortunately, there are ways to recognize and avoid many common junk fees if you know where to look first. Links: Find fee-free Triangle ATMs when you're out Check out TCU University for more financial education tips and resources!  Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter!  Learn more about Triangle Credit Union View episode transcript Transcript: Welcome to Money Tip Tuesday from the Making Money Personal podcast.   Junk fees are known as hidden or unsuspected fees that pop up at the final checkout point raising the final price of the product or service.   If you're looking for a practical way to cut down on the number of junk fees you pay or avoid paying them entirely, then it's worth it to recognize the most common types of junk fees.  Some of the more common fees people end up paying are as follows:   Service charges for event tickets   Resort fees at hotels  Late payment fees  Overdraft fees  Termination fees  Out of network ATM fees  So how does one avoid paying additional junk fees when purchasing a product or service?  When it comes to purchasing items like event tickets, there aren't too many ways to avoid service charges and fees. The best thing to do is to make sure you're aware of the cost of the fees beforehand so you won't be surprised at checkout.   When it comes to resort or hotel fees, make sure you explore the listing before you purchase and read all the booking information. Get a good understanding of what's included and what's not. Will you need to pay extra for wifi, breakfast, certain amenities? Make sure that you've reviewed all the information when you purchase so you're fully aware of all the additional charges you might have to pay when booking.  For late payment fees, the most important way to avoid paying them is to, you guessed it, avoid missing payments altogether.  The best way to make sure you no longer miss payments is to stay organized and set up automatic payments. With online and mobile banking you can use bill pay tools to easily automate payments to different payees. Setting this up will ensure your payment will be sent on time every month and you won't get slammed with additional fees. It'll also help your credit score!   An overdraft fee is a charge imposed by a bank when you spend more money than you have in your account, causing your balance to go negative. This fee compensates the bank for covering the shortfall and allows the transaction to proceed. To avoid overdraft fees, set up overdraft protection with your financial institution so the missing funds will be drawn from another one of your accounts. Also, set up account balance notifications that will send an automatic message to alert you when your account balance dips below a set dollar amount of your choice so you always know your account balance before initiating a transaction.  Termination fees are another way people get charged extra in ways they didn't quite expect. Some companies like gym memberships, phone services, internet and more have written contracts where they charge you a fee to cancel your subscription before the contract ends. The best ways to avoid paying too much to cancel a membership is to make sure to review the FAQs and fine print cancellation policy before signing up to learn how much the company will charge to cancel the service.   And our final fee is one you may encounter when getting cash from ATM. ATM transaction fees are common but can easily be avoided with a little planning. Try to find and use ATM locations that don't charge fees like ones at your banks branch location or others that might be part of an ATM co-op. If you're a credit union member, your institution likely participates in a co-op system that allows any credit union member to use another credit union's ATM fee free. You can also check your institutions' website for a list or map of fee free ATM locations in your area like some gas station chains and other locations.  When it comes to paying junk fees it's important to stay vigilant and informed on the most common types of junk fees so you can take measured actions to reduce their impact on your finances.   Have you recently encountered junk fees? Do you have a special strategy you use to avoid them? Feel free to share your thoughts with us and other listeners on our social media and podcast pages!  If there are any other tips or topics you'd like us to cover, let us know at tcupodcast@trianglecu.org.  Like and follow our Making Money Personal FB and IG page, and look for our sponsor, Triangle Credit Union, on social media to share your thoughts.    Thanks for listening to today's Money Tip Tuesday. Check out our other tips and episodes on the Making Money Personal podcast.    Have a great day!