As the holidays approach, gift cards remain a popular gift option, but they’re also a target for scammers. These fraudsters use tactics like phishing and tampering with physical gift cards to steal funds before they can be used. To protect yourself and your loved ones this season, it’s important to stay aware of these risks.
Having a well-stocked emergency fund is important. But so is saving for retirement. So how do you know which one to focus on? Well, we’ve got you covered. Here’s what you should know.
Halloween is a time for spooky fun, but it can also bring a scare to your wallet if you're not careful. From costumes to decorations and treats, the costs can add up quickly. Here’s how to manage your Halloween budget and keep your spending under control while still enjoying the festivities.
Now is the moment to turn your attention to your tax obligations. With less than 60 days remaining until the tax deadline now is a good time to prepare your documents and file.
Need a smart strategy to save on essential school supplies? Planning your dream vacation or gearing up for the holiday season? With a club account, you can save for essential school supplies, exciting vacations, and joyful holiday celebrations, making your financial goals more attainable and stress-free.
The beginning of the school year is an exciting time for families, but it also comes with the stress of managing expenses. From school supplies to clothing and extracurricular activities, the costs can quickly add up. Here are some saving strategies to help you send your kids back to school prepared:
Take inventory of what you already have before you make any purchases. You may find leftover school supplies from previous years, or clothing items that still fit. Shop your home first to avoid buying any unnecessary duplicates.
Before you hit the stores, make time to prepare a budget for your back-to-school expenses. Determine how much you can afford to spend overall and allocate amounts for different categories such as school supplies and clothing. You can determine what the prices of the most expensive items may be and focus on finding the best value on those first.
Keep an eye out for back-to-school sales and promotions. Many retailers offer special deals on back-to-school supplies and clothing leading up to the start of the school year. Consider buying generic products to reduce the cost and look for coupons and discounts that can help to maximize your savings. For Massachusetts residents, you can plan your shopping around sales tax holidays.
Consider shopping for secondhand items at thrift stores, or online marketplaces. You can often find gently used clothing, backpacks, and electronics at a fraction of the price. Keep an eye out for yard sales or plan a clothing swap with neighbors or friends where you may be able to find something used.
Use back-to-school shopping as an opportunity to teach your kids about money management and smart spending habits. Involve them in the process, set a budget together, and discuss the importance of prioritizing needs over wants.
With these saving strategies, you can tackle the back-to-school season with ease. One helpful tool to consider is opening a back-to-school savings club account, which allows you to set aside money specifically for school-related expenses.