Holiday Budgeting

With the holidays arriving, it's normal to stress about your finances. With all the money spent each year on gifts for family and friends, groceries for a Christmas meal, decorations, a tree with all the trimmings and holiday cards, it's important to plan out your holiday budget ahead of time. I have included some links on holiday tips for saving money. TFCU also has a Holiday Club Savings Account. Use it to save money in order to meet your annual holiday expenses. The entire amount in the Holiday Club account, including dividends, is deposited into your savings account on the first day of November. For more information about TFCU's Holiday Club, click here.

Also please check out these articles on ways to cut back on the excessive holiday shopping, while maintaining the holiday spirit. And remember, it's never too early to start saving for next year!

Tips to Save Money During the Holidays

39 Frugal Tips for Saving Money at Christmas

Teaching Financial Independence

With the economy being in the shape that it is, financial education is more important than ever. I enjoy facilitating a lesson at a school, and walking out of the classroom knowing that I instilled valuable knowledge in both the students and teacher that they can use for the rest of their lives. I found two great articles that I would like to share with you regarding teaching kids financial independence. As educators and parents, you are in great positions to help educate our students in a variety of life skills, including finances. As Benjamin Franklin once said, "An investment in knowledge always pays the best interest."

"How To Teach your Children the Value of Money"- This article is a great resource when teaching lessons involving finances. It discusses various ways to teach children the value of a dollar and how to broaden their financial knowledge as they continue to grow.

"Teaching Kids about Financial Independence"- This would be a great article to pass on to parents. The tips in this article pertain to children of all ages.