Super-Scary Halloween Hacks to Save You Money

Don’t let Halloween costs spook you! Here’s eight great hacks for saving on costumes and decor.

Ghastly ghosts

Create an army of floating ghosts using nothing but white trash bags. Gather a bunch of bags and stuff them with crumpled newspaper. Tie the “head” with a rubber band and use a permanent marker to draw spooky faces on your ghosts. Hang your frightful friends around your house and yard to scare your party guests and trick-or-treaters.

Spooky bird houses

Create a mini haunted house to hang on your door or decorate your table using a basic bird house, black paint and cotton. Paint the bird house black and stretch cotton over it for a cobwebby effect. Finish it off with a few paper ghosts peeking out the windows and doors, and you’ve got yourself a tiny haunted house!

Shark attack!

For a fun and freaky costume that costs next to nothing, go as a surfer being eaten by a shark. Dress in swimwear, with a towel slung over yourself if the weather makes it necessary, and apply fake blood to a visible spot on your neck or arm. Use face paint to create a shark bite and apply the blood so it surrounds the bite and drips out. For a fun touch, attach an inflated or stuffed toy shark to your costume.

Mason jar lanterns

For easy DIY decor, paint Mason jars with spooky designs and insert battery-powered tea lights for a bewitching glow. Line your walkway or porch with these lanterns to welcome trick-or-treaters.

Creepy crawlers everywhere

Use an inexpensive package of plastic spiders to scare your guests silly! Freeze some in ice cubes for a spooky surprise in everyone’s drinks, scatter some across the table to make someone shriek and even add some to your soap dispenser to really freak everyone out. Let your trick-or-treaters in on the fun by sprinkling some into your bowl of candy.

An eerie flicker

For a super-easy and super-cheap centerpiece, paint old wine bottles black. Use matte paint for the best effect. When your candlestick holders have dried, insert long orange taper candles into each one to add a festive look to your table.

Care for a lollipop?

Turn your pumpkin into a fun lollipop dispenser with the help of an electric drill. Drill small holes in your pumpkin and then stick a lollipop into each hole. Set it up on your steps for an adorable, help-yourself trick-or-treat.

Retro costume

For a costume that will make everyone laugh and won’t cost a penny, go as your college-aged self. Dig out your old clothing and accessories, and if you had a crazy hairstyle back then, incorporate it into your costume, too.

Should I Adopt a Minimalist Lifestyle?

Q: Minimalism is all the rage, and with everyday expenses at an all-time high, I’m wondering: Should I adopt a minimalist lifestyle?

A: The minimalist movement, or the idea of living with just the barest of necessities, has exploded in popularity in recent years. Let’s take a closer look at this trending lifestyle choice so you can make an informed decision about embracing its philosophies.

What is minimalism?

The generally accepted definition of minimalism is: Less is more. But adopting a minimalist lifestyle is more than just decluttering. It also means getting rid of, or whittling down, any expense category in your budget along with any activity you engage in that is not necessary for your life or peace of mind.

Getting started on minimalism.

There are lots of ways to live a minimalist life. Here are some popular ways to get started:

The 90/90 rule. Choose an item in your home and ask yourself if you’ve used it in the last 90 days and if you will use it within the next 90. If the answer to both questions is no, toss it.
The 30-day declutter. In this challenge, throw out one item from your home on Day 1, two items on Day 2 and continue this progression until Day 30, when you throw out 30 items.
The 100-item life. Here, you choose 100 essential items you need to live with and toss out everything else you own.

It’s important to know there is no “right way” to embrace this lifestyle. Since minimalism means living with what you need and what brings you joy, it will look different to everyone. As long as you are left with a home and a lifestyle that fills you with peace and serenity, you have adopted the minimalist lifestyle.

Pros of living a minimalist life

Improved mental health. Evidence shows that a cluttered life is a stressful life.
Increased opportunities to experience life at its purest level. Walking away from extraneous commitments can free you up to experience the true pleasures in life.
More room in your budget. When you throw out all unneeded expenses from your budget, it’s easier to save and avoid falling into debt.

Cons of living a minimalist life

Feelings of deprivation. If taken to an extreme, a minimalist life can be depriving and ultimately backfire.
Unhealthy obsession. Minimalism can require a lot of brain power. If you spend all day thinking about your stuff, it still owns you.
Owning just a few items means a large initial outlay. You’ll need to invest in a few items that really last, and these don’t come cheap.
It can be isolating. Unless you jump into this lifestyle with a partner or friend, it can be a very lonely life.

Use this guide to make an informed decision about embracing a minimalist life.

Three Common Money Mistakes People Make

Managing money responsibly doesn’t just happen. Even with the best of intentions, many people make mistakes in how they handle money – and they don’t even realize it. But there’s good news! Harmful behaviors can be unlearned. Let’s look at three common money mistakes and how to fix them.

Mistake #1: Ignoring one’s financial situation

It is common for people to go about everyday living without a whole lot of thought toward their money. They may not know how much they have in their checking and saving accounts. They could also jam their heads in the sand when it comes to their outstanding debt. Awareness of how good or bad their credit score is? Forget about it! The hard truth, though, is that ignoring money can lead to big-time consequences, like excessive debt, missed payments and zilch in savings.

The fix: To avoid this mistake, assess your income, expenses and savings regularly. Creating a budget can help you get a handle on your financial inflows and outflows. This way, you can identify areas where you can cut back, save more and achieve and maintain financial wellness.

Mistake #2: Not having a clear money vision

The second common money mistake is a lack of financial plans or goals. Without an established money vision, it can be challenging to make smart money choices.

The fix: Establish short-term and long-term financial goals. Whether it’s saving for a down payment on a house, starting a business or planning for retirement, having a clear vision will guide and motivate all your financial decisions while ensuring they’re choices you can live with for years to come.

Mistake #3: Not discussing money

The third common money mistake is failing to talk about money with one’s life partner. Money is a sensitive topic, and many people believe they can avoid arguing over money by not talking about money. Unfortunately, though, not talking about it can lead to misunderstandings, conflict and financial instability within the relationship.

The fix: Have open and honest discussions about money with your partner. By establishing open lines of communication, you can work together to create a joint financial plan that aligns with both partners’ values and aspirations.

Use this guide to learn how to fix three common money mistakes and avoid making them in the future.

The Importance of Saving for a Rainy Day

Life is full of surprises, and some of them can be expensive. Whether it’s a medical emergency, job loss, car repairs or any other unforeseen event, having a financial safety net can provide a sense of security and stability. Let’s take a look at why it’s so important to save for rainy days.

Stay out of debt

When life throws an expensive surprise your way and you don’t have money to pay for it, you may fall into debt just to get by. On the flip side, if you had a well-padded emergency fund, you’d have the cash you need to fall back on in case of an emergency.

Be prepared for sudden unemployment

When you live paycheck to paycheck, your job is your financial lifeline. But no job is guaranteed to last forever. Your workplace may decide to downsize, close its doors or even to replace you with a bot. Or, you may find yourself unable to work due to personal circumstances. Having an emergency fund when you’re gainfully employed can help you stay afloat should you suddenly find your lifeline is reduced or cut out.

Flexibility and freedom

Saving for a rainy day brings an element of flexibility and freedom to your life. It enables you to pursue new opportunities, take risks and make major life changes without the constant fear of financial instability. Whether it’s starting a business, furthering your education or taking a sabbatical, savings provides the support you need to confidently explore these possibilities.

Peace of mind

Financial stress can take a toll on your physical and mental wellbeing. Constantly worrying about money can lead to anxiety, depression, strained relationships and more. Knowing you have an emergency fund prepared and on the ready for a rainy day can offer a sense of security and peace of mind.

Achieve long-term financial goals

Saving for a rainy day is not just about preparing for emergencies; it’s also a stepping stone toward achieving long-term financial goals. Whether it’s buying a house, starting a family or planning for retirement, having savings will help you stay on track.

Avoid economic downturns related to market fluctuations

The economy is subject to fluctuations, and financial markets can be volatile. During economic downturns or recessions, people will often face reduced job opportunities, pay cuts or decreased business revenue. However, an emergency fund can make a challenging economic climate easier to navigate. People who’ve saved up money for emergencies will be less reliant on credit cards and loans during such times, thus lowering their vulnerability to economic uncertainties.

If you don’t have a well-padded emergency fund, start building one today! Most experts recommend having three to six months’ worth of living expenses in your emergency fund. Review your monthly expenses to reach this number, and then make a plan for building up your fund until it’s complete. You may want to prioritize your emergency fund over other investments until it’s set up.

When the sun is shining, it’s hard to believe the rain will come, but no one’s life is all sunshine, all the time. Saving for a rainy day is a crucial part of financial wellness. Start saving today for a more secure and financially fit life.

6 Tips for Building an Energy-Efficient Home

Building a new home involves many decisions and expenses. As you work through the process, try making your new home as energy-efficient as possible. Let’s explore six ways you can build an energy-efficient home that promotes a sustainable future.

1. Optimize site selection

The first step in building an energy-efficient home is to choose the right location. Consider factors such as solar orientation, prevailing winds and surrounding vegetation. Maximizing natural resources, like sunlight and wind, can really reduce the need for artificial heating, cooling and lighting.

2. Efficient building envelope

A well-insulated building envelope is crucial for maintaining a comfortable indoor environment while minimizing energy loss. Use high-quality insulation materials in walls, roofs and floors of your new home. Opt for double- or triple-pane windows with low-emissivity coatings to reduce heat transfer. Finally, properly seal any gaps or cracks to prevent air leakage, ensuring your home remains airtight.

3. Use sustainable materials

Choosing sustainable and locally sourced materials can have a positive impact on both the environment and your health. Look for materials with low embodied energy, such as recycled content or renewable resources, like bamboo and cork. Opting for sustainable materials reduces the carbon footprint of your home and creates a healthier living environment.

4. Install energy-efficient appliances and lighting

Energy-efficient appliances and lighting fixtures can significantly reduce your home’s energy consumption. Look for appliances with an ENERGY STAR® label, as they meet strict efficiency standards. LED lighting is another excellent choice, as it consumes less electricity compared to traditional incandescent bulbs.

5. Consider renewable energy systems

Integrating renewable energy systems into your home is a proactive step toward energy independence. These include solar panels, wind turbines or geothermal systems that generate clean energy while reducing your reliance on the grid. Generating electricity sustainably will pay off for many years to come.

6. Water conservation strategies

Conserving water is an essential part of building an energy-efficient home. Install low-flow fixtures to reduce water consumption without sacrificing performance. Implementing water conservation strategies will save water while also reducing the energy required for water treatment and distribution.

Use the tips outlined here to build a home that has a lower carbon output and saves you money for years to come.

How Can I Beat Inflation and Save on Back-to-School Shopping?

Q: How can I beat inflation and save on back-to-school shopping?

A: Lucky for you, there are ways to save on back-to-school shopping. Follow these tips.

Shop with a budget

Determine how much you can afford to spend and set specific amounts for different categories such as clothing and supplies. Having a budget will help you stay focused and avoid impulse purchases.

Take inventory

Before hitting the stores, inventory what you already have at home. Check your kids’ closets, drawers and study areas for supplies and clothing that can be reused or repurposed for the coming school year. This will give you a clear idea of what you really need to buy.

Plan ahead

Start shopping early and take advantage of sales throughout the summer. Watch for clearance sales, promotions and discounts. By planning ahead, you can secure better deals and avoid the rush and price hikes closer to the start of the school year.

Buy generic

Don’t hesitate to reach for generic brands when purchasing school supplies for your kids. Store brands, like Walmart, or Target’s Up & Up, are usually cheaper than name brands without compromising on quality.

Shop without your kids

Shopping with kids is an easy budget-killer. Kids have their own ideas of what’s best to spend money on, and their opinions may not align with your budget. Leave your kids home for at least some of your shopping trips this season.

Think secondhand

Consider purchasing used textbooks, clothing and electronics. You can find gently used items at much lower prices on secondhand websites like ThredUp, and at thrift stores like Goodwill.

Use discounts and coupons

Before you shop, look for coupons, promotional codes and student discounts to bring down the prices of the items you need to buy. You can sign up for loyalty programs and use a discount-finder app or extension to pull up any coupons for the items you need.

Buy in bulk

Whenever appropriate, buy supplies in bulk. This is useful for items that are commonly used throughout the school year. Buying in bulk often comes with a lower per-unit cost, providing long-term savings.

Follow the tips outlined here to beat inflation and save on back-to-school shopping.

Money Tips for College Students

Hello, college, hello, money worries!

College life brings a sense of independence that extends to personal finances. Being in charge of your own money can seem like an impossible challenge, but it doesn’t have to be that way. If the thought of managing your money in college is stressing you out, dig into these tips for some help!

Create a budget

Living with a budget is a must for good financial wellness. First, track your income, including all earnings from part-time jobs, scholarships and student loans. Next, list your expenses, including tuition fees, textbooks, rent, groceries, transportation and entertainment. Set a realistic spending amount for each category, and your budget is good to go! Review and adjust as necessary.

Minimize student loan debt

Student loans can be a big financial burden after graduation. To minimize your debt, explore options such as scholarships, grants and part-time jobs to cover educational expenses. You can also get ahead on your debt by saving for your student loan payments before you graduate.

Live frugally

You can have your fun while in college, and your budget, too! First, buy used when possible. This goes for textbooks, sports equipment and your college car. Next, consider pooling some of your expenses with roommates. For example, you can split the costs of food items, cleaning supplies and more. Finally, get used to eating in and save big. Remember, every dollar saved can go toward your future.

Prioritize essential expenses

Life while in college is filled with temptations and social activities, so it’s crucial to prioritize your expenses. First, make sure your tuition, rent, utilities and groceries are covered and then you can spend money on fun! Having a good budget developed, and a regular review of it, will help you plan in some of that fun.

Build your credit

College is a great time to get your credit score ready for adult life. A strong credit score is essential for qualifying for large loans, getting favorable interest rates, securing a job and more. To build credit responsibly, consider getting a secured credit card or becoming an authorized user on a family member’s credit card. Use the card sparingly and make full payments on time each month.

Take advantage of campus resources

College campuses often provide many resources to help students manage finances. Take advantage of financial literacy workshops, counseling services and career centers at your college.

Use these tips to manage your money smartly in college.

How to use Appliances Efficiently

Did you know that appliances account for approximately 13% of your home’s energy use? The good news is, you don’t have to completely pull the plug to save on your energy costs. Here’s how to use your appliances more efficiently to reduce your energy use and do one for the environment.

Choose energy-efficient appliances

When purchasing new appliances, choose models with high energy efficiency ratings. Look for the ENERGY STAR label, which indicates that the appliance meets strict energy efficiency standards.

Follow the user manuals

User manuals provide valuable information about the optimal usage and maintenance of appliances. Take the time to read the manuals thoroughly, as they offer specific instructions on how to maximize efficiency and extend the lifespan of each appliance.

Use appliances smartly

Take full advantage of any automatic settings on your appliances to use them more efficiently. For example, you can set your HVAC system to adjust its temperature when no one’s home or everyone is asleep.

Saving on energy around the house

Follow these tips to use appliances more efficiently around the house:

Computer

Choose “sleep” over “screen save” to use less energy when away from your computer.
Consider switching from a desktop PC to a laptop, as these use 10% of the electricity.
Turn off your monitor when it’s not in use.
Think three times before you print.

Oven/range

Match up your pots to your burner size
Cook with aluminum pans for even heat conduction.
Keep range-top burners clean for better reflection of heat and saved energy.

Refrigerator/freezer

Keep your thermostats at the recommended settings.
Position your refrigerator away from a heat source.
Clean the condenser coils of refrigerators and freezers regularly.

Dishwasher

Only run full loads.
Avoid pre-rinsing dirty dishes unless absolutely necessary.
During warmer times of the year, run the dishwasher in the early morning or evenings, when it’s cooler out.

Washer/dryer

Wash with cold water as much as possible.
Keep the lint filter clean for quicker dry times.
Make sure your dryer is vented properly.

Air conditioner

Cook less when it’s hot out.
Set your thermostat to adjust automatically.
Clean or replace your filters regularly to maintain proper airflow.

Use these tips to use your appliances more efficiently and save on energy usage and total costs.

Don’t Get Caught in a P2P Scam

Before discussing how to avoid a P2P scam, you may be wondering what “P2P” stands for. A peer-to-peer (P2P) service is a decentralized platform whereby two individuals interact directly with each other, without intermediation by a third party. Instead, the buyer and the seller transact directly with each other via the P2P service. Google Wallet, PayPal, Snapcash, Venmo and Bitcoin are examples of P2P services.

P2P platforms are super-convenient. But, P2P scams are rampant and varied. Plus, once money is transferred by P2P, it’s usually gone forever.

Here are five P2P scams to beware of:

1. Mystery money

In this P2P scam, a stranger “accidentally” sends the target money and then reaches out, wanting their money back. The target sees these funds in their P2P account and returns them. Unfortunately, though, because this money was added to the target’s account using a stolen credit card or account, the platform flags the original transaction as fraud and removes the funds from the victim’s account.

2. Hidden credit card fraud

In this P2P scam, a fraudster purchases an item listed on a site, like Craigslist, using a P2P service. They’ll pick up the item, or have it shipped to their home, and they’ll never be heard from again. Meanwhile, the P2P platform will eventually recognize the funds for the purchase come from a bogus source, and will take the money back from the seller.

3. Utility scams

In this scam, a “rep” from a utility company reaches out to a target, claiming their service will be shut off unless a payment is made immediately. The scammer insists on payment by P2P. Unfortunately, once the transfer is made, it can be impossible to reclaim the money.

4. Password scam

In this scam, an alleged representative of a credit union or bank will reach out to a target by text, asking them to approve a recent large P2P transfer from their account. A “no” response will prompt the scammer to call the victim. Posing again as a rep of their financial institution, they’ll offer to assist in reclaiming the allegedly frauded money. To do so, the scammer claims the victim will need to share their Zelle login credentials. Unfortunately, if the victim shares the one-time passcode, the scammer can change the password and send themselves money through the victim’s account.

5. Bogus receipts

Here, a scammer will insert themselves into a legitimate P2P transaction by digitally manipulating a screenshot to make it appear as if they have completed a part of an ongoing deal and insisting you now owe them money. In truth, though, the transaction was never completed and, if you send the money, you’ll be sending it directly to a scammer’s P2P account.

Stay safe

Only send and accept funds from people you know and trust.
Never give out your passwords/pins/challenge response tokens to anyone.
Use strong passwords and don’t reuse them across any accounts.
Use 2 Factor Authentication.
Don’t use guest or unsecured networks when doing transactions or logging into accounts.
Always confirm you’re interacting with the correct person by verifying their phone number at every stage of the P2P transaction process.
Call the P2P platform’s customer service number directly to resolve any errors. Similarly, reach out to High Point Federal Credit Union directly if you receive notification of an allegedly frauded account.
Check your checking account after every P2P transaction to confirm that you’ve received the funds.

Travel Hacks 1 of 12: 5 Ways to Save on Airfare

Planning a trip overseas? Airfare will probably be your largest vacation expense. Fortunately, there are many ways to save on airfare to leave you with more to spend while at your destination. Here’s a list of five ways to save on airfare.

1. Be flexible with dates and destinations

If you’re willing to be flexible about the dates and destination, you can potentially save hundreds on your airline ticket. Instead of choosing a date and destination for your vacation and then searching for the best prices, select a date and destination based on the best available deals.

2. Shop smart online

Harness the power of technology to score the best airfare price. Searching sites and apps, like Expedia, Orbitz and Priceline, is like using multiple travel agencies to find the best flights for your vacation. Kayak, another popular travel app, plugs your preferred dates into its search engine and searches airline sites and agency sites to provide you with all the prices and options available.

3. Act quickly to snag mistake fares

When an airline accidentally discounts a ticket, you can snag a flight for as much as 90% off its conventional price. Mistake fares get snatched up fast, so check your favorite airlines and flight apps often so you don’t miss a deal.

4. Consider booking with a foreign currency

If you’ll be flying a foreign carrier, it may be cheaper to pay for your ticket with the local currency of your destination. Before paying for your flight, check to see if it’ll cost less if you don’t pay in dollars. It can sometimes actually cost more this way, but you can often save a lot by simply changing your location from the U.S. to your destination.

5. Book early

You’ll typically find the best deals on international flights 3-6 months before the departure date. If you’ll be traveling during peak times, like summer or during holiday seasons, start your ticket search even earlier. Flights are updated constantly, so check often to get the best deal.

Use the tips outlined here to get the best deal on your tickets and keep your vacation budget intact. Happy travels!

Last Minute Holiday Hacks

The holidays are nipping at your heels and there’s still a lot to do! It probably seems like your stress levels keep rising while the money in your wallet keeps dwindling. It doesn’t have to be this way. With a bit of planning and by following these holiday hacks, you can enjoy a stress-free and affordable holiday season. Not buying what we’re selling? Well, continue reading to find out how:

Clear the clutter for cash

Before the holidays, browse your closets for clothing in good condition you no longer wear. Sell these on resale sites like eBay and Craigslist. You’ll make room for any incoming gifts and give your holiday budget a little wiggle room at the same time.

Shop small businesses

Avoid crowds and enjoy a wider selection of gift items by shopping small businesses this holiday season. Independently owned stores are more likely to be fully stocked, even late in the season. As a bonus, you’re more likely to land unique gifts, and you’ll be helping local businesses stay afloat during these trying economic times.

Suggest a Secret Santa exchange

If the gift-shopping is getting to be a bit much, consider cutting back by suggesting a Secret Santa gift exchange. You’ll only need to buy one gift instead of one for everyone in an entire group, and the surprise factor makes it super-fun.

Round up your change

It’s never too late to start saving for the holidays! As you shop, use a money app like Acorn to round up your charge to the nearest dollar, and save the change in a specific account. Small change can add up quickly and help offset the amount you’ll need to come up with in your overall budget.

Delegate

If you’ll be hosting events this holiday season, delegate jobs to your guests. Everyone will appreciate the opportunity to pitch in, and it’ll be more helpful for you if you can assign specific jobs to each guest, instead of having three different people show up with apple pies.

Shop during non-peak hours

Peak business hours, which start in the early afternoon and run until evening, will have the biggest crowds and emptiest shelves. If you can get to the store early in the day, you’ll enjoy a full selection that you can peacefully browse before crowds show up. Stress-free shopping also means you’re more likely to make responsible spending decisions. Win-win!

Use the tips outlined here for a stress-free and budget-friendly pre-holiday season.

How Can I Save on Holiday Shopping?

Q: The holidays always have me worried about money. With inflation soaring, I’m more stressed than ever. How can I save on my holiday shopping this year?

A: If you’re worried about making it through the holiday shopping season in the midst of record inflation, you’re not alone. A recent survey shows that 59% of American shoppers are stressed about buying holiday gifts due to higher prices this year. With some careful planning, though, you can enjoy stress-free holiday shopping. Here are seven easy ways you can save.

1. Shop early

Experts are urging shoppers to hit the stores earlier than normal this year to take advantage of early-season sales. Lots of big-box stores are struggling with a supply surplus thanks to an inflation-triggered decline in demand. This will likely lead to sales events to make room for more current inventory. Shop these sales for big savings.

2. Set a budget

Before you start shopping, build a reasonable budget for your holiday shopping. Make your budget easier to keep by allocating a specific amount for every gift, shopping with cash and/or reviewing your budget often.

3. Shop with a list

Instead of blindly hitting the stores, make a list of every gift to buy for friends and family. You’ll be far more likely to stay within budget when your purchases are pre-planned.

4. Leave some last-minute shopping for Green Monday

While it’s best to do the bulk of your shopping early in the season, you can leave some last-minute gift-shopping for Green Monday on Dec. 14. This is when retailers make their final pre-holiday markdowns.

5. Think outside the box

If ever there was a holiday season to get creative with gifting, this is it. Retail inventories are full of products that were backed up during the post-pandemic supply-chain disaster. Think furniture, home decor and more. While these items may not be typical holiday gifts, there’s no real reason you can’t delight a loved one with a new office chair, exercise bike or coffee organizing station.

6. Give gift cards

Protect your gift list against inflation by giving some gift cards. You can find discounted cards on sites like GiftCardGranny and CardCash, or use cash-back apps to earn them at no cost. Gift cards are easy to shop for, easy to budget for and appreciated by the receiver.

7. Use apps to save

In 2022, there are so many apps that can help you spend less on your shopping, and even put money back into your pocket. Try coupon-scanning apps like Honey, cash-back apps like Ibotta and points apps like Drop to save this season.

Use the money-saving tips offered here to shop for the holidays without breaking your budget.

Don’t Get Caught in an Election Scam

Democracy is a privilege that’s upheld by the election process. But scammers are out to hijack this process and cause havoc throughout election season. Here are three red flags to watch out for this time of year to avoid an election scam.

1. Eleventh-hour campaign contributions

This scheme targets voters right before elections by asking them to make a donation toward their chosen candidate’s campaign. They’ll claim to represent the candidate and suggest that the candidate just needs one big push to move to the front of the line.

Unfortunately, if the target believes the caller and makes a donation, they’ll be giving money helping to line a scammer’s pockets.

Stay safe: If you’d like to contribute to a candidate’s campaign, reach out to campaign headquarters on your own through their website.

2. Polling for information

During election season, informal poll-takers and petitioners are everywhere while canvassing voters. Once they have your attention, they’ll ask who you’re voting for, request that you fill out a survey or have you sign an election petition on a particular issue. But first, some will say they’ll need your personally identifiable information (PII), like your name, date of birth, home address and even your Social Security number. If you oblige, you’ll be sharing your information with a scammer.

Stay safe: Never share your PII with an unverified contact. If you do decide to fill out a voter survey, be super-selective about the information you share. Don’t share your Social Security number, driver’s license number or any other information that can be hijacked for crime.

3. Voter re-registration

In the weeks leading up to Election Day, you may get a bogus voter registration form, claiming your name has been mistakenly removed from voter rolls. They will say you can get back on by filling out this form and mailing it out. Alternatively, they’ll reach out over the phone, text, or email, and tell you to register by responding. Naturally, this is an election scam!

Stay safe: Remember that you can only register to vote by mail. In addition, there’s no reason to believe your registration is no longer valid. If in doubt, search your state’s Secretary of State website.

Stay safe, and may the best candidates win!

How Can I Help My Elderly Parents Manage their Finances?

Q: My parents are aging, and I believe they can use help in managing their everyday expenses, and may eventually need a proxy. How can I best help my parents with their finances?

A: Your parents are fortunate to have a child who’s proactively willing to help with this challenging task. Here are some ways you can help your elderly parents manage their finances.

Determine whether they need help

If you notice any of the following, it may be a sign that your parents need assistance with money management:

Unusual and unnecessary purchases.
Piles of unopened mail.
Physical setbacks.
Cognitive impairment and/or memory failure.

Communicate openly

Before you take steps toward managing, or assisting with, your parents’ finances, have an open conversation with them about your current and future intentions. You can share that you are only there to help and that you will not take any actions without their permission, whether before or at the time of need.

Gather information

Next, sit down with your parents and ask these questions about their finances:

Have you named a durable power of attorney (POA) for finances?
Where do you keep your financial records and assets?
What is the name of your mortgage lender?
What are your monthly expenses?
How do you pay your bills?
How much is your annual income?
What kind of health insurance do you have?
Have you written a will or a trust?

Establish a plan

Now you’re ready to establish a plan for managing, or assisting with, your parents’ finances. Be sure to honor their dignity as much as possible. Ask them if they’d like you to take responsibility for one or more of their monthly financial-related tasks. For example, you can pay their mortgage and car payments each month, or make decisions relating to their investments.

At this time, consider simplifying their finances in any way you can. For example, if your parents have multiple credit card balances, you may want to consolidate this debt into an unsecured loan, and then only have to pay back the one loan payment each month. You can also automate as many bills as possible.

Alternatively, you can talk about the future only, and have your parents agree to let you manage their money if one or both of them become incapacitated in any manner.

If your parents find it difficult to relinquish this bit of independence, start assuming responsibilities for their finances gradually; just one bill at a time.

Taking over the finances of elderly parents can be a delicate and daunting task, but it is often necessary. Use the tips outlined here to navigate this situation smoothly.

Don’t Fall for Auto Warranty Scams

Auto warranty scams can lead to financial pain, or even disaster, for an unwary consumer. Here’s what to know about these scams and how to stay safe.

How the scams play out

In an auto warranty scam, a scammer reaches out to a target supposedly selling or offering to extend an existing warranty on their car. The scammer claims to represent the automaker or policy company and may know the exact model and make of the car. Unfortunately, though, if the driver buys or extends a warranty on their car through this call, they’ll be giving their money and information to a scammer.

Red flags

Watch for these red flags:

Robocall. When the pitch to buy a new auto warranty, or to extend an existing one, starts with an automatic message, you’re dealing with a scam.
Extend now! Pressured to buy an extended warranty for your vehicle? Probably a scammer.
How about some ad-bombing? If you keep running into the same ad on every site and social media platform, it’s quite possibly a scam.

Plus shipping and handling. If the alleged representative selling the extended auto warranty starts asking you to pay any processing fee, or even a down payment, before providing real details, hang up and block the number.
Restricted callers only. If your Caller ID is showing “private number” or “restricted,” you are likely being called by a scammer.

Protect yourself

First, never share personal information with an unverified contact while on any platform. Next, if you’d like to purchase a new policy or extend the one you have, reach out directly to an auto warranty company. Finally, if you are constantly getting ad-bombed and robocalled for illegitimate offers, mark the email as spam/or and block the number.

If you’ve been targeted

Take quick steps to mitigate the damage. Do not engage with the scammer, and report it to the Federal Trade Commission. Lastly, close any accounts that may have been compromised and consider a credit freeze, if warranted.

Stay safe!

6 Ways to Pay Less at the Pump

With gas prices still rising nationwide, the pain at the pump is real. There isn’t much you can do about the price of gasoline, but there are ways you can pay less at the pump. Here are six ways to save on gas.

1. Use cash

Many gas stations offer a discount for paying cash, sometimes up to 20 cents per gallon. This can quickly add up when pumping a full tank. Just be careful to have the cash handy when you need it, as you don’t want to lose all those savings to ATM fees if using machines not connected to your credit union.

2. Use a rewards program or credit card

If you don’t like the idea of carrying around tons of cash, but you still want to save at the pump, consider getting a rewards program or credit card. Tread carefully though; not all of them actually benefit the consumer. Find out about a possible annual fee, a rewards cap, membership requirements and the exact redemption value of each reward point before signing up. As an Olean Area Federal Credit Union member, you can opt for the Extra Rewards program when you have the Visa Platinum Credit Card.

3. Check your tire pressure

According to the US Department of Energy, a well-inflated tire can save you 15 cents a gallon by boosting your gas mileage by 3%. Check your tires regularly to ensure they’re always inflated. To make this easier, consider springing for a tire pressure gauge that will automatically monitor the health of your tires.

4. Use a gas-tracking app

In 2022, there’s no need to search for the gas station with the best-priced gas. There’s an app for that! Popular gas-tracking apps include GasBuddy, Upside and Waze. Using the gas station that’s right near your home or workplace might be easy, but taking the extra time to find one that sells gas for less can save you a bundle.

5. Purchase a club membership

If you don’t already have one, this may be the time to buy a club membership. Costco, Sam’s Club and Walmart Plus all offer discounted gas exclusively to members. Of the three, Costco tends to feature gas for the lowest price, up to 34 cents less per gallon than a typical gas station. In today’s gas-crazy climate, that’s a huge difference. Of course, you’ll want to find out how much a club membership will run you before joining.

6. Buy gas at the right time of day

If you pump gas during the midday hours, after the sun has been beating down on the gas reservoir all day, the gas has likely expanded. This means you’ll be paying the same price for less-dense gas, which won’t last as long. Pump when it’s cooler outside, typically during the morning or late evening hours, for the densest gas.

Use these tips to help save on gas despite the rising cost of fuel.

What is the Dark Web?

Q: What is the dark web?

A: The dark web is the deepest layer of the internet that isn’t visible to the average browser. Unfortunately, the it is full of illegal activities and crimes. Let’s take a closer look at the dark web and how you can protect your information from being snared.

What is the dark web?

The internet has been compared to an iceberg, with very little being visible above the surface, but it’s an enormous, dark and deep chasm underneath.

There are three basic parts of the internet:

The surface web – all websites and landing pages that can easily be accessed through popular search engines and direct address entry using a web browser.

The deep web – this includes private, but not invisible accounts, like social media pages, membership websites, medical records and more. All content on the deep web is safeguarded by a paywall or sign-in credentials.
The dark web – can only be accessed by using special browsing software called Tor. Tor masks IP addresses and makes all visitors anonymous.

Not all activity happening on the dark web is illegal. The deepest part of the internet also provides a platform for communication and commerce for people living in countries that have heavy censorship of online activity.

Unfortunately, though, the dark web remains a hotbed of criminal activity. Loads of illegal trade takes place through the dark web, including drugs, firearms, counterfeit money, subscription credentials and personal information of thousands of targets. The inherent anonymity allows hackers and scammers to roam free without fear of being caught.

How can I protect myself?

Enable two-step authentication on all online accounts.
Regularly monitor your credit for fraudulent activity.
Use strong, unique passwords for your accounts.
Never share personal info with an unverified source.

The dark web is impossible to trace, but there are ways to protect your information. Use the tips outlined here to stay safe.

Step 8 of 12 Steps to Financial Wellness – Know When and How to Indulge

Living a life of financial wellness means being happy with a lifestyle that’s within your means, but doesn’t leave you feeling like you’re lacking. At the same time, financial wellness means money choices are governed by discipline and not by emotion. So how do you strike a balance between the two?

Here’s how to indulge responsibly.

Live with a budget

To do this, track your spending for three months. Next, make a list of all your expenses and list your income in a parallel column. Tally up your totals and assign a realistic dollar amount to each expense. Going forward, be sure to only spend within the allocated amount for each expense category.

Leave room in your budget for “just for fun” purchases

As you work on building a budget, leave room for the occasional treat. The exact amount will vary by income level, lifestyle and personal choice. However, wisely choose an amount you can easily afford without feeling deprived.

Review your savings

Before giving yourself permission to indulge, make sure you’re setting aside some of your monthly income to savings. Ideally, short-term savings should be enough to keep you afloat for 3-6 months if you have no source of income. Long-term savings should be sufficient to support your retirement and any long-term savings goal you may have.

Choose your “treats”

Everyone’s got a personal vice or three. Take a look at where your non-discretionary money went over the last month and highlight the more expensive impulse buys. Hold these purchases up to these questions:

Did this purchase bring me happiness or positive energy the day I bought it? How long did that feeling last?
Did this impulse buy blow my budget?
Does thinking about this purchase now fill me with joy, guilt or something else?

Use the insight about your indulgences to help you make better money choices in the future.

Lose the guilt

Once you’ve decided how much you want to spend each month on indulgences, it’s time to let go of guilt. If you’re spending responsibly, there’s no need to eat yourself up over an impulse buy you could have done without. As long as you’re keeping these just-for-fun purchases within your budget, you can maintain your financial wellness.

Cash, Credit or Debit – How Should I Pay?

Q: When paying for my everyday and occasional purchases, should I be using cash, credit, or debit?

A: Some purchases should be paid for with cash, some with a credit card and others with a debit card. Let’s take a closer look at each method and when they should be used.

When should I use cash?

Some retailers offer discounts for paying in cash, making it the wise go-to. Also, if you have a tough time sticking to your budget when shopping, it can be helpful to only take along the cash you plan to use. Finally, some small businesses only accept cash payments.

On the flip side, cash offers no purchase protection and should not be used for large purchases. Also, cash leaves no paper trail, so it may be difficult to track expenses. Finally, cash always carries the risk of being lost or stolen.

When should I use my credit card?

Credit cards are the double-edged sword of personal finance. Credit card debt is a leading cause of consumer debt. However, owning credit cards and using them responsibly is a crucial part of your credit rating.

Credit cards also offer two primary advantages: rewards and purchase protection. Many credit cards can earn rewards as you spend on them, so it earns you something for your use. The purchase protection a credit card offers also makes it the ideal choice for paying for large purchases. In addition, using a credit card and making on-time payments can help boost your credit score while also making expense tracking easy.

Ideally, credit cards should only be used to cover fixed or steady payments and for purchases you know you can pay in full when the bill is due.

When should I use my debit card?

Debit cards allow you to track your spending and help you stay within budget since you can generally only spend what you have. In addition, if your card is lost or stolen, you can cancel it and/or close the connected account.

Debit cards can be a great choice for everyday purchases of any kind. At High Point Federal Credit Union, you can actually earn rewards with your debit card if you have a myRewards Checking account! Learn more by clicking here.

Use this guide to help you choose the right payment method in every situation.

Back-to-School Shopping Hacks

It’s back-to-school season, but that doesn’t mean you need to break your budget. Here’s six back-to-school shopping hacks to get you started.

1. Take inventory

Don’t set foot in a single store without first checking to see what you have at home. Keep a running list of everything you find so you know exactly what you have before you spend anything on new supplies and clothing.

2. Shop with a list

And we’re not talking about the list of required supplies your child’s school or teacher has sent home. When shopping for anything, it’s best to start out with a clear goal of what you plan to buy. This way, you’ll be less likely to overspend and come home with stuff you don’t really need.

3. Divide and conquer

The circulars are packed with specials on school supplies all summer long. The problem is that, while one store is offering a crazy-low deal on crayons this week, another is running a super sale on pencils – and the stores are across town from each other. Keep your savings and your sanity, by teaming up with another school parent. Divide the school supply list between, pooling costs and savings.

4. Let your kids choose some items on their own

Teach your kids a lesson in budgeting by allowing them to shop for one or more of the costlier items they need on their own. Set a reasonable budget together, but let your child do the actual choosing and paying. To encourage thriftiness, you can offer to allow your child to keep the change.

5. Save some stuff for later

There’s no need to purchase a complete autumn wardrobe before Labor Day. Waiting a bit for the mid-season sales will save you a ton of money.

If your kids are in need of some bigger ticket items this year, consider applying for a low-interest loan from High Point Federal Credit Union!

Use these hacks to cash in on savings this back-to-school season.