Credit unions are dedicated to serving their membership. Not only do they offer low cost automobile loans, mortgages, and checking accounts, they also have seminars and workshops to help members be successful with their money. They have in-person meetings, as well as online resources that can help with an array of issues, including surviving lean economic times, raising kids to be money smart, and how to stop leaks in your budgets. Surviving Lean Economic Times Although the U.S. economy has shown signs of rebounding, there are still some slow areas that families are struggling with. Credit unions offer financial counseling, as well as tips. Some tips include lowering expenses, and raising income levels in a household. In order to lower expenses, family members that are commuting to work or school could carpool or take public transportation. The thermostat could be lowered in the winter by a couple of degrees and family members could be encouraged to wear sweaters indoors. Taking a second job, or doing freelance work could result in a few hundred extra dollars each month that could stretch the monthly budget. Raising Kids to Be Money Smart One way to raise financially smart kids is to talk to them about money. Giving them an allowance, letting them earn cash by doing chores, and letting them open savings accounts at credit unions can allow them to become money savvy. Because children learn by observing, it's crucial that parents are good role models. Let them see you saving money every payday and shopping for the best deals at the store. Bring them grocery shopping with a calculator and let them add it up as you go. That will be an eye opener! Stop Budget Leaks Where does all the money go? Everyone remembers the big payments like the auto payment or the mortgage, but many people are puzzled about the rest. A helpful tactic is to write everything down that you spend for one month. It's amazing how fast those impulse-buys of soda, fast food, and coffee-on-the-run add up. Collect your coins in a jar and bring them to your credit union's change machine to total it up. You'll be amazed at how quickly those quarters, dimes, and nickels add up. Credit unions are there to help you, the member. They want you to be financially successful so they will be, too. Be sure to take advantage of their seminars and online services to improve your money management skills, your budgeting, and your base of knowledge. When you're successful, they're successful. Our credit unions in Jackson, MI can help you look over your finances and make sure you have the skills you need to budget well. For more information, visit https://secure.eecu.us.
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