Author: Elizabeth Gray
News, Events, Resources, Tools & Advice

Budget Friendly Valentine’s Day
It might seem unromantic to talk about saving money on Valentine’s Day, but what’s more romantic than a balanced budget and a full savings account? Seriously, there are great ways to still have a romantic time without spending a ton. Continue reading

How to Save on Super Bowl Sunday
It’s Super Bowl time! If you, like me, agreed to host the big party this year, it might be looking like it’ll tackle your budget for a loss. Set up a strong defense by getting cheap décor in team colors. Dodge the pre-made Super Bowl trays and build your own to save big bucks. You can even go potluck! You’ll guarantee the celebration will be (pardon the football reference) a touchdown! Continue reading

Prom on a Budget
Prom season is upon us. You could be spending a ton unless you do some careful planning and shopping! Work with your teen to set a budget, even splitting it out into categories. Look on Pinterest for some creative, low-cost “promposal” ideas and cut costs on flowers by shopping at the grocery store instead of the florist. Prom can be just as magical even on a budget! Continue reading

Spring Cleaning
The sun is shining, the birds are chirping, the flowers are blooming — and your cluttered closets are calling. Time to roll up your sleeves and whip your home into shape...especially since it is National Cleaning Week and time for Spring Cleaning! We’ve got hacks to make it simpler, cheaper and better for the environment! Your home will be clean in no time! Continue reading

Ready or not, the holidays are here
Ready or not, here it comes.....It’s time for your holiday shopping! This is going to be a very challenging year in the stores and online, but we can help! Read our holiday shopping guide for great tips and advice! Continue reading

Frightening Financials
If your finances remind you of a horror movie, Abilene Teachers FCU can help you with reducing scary credit card balances and saving for the future. But you’re on your own when it comes to the ax-wielding pizza guy wanting to collect for more than a large pepperoni. Continue reading

You Might Be Talking to a Tax Scammer
Every year, tax scams come out of the woodwork. If a caller or email says that you have to buy any kind of prepaid card to settle a tax debt or resolve identity theft, you’re getting scammed. If you think you’ve been a target of a tax scam, fight back by contacting the IRS, FTC or Social Security Administration. Stay safe this tax season. Continue reading

Scammers Know Everyone Wants a Cute New Fur Baby
If you’ve decided it’s time to welcome a new puppy or kitten into your home, you could fall victim to a pet scam. These usually happen online, where low prices will hide extra “fees” and expenses that will drive the price up, and the pet may not even exist. Continue reading

There’s Nothing Funny or Romantic about a RomCon
I love a good RomCom just like so many others but a RomCON is not something I want to experience. If this new online relationship seems too good to be true, it probably is. Please read to see if you may have fallen victim to these online casanovas/femme fatales who know just what to say to get you to fall for them and their schemes. Continue reading