Budgeting
News, Events, Resources, Tools & Advice
Do It Today: Steps 1-4 of 12 toward Living a Debt-Free Life
If you’re determined that this will be the year you finally pay down (or pay off) that debt. Get ready, because this Do It Today plan will have you taking 12 steps on your journey toward living a debt-free life. Continue reading
What to Do with Your First Paycheck
You just got your first real paycheck! Before you book that flight to Vegas, though, it’s time to get real with how you’ll spend it. Start socking away money for your emergency fund (3-6 months’ worth of expenses) and put some in your savings account at ATFCU. Continue reading
How Much Money Should I Keep in My Checking Account?
You want to make your money work for you so how much should you keep in your checking account versus a savings or other higher interest earning account? The following blog gives you a few ideas and different options when it comes to making the most of your money! Continue reading
Let’s be Frank, Your Bank Account Needs a Detox
Frankly, your bank account needs a detox. Just like that overflowing junk drawer, it's likely cluttered with unnecessary expenses and forgotten subscriptions, leaving you feeling drained and disorganized. It's time to declutter, simplify, and take control of your finances. Continue reading
12 Steps to Financial Wellness – Step 10: Plan for Retirement
Once you’ve got your financial present taken care of, it’s time to plan for your financial future, namely retirement. There are multiple ways to save for your golden years, with a 401(k) through your employer or a conventional or Roth IRA. They each have different rules, so pick the one that fits your needs the best! Continue reading
12 Steps to Financial Wellness – Step 12: Review and Tweak
Here we are at the end of our year-long journey to financial wellness. We hope you've learned a lot and your financial picture is brighter now! It is time to review. Continue reading
12 Steps to Financial Wellness – Step 11: Investing
Got your financial house pretty much in order and ready to start investing? Great! There are some big decisions to make, and we can help! Continue reading
12 Steps to Financial Wellness – Step 9: Build and Maintain an Excellent Credit Score
One of the big keys to financial wellness is building your credit score and keeping it high. This score affects a dizzying amount of your adult life, so pay attention to it! Continue reading
12 Steps to Financial Wellness – Step 8: Know When and How to Indulge
Believe it or not, you should make room in your monthly budget for indulgences! Without a little fun every month, you’ll be tempted to go off the rails in a big way at some point and really blow your plans. Just be sure to work it into your budget like any other expense and be sure you get a bang for your buck. Continue reading