Making Money Personal

Triangle Credit Union
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  • Education
  • Updated Biweekly

Engaging in real talk about financial matters that affect your life and your community.

  1. 6d ago

    Identity Protection Tips for Travelers - Money Tip Tuesday

    Summer is an exciting time, and for many, the perfect time to get out and do some traveling. While you're enjoying the fun of planning, searching, and packing, remember that identity thieves and scammers are still out there plotting ways to trip you up and gain access to your personal information. Links: Learn more about the identity protection benefits with a Better Checking account Check out TCU University for financial education tips and resources! Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter! Learn more about Triangle Credit Union Transcript: Welcome to Money Tip Tuesday from the Making Money Personal podcast.   Summer travel season is upon us, and it can come with a lot of excitement and a lot of distractions. That’s exactly when people slip up with their personal information without realizing it. A few simple habits can make a big difference in keeping your identity safe while you’re preparing to head out on the road. Don’t let identity thieves ruin your summer plans. Before you pack, post, or travel, review these guidelines to help protect your identity against scammers and identity thieves.  Be careful what you share online  It’s easy to overshare without meaning to. Posting your travel plans gives scammers more information than you think. Be mindful of what you share on social media. Sharing details like birthdays, travel plans, or even pet names can give scammers the clues they need to guess passwords or impersonate you. A few extra seconds of caution can help protect your accounts and your identity. Even a photo of a boarding pass can expose details someone can use to get into your accounts. Share the moment, not the specifics.  Avoid logging into sensitive accounts on public Wi‑Fi  Airports, hotels, and coffee shops are convenient, but the Wi‑Fi is often wide open. Open networks are convenient, but they’re also easier for criminals to intercept. Anyone on the same network can try to snoop. If you need to check something important (banking, email, anything with personal information), use your phone’s hotspot or wait until you’re on a secure connection.  Keep your devices locked down  Travel days can be chaotic. Phones get left on seats, laptops get forgotten at security, and backpacks get unzipped without anyone noticing. A strong passcode, a biometric (face or fingerprint) lock, and “find my device” turned on can save you a lot of stress if something goes missing.  Watch out for “urgent” messages  Travelers have been known to get fake vacation deals, fake airline alerts, fake hotel confirmations, and fake texts about “suspicious activity.” If a message pressures you to “act now” or “click immediately,” or threatens that your account will be closed or reservation will be cancelled, pause and take a moment before you take action. Go directly to the official website or app instead of engaging with these “urgent” messages. And remember, Triangle Credit Union will never pressure you with “urgent” messages demanding immediate action.  Don’t carry every document with you  When you’re traveling, leave things like your Social Security card, passport (unless you need it), and birth certificate at home. The fewer important documents you have on you, the less you can lose.  Shred anything with personal details  Travel planning can often bring a pile of mail filled with offers, pre-approvals, and random “welcome” packets. As you evaluate what to keep and what to discard, remember that anything with your name, address, or financial information should be shredded before you add it to the recycling or trash can. It sounds small, but dumpster diving for personal information is still a thing.  Use strong, unique passwords  If you’re new to traveling, you’re probably creating new accounts. Use passwords that are long, unique, and hard to guess; think of a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols rather than personal details like birthdays or names. At the same time, avoid recycling the same password across multiple accounts. Taking a few minutes to strengthen your passwords today can help protect your accounts from fraud tomorrow.  Check your accounts regularly  A quick weekly look at your bank accounts, credit card activity, and email security settings can help you catch something early. Many times, identity theft starts with tiny, easy‑to‑miss charges. Reviewing your accounts on a routine basis is one of the strongest defenses against identity theft. Spotting unfamiliar charges or changes early allows you to act quickly and limit potential damage.  Be mindful with travel documents  Don’t leave boarding passes, hotel key sleeves, or rental car paperwork lying around. They often contain barcodes or account numbers that can be scanned or photographed. Lost or stolen travel documents can give fraudsters the information they need to open accounts or impersonate you, so a little extra care can go a long way to help protect your identity.  Summer travel should feel fun, not stressful. A few small habits can help you keep your identity safe while you enjoy the moment. But even when you do everything right, identity theft can still strike. If you suspect you’re a victim, contact us - even if it’s not related to your account at Triangle. Remember that if you have a Better Checking account, it comes with access to a professional, certified Identity Theft Recovery Advocate who can work with you one-on-one to identify and resolve identity theft or fraud and return your identity and your accounts to pre-event status. Visit trianglecu.org today to learn about the protective benefits of a Better Checking or use the link in the show notes.   If there are any other tips or topics you'd like us to cover, let us know at tcupodcast@trianglecu.org. Also, remember to like and follow our Making Money Personal Facebook and Instagram to share your thoughts. Finally, remember to look for our sponsor, Triangle Credit Union, on Facebook and LinkedIn.           Thanks for listening to today's Money Tip Tuesday. Check out our other tips and episodes on the Making Money Personal podcast.

    6 min

  2. Jun 16

    Financial Freedom Starts Here: 5 Powerful Ways to Save More - Money Tip Tuesday

    What if saving money didn’t require giving up the things you enjoy—but simply changing how you manage what you already earn? The truth is, small, intentional habits can quietly build significant wealth over time. By putting the right systems in place, you can make saving feel effortless instead of overwhelming.  Links: Track your savings goals with Goal Builder Explore some other saving challenges to make saving fun Check out TCU University for financial education tips and resources! Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter! Learn more about Triangle Credit Union Transcript: Welcome to Money Tip Tuesday from the Making Money Personal podcast.   Saving money doesn’t have to feel restrictive. With the right strategies you can steadily build financial security without drastically changing your lifestyle. Whether you're just getting started or looking to improve your current habits, these 5 practical approaches can help you save more efficiently and consistently.  Number 1: Automate savings with direct deposit.  One of the simplest and most effective ways to save money is to remove the need for decision-making altogether. Automating your savings ensures that a portion of your income is set aside before you have the chance to spend it.  Many employers allow you to split your direct deposit into multiple accounts. By directing a percentage of each paycheck into a dedicated savings account, you create a "pay yourself first" system. This method builds savings effortlessly and reduces the temptation to spend.  Even small automated contributions of 5-10% or $25-$50 a paycheck can add up significantly over time, especially when paired with interest-earning accounts.   Number 2: Set up a savings goal tracker.  Having a clear savings goal gives your efforts purpose and direction. Whether you're saving for an emergency fund, a vacation, or a large purchase, tracking your progress helps you stay motivated.  A savings tracker can be as simple as a spreadsheet, mobile app, or visual chart. For more sophisticated tracking try an online banking tool like Triangle’s Goal Builder tool within online and mobile banking. Seeing your progress grow over time reinforces positive financial behavior and keeps you accountable.  To make tracking more fun, break your larger goals into smaller milestones. For example, instead of focusing on saving $10,000, focus on and celebrate reaching every $1,000 mark. These smaller wins make the process feel achievable and rewarding.  Number 3: Try a savings challenge.  Savings challenges are a fun and structured way to build momentum. They turn saving into a game, making it more engaging and less of a chore.  Popular challenges include:  The 52-week challenge, where you gradually increase your savings each week or save a certain amount of money each week for a whole year The no-spend challenge, where you limit discretionary purchases for a set period The round-up method, where purchases are rounded up and the difference is saved The 100-envelope challenge, where you save a specified dollar amount in every envelope until they’re all filled  These challenges not only boost your savings but also increase awareness of your spending habits. Over time, they can help you develop long-term discipline and smarter financial choices.  For more ideas on additional savings challenges visit triangleuniversity.org or follow the link in the show notes.   Number 4: Seek out high-yield savings accounts.  Not all savings accounts are created equal. Traditional accounts often offer minimal interest, while high-yield savings accounts provide significantly better returns.  By keeping your money in a high-yield account, you allow your savings to grow passively through compound interest. Even modest interest rates can make a noticeable difference over time, especially with consistent contributions.  When comparing accounts, consider:  Interest rates (APY) Fees Minimum balance requirements to open the account or earn interest Ease of access  Choosing the right high-yield savings account ensures your money is working as hard as you do.  Number 5: Make use of employer benefits like FSAs and HSAs.  Employer-sponsored benefits such as Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) and Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) can be powerful tools for saving money, particularly on healthcare expenses.  These accounts allow you to set aside pre-tax income, effectively reducing your taxable income and increasing your take-home value. HSAs, in particular, offer long-term advantages since unused funds can roll over year after year and even be invested.  By planning for expected medical costs using these accounts, you can avoid dipping into your regular savings and maximize your financial efficiency.  Saving money effectively isn’t about making drastic sacrifices—it’s about building smart, sustainable habits. By automating your savings, tracking goals, engaging in challenges, maximizing interest, and leveraging available benefits, you can steadily grow your financial security.  Start small, stay consistent, and remember: every dollar saved is a step closer to your financial goals.  If there are any other tips or topics you'd like us to cover, let us know at tcupodcast@trianglecu.org. Also, remember to like and follow our Making Money Personal Facebook and Instagram to share your thoughts. Finally, remember to look for our sponsor, Triangle Credit Union, on Facebook and LinkedIn.           Thanks for listening to today's Money Tip Tuesday. Check out our other tips and episodes on the Making Money Personal podcast.

    6 min

  3. Jun 9

    Why June is a Smart Month for a Financial Planning Conversation - Money Tip Tuesday

    Getting into great financial shape is no joke. It takes planning and intention to put together a plan that will work for your own personal journey. This is why it’s important to take time to have a financial planning conversation. If you haven’t taken the time to chat with a financial professional about your future, this tip will highlight a few reasons why now is a great time to do so.   Links: Learn more about Triangle's Financial Planning Services  Learn how you're doing financially with our short Financial Wellness Assessment Check out TCU University for financial education tips and resources! Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter! Learn more about Triangle Credit Union Transcript: Welcome to Money Tip Tuesday from the Making Money Personal podcast.     When most people think about financial planning, a few familiar moments come to mind: that long-since forgotten New Year’s resolution in January, the hectic tax season in early spring, or the rush to make moves before year‑end. But for young adults and young families especially, This month is one of the smartest—and most underappreciated—times to have a financial planning conversation.  Here’s why this time of year creates a valuable opportunity to review your finances, adjust your goals, and build confidence before life gets busier.  Tax Season Is Over, and Your Financial Picture Is Clearer  By this time of year, tax season is finally behind you. That alone makes it an ideal time to step back and look at the big picture without deadlines looming.  For young professionals and growing families, this is when:  Your income details are fresh and accurate You can see how bonuses, job changes, or side income affected your taxes Any surprises—good or bad—are still top of mind  Instead of reacting to tax results, a June planning conversation allows you to learn from them. Whether it’s adjusting withholding, rethinking savings strategies, or planning for future life changes, you’re making decisions with real numbers in hand.  A Natural Mid‑Year Checkpoint (Without the Pressure)  June sits at a natural pause point in the year. You’re not racing to hit New Year’s goals, and you’re not yet overwhelmed by fall schedules or holiday planning.  This makes it a perfect moment to ask:  Are we saving what we intended to save this year? Has our spending shifted as our lifestyle changed? Are we still comfortable with our debt and monthly obligations?  For young families juggling daycare costs, mortgage payments, or student loans—and young adults balancing rent, savings, and career moves—small course corrections made now can prevent bigger problems later.  Summer Spending Is Here  Summer often brings higher spending, especially for families. Travel, camps, childcare changes, weddings, home projects, and even higher utility bills can quietly strain cash flow.  Planning now helps you:  Set realistic expectations for summer expenses Decide what’s worth spending on—and what isn’t Protect savings goals while still enjoying the season  Instead of relying on credit cards or feeling guilty about spending later, you enter summer with clarity and intention.  Big Life Changes Often Happen This Time of Year  For many young adults and families, spring and early summer are full of transitions:  Graduations and new jobs Moves or first home purchases Growing families or childcare changes Career shifts or entrepreneurship plans  These milestones are exciting—but they also impact cash flow, benefits, insurance, and long‑term goals. A financial planning conversation in June helps you connect today’s changes to tomorrow’s stability, rather than reacting after the fact.  Markets and Interest Rates Don’t Pause for Summer  While it’s tempting to mentally “check out” once warmer weather arrives, financial markets and economic conditions continue moving.  June is a smart time to:  Revisit your investment mix and risk comfort level Review how interest rates affect your savings, student loans, or mortgage Stay focused on long‑term goals instead of short‑term headlines  For younger investors especially, planning is less about timing the market and more about building consistent, sustainable habits early.  It’s Easier to Focus Before Life Gets Busier  Once summer is in full swing, calendars fill quickly. Vacations, family commitments, and back‑to‑school planning can make financial conversations feel rushed—or get pushed off entirely.  In June:  Schedules tend to be more manageable Conversations are calmer and more thoughtful There’s time to consider options instead of making snap decisions  That breathing room leads to better outcomes and less stress.  Planning Now Creates Momentum, Not Panic  One of the biggest benefits of scheduling a financial planning conversation in May is what it prevents later: year-end scrambling.  By taking action now, you:  Spread decisions out over time Avoid last-minute pressure in the fall Give your goals time to compound rather than compress  For young adults and families still building their financial foundation, this kind of proactive momentum can be transformative.  The Bottom Line  Financial planning isn’t just for major milestones or looming deadlines—and it doesn’t have to wait until January or December. This time of year offers a practical, low‑pressure opportunity to pause, reflect, and plan ahead.  Whether you’re managing your first “real” paycheck, navigating family expenses, or preparing for your next big life move, a conversation now can bring clarity, confidence, and peace of mind for the rest of the year.  Sometimes, the smartest financial decision isn’t what you do—it’s when you start the conversation.  Triangle is proud to offer financial planning services as part of our commitment to member success. If you’re interested in sitting down to start the conversation, visit trianglecu.org or follow the link in the show notes to learn more and get in touch with one of our financial planning professionals.   If you’re not quite ready for the conversation yet, but are just curious about your financial health, take our free financial wellness assessment to get an idea of where you’re at. It’s free, only takes a couple minutes to answer the questions and you’ll get a quick result sent right to your inbox. Give it a shot now at trianglecu.org or follow the link in the show notes.   If there are any other tips or topics you'd like us to cover, let us know at tcupodcast@trianglecu.org. Also, remember to like and follow our Making Money Personal Facebook and Instagram to share your thoughts. Finally, remember to look for our sponsor, Triangle Credit Union, on Facebook and LinkedIn.           Thanks for listening to today's Money Tip Tuesday. Check out our other tips and episodes on the Making Money Personal podcast.

    7 min

  4. Jun 2

    This Elder Abuse Awareness Month: Stand Up for Our Seniors - Money Tip Tuesday

    Identity theft criminals highly target some of the most vulnerable individuals in our communities. With a growing increase in identity fraud and other scams today, it’s critical that we do our parts to protect those in our lives most at risk of identity scams and especially elder abuse.  Links: Learn more and get helpful resources from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) To learn more about how to recognize, help prevent, and respond to elder mistreatment, visit the National Center on Elder Abuse  Learn more about the identity protection benefits with a Better Checking account Check out TCU University for financial education tips and resources! Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter! Learn more about Triangle Credit Union Transcript: Welcome to Money Tip Tuesday from the Making Money Personal podcast.   At Triangle, protecting the financial well-being of you and your loved ones is a top priority. June is Elder Abuse Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness of the financial exploitation and other forms of abuse that disproportionately affect older adults. Elder abuse can take many forms. It could be physical, emotional, or financial, and it could be due to neglect or due to exploitation. Often, elder abuse goes unreported due to fear, shame, or isolation.  Did you know?  Financial exploitation is the most common form of elder abuse—and it often goes unnoticed until significant damage is done. Scams, fraud, and even manipulation by trusted individuals can leave lifelong financial and emotional impacts.  How you can help:  Learn the warning signs of financial abuse  Financial abuse doesn’t always look obvious—and that’s what makes it so dangerous. It can start subtly: a sudden spike in withdrawals or transfers, unfamiliar charges, or changes in spending patterns that just don’t seem to add up. You might notice unpaid bills piling up—even though your loved one has more than enough money to cover them. Other warning signs include new names appearing on accounts, unexpected changes to wills or power of attorney, or unfamiliar individuals accompanying your loved one to financial appointments and speaking on their behalf.  Trust your instincts—if something feels off, it’s worth taking a closer look. Staying informed about these red flags is one of the most powerful ways to step in early and help protect someone you care about.   Learn more about common ways older adults may be at risk and get access to helpful resources from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) at consumerfinance.gov or use the link in the show notes.  Check in regularly with older family members  Consistent, meaningful connection is one of the strongest defenses against financial exploitation. Social isolation can make older adults more vulnerable—not just to scams, but to manipulation by people they trust. That’s why regular check-ins matter so much.  These don’t have to be formal conversations about money. A simple phone call, a coffee visit, or asking how things are going can open the door for your loved one to share concerns. Over time, these check-ins build trust and create a safe environment where they feel comfortable speaking up if something doesn’t seem right. It’s not just about vigilance—it’s about showing care, maintaining dignity, and helping them feel supported every step of the way.  Report suspicious financial activity  If you notice something unusual—whether it’s account activity that doesn’t make sense or changes in behavior that raise concern—don’t wait. Acting quickly can prevent further loss and protect your loved one from deeper harm.  Start by contacting your financial institution to flag the activity—they can often help monitor accounts, stop transactions, or add safeguards. You can also reach out to your local Adult Protective Services, who are trained to investigate and intervene in cases of suspected abuse.  Speaking up might feel uncomfortable, but it can make a critical difference. Reporting concerns is not about causing trouble—it’s about protecting someone’s well-being and ensuring they have the support they need.  Together, we can help protect the financial independence and dignity of older adults in our community. To learn more about how to recognize, help prevent, and respond to elder mistreatment, visit the National Center on Elder Abuse at elderjustice.usc.edu or check the link in the show notes.  Need help or have concerns?
Our staff is trained to recognize signs of financial abuse. Call us at (800) 276-2470 or visit your nearest branch for confidential support. If you suspect an older adult in your life has fallen victim to a scam or identity theft, contact us. If you’re a member with a Better Checking account, you have access to identity theft recovery services for up to three generations of your family, including your parents if they live with you. Check out our website, trianglecu.org for more information about the amazing benefits you and eligible family members can get with a Better Checking account.  If there are any other tips or topics you'd like us to cover, let us know at tcupodcast@trianglecu.org. Also, remember to like and follow our Making Money Personal Facebook and Instagram to share your thoughts. Finally, remember to look for our sponsor, Triangle Credit Union, on Facebook and LinkedIn.           Thanks for listening to today's Money Tip Tuesday. Check out our other tips and episodes on the Making Money Personal podcast.

    5 min

  5. May 26

    Easy Ways to Save on Gas This Summer - Money Tip Tuesday

    With fuel prices constantly rising, many people are looking for ways to save money on gas. Fortunately, there are practical ways to cut down on gas costs without buying a new car or drastically changing your lifestyle. Let’s break down some smart, realistic strategies that actually work.  Links: Check out TCU University for financial education tips and resources! Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter! Learn more about Triangle Credit Union Transcript: Welcome to Money Tip Tuesday from the Making Money Personal podcast.  Let’s start with driving habits, because this is where many people lose money without realizing it. Things like speeding, rapid acceleration, and hard braking can lower your gas mileage by as much as 10 to 40%, especially in stop-and-go traffic. Driving smoothly and staying close to the speed limit can make a noticeable difference. It’s estimated that every 5 mph over 50 mph is like paying an extra 28 cents per gallon.  Next, don’t skip basic vehicle maintenance. This one isn’t flashy, but it matters. Keeping your car in good shape helps it run more efficiently and burn less fuel. For example, underinflated tires increase rolling resistance and force your engine to work harder. Proper tire pressure alone can improve gas mileage by up to 3%. Using the manufacturer-recommended motor oil and replacing dirty air filters can also improve fuel efficiency by 1–10%, depending on the vehicle. Small fixes really do add up.  Another way to save on gas is to plan out trips and combine errands. Fuel waste often happens before you even start the car. Making multiple short trips—especially with a cold engine—uses more gas than one longer, combined trip. Try planning routes ahead of time and combining errands whenever possible. Using navigation apps to avoid traffic and construction can also save fuel by reducing idle time and stop-and-go driving. Less time on the road means less money spent at the pump.  One of the easiest ways to save money on gas is simply not overpaying for it. Apps like GasBuddy, Waze, and Upside let drivers compare real-time gas prices in their area. GasBuddy alone reports helping users save billions collectively by showing the cheapest stations nearby and offering per-gallon discounts through its Pay with GasBuddy program. Many drivers save anywhere from 10 to 30 cents per gallon, which adds up quickly over a year.  Here’s one people overlook: extra weight and drag cost you money. Carrying unnecessary items in your trunk or using a roof rack when you don’t need it makes your engine work harder. It’s estimated that fuel economy drops about 1% for every 100 pounds of extra weight. Removing roof racks when not in use can also improve highway mileage by reducing aerodynamic drag.  Saving money on gas doesn’t require extreme changes—it’s about stacking small, smart habits. Drive smoothly, keep your car maintained, plan your trips, and take advantage of fuel-saving apps and tools. Over time, those few cents per gallon can turn into hundreds of dollars back in your pocket every year. And that’s money better spent on literally anything else than your gas tank.  If there are any other tips or topics you'd like us to cover, let us know at tcupodcast@trianglecu.org. Also, remember to like and follow our Making Money Personal Facebook and Instagram to share your thoughts. Finally, remember to look for our sponsor, Triangle Credit Union, on Facebook and LinkedIn.           Thanks for listening to today's Money Tip Tuesday. Check out our other tips and episodes on the Making Money Personal podcast.

    4 min

  6. May 21

    Episode 92: From Classroom to Control Tower: Nashua Community College’s Aviation Program Explained

    In this episode we chat with Doug Mitchell and Jeff Carpentier from Nashua Community College (NCC) to discuss their aviation and air traffic control program. Doug and Jeff highlight the program's popularity and the need for air traffic controllers due to a current 4,000-controller shortage. Learn more about NCC's air traffic control program: https://nashuacc.edu/program/air-traffic-control-2/ Explore more programs and resources at NCC: https://nashuacc.edu/ Learn more about Triangle Credit Union: https://www.trianglecu.org/ Check out TCU University for financial education tips and resources: https://triangleuniversity.org/ Learn more about Triangle Credit Union: https://www.trianglecu.org/ AD: Adventure Awaits! Learn more about our competitive auto rates: https://www.trianglecu.org/borrow/auto/

    32 min

  7. May 19

    Five Serious Scams to Avoid This Spring - Money Tip Tuesday

    As people gear up for travel, home projects, tax deadlines, and outdoor events, scammers ramp up their efforts to exploit the seasonal rush. From too-good-to-be-true deals to impersonation schemes that feel alarmingly convincing, these tactics evolve every year and catch even savvy consumers off guard. Links: Learn more about the Identity Theft protection tools with a Better Checking account Check out TCU University for financial education tips and resources! Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter! Learn more about Triangle Credit Union Transcript: Welcome to Money Tip Tuesday from the Making Money Personal podcast.   In this tip, I’m going to highlight the top five scams to watch for this spring, how they typically unfold, and the warning signs that help you protect your accounts, your identity, and your financial peace of mind.  Unclaimed Funds  Have you received an unexpected phone call with the unexpected news that you’re entitled to hundreds or thousands of dollars in unclaimed property? More likely than not, this is a phishing scam. The scammers are counting on you to take the bait and provide your personal information or payment details under pressure. Remember, legitimate government agencies won’t call or text asking for personal information to release your unclaimed property. Instead, you can visit https://unclaimed.org/search to see if any unclaimed funds can be returned to you.   Mortgage or Debt Relief Offers  Just like unclaimed funds and unclaimed property scams, fraudulent mortgage and debt relief offers are on the rise. If the offer is unexpected and requires payment upfront, it is more than likely a scam. Other signs of a scam can include urgency related to the timing of the transaction: if you don’t act immediately, you can’t take advantage of this offer later. Scammers often ask for payment right away, but it’s illegal for debt or mortgage relief companies to charge a fee before you receive their services. Remember, if you are having trouble paying your mortgage or other debts, reach out to the companies that you owe money, and explain your unique situation. Often you can work with lenders and creditors to develop a payment plan. You can find legitimate help from housing and credit counselors as well.  Unpaid Traffic Violations  Did you receive a text, phone call, or letter advising that you have unpaid traffic tickets or tolls? Many times, these messages are threatening and rely on you to act quickly under pressure to remediate the issue. To make matters worse, scammers are taking advantage of artificial intelligence to make false notifications appear to look legitimate. For example, letters can include a fraudulent copy of an agency’s seal or can mimic a court-ordered collections notice. Some letters even include a QR code to collect payment. If you receive one of these communications, reach out directly to the agency in question using a publicly available phone number to confirm the authenticity of the message you received.   False Safety Recall  Another scam making the rounds this spring is product recall notices. Scammers are sending fake texts impersonating popular retailers and advising of “urgent” product recalls. Many times, these text messages include a link to a website that looks a lot like the actual retailer’s website, but it’s designed for you to enter your personal information, sending it directly to the scammer. Generally, retailers will post safety notices directly on their platforms and will not send unsolicited text messages related to recalls or refunds. If you have registered a product with the manufacturer when you purchased it, actual recall notices will be delivered to you by mail or the email you used during product registration. Learn more about active product recalls at recalls.gov and cpsc.gov.  Weather Relief Scams  This time of year often brings severe weather to many parts of the country. In turn, this means that scammers are ready to target victims eager to complete storm-related repairs quickly. Stay skeptical of contractors who reach out to you directly, as it’s common for unlicensed contractors to target recovery zones – always ask for copies of their license, insurance, and a contract in writing before taking action. Make sure to use trusted resources to see what others are saying about contractors or funding resources. Seeking multiple estimates or quotes for services can be critical to help ensure you’re getting a fair deal and that you are comparing equivalent work, materials, and timelines for repairs. Finally, pay by check or with credit card; other payment methods such as cash, cryptocurrency, wire transfer, gift cards, or a payment app can make it challenging to recover your money if it’s a scam.  Scams can be unsettling, but with vigilance and the tips above, you can help protect yourself and your data. Always remember that when in doubt, take a step back and verify before you act. If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is.  If you suspect you may have fallen victim to a scam like this, or you suspect identity theft for any other reason, we have you covered! With Better Checking account, you have access to Fully Managed Identity Theft Recovery Services. We can provide a professional Identity Theft Recovery Advocate to help you remediate identity fraud and rescue your good name!  If there are any other tips or topics you would like us to cover, let us know at tcupodcast@trianglecu.org. Like and follow our Making Money Personal FB and IG page and look for our sponsor, Triangle Credit Union on social media to share your thoughts.   Thanks for listening to today’s Money Tip Tuesday and check out our other tips and episodes on the Making Money Personal podcast.

    6 min

  8. May 12

    Tips to Save Money This Summer - Money Tip Tuesday

    Today we’re talking about something that hits almost all of us the moment the temperatures rise: summer spending. Between cooling the house, planning outings, and trying to squeeze in a little fun, costs can creep up fast. But the good news is that saving money this summer doesn’t have to feel like a punishment — it can actually feel empowering, even enjoyable.  Links: Check out TCU University for financial education tips and resources! Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter! Learn more about Triangle Credit Union Transcript: Welcome to Money Tip Tuesday from the Making Money Personal podcast.   Let’s start with the big one: keeping your home cool without melting your budget. One of the most effective ways to cut summer energy costs is simply making sure your home isn’t leaking cool air. Proper insulation and sealing gaps around windows and doors can help keep the cold air in and the hot air out, reducing the workload on your AC and lowering your energy bills.   And speaking of AC, maintaining it is one of the easiest ways to save money. Cleaning or replacing filters regularly helps your system run more efficiently and prevents it from working harder than it needs to. That means less energy used and fewer surprise repair bills.   But you don’t have to rely on AC alone. Fans  can make a room feel cooler by circulating air and opening windows during cooler parts of the day and closing them when the heat kicks in can also help regulate indoor temperatures naturally.   Now let’s talk about summer activities, because this is where budgets often go off the rails. You don’t need a pricey vacation to enjoy the season. In fact, exploring local destinations or planning a staycation can save you a significant amount of money while still giving you that sense of escape. Many communities host free or low‑cost events that offer plenty of entertainment without the hefty price tag, such as concerts, festivals, and outdoor movies.   If you are traveling, timing matters. Traveling during off‑peak periods can lead to lower prices on flights, hotels, and attractions. And don’t underestimate the value of rediscovering your own area — sometimes the best adventures are right in your backyard.   Another area where summer spending spikes is food. Between barbecues, picnics, and the temptation to eat out more often, food costs can add up quickly. Cooking at home can save you money and make meals feel more special. Seasonal fruits and vegetables are often cheaper, fresher, and tastier, making them perfect for simple summer dishes. If you want to take it a step further, consider starting a small garden. Even a few herbs or vegetables can cut grocery costs and give you a fun summer hobby.   Let’s shift to transportation, because gas prices often rise in the summer and they are already high enough. Running errands on the same day instead of spreading them out can help you use less fuel. Keeping your tires properly inflated improves gas mileage, and filling up early in the week when prices tend to be lower can save you a few dollars each time. Using rewards programs or cashback apps can also help offset fuel costs.   Finally, let’s talk about budgeting, because even the best tips won’t help if you don’t have a plan. Creating a summer‑specific budget allows you to anticipate higher expenses like utilities, travel, or events and set realistic limits for them. A clear budget helps you prioritize what matters most and avoid the stress of overspending.   Summer is meant to be enjoyed, and saving money shouldn’t take away from that. With a few intentional choices,  you can have a summer that’s both fun and financially smart. Here’s to a season full of sunshine, good memories, and a little extra money left in your pocket!  If there are any other tips or topics you'd like us to cover, let us know at tcupodcast@trianglecu.org. Also, remember to like and follow our Making Money Personal Facebook and Instagram to share your thoughts. Finally, remember to look for our sponsor, Triangle Credit Union, on Facebook and LinkedIn.           Thanks for listening to today's Money Tip Tuesday. Check out our other tips and episodes on the Making Money Personal podcast.

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Engaging in real talk about financial matters that affect your life and your community.

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  • Creator
    Triangle Credit Union
  • Years Active
    2018 - 2026
  • Episodes
    102
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2021 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Making Money Personal