2011.06.16 23:42:33

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After another long Iowa winter, the arrival of warmer weather probably has many of us dreaming of relaxing on the beach or enjoying some other type of sunny summer vacation. But nothing can make a warm vacation go cold quite like getting your identity stolen. As you make your summer travel plans, take into consideration these tips on protecting your identity while traveling.

Before you leave

1.       Go through your wallet, purse and/or briefcase, remove any of the following items and place them in a locked safe or safety deposit box at your local bank:

• Social Security card
• Checkbook and deposit slips
• Birth certificate
• Credit card receipts
• Library card
• Video rental card
• Bills
• Extra credit cards
  

2011.06.16 23:41:37

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The start of May means graduation season is coming, and whether you’re graduating from high school or college, there has never been a better time to be preparing for your financial future. To get the class of 2011 started on the right foot, here are five tips every graduate should consider.

 1. Save now. As you prepare to enter college or the workforce, saving is more important than ever. If you receive some extra cash as graduation gifts, stash it away in an interest-bearing savings account or CD at your local bank. Start by saving enough money to create an emergency fund for unexpected expenses like major auto repairs. If you have a job, have a portion of your paycheck automatically deducted to a retirement plan or savings account so you won’t be tempted to spend that amount. Many employers offer retirement savings plans—and some will even match a portion of the dollars you contribute. This is free money you won’t want to pass up!

2011.06.16 23:40:19

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Tax day has come and gone, and for many Americans, that means tax refunds are also on the way. If you’re expecting a refund this year, keep in mind that your refund isn’t really “free money”—in reality, Uncle Sam is paying you back for the interest-free loan that you provided during the year.

So, although it may be tempting to splurge on an expensive high-tech gadget or go on a shopping spree, in the long run, there are better ways to use that tax refund. Consider these tips.

2011.06.16 23:38:44

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April 12 is Teach Children to Save Day, a national program sponsored by the American Bankers Association Education Foundation that raises awareness about the important role that banks and bankers play in helping young people develop lifelong savings habits.

In honor of Teach Children to Save Day, here are some tips for parents and other adults to help the children in their lives become smart savers.

2011.04.05 23:47:41

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Grandparents should be on the lookout for frantic phone calls from grandchildren and relatives — it could be a scam.  Well-meaning senior citizens who think they are helping a grandchild in distress are becoming victims of the so-called “grandparent scam.”  Officials report that the scam is on the rise this time of year when many students and families are traveling for spring break.