Pay down high-interest credit card debt.Using your refund to reduce credit card balances is one of the smartest financial moves you can make. High interest rates quickly erode your income, while paying down debt frees up cash flow and reduces financial stress. Once balances are lower, make a plan to avoid running them back up. Build or strengthen your emergency fund.An emergency fund helps cover unexpected expenses without relying on credit cards or loans. Aim for at least three months of living expenses in an easily accessible savings account. Adding your refund can jump-start or reinforce this important financial safety…

Straight from one of the most successful investors of all time, check out this great advice from the legendary Warren Buffett: Stay in your home You don’t have to move every time you get a raise. Enjoy the home you have, and keep building equity.  Buy used cars Cars are not an asset; they’re an expense. If you want to keep your transportation costs down, buy used. Most new cars lose up to 30% of their value the moment you drive them off of the lot. Eat simple and use coupons Before you spend money on fancy food or the ingredients for…

While credit cards often grant us the joy of instant gratification, saving up for a specific item or experience makes bigger purchases feel much more meaningful. We recommend never buying the following items on credit: Exercise equipment Car repairs/accessories: Having an emergency fund ready to cover unexpected repairs—or expected costs, such as new tires—alleviates a lot of stress when these situations arise. Cosmetic surgery, including tattoos College living expenses: It’s never too soon to start saving for college, including expenses beyond the education itself. If you or a family member is planning to attend college in Wyoming, the Hathaway scholarship…

As we “spring forward” to warmer, longer days, it’s also a great time to make small adjustments for big savings.  Here are some quick, easy ways to start today! Review Your Finances Check your statements for recurring charges and cancel unused services (gym, shopping clubs, streaming, car wash). Evaluate regular payments: Insurance: Ask your agent about discounts and compare quotes. Utilities: Request an energy audit; consider canceling landline/cable TV Watch for Fees If you see any, ask yourself: Were they avoidable (overdrafts, stop payments)? Are they recurring?  Track Spending Categorize expenses, log every purchase, and review after 30 days. Maximize…

The fresh slate of a new year is here—and so is your old pal Jim Yates!  You’ll love the way this conversation feels like you’re sitting down for coffee with your most finance-savvy friend, with the goal of getting your finances in their most prosperous place yet. Tap the “play” button to listen to the episode now: As Jim mentions, setting up sub-accounts and automatic deductions from checking to savings helps tremendously with meeting your savings goals.  To get started, give us a call, or stop by the branch; we can get you all set up in no time!  Be…

There’s nothing like the feeling of a clean, fresh slate to start the new year. Harness that energy into trying out the tips we’ve shared below, and you’re set to have your most fiscally responsible year yet! Tips for Growing Your Savings Regularly add to savings using payroll deduction and flex-spending plans Increase 401(k) contributions with each raise Maintain an emergency fund covering at least three months of expenses; there’s tips for that below! Tips for Managing Your Spending Avoid impulse buys and comparison shop Carry minimal cash Prefer home-cooked meals and plan menus in advance Resist lifestyle inflation Avoid…

Attention parents! Have you ever thought about your child’s credit report? While we often monitor our own credit, our children’s credit is sometimes overlooked, making them vulnerable to identity theft. Many incidents of identity theft can go unnoticed for years, often only emerging when the affected child applies for college financial aid. To prevent this, it’s crucial to take proactive steps to protect their future financial integrity. One of the best steps you can take is to place a credit freeze on your minor child’s reports with all three major credit bureaus. Federal Trade Commission – Consumer Advice This process,…

Computers, tablets, smartphones, TVs, thermostats, cameras, doorbells, and lightbulbs: What do all these things have in common? They are all devices that connect to your home network and the internet. If you had to guess: How many connected devices do you have in your home right now? Click here to download a printable PDF where you can keep track of all your devices in one place! Let’s review some steps you can take to keep your home network safe from potential cyber threats. How to Secure Your Modem and Router Modems and routers act as the gateway between your devices…

Do you feel your eyes starting to glaze over when people use terms like “equity,” “variable rate,” or “EMV?” Well, we’re about to change that!  Learning the meaning of common terms used in finance (including “equity” and “EMV”) will not only make it more exciting to be part of financial conversations, but also start you on the road toward your better financial future… today! Financial Terms Everyone Should Know Investment: This is an asset which has the potential to grow in value, such as real estate, stocks, certificates, and bonds. (Cars, unless antique and collectible, are not investments because they…

Summer is a popular time to travel, whether for a relaxing overnight or a week spent exploring a new destination. You’ll likely be taking along your smartphone or other device to assist with directions, locating or identifying points of interest, and capturing that special photo. Practicing good cyber hygiene before, during, and after your trip will help secure your devices and allow you to connect with confidence when you’re away from home! Before You Travel Update your devices. Updating devices will fix security flaws and help keep you protected. Whether it’s your computer, smartphone, or gaming device, be sure to…