Lifestyle

What Can We Teach Kids About Finances? A Question Beyond Responsibility.

By | Achieva in the Community, Articles, Finance, Lifestyle | No Comments
No matter your household style, there are a few basic standards when it comes to money. Have you ever wondered what can we teach kids about finances? Let's face it, this is the next generation we're talking about. The future trail-blazers and proprietors of our country. They should know a little something about money, right? Correct! This post will show you how to give the kids a few monetary pointers and answer the questions that go beyond the term “responsibility". Along with this post, April is Credit Union Youth Month. We are celebrating by giving out free bookmarks and coloring...
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You Don’t Need Luck to be Financially Responsible

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It's ironic that St. Patrick Day is just around the corner, yet we are writing a post that is anti-luck. That's because no amount of four-leaf clovers can make a person financially responsible. Fortunately, for all of us, there are some really easy tasks that will keep us on the right path. We're going to explore these methods throughout this article; so, grab your notepads and continue reading. Financially responsible people are more proactive than reactive. First and foremost, financially responsible people are not under the pressure of account fluctuations because they are already prepared for hardships. They understand their expenses...
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Sarasota Ranks as Best Places in America to Start a Business

By | Achieva in the Community, Articles, Finance, Lifestyle | No Comments
In a recent release from CNBC, Sarasota ranks as best 20 places in America to start a business. That's pretty cool news to us. Moreover, according to CNBC.com, Sarasota's economy is driven by education, arts, tourism, and financial services. It's no surprise that this city beams with greatness in each of these categories; but have you ever wanted to dig a little deeper? I mean, Sarasota is more than sunshine and beaches. It's about community and booming businesses. Continue reading for a breakdown of the city, and all of the many things provided to its business holders. There are abundant avenues in education. When published...
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The Best Time To Buy Popular Items

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What do stone crabs, strawberries, and big screen TVs have in common? They all have seasons. Just like fresh seafood and produce, there is an optimum time to purchase just about anything. Here are a few frequently purchased items and the best time to buy them! Airfare When it comes to purchasing airfare, there are a number of theories regarding when you should book your tickets. Some may think that waiting until the last minute will help ensure the best deal possible. Others may believe that purchasing a ticket at least 2 months in advance is the way to go....
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Step 2: Set Up a Budget

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This month we move on to creating a budget. Admittedly, the “B” word can be scary and intimidating. We think of a budget as a prison, and fear tempts us to jailbreak. In reality, a budget is more like a nav system. You decide where you want to go (your financial goal), key in the critical information (all the info you gathered in Step One) and allow the budget to be your guide. You can follow the prescribed itinerary or you can take the scenic route – it all depends upon how soon you want to arrive at your destination....
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Take Control of Your Money – A 12 Step Guide to Financial Fitness

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When was the last time you balanced your checkbook? Do you manage your money by checking your online balance multiple times a week, hoping you have enough for groceries? If any of this sounds familiar, it’s time for a financial intervention. In true self-help style, we’re giving you a twelve-step guide to organizing your finances. Each month we’ll give you one step to tackle, so the program won’t be overwhelming or take too much time. The program begins this month, so by this time next year, you’ll have it all under control. STEP 1.  AUDIT YOUR SPENDING HABITS We’ll give...
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The Exciting News About Achieva’s Scholarship Competition

By | Achieva in the Community, College Life, Finance, Lifestyle | No Comments
Certainly, 2017 wouldn't make headlines if it didn't have some exciting news. Do you know a high school senior graduating this year? Or perhaps you're the one currently enrolled in a college or trade school. If you've answered yes to either one of these questions, then you're going to want to check out this article. Seriously, we're jumping for you to read it all the way to the end. That's because our active Achieva Credit Union members, with good standings on their accounts, have the chance to enter two unique scholarship competitions. Well, without further ado, let's hop right in and discuss more details. What do...
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Nifty, Thrifty Valentine

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Make it a Valentine’s Day to remember by breaking from tradition without breaking the bank. These money saving tips show that the best recipe for a cheap and fun valentine’s day is equal parts creativity and love. Homemade cards The first ever Valentine’s Day message was sent in 1477 by a Miss Margery Brews to John Paston, and within it she described her beau as “my right well beloved Valentine”. Still today, there’s nothing simpler yet more meaningful than a homemade card.  It’s simple and time saving, since construction paper, scissors, and glitter are craft drawer staples, especially if you...
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Five Things Millennials Should Know Before Filing Taxes

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Tax time is here again. Are you prepared? We've created a top 5 list of things Millennials should know before filing taxes. You're totally going to want to read this one. It's full of commonly overlooked deductions that could potentially save you hundreds. Do we have your attention? Of course! So, before you head out to your certified tax preparer, make sure to read this entire article. Tax prep fee deduction is a thing. Number one on our list of things Millennials should know before filing taxes, is that tax prep fees are deductible. Say what? Yes, you read that correctly. If you...
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Super Bowl Super Savings; Party Planning on the Cheap

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Super Bowl Sunday is fast approaching. And whether you’re planning a small gathering for a few friends or a block party, you still want to save a buck or two. It’s easy to get carried away with food and drink purchases, and all the extras in between. So, to keep costs from spiraling out of control, here are some tips to help you score a touchdown for your savings while planning a Super Bowl extravaganza.  Start with a budget Set strict budgetary restrictions and stick to them. This will ease any stress on your bank account, give you piece of...
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