Tag Archives: Holiday and Seasonal Finances

4 Ways to Save on Your Holiday Shopping Now

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Art Img 7 TipsIt is hard to believe, but the holiday shopping season is here. If you’re like most families, holiday shopping can be a strain on the budget. Many shoppers also fear looking cheap when passing out gifts, which can lead to over-spending and blowing the budget.

According to the American Research Group, Americans on average spend $801 on Christmas shopping. That kind of number will have a big impact on a budget. If you’re looking for ways to cut down the cost of holiday shopping and still get great gifts, these tips will help.

Start now:

The best way to save money on holiday shopping is to start early. There is a belief that the best deals are available around Black Friday, the day after Thanksgiving, and that is not always the case. Instead of waiting, be on the lookout for even bigger deals that might be hitting stores sooner. The ever expanding influence of online shopping has moved many retailers to begin pushing major holiday campaigns back as early as Halloween, if not earlier. The added benefit is being able to avoid the craziness that Black Friday shopping brings.

Check out the Dollar Stores:

It might not be too common, but shopping at discount or Dollar stores can be a great way to shave some spending off of your gift budget. You might not find your gifts there, but you can probably save on other holiday-related items, such as wrapping paper, gift bags and decorations.

While they might not have good options for a traditional gift, Dollar stores can be a great option for gag gifts, office Christmas parties and white elephant gift exchanges. Beyond that, Dollar stores are a useful alternative for party favors or decorations for parties you may be hosting. Since many of those items will likely be thrown away anyway, there is no point in spending more than you need to.

Shop at stores that match prices:

Price matching has become increasingly expected as many brick and mortar retailers deal with the presence of online shopping. While not every store offers price matching, it can be a great way to save money when added to your shopping strategy. The trick is to know the terms and conditions of the given retailer you’re shopping at. Some will match any retailer while others will not match online-only retailers.

If you have a smartphone, bring it with you when you go shopping. There are many apps available now, from Amazon to others, which allow you to scan the item to see what is charged for it elsewhere. Add that to your arsenal to save money while shopping. Lastly, make sure to check the retailer’s site itself to make sure it’s not offering a cheaper price online than in-store. If you find a discrepancy, you can always ask for a price match, or at least allow a free shipping option.

Watch the daily deal sites:

Like the Dollar store option, daily deal sites may not be commonly thought of as options for gift shopping but they can be a great way to save money. Many daily deal sites regularly sell significantly reduced deals for national retailers that can be great options for presents. They might also give you ideas for items that you can then go track down in local stores.

The problem with daily deal sites is they have a limited window in which you can get the deal. This can definitely pose a problem when shopping for that special someone. However, there are options available if you missed out on the deal you were looking for. CoupRecoup, for example, allows those who have bought deals they’re unable to use to sell them. This can be a great way to potentially score a deal on an item you were looking for.

The holiday shopping season can be a stressful one, especially on a tight budget. By using some simple tips like the ones mentioned above you should be able to shave some money off your holiday shopping budget, and maybe even have some leftover for yourself.

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Check out First Financial’s Holiday Savings Club Account – don’t put yourself into debt over holiday spending, save ahead and come out on top (and not in debt)!**

  • Open at any time
  • No minimum balance requirements
  • Dividends are posted annually on balances of $100 or more
  • Accounts automatically renew each year
  • Deposits can be made in person, via mail, payroll deductions, or direct deposit
  • Holiday Club funds are deposited into a First Financial Checking or Base Savings Account

*If the gift card is inactive for 360 days, an inactivity fee of $2.50 per month will be charged to the card – starting from the date of activation. If the card is lost or stolen, the replacement fee is $15.00. **A $5 deposit in a base savings account is required for credit union membership prior to opening any other account. All personal memberships are part of the Rewards First program and a $5 per month non-participation fee is charged to the base savings account for memberships not meeting the minimum requirements of the program. Click here to view full Rewards First program details. Accounts for children age 13 and under are excluded from this program.

Click here to view the original article source written by John Schmoll of U.S.News.

Affordable Holiday Gift Ideas

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holiday-shopping-womenWant to buy for everyone on your holiday list, but don’t want to go broke while doing so? Here are some tips to keep your holidays fun yet affordable!

  • Make a list. Many people spend as they go, buying presents when they see them and end up surprised when the bills arrive in January. You can avoid this problem by creating a list in advance of who you plan to buy gifts for, and you should budget for each. Then, check this total against your holiday savings to decide if you need to adjust your spending.
  • Be creative. As you begin your shopping, remember that thoughtfulness really does count. Instead of searching for one expensive present, you may be able to save money, and give the perfect gift, by putting together a number of small items that relate to a loved one’s special interest. Someone who truly loves chocolate, for example, might appreciate a small basket full of treats you’ve chosen for them. Anyone with an interest in sewing or crafts could probably use a gift bag with a fresh stock of supplies for the new year. By putting together a lot of inexpensive items, you may be able to save money and show how much you care.
  • Hit the kitchen. If you are a good cook, or you simply have a foolproof recipe, gifts of food are inexpensive and very popular. Whether you give a mixture of great holiday cookies or your grandmother’s prize-winning banana bread, your friends and family are sure to welcome the effort. In fact, you might not need to cook at all. If you’re fortunate enough to have some great family recipes that have received compliments over the years, write them out on attractive cards and tie them with a festive ribbon. These great gifts will spread the joy of delicious cooking throughout your circle of friends.
  • Good deeds are gifts, too. Many of the people on your list may value a favor done for them more than any expensive present. Couples with young children would probably be delighted if you offer to babysit so they can have some time together. You can surprise a friend with a very busy schedule by promising to do the weekly shopping for a month. Present each recipient with a beautiful card describing the good deed to be performed. Such efforts cost nothing more than a few hours of your time, but they are greatly appreciated.
  • Check your list twice. First, plan and purchase all you need for the lower-cost presents recommended here. Then, when you move on to higher-priced presents, keep an eye out for sales and comparison shop to get the best prices. You may find you can get the items on your list for less.
  • Consult your financial planner. These ideas will help limit your spending during the busy holiday season. Your local financial planner can offer great advice on how to manage your money throughout the year. Be sure to turn to him or her for answers to all your financial questions. Financial planners promote personal and professional financial security all year round. If you would like to set up a no-cost consultation with the Investment & Retirement Center located at First Financial Federal Credit Union to discuss your brokerage, investments, and/or savings goals, contact us at 732.312.1500 or stop in to see us!*

Click here to view the article source.

*Representatives are registered, securities are sold, and investment advisory services offered through CUNA Brokerage Services, Inc. (CBSI), member FINRA/SIPC , a registered broker/dealer and investment advisor, 2000 Heritage Way, Waverly, Iowa 50677, toll-free 800-369-2862. Non-deposit investment and insurance products are not federally insured, involve investment risk, may lose value and are not obligations of or guaranteed by the financial institution. CBSI is under contract with the financial institution, through the financial services program, to make securities available to members. CUNA Brokerage Services, Inc., is a registered broker/dealer in all fifty states of the United States of America.

14 Tips to Avoid Cyber Monday Scams

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cyber-monday-discountIn the frenzy of limited time offers, last minute sales and one-click shopping, it can be difficult to stay secure while you shop online, particularly on days like Cyber Monday.

Consumers spend about 1.5 billion dollars on Cyber Monday. Coupled with the boom in sales is a predicted increase in the amount and severity of online scamming and data theft.

Will Pelgrin, CEO of The Center for Internet Security (CIS), a non-profit organization focused on improving the cyber-security posture of both the private and public sector, shares a few helpful tips about staying secure online this season.

1. Don’t Click on Pop-up Ads

Though it may seem obvious, malicious pop-up ads still pose one of the largest threats to web shoppers. According to Pelgrin, studies have shown that a large amount of consumers will click on the “ad” regardless of its message. Be mindful of what pop-ups say, it could be evidence of a security threat.

2. Keep Software Up-To-Date

Though many systems automatically update your software as new features become available, it’s important to keep your programs as current as possible. To avoid security holes, update apps and software minimally once a week, as newer versions appear.

3. Use Strong Passwords

An essential part of online security in any sense is using strong passwords. This means no birthdays, dog names or variations of “1234” for any of your accounts. For help making a strong password, check out this guide: How to Create a Secure Password.

4. Install Antivirus and Anti-Spyware software

When shopping, you don’t want others to be able to track what sites you’re visiting and what information you’re entering online. It’s important to make sure you have antivirus software installed on your computer to protect your sensitive financial information.

5. Enable ‘Timeouts’ on Mobile

According to Pelgrin, more and more consumers are doing the bulk of their holiday shopping on mobile phones. If you’re one of those consumers, make sure to enable a lock screen password, in case your device is lost or stolen. “If your phone isn’t timed out, you’re leaving the keys to your kingdom to whoever picks it up,” says Pelgrin.

6. Use a Secure Connection

Pelgrin recommends that any and all online financial transactions take place through a secure, private Wi-Fi connection, as opposed to using the more vulnerable free Wi-Fi in a coffee shop or library.

7. Avoid Email Advertisements

Your inbox is likely swarming with holiday promotions from all of your favorite (and likely least favorite) brands. To avoid being hacked, the CIS recommends you always enter the shop’s URL in your browser, rather than following the links contained in an email.

8. Shop at Companies You Know

Before you buy from a merchant on Amazon, Etsy or Ebay, check their rating and number of sales. Make sure they have good return policies and clearly posted contact information. If worried, you can always check on a businesses legitimacy through the Better Business Bureau.

9. Use Credit, Not Debit

“There are more security protections on your credit card that may not exist while using your debit card, should your info be taken,” says Pelgrin.

10. Ensure Your Site Is Secure

If you are entering your financial information on a webpage, make sure the URL begins with “https” as opposed to “http” or has a lock in your browser’s search bar.

11. Be Wary of Charity Sites

Though the holidays are frequently the most popular time to make donations to charity, Pelgrin urges consumers to check the legitimacy of your charity’s website.

“Fraudulent sites pop up during disasters and holidays like clockwork. Be alert,” he says.

12. Check Your Location and Privacy Settings

Many apps and websites will automatically share your GPS location by default. Sometimes, apps will change your settings once downloaded. Check what services your downloads have access to in your phone’s privacy settings.

13. Check Your Statements Frequently

According to Pelgrin, some hackers will do very low level theft once obtaining your information, charging small amounts to your credit card to avoid detection. Stay on top of your account statements and keep a record of how much you spend and where.

14. Add Browser Extensions and Security Apps

Pop-up blockers and malware detection extensions will add an extra layer to your security this season.

Are you aware of our ID Theft Protection Services? First Financial’s ID Theft Protection products can easily be set up online, with lots of protective options. Ask us how to get started today!

Happy Safe Shopping!

Click here to view the article source by Max Knoblauch of Mashable.

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Online Shopping Tips to Prevent Fraud this Holiday Season

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Xmas timeCyber Thieves are officially out these days to steal your credit card information or any other private personal information they can intercept as you shop online during the holiday season. Ongoing awareness of these scams is critical so that you are cautious and informed in order to protect your personal and financial information.

Take a few moments to read over these tips to ensure your financial and personal security:

  1. Be extremely careful when using free Wi-Fi hotspots to shop online, as you may be watched by data sniffers.
  2. Only shop on secure, reputable Websites that: A. You know via other means (the press; you shop at their store) B. Look for “https” in the URL, C. The Website has a small padlock icon in the bottom right corner of your browser or the URL turns green, signaling a “safe” site.
  3. Never offer more personal information to online stores than absolutely necessary (e.g., Social Security numbers, bank account numbers, passwords, PINs).
  4. Never use the same password across multiple Websites, and do not use your name, pet’s name, birthdate, dictionary word or other easily guessed attribute as a password. Use a combination of letters, symbols and numbers and vary upper and lower case.
  5. Leave suspicious Websites immediately (that ask for more information than normal or require you to double enter information).
  6. Do not respond to emails, text messages, and phone calls that advertise the sale of gift cards, holiday gifts, promotions, contests and jobs – unless it’s a reputable company or store you frequently shop at and you know it’s a legitimate advertisement.
  7. Log out of your online accounts when you are not actively shopping, and password protect your smartphone, tablet and laptop in case they do go missing.
  8. You should ensure your home computers are secured with a firewall and antivirus software before performing any online transactions. Operating system patches should be downloaded when made available by software vendors. Make sure you also protect mobile devices (mobile phones, tablets, etc.) used to conduct online transactions by installing anti-virus software.
  9. Use automated account alerts and frequently monitor your credit card charges and bank balances, allowing you to catch fraud immediately.
  10. Only cyber shop on a non-public (e.g., not in a library) computer with a secure Internet connection, updated anti-virus software and up-to-date operating system.
  11. Try to avoid tempting holiday offers, such as free downloadable applications for smartphones, anti-virus software, screen savers, ring tones and electronic greeting cards, which may be infected with viruses and/or malware.
  12. Only donate to known charities and only when you have initiated the gift. Never send money (via check, cash or electronically) based solely on a wall post, email or phone call. Respond to such correspondence by contacting the charity on a reputable phone number or Website.
  13. If you shop on auction sites like Craigslist or eBay you unfortunately you might purchase merchandise that will never be delivered. Be sure to follow the best practices published by Craigslist and other public auction websites to avoid scams.
  14. Fraudsters often place bogus advertisements for free prizes on social media like Facebook and Twitter. We urge you to not respond to these advertisements.

If you take these tips to heart, you will not only save yourself the stress of shopping in person, you won’t have to think twice about doing your holiday buying online. It is crucial that you immediately report any unauthorized transactions to First Financial if you notice any fraudulent activity on your accounts. You can contact us by calling 732.312.1500, e-mailing info@firstffcu.com or stopping into any one of our branches. You can also report scams to the Federal Trade Commission or call toll-free 1.877.FTC.HELP (1.877.382.4357).

Take the Stress Out of the Holidays

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reduce-stress-holiday-resized-600As soon as we put away our shorts and sandals, we start to feel the pressure of the holidays creeping in. After all, it will be here before we know it, right? But there are things you can do to have a more enjoyable holiday season, and it all comes down to advance planning.

First, put pen to paper and make a written plan, including gift recipients and a detailed budget – both a total budget and a breakdown of that budget by recipient. Once you have your budget, you can begin matching up gift ideas to that budget, and don’t forget to be creative! When you give yourself enough time, you can even plan to make gifts to save on gift expenses. Plus, people tend to overspend more when they shop at the last minute, making desperate purchases – so give yourself plenty of time to get the items on your list. By shopping early, you give yourself enough time to actually enjoy the holidays – and you can shop from a better selection and with fewer crowds.

As you shop, try to keep your distractions to a minimum. That means only go when you are not tired or hungry or have to keep up with family members. Start with the clearance racks and don’t let a salesperson talk you into something you don’t want. And remember, gift cards or charitable donations can offer a stress-free alternative for you, and can be a welcome gift to the hard-to-shop-for person on your list.

When paying for your purchases, try to use cash so you won’t be tempted to rack up credit card debt, and read any fine print involved with special promotions and offers. Always keep your receipts and ask about the return policy. When you get home with the receipts, include a gift receipt with the gift and keep the original receipt in a secure and organized location.

Get togethers can also be stressful at the holidays. Advanced preparation can help alleviate at least some of that stress. You can begin with a written plan, including dates, menus, travel arrangements and the like. Pin down and make arrangements for all the details of your travel as far in advance as possible, and if you are having house guests, start making preparations early for their arrival, such as any home repairs or other accommodations needed. You can even cook many dishes in advance and store them in the freezer, and you can also enlist the help of family members and friends who will be joining you as well.

When the holidays are done and gone, take a deep breath and relax. Treat yourself to something soothing – and then start saving and planning for next year.

Contributing sources: http://missourifamilies.org/features/financearticles/holidays.htm;http://voices.yahoo.com/why-shopping-christmas-early-good-idea-9914129.html?cat=74

*First Financial is not responsible for the content listed on any external websites.