Making Money Personal

Tips for Improving and Maintaining a Healthy Credit Score - Money Tip Tuesday

How's your credit score? Is it in tip-top shape, or maybe it could use a little bit of love? The fact is that your credit score is one of the most important financial metrics we use today and how we manage and nurture it makes a huge difference in shaping your financial opportunities. By managing and improving it, you can secure better loan terms and lower interest rates, paving the way for a healthier financial future.  
Links:
Explore the identity protecting benefits of a Better Checking account
Disputing Errors on Your Credit Reports | Consumer Advice
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.  
A credit score might seem like a mysterious three-digit number, but it holds significant influence over your financial life. Whether you're applying for a loan or a credit card, renting an apartment, or even setting up utilities, your credit score plays a crucial role in the decisions that lenders, landlords, and service providers make. Your credit is a valuable asset, and credit score awareness can be a crucial piece in overall financial wellness and identity theft protection. In this tip, we want to remind account holders of the importance of understanding credit scores and provide some tips to help them improve and maintain a healthy credit score.  
What Is a Credit Score?  
Simply put, a credit score is like a grade for how good you are at managing money. It is one of the most important tools that lenders and financial institutions use to assess the risk of lending money to you. A higher credit score indicates a healthy credit history; therefore, a lower credit risk, making you more appealing to potential creditors. Credit scores typically range from 300 to 850, with higher scores being better, indicating that you have consistently made payments on time to satisfy your credit obligations. While a "good" credit score varies based on the lender and the specifics of the loan request, it is typically around 700 or higher. Once your score is over 760, you may expect to be offered the best available rates. Credit agencies refresh scores once a month, but the exact timing of those updates may vary based on a myriad of factors. 
How Is a Credit Score Calculated?  
You might be surprised to learn that you can have multiple different credit scores at the same time. Based on where the lender obtained their data (from one, two, or all three credit reporting agencies), the credit score model that is used, the lender’s own criteria for issuing credit, and the timing of when the score was produced. A hypothetical scenario for calculating a credit score might weigh the following factors this way: 
Payment History (35%): This is the most important part. It's like getting a gold star for paying bills on time. If you pay on time, your score goes up. If you miss payments, it goes down. 
Credit Utilization (30%): Imagine you have a money jar, and you use only a little bit of it. That's good for your score. But if you use a lot of it, it's not so good. This measures how much of your available credit you're using. 
Length of Credit History (15%): The longer you've had credit (like a credit card or loan), the better. It's like experience points. More experience means a higher score. 
Credit Mix (10%): Having different types of credit, like credit cards and loans, can be like having a diverse team. It's good for your score, but you don't need to have them all. 
New Credit (10%): Every time you apply for new credit, like a loan or a credit card, it can slightly lower your score. Too many applications at once can hurt your score. 
Lenders will also look at other factors, such as your income, your assets, or how long you have been at your current job. Note that a high credit score isn’t the only sign of financial health. An individual who chooses to use cash or debit cards for major purchases rather than taking out loans will likely have a lower credit score than someone with a long record of multiple well-managed debts, even though they may be very financially responsible.  
  
Why Does Your Credit Score Matter?  
Getting Credit: When you need to borrow money, like for a credit card or a car loan, lenders look at your credit score. If it's high, they're more likely to say yes. Plus, you might get lower interest rates, which means you pay less in the long run. 
Interest Rates: A good credit score can mean lower interest rates on loans and credit cards. Lower interest rates save you money, so it's a win. 
Renting a Home: Landlords often check your credit score when you apply to rent an apartment. A good score can help you get the place you want. 
Utility Bills: Some companies might look at your credit score before deciding if you need to pay a deposit for things like electricity and water. 
Job Opportunities: Some jobs, especially those handling money, check your credit as part of the hiring process. A good credit score can make you more attractive to employers. 
For those interested, here are 9 Tips to Improve Your Credit Score 
Pay Bills on Time: Make sure you pay your bills by their due dates. Set up reminders or automatic payments to help you stay on track.
Manage Credit Cards Wisely: Keep your credit card balances low compared to your credit limits. Aim to use less than 30% of your available credit. Pay off your credit card bills in full whenever you can.
Mix Different Types of Credit: Having different types of credit, like credit cards, loans, and mortgages, can boost your score. Only open new credit when you really need it.
Don't Close Old Accounts: The longer you've had credit, the better. So, avoid closing old credit card accounts, especially if they have high credit limits.
Deal with Problems: If you have late payments or debts in collections on your credit report, work on fixing them. Pay off debts in collections and ask creditors to remove them, if possible.
Ask for a Credit Limit Increase: If you've been good at paying your credit card bills, consider asking for a higher credit limit. Having a higher credit limit could reduce your total credit utilization, which can help your credit score.
Be Careful with New Credit Inquiries and Too Many New Accounts: Every time you apply for new credit, it leaves a mark on your credit report. Too many marks can hurt your score, so be careful about applying for credit often. Likewise, opening lots of new credit accounts in a short time can worry lenders and lower your score. Only open new accounts when you need them.
Check Your Credit Report Regularly: Dispute any errors you find in writing to all three credit bureaus. You’ll want to include the credit bureau’s dispute form as well as any supporting documentation and be sure to keep copies of everything you send. You can find sample letters and more information about how to file a credit dispute in an article from the Federal Trade Commission (link will be in the show notes.) 
Stay Alert for Signs of Identity Theft: All the work you do to improve your credit score could be thwarted by someone who has stolen your personal identifying information to take out loans in your name. Review your credit report and watch for any signs of identity theft to ensure your credit score is impacted by only your own financial behavior. If you find evidence of identity fraud in your credit report, remember, we can help. Members with a Triangle Better Checking account with IDProtect, have access to Identity Theft Resolution Advocates who are standing by to dispute fraudulent activity that might damage their credit standing.  
  
Build a Credit Score Without Debt 
Young adults and those who have never had a need for credit may not want to go into debt but want to build their credit score. Here are a couple of ways that you can build your credit score without debt. 
Apply for a credit-builder loan, which places the money you borrow into a certificate of deposit (CD) or savings account that you can claim after making 12 monthly payments.  
Apply for a secured credit card, which gives you a line of credit that is backed by a cash deposit. 
Remember, with your Better Checking account, you are entitled to receive convenient access to your TransUnion® credit score monthly. Your score is tracked on a timeline to help identify unexpected changes in your score’s movement that could indicate identity theft. 
Plus, with a Better Checking account, you have access to your annual credit report. Visit our Better Checking dedicated site to access your benefits of download the TCU Better Checking app for convenient access on the go. 
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.  
Have a great day! 

Tips to Save Big Money at The Grocery Store - Money Tip Tuesday

When it comes to impulse buying and overspending, one often overlooked area is the grocery store. Fortunately, there are simple strategies you can use to save money on groceries and keep your costs within your budget. 
Links:
Check out TCU University for more 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. 
Have you ever looked at your grocery receipt in shock, realizing you spent more than you planned? Groceries can quickly add up, and many people are just as likely to make impulse purchases at the grocery store as they are elsewhere. Being aware of your spending and planning ahead are essential to shopping smart and managing regular expenses. 
If you're looking to reduce your grocery bill, here are a few tips to consider: 
Serve Simple Meals: Dinner doesn’t have to be complicated. Large meals with multiple sides and desserts can require significant prep work and increase costs over time. Consider simpler meal options like BLTs, big salads, egg sandwiches, or quiches. You don’t need to prepare an elaborate feast every night; with a little creativity, you can enjoy satisfying meals without the extra effort and expense. This approach may also help reduce food waste if you or your family can’t finish leftovers. 
Pay with Cash: This is a useful strategy for those who stick to a budget. If you know how much you can spend on groceries each week, bring that exact amount in cash and avoid exceeding it. This way, overspending becomes impossible. If you prefer not to use cash, consider setting a spending limit on your credit or debit card. 
Try Delivery or Pickup Services: The growing popularity of grocery pickup and delivery services offers more than just convenience; these options can help you cut back on spending. Shopping online decreases the likelihood of impulse purchases. When you walk through the store aisles, you're more likely to encounter items you didn’t plan to buy and toss them into your cart. Instead, opt for online shopping, scheduling a pickup or delivery. While many grocers may charge a small service fee, it could be insignificant compared to the money you save by avoiding impulsive buys. Often, the minor service charge is worth the savings.
Pay Attention to Sales: Smart shoppers always keep an eye out for sales, especially on meats, which can help reduce your grocery bill. Take note of when your favorite items go on sale and track their sales cycles to plan your purchases in advance. With some discipline, you’ll find that the savings add up over time.
Consider Buying Generic: Generic items are often cheaper than their brand-name counterparts. By switching some or all of your items to generic brands, you could see significant savings. Some grocery stores offer rewards programs that provide money back when you purchase their store brands. Not only are you buying cheaper items, but you’re also getting a little something back for your purchases—an extra win for your wallet! 
Groceries are a necessary expense in our budgets, but how much we spend can vary widely. With some planning, discipline, and creativity, you can keep this essential expense from getting out of control. 
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. 

Episode 85: FAFSA and Financial Aid 101 | Matt Wallace from Granite Edvance

Planning for college involves important decisions, especially when it comes to financing and financial aid. In this episode, we discuss the FAFSA process with Matt Wallace, Vice President of Education & Career Pathways at Granite Edvance. We cover essential tips for completing the FAFSA, upcoming changes to streamline the filing process, and valuable resources for parents and students to ensure a smooth experience.
Links:
Access free resources, book one-on-one appointments, and find links to helpful tools and guides: Get Our Help - Granite Edvance
Get in touch with Granite Edvance: Contact Us - Granite Edvance
Book appointment: Calendly - Granite Edvance
Explore various financial aid resources: Resource Library - Granite Edvance
Check out Granite Edvance's YouTube Channel: Granite Edvance - YouTube
Visiting studentaid.gov for official FAFSA forms and helpful wizards to determine dependency status and required contributors
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter!
Learn more about Triangle Credit Union  
**The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed are the speaker’s own and do not represent the views, thoughts, and opinions of Granite Edvance. The material and information presented here is for general information purposes only and is believed to be materially accurate at the time of this recording; however, information presented is subject to change without notice and should not be construed as a commitment by Granite Edvance.
 

Top Steps to Expect in Your Homeownership Journey - Money Tip Tuesday

Fall is in the air, and you know what that means? It's still a great time to search for that perfect house! As the leaves begin to change and the weather cools down, the real estate market stays active with fresh listings and motivated sellers. Whether you're cozying up to the idea of buying your first home or thinking about making a move before the holidays, autumn is a great time to explore your options and find that perfect place to settle in. 
Learn more about Triangle's Mortgage programs
Get started now with a Mortgage application
Questions? Get in touch with one of our Mortgage Originators
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter!
Learn more about Triangle Credit Union  
Triangle Credit Union is an equal housing lender.
Transcript:
Welcome to Money Tip Tuesday from the Making Money Personal podcast. 
Home Buying can be a daunting task, especially if you've never gone through the process before. There are so many things associated with home buying that it can cause you to become quite anxious. Still, by following these steps, you'll have a more enjoyable experience on your journey to home ownership!  
Step 1:  Get as educated as you can early in the process. Watch videos, listen to podcasts and explore articles and blogs on the subject of home ownership to get yourself familiar with as much as you can. Also, if you don't already have a realtor in mind, follow a couple of them on social media and see what they are posting about in terms of home ownership. Go to Facebook and type in "Realtor" followed by "in [your town.] For example, I might type in Realtor in Nashua, NH. A list of realtors in my area will appear. I wouldn't reach out yet. This is more to get a feel for their posts and gain some valuable insight.   
Step 2:  Once you feel ready to start the process, it's time to get pre-approved. In today's market, being well-prepared is key, and that includes having your finances in order. To be financially ready, you'll want to have little to no debt, an emergency fund, and a down payment, typically anywhere from 3.5% -20 % of the purchase price. The more you put down, the less your monthly payment will be. For a pre-approval, Triangle Credit Union offers tailored programs to meet your needs, so don't hesitate to reach out if you are within our area. We're here to support you every step of the way!  
Step 3:  Find the right realtor for you. I am sure you know someone who has purchased a home before.. Ask them who they worked with and how their experience was! They will give you a first-hand account of the process and will be happy to recommend their agent to you. If you can't get someone to recommend a realtor, go back to Facebook and check out the ones you followed in step 1, and consider reaching out to two or three. Interview them and see if one of them meets your needs! Ask ALL of the questions you have! Remember, they work for you!  
Step 4:   Visit open houses and make an offer on the home that catches your eye. Houses go on the market on Monday, and within a few hours, private showings are scheduled, and in some cases, offers are being made above the asking price! If you find a home you love, make a firm offer and keep your fingers crossed. But if your offer isn't accepted, don't lose heart! Your dream home is out there, waiting for you to discover it!  
 Step 5:  Once your offer is accepted, it's time for the Home Inspection. A home inspection of the property is a thorough walk-through by a licensed professional to check for signs of structural damage or things that may need fixing. This includes checking the foundation, roof, plumbing, electrical systems, and more. Your real estate agent will usually help you arrange this within a few days of the seller accepting your offer. This process protects you by giving you a chance to renegotiate your offer or withdraw it without penalty if the inspection reveals significant material damage. Both you and the seller will receive a report on the home inspector's findings.   
Step 6:  Have the Home Appraised. Your lender will arrange for an appraiser to provide an independent estimate of the value of the house you are buying. The appraisal will let all the parties involved know that you are paying a fair price for the home. The lender's interest in this process is to ensure that the property is worth the amount they are lending you. And Finally….   
Step 7: Congratulations! It's time to close on your home purchase. At closing, you will sign all the paperwork required to complete the purchase, including your loan documents. Once this happens, the loan is finalized, a check is delivered to the seller, and you're done. You are ready to move into your new home!  
While there are plenty of other things to know and consider, this is a macro-level idea of how the process works. The most important thing is to do your research, as I mentioned in Step 1, and find yourself a realtor who will guide you through this process. Remember, while the home-buying journey ends at the closing, it's really just the beginning. Your new home is ready to be filled with countless memories for years to come, and that's something to look forward to!   
Do you have any additional tips or advice that will help our listeners with this topic or other financial matters? Email us at TCUPodcast@trianglecu.org or look for Triangle on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn to share your thoughts.  
Thanks for listening to today’s Money Tip Tuesday and be sure to listen to our other tips and episodes on the making money personal podcast.  
Have a great day!
 

Watch Out! Scammers are Targeting Amazon Users - Money Tip Tuesday

In today’s digital world, with so much of our information and interactions taking place over the internet, sooner or later we’re bound to receive suspicious messages or emails trying to trick us into giving sensitive account information. There are always scams circling around we should all be aware of, and today’s scam of note involves Amazon. 
Links:
Stay up to date on scams with Amazon's security info blog
Report scams and stay up to date on PayPal's security center
Get Triangle CU news and fraud updates at TCU University
Learn more about the Better Checking account with Identity Protection
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.  
As of 2025 data, Amazon Prime has surpassed over 260 million users worldwide. It’s a company widely recognized that countless users know and trust. So it’s no surprise that scammers will try to use anything associated with Amazon, to pump out deceiving, yet convincing messages to grab your attention and get you to think you’re working with Amazon to resolve an issue or update and order. But beware, because you might instead be working with a fraudster.  
Imagine this. You’re in the middle of your workday, focused on projects, emails and tasks, and suddenly your phone buzzes with a new message. It looks to be from Amazon stating that there’s an issue with your recent order and that you can quickly resolve the issue by clicking the link to resolve the issue or initiate a refund. The message tries to get you to act fast by noting that if you don’t follow the instructions you’ll lose the refund. Maybe you’re alarmed, or surprised, so what do you do? Click the link? 
Unfortunately, many people fall for scams like these, especially when they come from such a recognizable company as Amazon. I personally have received these from not only Amazon, but PayPal, Ebay and even some of my financial institutions. It can’t be stressed enough how important it is for us to respond appropriately to these messages. In this case, caution and consideration over swift action.  
This message is timely because just recently Amazon reports that there have been fraudulent messages circulating with the purpose to steal financial information include fake order confirmations that require payment and emails claiming there is an account issue or order issue that needs to be resolved. 
The purpose of these scams is to steal financial information or get you to transfer money. You’re the first line of defense in safeguarding your financial information.  
Here are a few tips to keep in mind when it comes to suspicious messages and identity protection in general.  
Don’t EVER click links in urgent text messages or emails. Verify by checking your account updated in the application or website that you visit directly. I personally do it myself all the time. If I get an urgent message about something going on with any of my accounts, I open the app on my own, log into my account and check my updates or order information. Most of the times that I’ve done this, it further confirmed the alarming message was fraudulent.
Stay on top of current fraud trends. Knowledge is power. It’s important to know what kinds of fraud tactics exist so you can best guard against them. Scammers are always inventing new ways to trick people, so keeping informed on current tactics is your best line of defense. They’ve found ways to use QR codes, text messages, phone calls, and now AI tools to come up with new and convincing scams. Keep an eye out for news on data breaches, scam alerts, and explore blog articles and other security information to keep your knowledge up to date.Amazon posts updates on their own security blog (check the link in the show notes), PayPal dedicates a page on their site for reporting and learning about ongoing fraud trends (link in show notes), even your financial institutions likely share news on recent scams. Triangle posts about a lot of fraud content with news and tips at our educational site TCU University (link in show notes). So next time you get word that there’s another scam making the rounds, don’t discount it, investigate it.   
Protect your identity. Even the most vigilant person can still unfortunately become a victim of identity theft. All it takes is a very well-crafted scam during a moment of distraction or even a large-scale data breach to compromise your personal info. But, in the unfortunate event something like this happens, all is not lost. Having something like identity theft protection can be your saving grace. Triangle’s Better Checking with identity protection provides not only safeguarding but also an identity resolution case manager and theft reimbursement coverage in case there is an instance of identity theft. Learn more about the identity theft protection benefits with a Better Checking account at trianglecu.org.
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.  
Have a great day! 

Don't Let Subscriptions Drain Your Wallet - Money Tip Tuesday

Recurring subscriptions – such as streaming services, apps, and memberships - can quietly drain a budget. Many people don't realize how much they're spending until it's too late. If you are one of the many people trying to manage several streaming services and other subscription services, it is crucial to pay special attention to subscription payments to properly manage and understand their total cost over time. 
Links:
Explore Triangle's Money Management tool in online and mobile banking
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 this tip off with a short story. 
Ryan, a tech-savvy professional, was taken aback when he reviewed his bank statement and found over a dozen subscription charges he had overlooked. Each month, small fees from various fitness apps, streaming services, and even a couple of online magazines accumulated, ultimately totaling hundreds of dollars. As he analyzed the list, he remembered signing up for some of these services during promotional periods, but many had slipped his mind entirely. The realization left him feeling a bit frustrated, as he struggled to keep his finances in check amidst an overwhelming number of recurring payments. Determined to regain control, he decided it was time to reassess his subscriptions and prioritize his spending. 
There are many people out there who can relate to Ryan's story. We eagerly sign up for subscriptions to services and platforms that we don’t always remember we’re on the hook to pay for month over month.  
The real challenge arises when we've accumulated so many subscription services over time that we’ve stopped paying attention to how many we’re paying. This can be dangerous, not only because it can lead to wasteful spending, but subscription prices can rise over time to where we’ll likely find ourselves paying way more than we initially planned.  
 This tip is about empowering you to live more financially free by building awareness on how to properly manage the subscriptions you currently use.  
Here are three things you can do to take charge of your subscriptions so you can enjoy the benefits without letting them wreak havoc on your wallet.  
First of all, do the math. Add up the cost of every subscription service you’re paying for. The only way to determine if your subscriptions are becoming too expensive is to know how much they’re costing you in the first place. Don’t assume you know each charge because prices may have changed since you first signed up. It’s not uncommon for subscription services to increase prices periodically so what used to be $5.99 a month might now be $8.99.  
Second, stay organized. Keep track of all the subscriptions. Use a financial app or other tool that can give you a snapshot of all your subscriptions and their due dates. Using a tool like Triangle’s Money Management makes it easy to categorize all your payments into groups. Creating a category for streaming services will make it easy to see every charge that goes towards subscriptions.  
Third, use it or lose it. Cancel any subscriptions you find you’re no longer using. If you haven’t gone to the gym in months, but are still paying for it, consider either blocking time off the schedule to head there or cancel it altogether. Signed up for monthly delivery boxes or paying for a streaming service you haven’t used in a while, it might be time to cut those out of your budget. This step is all about truly reflecting on your needs and wants and determining whether there are any opportunities to free up some extra money by shedding unnecessary spending.  
Finally, for any new subscriptions you consider, take time to look up and understand the cancellation terms. Before signing up for a new subscription, take a moment to review the cancellation policy. Check for cancellation fees, renewal costs or other changes. You don’t want to get caught paying extra money to cancel your subscription.  
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.   
Have a great day!  

How Identity Thieves Can Exploit Homeownership - Money Tip Tuesday

Purchasing a home is a big decision. For most people, it's the biggest purchase they will make in their lifetime. Unfortunately, for many homeowners, even a possession like a house can fall under the threat of identity theft tactics, which makes awareness and protection an important necessity in this day and age.  
Links:
Explore the benefits of a Triangle Better Checking account
For those with Better Checking, sign up now or log in to access additional identity protection benefits
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. 
A home is so much more than an asset. It's where we live, raise our children, entertain friends, and feel the most secure and at peace. It's easy to understand why people would want to protect their homes at all costs. "Home Title Theft" or "Deed Fraud" has received a lot of attention lately and sounds as scary as it is. Let's take a look at what defines Home Title Theft and the prevalence of this crime. We will also present the difference between Home Title Theft and Loan Fraud, and how Triangle Credit Union can help protect you against the effects of both, no matter where the fraud occurs.  
Home Title Theft is a Real Thing 
Home Title Theft occurs when a fraudster, armed with your personal information, uses forged documents to apply to the registrar of deeds of the county to have ownership of your property transferred to the fraudster's name. The fraudster then borrows money using the property as collateral and never makes the payments. You may not know that this transaction has occurred until the lender tries to foreclose on the property and finds that you, the "previous owner," is still living there. This situation leads to many questions about what comes next. Do you have to make payments on the loan to keep your home? Will you be able to sell your home? How can you undo the damage that has been done and get the title back in your name? What if the fraudster has sold the home to another person? How do you defend your rights to the ownership of your home? Before we go any further, let us put your mind at ease.  
Professional Identity Theft Recovery Advocates Are Standing By 
If you’re a Triangle Better Checking account holder, your benefits include Fully Managed Identity Theft Recovery. If you find that you've become a victim of Home Title Theft a professional Identity Theft Recovery Advocate will personally assist you, including working on your behalf to reverse the damage, no matter how long it takes. It is also important to note that in addition to addressing the Home Title Theft, your Identity Theft Recovery Advocate will research and address ALL identity fraud that has occurred in your name. Having professional help to resolve your entire identity theft situation, especially in the protection of your home, is critically important. 
How Often Does Home Title Theft Occur? 
The short answer is that no one knows for sure. The FBI doesn't break out Home Title Theft in their annual crime statistics. Neither does the Federal Trade Commission ("FTC"). In the FTC's annual consumer fraud and identity theft report, the much broader category encompassing Real Estate Loans shows that this category represents less than 1% of the total of all identity theft incidents reported to the FTC in 2024. On the other hand, it appears that cases of Home Title Theft are on the rise in some regions of the United States. 
Home Title Theft vs Loan Fraud 
A much more prevalent crime is "Loan Fraud", where the fraudster impersonates you using your personal information. They approach a financial institution and borrow money using your property as collateral. This fraudulent loan will satisfy the criminal's goal of fast cash without going through the process of changing the title.  
Who are Typical Victims of Home Title Theft and Loan Fraud? 
Criminals will target people who have no mortgage loan on their home; therefore, there is not a second party to prevent the title transfer. The same is true for criminals who commit loan fraud. They want to find victims who have a large amount of equity in their home or victims who own their home free and clear of debt. Unfortunately, the largest segment of these consumers are the elderly. 
What Can I Do to Help Protect Myself Against Home Title Theft and Loan Fraud? 
Many counties offer a free service on their property assessor's search page to alert you by email of any changes of title for the properties you own. If there is not an automated function for your county, there is usually a way to search for the registered owner of a property to confirm no changes. Simply type the words "property assessor search" along with the name of your county and your state into your browser's search bar, or go to your county's website. 
In addition, the Better Checking account has several features that could alert you to suspicious activity, including credit monitoring and high-risk transaction monitoring. Watch for these alerts and take action or call an Identity Theft Recovery Advocate. 
If you’re a Triangle member but you don’t yet have a Better Checking account? Visit your local branch or open a new one online. You’ll get access to identity theft protection and will receive an activation code to access the additional identity protection benefits like access to your credit report and score, credit card registration and more.  
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.  
Have a great day! 

Food Delivery Apps and the True Cost of Convenience - Money Tip Tuesday

Food delivery apps offer a convenient service to get delicious food brought directly to your door. But they can also pose financial hazards that can derail even the tightest budget. How can food delivery habits impact your overall financial health? Keep listening to find out.   
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.  
It's hard to resist the ease and comfort of using a food delivery service.  Whether it's for lunch, dinner, or a few simple items you need from the local grocery store, these services bring the world to your doorstep.   
Delivery app services like Uber Eats, DoorDash, and Grubhub may be easy and convenient to use, but they can also be the reasons we find ourselves overspending on meals month over month.    
Food delivery apps can often misguide us in various ways, and their impact on our budgets is significant. How do they influence our spending habits and finances? 
Well, there's a chance you'll be paying more for the item than you would if you went to the store or restaurant yourself. Many restaurants list higher prices for items on delivery platforms to offset fees on their end. For example, a burger that costs $10 at the restaurant might be $12-$13 on the app. It's hard to say whether all restaurants increase pricing for items within the app, but I've noticed it a few times when I order some of my favorite treats from a local coffee shop in my neighborhood.  
Another thing to keep in mind is that you can expect to pay additional fees, such as delivery and processing fees. For example, most platforms charge a delivery fee, which can range between $1.99 and $6.99, depending on the app, the distance for delivery, and demand. They can charge a service fee, typically a percentage of the order, such as 10-15%. Some apps will charge a small order fee if the order doesn't meet a minimum. And then there's, of course, the tip. Although tipping is optional, it's often expected and essential to give a little extra to the driver delivering your order. Considering all the fees, a $15 meal in person could become $25+ after the fees and the tip. Not exactly a budget breaker, but over time, those fees and tips can add up to a substantial amount of unexpected costs.    
It's important to recognize that you are paying a premium for meals ordered through the apps. While delivery is undoubtedly convenient—especially when we aren't in the mood to prep, cook, and clean—the real money-saving option is cooking for yourself. On average, restaurant meals can cost up to five times more than making them at home. For instance, a deluxe cheeseburger might cost $4.63 to prepare at home, but it could cost $13.69 for takeout and $23.79 for delivery after the fees and tip are factored in. By consistently opting for food delivery, you'll end up spending considerably more on your meals. Sometimes the convenience of delivery is justifiable, but other times it's not worth the extra cost, so before opening the app to hunt for tonight's dinner, consider the significant cost savings of preparing the same meal at home.  
So, we've covered the most significant way food delivery apps can cost you more. How can we help you enjoy the benefits of these apps without overspending? Here are a few ways to minimize the chances of overspending the next time you want to order out.   
Opt for takeout and pick up the order yourself instead of paying more for delivery. You'll avoid all the added fees, and there's no need to tip a driver.   
Avoid using the app and order directly from the restaurant. This can reduce the processing or service fees associated with ordering through an app.   
Use a loyalty program to save. Most apps offer a loyalty program with zero delivery fees and other savings, albeit for a monthly fee. But if you find yourself using the apps frequently enough, do the math to determine if getting on a loyalty plan will save you money.  
Set a monthly delivery budget to ensure you have money set aside for food delivery. This is an easy way to ensure you'll have the funds available to afford the joys of food delivery without the danger of overspending.  
While food delivery services offer the ease and convenience of having delicious food and other household items delivered directly to our door, they can also lead to excessive overspending and the buildup of bad debt. It's crucial to remember that using these apps can be enjoyable, but they require discipline and financial awareness. With a bit of attention, planning, and discipline, we can all enjoy the benefit of using food delivery apps without damaging our finances. 
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.  
Have a great day! 

Episode 84: The Value of Community Outreach & Financial Literacy | Jana Gemelli

Community outreach and financial literacy go hand in hand. Part of Triangle's mission involves bringing our many financial products and services out into the community through various sponsorships, engagement initiatives and employee programs. 
In this episode, we're chatting with Jana Gemelli, Community Outreach & Sales Coordinator at Triangle Credit Union, about the work she does to bring Triangle's products, services and financial literacy resources to the many people living and thriving in the communities we serve.
Links:
Explore the various webinars and workshops in our financial literacy course catalog 
Explore upcoming community events and financial literacy webinars on our Events page
Learn more about Triangle's SEG program for businesses
Check out TCU University for financial education tips and resources!
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter!
Learn more about Triangle Credit Union  

Top Cost Considerations of Owning a Pet - Money Tip Tuesday

Are you an animal lover thinking about welcoming your first pet into your home? That’s so exciting! Here are some friendly tips to help you prepare for the journey of pet ownership and understand the costs involved.  
Links:
Search for and adopt your next furry friend at petfinder.com
Use Triangle's Goal Builder tool to start a saving fund for your next pet or a sinking fund for your current one!
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!  
Owning a pet is one of life’s great pleasures. We adore our furry friends—whether they’re cats, dogs, rabbits, guinea pigs, or even gerbils! Who wouldn’t want a playful buddy to share their lives with?  
When it comes to how much a pet will cost you, there can be a big range. Some pets are quite affordable, while others may stretch your budget a bit. But don’t worry—with some planning and a little research, you can get a good feel for the expenses that come with your new furry family member, making budgeting a breeze!  
So, what should you keep in mind when considering costs?  
First up is the purchase price. For dogs, you might find yourself spending anywhere from a couple hundred to a few thousand dollars for certain breeds. Cats typically come in a bit lower, but you should still budget a few hundred dollars. Smaller pets like rabbits, guinea pigs, and hamsters can be more budget-friendly both in terms of purchase price and ongoing care.  
Remember, where you get your pet can make a difference in cost. Breeders often charge more, while adopting from a shelter can be a wonderful and economical option. Plus, when you adopt, you’re giving a loving home to an animal in need, and many shelter pets are already vaccinated and treated, saving you those initial costs. If you’re considering adoption, check out your local humane society or petfinder.com to find animals looking for forever homes.  
Next, let’s chat about medical expenses. If your new furry friend needs vaccinations, treatments, or surgeries, it's good to know what to expect. Procedures like spaying or neutering are quite common; you might pay around $130-$500 for dogs and $60-$370 or more for cats.  
Grooming is another consideration. Some breeds need regular grooming, and while you can definitely take this on yourself if you're up for it, a professional groomer can do wonders too. Expect grooming costs to be around $30-$90 for dogs and about $50-$120 for cats per visit.  
Food is a big part of your pet’s budget, and there’s a wide range of options out there. Whether you go for dry food, wet food, or even fresh scraps (just make sure they’re safe for your pet!), you’ll want to budget accordingly. Some pet owners even get creative and feed their pets fresh veggies or other kitchen scraps—just be sure to keep their nutritional needs in mind!  
Let’s not forget about supplies and toys! Depending on your pet, you’ll need to stock up on some essentials. For dogs, think about getting a leash, tags, a comfy bed, and plenty of toys. Cats will need a litter box, a few toys, and a cozy place to sleep. Smaller pets like rabbits or guinea pigs will need cages, bedding materials, and a water bottle. Make a checklist of what you’ll need and hunt for good deals so you can save a little!  
If you’re bringing a dog into your life, training is a worthy investment to consider. Some pups benefit greatly from professional classes, with the average cost of classes being $300 per course. But if you’re up for the challenge, you can train them at home, too!  
Planning to travel? You’ll need to consider boarding costs, which for dogs averages $40-$100 per night and for cats $30-$70 per night. Many facilities offer package deals, which can help you save a bit.  
Lastly, let’s touch on pet insurance. Having coverage can be a lifesaver when unexpected costs hit. Routine vet visits might average a few hundred dollars, but emergency care can quickly add up to thousands. If you think you might struggle to cover those bills, pet insurance might be a smart move.  
That’s all for today! 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 tuning in to today’s Money Tip Tuesday! Be sure to check out our other tips and episodes on the Making Money Personal podcast. Have a fantastic day!