Making Money Personal

Get Valuable Insights into Your Credit with Better Checking - Money Tip Tuesday

Your credit score is an important factor in your financial journey as it represents your potential risk of repaying your loans to lenders and creditors. Your credit score may also impact loan interest rates and term lengths which is why it’s crucial to be aware of your credit score and any changes that may occur. 
Links:
Learn more about the benefits of a Better Checking account
Access your better checking benefits through the Better Checking website
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. 
There are five factors to how your credit is scored – payment history, balances owed, age of credit, credit mix, and recent activity. Payment history and balances owed have the largest impact on your score. Credit score ranges may vary based on the credit bureau’s scoring model, however they are similar to: 
300-579: Poor 
580-669: Fair 
670-739: Good 
740-799: Very good 
800-850: Excellent 
The higher your credit score, the better rate you will get and the lower your payment will be. Your credit score can also influence your approval rate for many other things besides loans. It can determine if you get approved for a credit card and how much you get approved for. Property owners look at credit scores to decide who they want to rent to. Insurance premiums can also go up if your credit score is low.  Valuable Insights into Your Credit with Better Checking Now that you know how your credit score works and why it matters, let’s focus on some benefits you get with your Triangle Credit Union Better Checking account. 
Credit Score Tracking 
Receive valuable insights into your credit score and see your score plotted monthly in a chart so you can easily see your changes over time. Your credit score is analyzed with different factors by TransUnion—total of all account revolving balances, real estate information, oldest account, loan balances, recent account delinquencies, and derogatory payment status.  You can also receive monthly notifications right to your email to easily track your score. 
Credit Report 
Your personal credit report contains details about your financial behavior and identification information. Each credit reporting agency collects and organizes data about your credit history from your creditors and public records.  Reviewing your credit report allows you to check for mistakes or fraud and it’s a good way for you to understand what lenders see when they check your credit history. 
Credit File Monitoring 
Credit File Monitoring consistently reviews your credit history in order to detect any key changes and verify the accuracy of what is reported.  With IDProtect, you have access to credit file monitoring – your credit report will be checked daily and you will be notified by email when key changes or important activity related to your credit report are detected, such as: credit inquiries, public records, delinquencies, negative information, employment changes, new accounts opened.  Alerts may also be sent directly to your mobile phone via text and can be set up on our dedicated Better Checking website.  
In addition to credit score tracking and identity theft protection, your Triangle Credit Union Better Checking account also offers enhanced cell phone protection for up to four phones on your account—up to $400 per claim! Visit our checking account page to learn more and open an account today! 

Financial Book Review: The Psychology of Money - Money Tip Tuesday

What do you think has more impact on your financial decisions, your income or your mindset? Would you believe that how you view and think about money matters more than how much money you make? If you’re striving for financial success and want some insight into how your thinking impacts your probability of building wealth, then I have a book for you! 
Links:
The Psychology of Money by Morgan Housel
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. 
Financial education can come from so many places. Lessons can be learned through experience, observing the actions of others, formal education or exploring resources across the internet. For those who like to learn through reading, one financial book you should read is called The Psychology of Money by Morgan Housel. 
I really enjoyed this book. I found it really easy to understand and relatable. 
This book was written to explain away the notion that only highly intelligent people of great means can be successful and to make specific points on how mindset and behavior impact our ability to build and maintain wealth.  
Originally written in 2018 as a short report, the content was later expanded on and published as a book. It’s not a long read as Housel’s choice was to make book of smaller, shorter points that someone would finish reading than one long one they wouldn’t. 
The book starts off with lessons from the lives of two men. One who was incredibly wealthy, loved to show it but eventually lost it, and another of a man who didn’t appear wealthy but stunned everyone when he left multimillions in inheritance and endowments upon his death. One went broke, the other left a financial legacy. The question these two very different stories raise is “What made the difference in these two people’s lives that led to such contrasting outcomes?” 
Housel attempts to answer this question in his book when he states, “doing well with money has a little to do with how smart you are and a lot to do with how you behave.” 
The goal for readers is that they’ll apply the principles outlined in the book, to cultivate a healthier relationship with money, make more informed decisions, and ultimately achieve greater financial stability and peace of mind. 
Throughout the book, Housel lists up to 20 points on how our psychology around money affects our behavior, but because I don’t have time to go over them all, here are some of the notable points that stood out to me most: 
In the book, he mentions how important it is to remember how the decisions people make with their money are tied to their individual experiences with the way the world works. Because those experiences vary widely, such as a child growing up in poverty versus another raised in luxury, the financial behaviors of one would seem completely foreign to the other.  Housel states, “what looks crazy to you might make sense to me. But no one is crazy – we all make decisions based on our own unique experiences that seem to make sense to us in a given moment.” I felt that this point is serves as a good reminder that there should be no expectation that everyone will have the exact same behavior around money, as they’re not all influenced by the same experiences. We should be understanding enough to know that poor financial habits or decisions are not due to lack of intelligence, they are more simply due to someone acting on the way they’ve grown to understand the world. 
He addresses what can happen when what you have is never enough. The subtitle to this point is when rich people do crazy things. The whole purpose of this point is to emphasize how important it is to know when you have enough, as greed can drive people to do crazy things, and, as he further illustrates, drive rich people to do crazier things. Housel shares stories of a few wealthy individuals, like Bernie Madoff, whose push to accumulate more wealth led to compromising decisions and ultimately jail sentences. I felt this point was a good reminder of how easy, and dangerous, it can be to fall into this mindset. It’s important to recognize the impact and challenges having wealth can have on us like the added pressure from social comparisons, the moving of financial goalposts, and the temptation to take unethical risks in an effort to gain more money.
Another point that stood out to me is his assertion that controlling your time is the highest dividend money pays, in other words, seek freedom. For many people, the desire to be wealthy is rooted in the desire to be happy. The book lists some scientific research showing that there’s a strong correlation between someone’s happiness and their ability to control their own life. He states, “more than your salary. More than the size of your house. More than the prestige of your job. Control over doing what you want, when you want, with the people that you want to, is the broadest variable that makes people happy.” The idea from this point is how important it is to make intentional decisions with your money; decisions that bring you closer to being able to enjoy this freedom. This type of freedom could be anything like having peace during an unexpected job loss, the ability to choose a new job with lower pay but with more flexible hours, or the ability to retire when you want and not when you have to. He shares, “You realize that aligning money towards a life that lets you do what you want, when you want, with who you want, where you want, for as long as you want, has incredible return.” I’ve chosen to apply this point as a personal ethos in my own life because I believe that investing in financial freedom enables a lifestyle that can sustain new opportunities and the true enjoyment of vocations. 
As mentioned previously, there are so many more points in the book about building wealth like the importance of compounding yet how it can be confusing to implement, that others are not as impressed with our possessions as we might be and that real wealth is not always obvious and recognizable. If you’re interested in checking them out, get the book. It’s worth the read.  
To sum it all up, I’ll use a final quote from the book, "Financial success is not a hard science. It’s a soft skill, where how you behave is more important than what you know." This perspective underscores the book's relevance, highlighting that our actions with money are often driven by emotions, biases, and personal experiences rather than purely rational calculations. By recognizing and addressing these psychological factors, you can better navigate your financial journey and achieve greater financial well-being. 
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 Shop Reliable Cars in 2025 - Money Tip Tuesday

Buying a car is a big deal. Unless you live in a walkable area, your car is likely the primary method of transportation used to get around. If so, you’ll want something reliable as well as affordable. Many factors affect the price of vehicles from inflation, chip shortages, supply chain interruptions, and even the possibility of looming tariffs.
At the time of this recording the average new car price is around $48,000 and with a price tag like that, it may be wise to make sure the next car you choose is reliable. But with so many cars to choose from, how do you know which is the best for you? Keep listening to learn what cars should be your next ride. 
Links:
Check out the Consumer Report for the Most Reliable Cars for 2025
Shop for a new car with Triangle's AutoSmart tool
Learn more about Mechanical Repair Coverage
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 good place to start when looking for a reliable vehicle is Consumer Reports. Consumer Reports is a nonprofit organization that unbiasedly tests products with consumers in mind, to educate and inform potential buyers. For this particular report, they asked their members about the variety of car problems they encountered in the past 12 months. As a result, Consumer Reports gathered information on over 300,000 vehicles with model years ranging from 2000 to 2025.  
They then looked at problem areas, from minor inconveniences such as squeaky brakes and broken interior trim to major problems like engine or transmission issues. Consumer Reports then used the results to score the reliability of vehicles in all the different areas, with the major problems being weighted more. 
According to Consumer Reports’ findings, the top 3 most reliable new car brands for 2025 are Subaru, Lexus, and Toyota. On the other side, the bottom 3 unreliable new car brands turned out to be GMC, Cadillac, and Rivian. For those looking to buy a used car, the top 3 most reliable brands are Lexus, Toyota, and Mazda. The bottom 3 unreliable brands are Dodge, Jeep, and Chrysler.  
If you were considering getting an electric vehicle, Consumer Reports found that hybrids are the way to go. Results showed they are incredibly fuel efficient and just as reliable as gas powered cars. It was revealed that pure electric vehicles, on the other hand, have 42% more problems than gas-powered and hybrids and plug-in hybrids have 70% more problems than gas-powered and conventional hybrids. For those thinking of purchasing an electric vehicle it’s important to consider how much driving you plan on doing. They don’t have as far a range as gas-powered and hybrid vehicles, so make sure the infrastructure around you and wherever you plan to travel supports electric vehicles. Remember to check beforehand to see if there are any charging stations near you. 
To explore more information and data on this particular report, visit consumerreports.org or check the link in the show notes. 
Another great way to determine a car’s reliability is to ask a trusted mechanic. They work constantly on cars and know which ones come in the most and what common issues are. Before buying a car, you can take it to a mechanic for an inspection. Similarly, ask friends and family what kind of car they drive, if they like it, and how dependable it is. 
Okay, so what if you’re considering a car that maybe wasn’t on the Consumer Report’s top reliable vehicle list. Maybe you’ve been eyeing that Jeep, Cadillac or Rivian for quite some time now? That’s completely fine! Just do your research beforehand, talk to friends and mechanics to make sure you’re fully aware of any long-term costs and maintenance associated with your vehicle. Another great way to make sure your car doesn’t end up costing you more than you initially planned, is to consider getting Mechanical Repair Coverage, or MRC for short. MRC can help limit unexpected, covered repairs as your vehicle ages, potentially saving you thousands of dollars. Learn more about MRC and how to get it today at Triangle Credit Union. Visit trianglecu.org to check it out! 
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.    

5 Things to Consider When Buying a Home - Money Tip Tuesday

You want to find that perfect home, but how do you know where to start? The home-buying process can be tricky and confusing. That's why it's essential to understand the right things to consider before you begin the mortgage process.    
  Links:
Find out how much you may qualify to borrow. Get a mortgage pre-approval now!
Check out current mortgage rates and other special offers
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.    
Buying a home is one of the most significant financial decisions ever. It's natural to have concerns and questions about the process, from finding the right house to securing a mortgage. Suppose you're ready for this journey but need help understanding where to start. Here are five things that you should consider before buying a house.   
Affordability and Budget
The first thing you'll want to know, and perhaps the most important, is how much house you can afford. Housing prices have climbed significantly in certain areas, and mortgage rates aren't as low as a few years ago.   
The good news is that rates and prices fluctuate, so they can go down just as they went up.   
Get a good idea of a monthly payment you can reasonably afford. One rule of thumb is that your yearly mortgage costs should be around 25% of your annual take-home pay. An affordable monthly payment provides a reasonable margin, so you're not spending too much on housing month over month. Calculate your annual household income, take 25% of that, and divide it by 12. You can then use that rough monthly payment calculation to determine the home price that best fits your budget.   
Monthly payments are significant, but they're not the only cost you should know. Before shopping, consider other hidden costs, such as closing fees, property taxes, inspection fees, and the consistent, ongoing maintenance a house requires when calculating affordability. For instance, closing fees can include appraisal fees, title insurance, and attorney fees. Property taxes can vary depending on the property's location and value. Ongoing maintenance can consist of lawn care, repairs, and utilities.     
Location and Neighborhood
The next thing you'll want to consider is the location of your home.  What kind of neighborhood do you want to live in? What types of conveniences and local attractions would you like to be around? Are you one for solitary, remote locations, or do you like populated urban surroundings?   
Explore the local spots and attractions to get an idea of the overall feel of the environment. Also, keep an eye out for planned developments in the area, as those can also affect property values.     
Take into consideration any town amenities and services. Some towns provide trash pickup while others don't, which will become an additional expense to budget for. When researching potential buying locations, consider the cost of any further service you may need to pay out of pocket or find a location where those services are available through tax funding and other programs.   
Property Condition and Inspection
Another important factor to consider is the condition of the property. That home may have a low, attractive price, but it might need a new roof, a new furnace, or have some flooring issues.    
First, take some time to ensure the house is structurally solid for safety. Have an inspector check on any plumbing issues, electrical issues, roof condition, etc., because issues involving maintenance and repairs all come with dollar signs. One positive thing to remember when inspecting the property is that sometimes, needed repairs provide an opportunity to negotiate pricing with the seller.   
If there are things that need improving, consider whether you're equipped to fix them yourself or willing to pay a professional.  For some, buying a home that needs work is precisely what they're looking for.  
Think about whether you're ready to put in some work and make some renovations or opt for a house that's more move-in ready. A clear idea of your intentions will help guide you toward the property you're most comfortable managing.    
Understanding the Mortgage Approval Process
Review your credit history, as it's a significant factor in determining how much you'll be able to borrow. Lenders use your credit report to determine your creditworthiness and as a benchmark of financial habits. If you recognize your credit isn't as healthy as it should be, think about improving it before applying for a mortgage.     
Ensure you make all payments on time, do not max out credit cards, and maintain a healthy debt-to-credit ratio.  
Once your credit is in good shape, take some time to get a mortgage pre-approval. Getting pre-approved is a great way to determine how much you can borrow and will provide a reasonable price range for your house hunt.  
Loan Types
A final thing to consider when buying a home is the mortgage type. There are a variety of mortgage loan types with different terms and rates. Some mortgage options have fixed rates, where the rate doesn't change throughout the life of the loan, while other types are adjustable-rate mortgages, where the rate adjusts periodically throughout the life of the loan. Finding the right loan type depends on how much you can afford for a monthly payment, the size of your downpayment, and how long you plan to be in the home.   
If you're unsure what type of mortgage product will work best for your situation, talk to a Triangle Mortgage Loan Officer. They'll review all the aforementioned factors, ask you about your financial situation and goals, and listen to your overall expectations of being a homeowner. As mortgage professionals, they're also very aware of the housing environment and market and can guide you toward other little-known benefits and programs for which you might qualify. Visit trianglecu.org to learn more about Triangle's  mortgage products and contact one of our Mortgage Loan Officers.   
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! 

Financial Tips for Young Adults - Money Tip Tuesday

It’s important to make good financial decisions, especially as a young adult. If you set yourself up for success while you are younger, you’ll thank yourself later in the future. If you’re a young adult, here are some tips to get you started. 
Links:
Explore a variety of financial resources at mycreditunion.gov
Learn more about Triangle's financial planning services
Check out TCU University for financial education tips and resources! 
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter! 
Learn more about financial planning with Triangle's financial planning services 
Transcript:
Welcome to Money Tip Tuesday from the Making Money Personal podcast.   
The first tip we have is to avoid debt as much as you can. This tip might seem obvious, but it is still important. When purchasing something, try to use only your debit card or cash. There are pros and cons to using your credit card. Using a credit card will help you build up credit and many cards offer rewards for using them. However, if you do use your credit card, make sure to pay it off when it’s due. Otherwise, you could go deeper into debt, especially if your credit card has a high interest rate.   
 If you are in college, or thinking about going to college, you need to be strategic about how you pay for it. Scholarships are a great way to lessen the cost of a college education.  Countless organizations, corporations and other entities provide a variety of scholarship options that can be awarded based on merit, need-based, hobbies, religion, ethnicity, and more. To be awarded a scholarship, look online and start applying to ones that you might qualify for and are likely to win. Another way you can save money on college tuition is through work-study programs. This allows students to have a part-time job related to their field of study, with the money going to pay off their tuition.  
To make sure you set yourself up for success, you should create a budget. Budgeting involves you looking at your income and deciding where you want your money to go. For example, you will allocate a certain amount to food, housing, debt, savings, entertainment, and whatever else you spend money on. It may seem daunting at first, but when you know the exact amount you have to spend on something, it will make your life a lot easier in the long run. 
Similarly, you should consider creating an emergency fund. This fund is money that you set aside in case of an emergency, like the loss of employment, housing displacement, or medical issues. It is typically a good idea to put away enough money to live off of for 6 months.  
As a young adult, you should start saving up for retirement now. Consider setting up a Roth 401(k) or a Roth IRA, which allows you to save for your retirement, with no tax on the growth*. You can also see if the company you work for offers any retirement plans. Some companies will match part of how much you put in, which is free money for you.  
Investing harnesses the power of compound interest, so the earlier you start saving, the greater your wealth will be when you are ready to retire. Keep in mind that as the amount grows over time you might be tempted to use some of that money. However, it should be noted that there are penalties for early withdrawals so thoroughly research the rules and tax implications regarding the withdrawal of any investment account funds.  
Another great way to make good financial decisions is to educate yourself. Read books, listen to podcasts, and watch videos on how to handle your money. Google some of the top-rated financial books for young adults and check out other resources like the articles and tools at mycreditunion.gov. You can also check out triangle’s financial literacy content at triangleuniversity.org for webinars, videos and articles that cover a variety of topics. Being educated in finance is a good way to better understand your own personal finances. That way, you can make the best financial decisions for you. 
Finally, consider getting a financial planner. Financial professionals can take a deep dive into your finances and using their knowledge can set you up with a plan. If you are looking for a financial planner, Triangle Credit Union has the resources to help you find one. Check out the financial planning page at trianglecu.org for more information.  
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.   
*PLEASE NOTE - investment references are for educational purposes only. 
 

4 Savings Challenges to Try This Year - Money Tip Tuesday

Saving doesn’t have to be boring. If you’re looking for an enjoyable way to save money, try a savings challenge. Whether you’re planning to build an emergency fund, save for a dream vacation, or develop better money habits, savings challenges can transform your saving journey and set you on a rewarding path to achieve your financial goals.  
Links: 
Download the Roll-the-Dice Savings Challenge tracker
Download the 100 Envelope Savings Challenge tracker
Check out TCU University for financial education tips and resources! 
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter! 
Learn more about Triangle Credit Union
Welcome to Money Tip Tuesday from the Making Money Personal podcast. 
Saving money can be overwhelming. You may not know where to begin, how much to save or even HOW to save money. Saving money doesn’t need to be stressful and it can actually be fun if you participate in a savings challenge.   
Here are 4 savings challenges you can try this year to grow your savings account and improve your financial future.  
 
Roll-the-dice Challenge  
Gamifying savings is a great way to turn something that might be stressful or scary into something entertaining and enjoyable!     This challenge is flexible and can be done daily, weekly, or monthly depending on your goals and financial situation.   
Simply roll a die and set aside the cash OR transfer that amount to your savings account.   
For example, if you roll a 1, save $1; if you roll a 6, save $6, etc.   
Looking to save a little more each time? Roll a pair of dice (or one die twice) and save that amount.   
Make sure you record your rolls and track your progress on our Roll-The-Dice savings tracker. You can find the link in the show notes and at triangleuniversity.org.  
Pause Your Subscriptions Challenge  
Streaming services, food delivery services, and product boxes are monthly subscriptions that most American consumers pay for; some people have multiple subscriptions for the same service– for example, some consumers subscribe to both DoorDash’s DashPass and Uber Eats’ Uber One.   
Too often, one signs up for a free trial with the intent to cancel before the free trial ends, only to forget and be charged for the service. If you’re not keeping an eye on your finances and tracking all your expenses diligently, it’s possible you’re paying for subscriptions and not even aware of it.   
Take some time to go through all your bank accounts and credit card statements for the past few months and highlight any recurring charges. 
Then, analyze the charges and decide which subscriptions could be paused or canceled for a while. Maybe you subscribed to a streaming service to watch one show a few months ago but haven’t watched anything on that platform since. Or maybe you’ve decided to stop getting food delivered anyway so you no longer need those subscriptions.   
Pause or cancel any subscription you’re not currently using and instead put that money in your savings account or investments. You may even find that after a few months, you don’t miss those subscriptions anyway!   
Round-Up Challenge  
When it comes to savings, no amount is too small. Every penny you can put towards your savings goals adds up! That’s why a round-up challenge is perfect for people who are not ready to make large, one-time, contributions to their savings accounts.   
Every time you spend, calculate the number of cents it would take to round up to the next dollar, then transfer that much into your savings account. If you’re using cash, put the change in a jar at the end of every day.  
Rounding up your purchases and setting aside the difference may seem insignificant at the time, however the amounts will quickly add up and you will see how each drop in your savings account helps it grow.    
The 100 Envelope Challenge  
If you’ve participated in our other savings challenges, you may be familiar with the 100 Envelope Challenge but since we’ve seen success with this savings challenge, we decided to include it again.   
The challenge is simple: Choose a numbered envelope at random and set aside that amount to save. Once all 100 envelopes have been filled, you’ll have $5,050 to either spend or put towards a bigger savings goal you have.    
This savings challenge works best when done with cash so it’s perfect for cash budgeters!  
Here’s how it works:    
Head to your nearest Dollar Store and buy a pack of envelopes (enough to label them 1-100 individually)   
Take the envelopes out of the box and label each envelope with a number (start at 1 until you have labeled all 100 envelopes)   
Give the envelopes a shuffle and put them back in the box   
When you want to begin this challenge, take an envelope randomly from the box and fill with the appropriate amount (For example: If you pull the envelope labeled “42”, you will fill with $42)   
Put the completed envelope in the back of the box behind the empty envelopes or bring that money to the bank and deposit that money into your savings account.     
To keep track of all your completed envelopes download and use our 100 Envelope Savings Tracker through the link in the show notes or at triangleuniversity.org. 
Now’s the time to start savings and try the savings challenge that intrigues you the most! 
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 79: Top Financial Moves for February

We love an amazing alliteration, so it makes sense that we would focus on five financial moves for February. In this episode as we talk about why February is the best month to review your finances and how your plans will impact the rest of your year for financial success. 
Links:
View our existing videos on budgeting and paying down debt
Download the Legacy File Checklist for your legacy drawer
Check your credit score and report with the TCU Better Checking App (for Better Checking account holders)
Google Play Store
Apple App Store
Check out TCU University for financial education tips and resources! 
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter! 
Learn more about Triangle Credit Union

The Dangers of Deep Fakes - Money Tip Tuesday

Artificial Intelligence, commonly known as AI, has permeated our way of life. It feels like every tech corporation is pushing their latest AI tool or feature to help make your life better. Unfortunately, with AI going mostly unchecked, it can easily become a detrimental tool for the wrong people. Deepfakes in particular can be manipulative and dangerous. Here’s what you need to know about deepfakes and how to combat them. 
Links:
Report deepfakes with the Internet Crime Complaint Center
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.   
If you don’t already know, deepfakes are videos, images, or audio of someone or something that has been altered by AI. These deepfakes can be used to portray a person doing something that they haven’t done and or wouldn’t have done. This can easily be a conduit to spread disinformation. 
For example, deepfakes can be made of politicians to make it seem like they said something or did something, when in reality it was created by AI. The deepfake can make the politician say something that might be controversial or visually put the politician in a compromising position. This can be devasting to their campaign, especially if people believe it is real.  
Similarly, celebrities have been mimicked by deep fakes. Some of it is innocent, such as de-aging an actor for a movie. However, celebrity deepfakes have been used to endorse products or politicians without the celebrity’s consent. 
You don’t have to be famous to be a victim of deepfakes. If scammers can get a recording of your voice, they can make you say whatever they want with AI. They can then call people that you know and talk to them with your voice. Scammers use this technique to then scam your loved ones into thinking you’re in some kind of trouble and need money. Similarly to politicians and celebrities, your likeness can be recreated with deepfakes. If someone has images or videos of your face, they can make a deepfake of you doing whatever they want.  
Fortunately, there are ways to decrease the likelihood of having a deepfake made of you, or at the very least make it more difficult for scammers to create one of you. Be careful with what you share online and who you share it with. Scammers need images, videos, or audio of you to create a deepfake. The more media they have of you, the easier it is to make a realistic deepfake. Only share your photos and videos with people you trust. If you use social media, limit who can see your posts. You can also watermark your media which makes it harder to make a deepfake and also makes it easier to trace who created it. 
If you find deepfake content of yourself or someone you know, report it on the platform it’s hosted on. You should also report it to the Internet Crime Complaint Center. If you are the victim of a deepfake, you may want to consult legal counsel and find out what your next steps are. 
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.    

4 Ideas to Save Money on Valentine’s Day - Money Tip Tuesday

Valentine’s Day is when people show extra love and affection for a special person, but showing your love should not break the bank.  With a little planning ahead and some creativity, you can easily find ways to enjoy this special holiday without blowing the budget.
Links:
Explore Triangle's Purchase Rewards programs to earn cash back on purchases at over 200 vendors
Check out TCU University for financial education tips and resources! 
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter! 
Learn more about Triangle Credit Union
Transcript:
Celebrating holidays is exciting. There’s a lot of anticipation to show that special person in your life you care. But, holidays can bring expectations to spend, often for festive food, fun experiences, and special gifts. Valentine’s Day is no exception, and like many other holidays, it’s important to consider beforehand just how much we’re willing to spend.  
If you plan to celebrate Valentine’s Day this year, here are four ideas to save money while still having a fun and romantic holiday.   
1. Celebrate at Home  
Avoid the long waits and high cost of a night out and spend the night celebrating at home.   
If one of you knows your way around the kitchen, cooking dinner together is a great way to spend quality time together.  
If you want a night off from cooking, getting food delivered or picking up food at a local restaurant and bringing it home is another option. However, make sure to order the food ahead of time, as wait times are sure to be longer than usual.  
There are also fun but inexpensive activities that you can do at home with your loved one. You can play board games or card games, put together a puzzle, rent a movie you’ve been dying to see, or even follow a YouTube tutorial for your own paint night. Check out your local dollar stores and discount stores if you need supplies for these activities.    
2. Make Your Gifts  
Showing your love and appreciation for your special someone on Valentine’s Day does not need to involve flashy, expensive gifts that drain your bank account.  Instead, tap into your creativity and make your gifts.  
Want to give your significant other a bouquet of flowers? Instead of spending hundreds of dollars at a florist, look up tutorials on putting together a bouquet and then head to your local grocery store or farmers market to pick up the flowers you need. Not only will this cost a fraction of the price, but it will also mean more that you put in extra effort to make your person feel special.  
If flowers aren’t your thing, consider other DIY kits and ideas, such as a candle-making kit, a photo album or decorated photo frame, a custom playlist with songs that remind you of them, etc.  
 
3. Utilize Gift Cards  
According to a Bankrate survey, 47% of adults had at least one unused gift card, store credit, or voucher in 2023, totaling an average of $187 per person. Don’t let your gift cards go to waste! Valentine’s Day is a great time to use any gift cards you may have lying around from Christmas, birthdays, anniversaries, etc. Even if your gift cards will not cover the full cost of your dinner or activity, it will help reduce the cost and save you some money.    
4. Take Advantage of Rewards  
Like gift cards, many credit card holders do not use their rewards year after year. Leaving accumulated card rewards unused can feel like throwing away free money.  
In some instances, it makes sense to build up your points for a more specific, high-value reward such as a hotel room or flight, but if you don’t have any travel plans soon, it might make more sense to redeem your points for something else.  Look at your credit card’s rewards center and see what retail stores or restaurants you can redeem your points at.   
Credit cards are not the only cards that offer rewards. Your Triangle Credit Union debit card gives you access to Purchase Rewards.  With Purchase Rewards, you have access to special offers from over 200 retailers, unlimited cash back deposited each month for the rewards earned the previous month, and easy access to activate and view your rewards through online and mobile banking.   
Don’t let Valentine’s Day blow your budget. Consider cutting back on costs this year and taking advantage of these low-cost date ideas.   
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! 
 

Get Your Car Winter Ready - Money Tip Tuesday

While falling snow may look pretty, it can also be pretty dangerous for drivers. Winterizing your vehicle is a good precaution as it can save you money on car repairs and help you stay safe while on the road. If you own a car, here are some tips to get it winter-proof if you haven't already.
Links:
Visit our Auto page to explore current rates and learn more about GAP and MRC coverage for your vehicle
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.  
Roads often become slippery during the winter months. To counteract this, consider putting winter tires on your vehicle. You can use all-season tires during the winter, but when it gets cold, the rubber in these tires hardens, decreasing the grip on the road. Winter tires use a special compound that can resist the cold and won't harden. Winter tires also have better traction in snowy and icy road conditions, which means that they have better acceleration and are better at stopping than all-season tires.
However, winter tires can be costly. Winter tires can cost over $600, plus you'll have to pay for the tire-swapping fees unless you do it yourself. A cheap alternative is putting chains on your tires to help with traction. 
Regardless of what tires your car has, you'll want to check the tire pressure. Tire pressures drop 1 pound per square inch, or PSI for short, every 10 degrees Fahrenheit. You can check the correct tire pressure for your car in the manual or on the car door jamb.
Another way to get your car winter-ready is to have the battery tested. Your car battery is essential for starting your car. Colder temperatures can affect the chemicals in the battery, which may result in a car having trouble starting or not starting at all. Consider buying a portable jump starter for your vehicle in case your car doesn't start due to low temperatures.
Next, you'll want to make sure you have good visibility while driving. Check your windshield wipers to see if they are working properly, and don't leave smudge marks on your windshield. Fill up your windshield wiper fluid too. You can also get a hydrophobic repellant to add to your windshield, making scraping ice and snow off your car windows easier.
Headlights are another thing to consider when winterizing your car. Snow can cause limited visibility when driving, but having a good set of headlights can help you see better, especially during the dark hours of winter. If you've noticed that your headlights aren't as bright as they used to be, you should get a headlight restoration kit or replace them altogether. 
You should have a winter emergency kit in your car. If you get stranded with your vehicle, this kit will help you get back on your drive or at least keep you comfortable while waiting for help to arrive. In this kit, you should include a snow shovel, a snow broom, an ice scraper, a portable jump starter, warm clothing, including hats and gloves, blankets, a first-aid kit, a basic tool kit, traction mats, and flashlights. 
If you're considering buying a car that's more suitable for winter, look for one that has 4-wheel drive or all-wheel drive instead of front-wheel drive. Vehicles with 4-wheel drive and all-wheel drive provide better traction on icy roads than front-wheel drive vehicles. 
If you decide to buy a more winter-proof car, Triangle Credit Union offers auto loans tailored to fit your ride. If you get into an accident, Guaranteed Asset Coverage, or GAP coverage, is designed to reduce or eliminate the difference between the insurance settlement and the loan balance. This protects you from owing more than the vehicle is worth. Mechanical Repair Coverage, or MRC, can help limit unexpected, covered repairs as your vehicle ages, potentially saving you thousands of dollars.  If you’re interested in either one of these coverages, contact the credit union or visit your local branch to learn more.
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.