Making Money Personal

Frugal Habits That Can Save You Money - Money Tip Tuesday

Making smart choices with your money doesn’t have to mean giving up the things you enjoy. By adopting a few practical frugal habits, you can stretch your budget further, reduce financial stress, and build a stronger foundation for long-term savings. 
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. 
Saving money can be tough. It takes planning, discipline, and dedication. Still, with some careful planning, frugality, and creativity, you can make it work. 
There are ways to adjust your daily choices toward more frugal options to boost your savings game.  If you try out some of these frugal habits, you may find yourself saving money faster than you thought. 
1. Cook more at home, dine out less.  
Cooking at home has a lot of benefits. It’s usually healthier because you control the ingredients, so there are fewer additives. It also helps you spend less on food. Even though grocery costs are still high, you can ensure savings by choosing meals carefully and keeping recipes simple. Complicated meals with special ingredients can get expensive and might leave you buying things you rarely use. 
Don’t plan too many different meals in one week. Cooking something new every night can create leftovers that might go to waste. Plan a few nights for eating leftovers to save time and avoid wasting food. 
Learn which foods can be used as substitutes. This way, you can use what you already have at home instead of making extra trips to the store. 
Cook in bulk and freeze for later meals. Try making a double batch of something to freeze for later use. This works especially well for casseroles, meatballs, and even soups.   
Turn saving money into a fun challenge. For example, try the Pantry Challenge: see if you can make meals using only what’s already in your fridge or pantry, without going to the store. 
2. Reuse and repurpose when you can  
Repurposing items gives old things new life, helps the environment by reducing waste, and saves you from buying new stuff. Try finding ways to reuse items around your home. For example, use old t-shirts as cleaning rags or paper towel substitutes. Empty glass jars and shoeboxes make great storage containers; old sheets and towels can be used as drop cloths or cleaning cloths; wine corks, or cardboard are useful for homemade cork boards; paper egg cartons make great seed starters .and reusing gift bags and tissue paper can help you save, as long as they’re not damaged.  
There are many more ideas out there. For more inspiration, search online or check out Pinterest. Try searching for “recycled crafts,” “repurposed items,” or “upcycling ideas” to find creative ways to turn old things into something useful. 
3. Check your library for free stuff.  
Our local libraries provide some amazing resources. They offer a wide range of free resources, including audiobooks, learning platforms, streaming services, and more. Some also have their own programs to rent items like cameras, game consoles, and other gear, and to share programs like a seed exchange where members can take and share seeds for their vegetable or flower gardens – all for free! It’s also worth noting that most libraries will offer passes to nearby attractions for a discount on admission – although it’s not 100% free, it’s still a savings opportunity.   
4. Do more things at home.  
Try having date nights at home instead of going out. There are plenty of ways to make a fun and relaxing evening at home. If you enjoy spending time with friends, host a game night, movie night, or music night. Let your imagination guide you. 
5. Use coupons and rewards programs.  
Don’t miss out on chances to save. Check for coupons and look at your grocery store’s deals flyer when making your shopping list. Sign up for rewards programs that offer cash back—you could save a lot over time. Browser extensions like Edge, Honey, and others can also help, but make sure to do your own research. We are not endorsing any specific products.
6. Buy used items when possible.  
Try to buy used items first. Books, clothes, and many other things can be a good deal if they’re in good condition. Check out apps like Facebook Marketplace, eBay, Poshmark, and others for gently used items. You can even find outdoor gear like bikes, kayaks, or scooters used. 
These are just a few ideas to get you started. If you have a frugal habit that’s helped you, share it with us on social media. Let us know how you save money every day—your tips could inspire others to save more too. 
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.

Buy Local! Support Mom and Pop Businesses this Week - Money Tip Tuesday

Local businesses-- they’re the lifeblood of our communities, providing our towns and cities with services, places, and products that keep us running every day. Take some time to appreciate the local businesses that serve your community on National Mom and Pop Business Owners Day. 
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.  
Every year on March 29, National Mom and Pop Business Day invites us to pause and appreciate the small, family‑owned shops that give our communities character, creativity, and connection. These businesses—whether a corner bakery, boutique, repair shop, café, or specialty store—represent far more than a transaction. They’re the backbone of neighborhoods, the spark behind innovation, and the heart of local economies.  
This year, as shoppers and communities adjust to rapid shifts in retail and technology, supporting local businesses has never been more significant. Here are some compelling ways to support your local businesses this National Mom and Pop Business Day.  
Choose Local Businesses Over Big Corporations  
The clearest—and most significant—way to champion local businesses is to choose them over big-box retailers or national chains, even if it costs a bit more. Small businesses depend on your purchases to meet expenses, retain employees, and continue offering the products or services you rely on. Large chains may have lower prices, but shopping locally keeps your money in the community and directly benefits the people who serve you. Sometimes, a small premium makes a vital difference in helping a neighborhood business prosper.  
Follow and Engage With Your Favorites on Social Media  
Social media engagement is more than just numbers —like followers, shares, or comments—it’s a powerful tool for growing small businesses. By liking, commenting on, and sharing content from your favorite local shops, you raise their online profile. Interaction improves their visibility in algorithms, allowing new customers to discover them. A quick comment or share takes seconds but can powerfully boost a small business’s ability to connect with its community.  
Refer Local Businesses to Friends and Family 
One of the best contributions you can make to a small business is a sincere referral. If you’ve enjoyed a great experience, don’t keep it private—tell your friends, family, coworkers, and neighbors. When someone needs a product or service, recommend a local alternative. Word-of-mouth recommendations remain among the strongest drivers of new business for small shops and often outperform advertising. Beyond spending money with them, sharing your positive experience is one of the most effective ways to help them grow.  
Sign Up for Email Newsletters and Rewards Programs 
Following a business on social media is helpful, but signing up for their email newsletter takes your support to another level. Emails allow businesses to share tailored offers, exclusive discounts, new product launches, and updates on local events—many of which never make it to social media. You’ll be the first to hear what they’re up to, and they gain a reliable way to stay connected with their customers. Along this same note, if they offer a reward or loyalty program, join in! These programs not only give you perks, but they also help ensure you continue returning and showing love to the businesses you care about. 
Supporting your local businesses is a meaningful and worthwhile investment that benefits the entire community. This upcoming National Mom and Pop Business Day, make a thoughtful effort to show appreciation for the small businesses in your area that work every day to keep the community thriving.  
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 90: Affording Life in 2026: Budgeting, Trade‑Offs, and Tough Choices

In this episode we discuss the current affordability challenges faced by many, with a focus on rising costs of living. We share personal experiences, such as the high cost of groceries and housing as well as some strategies to cope that include budgeting, refinancing loans, and reducing discretionary spending.
Links:
(Ad) Learn more about Triangle's special auto refinance rate: https://www.trianglecu.org/borrow/auto/
Check out TCU University for financial education tips and resources!
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter!
Learn more about Triangle Credit Union
 

Creating Healthy Password Habits - Money Tip Tuesday

In today's digital age, safeguarding your personal and financial information is more crucial than ever. With cyber threats growing more sophisticated and online platforms collecting more data than we often realize, the risk of identity theft, fraud, and privacy breaches continues to rise. Understanding how to protect yourself isn’t just a best practice anymore; it’s an essential skill for navigating modern life with confidence and security. 
Links:
Learn more about Triangle's Better Checking account with ID Protect
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. 
In today's digital age, safeguarding your personal and financial information is more crucial than ever. As your trusted financial institution, Triangle Credit Union is committed to providing you with the tools and knowledge needed to help protect your accounts. One of the most effective ways to enhance the security of your accounts - financial and non-financial - is to follow and maintain healthy password habits. Here are a few tips that can help you secure your accounts and help protect your personal information. 
Create Strong and Unique Passwords
A strong password is your first line of defense against cyber threats. Follow these guidelines in creating a robust password: 
Length Matters: Aim for at least 12 characters. Longer passwords can be harder to crack. 
Mix It Up: Use a combination of upper-case and lower-case letters, numbers, and special characters. 
Avoid Common Words: Steer clear of easily guessable words and phrases like "password," "123456," “Aa123456”, "qwerty" or any combination of these. Other common passwords include “admin”, “P@ssw0rd” and all ones or all zeros. 
Unique to Each Account: Use different passwords for different accounts. This way, if one password is compromised, your other accounts remain secure. 
Use a Password Manager
Remembering multiple complex passwords can be challenging. A password manager can help you store and manage your passwords securely. These tools can generate strong passwords for you and automatically populate them when needed so that you don't have to remember each one. Remember to do your homework before you trust a third-party password manager application. 
Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
Multi-Factor Authentication, sometimes referred to as Two-Factor Authentication or 2FA, adds an extra layer of security by requiring two or more verification methods to access your account. This could be something you know (password), in combination with something you have (a smartphone or security token), or something you are (fingerprint or facial recognition). Enabling MFA can significantly reduce the risk of unauthorized access to your account by validating your identity through more than one authentication method when you log in. 
Regularly Update Your Passwords
Changing your passwords periodically is a good security practice. Aim to update your passwords every three to six months. Regular updates can help protect your accounts from the impact of data breaches, if your username and password are ever compromised. If you receive a notification that your information could have been compromised, that’s also a good reminder to update your passwords. 
Be Wary of Phishing Scams
Phishing scams are fraudulent attempts to obtain your personal information by pretending to be a trustworthy entity. Be cautious of emails, messages, or websites that ask for your password or other sensitive information. Always verify the source before providing any details. By staying aware, you can avoid unwittingly providing your password (and access to your accounts) to scammers or identity thieves. 
 
At TCU your security is our top priority. By following these tips and creating healthy password habits, you can significantly reduce the risk of unauthorized access to your accounts. While cybersecurity threats are constantly evolving, remember that a strong password is your first line of defense. Stay vigilant and proactive in protecting your personal and financial information. 
Regularly checking your account activity can help you spot any unusual transactions or unauthorized access early. If you notice anything suspicious, contact us. If you have a Better Checking account you have access to a professional, certified Identity Theft Recovery Advocate who can work with you one-on-one to identify and resolve identity theft or fraud and return your identity and your accounts to pre-event status. 
And always remember never share your passwords with anyone! When fraudsters, claiming to be from your financial institution's fraud department, hang up the phone and call your credit union or bank to check on your accounts and report the fraud attempt. While we do call members occassionally to verify account activity, we will never ask for passwords to your accounts. 
For more information and resources on online security, please visit our website or contact our customer service team. We're here to help you stay safe and secure. 
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 Manage Healthcare Costs with an HSA - Money Tip Tuesday

Medical costs and insurance premiums keep going up. Fortunately, there are some steps you can take to minimize the effects of rising costs. This tip will discuss how Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) can help you manage some of those expenses and save money.  
Links:
Learn more about Tringle's Health Savings Accounts
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 by explaining what an HSA is. HSA stands for Health Savings Account and is very similar to a personal savings account, but money saved in the account must be used to pay for health care expenses (there is an exception to that, which will be covered in a bit). The good news is this is your money, so you get to control how the funds are spent and for which medical expenses.    
You can open an HSA if you have a high-deductible health plan (HDHP). You can’t if you’re on Medicare, TRICARE, TRICARE for Life, or are listed as someone else’s dependent for taxes. If you’re self-employed and have an HDHP, you can get an HSA. If you switch jobs, your HSA stays with you.  
Since we've discussed high-deductible health plans, let’s define an HDHP. In 2026, the IRS sets the minimum deductible at $1,700 for individuals or $3,400 for families. The total yearly out-of-pocket costs, including deductibles, copays, and coinsurance, cannot exceed $8,500 for individuals or $17,000 for families.  
There are many benefits to having an HSA. One of the most notable is the tax savings. HSA contributions are made before taxes, so they’re deducted from your total income when it comes time to file. In 2026, the IRS lets you put in $4,400 for individual coverage or $8,750 for family coverage. If you’re 55 or older, you can add an extra $1,000 each year until you turn 65 or enroll in Medicare. This extra amount is called a catch-up contribution. Money you take out of your HSA is tax-free if you use it for qualified medical expenses, no matter your age. Plus, any money your HSA earns is also tax-free.  
With an HSA, you also save on premiums. Most high-deductible health plans have lower premiums, so you can put your savings into your HSA. Use your HSA to pay for any medical expense, including coinsurance, copays, and your deductible.  
Your HSA is your money. You own all the money in your HSA, even if your employer contributed, and you keep it if you change jobs, lose coverage, or retire. Your balance rolls over yearly and never expires. If you are 65 or older or disabled, you can withdraw funds for non-medical use without penalty. Using your HSA is easy. Open one at a bank or credit union to get a debit card. Use it to pay for expenses like copays, deductibles, and prescriptions. 
If you’re interested in getting started with your own HSA, there are multiple ways to contribute. For a list of ways you can contribute and a transcript of this money tip, check out "Helpful Hints about HSAs at triangleuniversity.org.  
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. 
Eligibility and contribution limits are set by the IRS and may change. This information is for educational purposes and isn’t tax advice—please consult a qualified tax professional. Insured by the NCUA.

Urgent Fraud Message: Stay Alert and Vigilant Against New Scam Tactics

Urgent Fraud Message: Stay Alert and Vigilant Against New Scam Tactics
When conflict happens in the world, the effect can spread in ways beyond the immediate active zone. Times of turmoil often create opportunities for scammers to take advantage of unsuspecting victims due to fear, confusion, or panic. An increase in tensions has been known to boost fraud activity, making it imperative that you keep your guard up now more than ever.  
Links:
If you suspect fraud activity, contact Triangle Member Services
Stay up to date on Fraud Alerts 
Check out TCU University for fraud tips and resources!
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter!
Learn more about Triangle Credit Union
This is an urgent fraud message from the Making Money Personal podcast 
Due to the ongoing conflict involving Iran and heightened global tensions, cybersecurity experts are warning that scammers may attempt to take advantage of the situation to target individuals and financial institutions. During times of international conflict, cybercriminals often increase phishing emails, fraudulent messages, and other online scams designed to trick people into sharing personal or financial information.  
Our credit union wants to remind members to remain vigilant and take extra precautions when receiving unexpected emails, text messages, or phone calls—especially those claiming to be related to international events, government programs, financial relief, or urgent security alerts. 
We can’t stress it enough that you keep your guards up, so you don’t fall for any of these scams. Some of the common ones to watch for may include: 
Emails or text messages pretending to be from your financial institution asking you to “verify” your account information.
Messages with links claiming to provide urgent updates about the conflict or financial markets.
Fraudulent donation requests claiming to support humanitarian efforts.
Phone calls pretending to be from banks, government agencies, or law enforcement requesting personal or financial information.
  
How to protect yourself: 
Do not click links or download attachments from unknown or suspicious messages.
Never provide your online banking credentials, passwords, or verification codes to anyone.
Verify suspicious communications by contacting your financial institution directly using official contact information.
Monitor your accounts regularly and report any suspicious activity immediately. 
  
Our credit union will never ask for your password, PIN, or full account details through email, text, or unsolicited phone calls. 
If you believe you have received a suspicious message or may have been targeted by a scam, please contact our Member Services team immediately. 
Your security remains our top priority. 
Please share this important message with your friends and family as a reminder to stay alert and guard against today’s dangerous and sophisticated scams.       
To stay up to date on news or important updates regarding scams, follow us on social media and visit our website trianglecu.org. Also, for more fraud awareness education and identity protection resources visit TCU university at triangleuniversity.org. 
Thanks for tuning in to this very important message. 
Stay alert and stay safe everyone! 

Stay Faster Than Fraud This Consumer Protection Week - Money Tip Tuesday

Every day there are stories and alerts shared of new scams reminding us that the fraud landscape changes quickly. To stay safe, it’s important to build good habits, improve your digital security, and use helpful tools to avoid, report, and recover from scams. 
Links:
Explore more resources for Consumer Protection Week
Report scams at Identitytheft.gov
Know your rights as a consumer when recovering from identity theft
Explorer Triangle's Better Checking account with ID Protect
Check out TCU University for financial education tips and resources!
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter!
Learn more about Triangle Credit Union
**Note: Better Checking is not an insurance product.
Transcript:
Welcome to Money Tip Tuesday from the Making Money Personal podcast. 
It’s National Consumer Protection Week (NCPW), a time of year devoted to maintaining personal security and fighting fraud. Hosted by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), this important awareness week was established to help people better understand their consumer rights and take proactive steps to protect themselves.  
This year, the FTC’s message is clear: Avoid. Report. Recover. Practicing these three steps regularly can make you much more resilient to today’s fraud tactics. 
In this tip, we’ll explain more about how you can “stay faster than fraud” by putting these actions into practice.  
The first action, Avoid, is a reminder to help spot the fraud before it causes you to act.   
Scammers rely on urgency. They want you to react fast instead of thinking things through. To avoid scams, try making small changes, like pausing before clicking a link, checking if a request is real, and seeing urgency as a warning sign. These quick pauses can help you avoid falling for scams. 
Another way to avoid fraud is to learn about the types of scams that target consumers. Scams are always changing, so it’s important to stay up to date. Common scams include identity theft, impostor scams, job scams, and phishing. They also use current events to make their tricks seem more believable.  Looking ahead, experts warn that in 2026, scammers are expected to use new hooks tailored to economic anxiety, like relief‑payment scams, bogus job offers, and highly personalized AI‑powered impersonation schemes. Knowing these patterns and warning signs ahead of time helps protect you and others from becoming the next victim. 
Keep in mind that fraudsters also take advantage of digital weaknesses, so it’s important to strengthen your security. Use strong, unique passwords with a trusted password manager, turn on multi-factor authentication when you can, keep your devices and software updated, and avoid doing financial transactions on public Wi-Fi. These steps greatly lower your risk of account takeovers and data theft. 
And of course, it’s important not to share too much personal information on social media or respond to unexpected requests for details. Scammers may send emails or texts that look like they’re from people or organizations you trust. Being careful and a bit skeptical helps keep your information safe. 
The next part of the FTC’s action plan is to report any scams you encounter.  
Many people don’t report scams because they think it won’t help. But the FTC says the opposite is true. Reporting scams helps spot trends, guide enforcement, and warn others about new threats. Sharing your experience helps the fight against fraud. 
For identity theft cases, the FTC offers a dedicated resource website: IdentityTheft.gov. This one‑stop site hosts a collection of resources for consumers to use to report fraud. The site can help you generate an official FTC Identity Theft Report and provides a customized recovery plan, both of which are extremely useful when working with companies to dispute fraudulent activity.  
Experts say that many fraud cases go unreported and scams are getting more advanced. Reporting scams not only helps you take back control, it also raises awareness and protects your community. 
The last part of the FTC’s plan is recovery. This means using tools and steps to help people recover after experiencing fraud. 
If you become a victim of fraud, recovery can seem overwhelming. The FTC provides tools to guide you step by step through closing compromised accounts, contacting affected businesses, and stopping further misuse. It’s no doubt that having a clear plan makes the process easier and faster. 
Recovery also includes checking your credit reports often to spot any suspicious activity. If needed, you can set up fraud alerts or freeze your credit to stop new accounts from being opened in your name. This is a good reason to think about getting identity theft protection. There are many options available, and if you’re a Triangle member, you could consider a Triangle Better Checking account with ID Protect. For $4.99 a month, members get identity theft protection that includes identity monitoring, credit score tracking, credit reporting, a dedicated case manager, and reimbursement for recovery costs. See the link in the show notes for more details. 
A final, important part of recovery is knowing your rights as a consumer if money goes missing. Many people don’t realize that you have specific rights when unauthorized transactions happen, including the right to ask your bank for reimbursement if money is taken without your approval. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) shares resources that explain these protections, so victims don’t have to cover the losses themselves. If you want to learn more, check the link in the show notes. 
When it comes to fighting fraud, you cannot sit on the sidelines. Start protecting yourself today. Review your habits, strengthen your security, and use new tools. Let Consumer Protection Week inspire you to act. Follow the FTC’s advice: Avoid, Report, and Recover. By practicing these steps, you’ll become more confident and resilient in a changing digital world.  
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. 

Improve Financial and Physical Fitness in 2026 - Money Tip Tuesday

In 2026, true well-being isn't just about looking healthy or having money in the bank—it’s about strengthening both at the same time. Financial fitness and physical fitness share the same foundations: discipline, consistency, and smart daily choices that compound over time. By aligning how you move your body and manage your money, you can build a more energized, secure, and resilient future this year and beyond. 
Links:
Watch our debt reduction webinar on YouTube
Explore our current high yield savings account options
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.  
At Triangle Credit Union, we understand that true prosperity extends beyond financial stability; it encompasses physical well-being as well. As your trusted financial partner, we are dedicated to not only safeguarding your financial health but also promoting your overall wellness. With this commitment in mind, we are pleased to share valuable reminders and tips to help you achieve and maintain both financial security and physical vitality.  Let’s take the journey together. 
Financial Health Tips: 
Budget Wisely: Take control of your finances by creating a monthly budget. Allocate funds for essential expenses, savings, and discretionary spending. Our online banking tool, Money Management, can help you track your expenses and stay on budget effortlessly. 
Save Regularly: Establishing an emergency fund is vital for financial security. Aim to save a portion of your income regularly, even if it's a small amount. Set up automatic transfers from your checking to your savings account using our convenient banking app. 
Manage Debt: High-interest debt can hinder your financial progress. Prioritize paying off debts strategically, starting with those carrying the highest interest rates. Consider consolidating debt or refinancing with our flexible loan options. Need more information on how to pay down your debt, check out our online webinar for resources! The link will be in the show notes. 
Invest for the Future: Build wealth over time by investing wisely. Explore our savings and CD options to find a tailored solution to your financial goals. We have professionals that are ready to help you make a plan and work toward your goals. 
Physical Health Tips: 
Stay Active: Incorporate regular physical activity into your routine to boost your overall health. Whether it's a daily walk, yoga session, or gym workout, find activities you enjoy and stick to them. Consider tracking your progress on an app or other tools to see your progress accumulate and celebrate the small wins. 
Eat Well: Fuel your body with nutritious foods to support optimal health. Aim for a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. With food prices seemingly high, eating healthy may not be as expensive as it may seem. With meal planning apps and budgeting tools, you can organize and manage all grocery expenses efficiently. 
Prioritize Sleep: Quality sleep is essential for physical and mental well-being. Aim for seven to eight hours of sleep per night and establish a relaxing bedtime routine. 
Save Time, Try Telehealth:Telehealth allows you to connect with healthcare providers remotely through your computer or phone,eliminating the need for in-person visits. These virtual appointments are conducted by certified medical professionals, addressing a wide range of everyday healthcare needs from the comfort of your home. Whether it's a consultation with a physician or mental health specialist, telehealth brings medical expertise directly to you when you need it. 
True prosperity is achieved through a balance of financial stability and good health. By prioritizing both aspects of your well-being, you can live a happier, more fulfilling life. As your trusted financial partner, we're here to support you on your journey to financial and physical wellness. Together, let's build a brighter, healthier future for you and your family. 
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! 
 

4 Great Savings Challenges for 2026 - Money Tip Tuesday

Is saving more money one of your New Year's resolutions this year? If so, beginning to save money can be overwhelming if you’re not sure where to start. Take the pressure off your financial goals by making saving fun with one of our savings challenges.   
Links:
Roll the Dice Savings Tracker template: https://triangleuniversity.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Roll-the-Dice-Savings-Challenge.pdf
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.  
Savings challenges are great for building consistent saving habits while also growing your savings accounts.   
If you’re ready to crush your savings goals this year, these challenges are the perfect way to get it done! Here are four savings challenges you can start in 2026:   
52 Week Envelope Challenge  
This savings challenge combines the 52-week challenge with the 100-envelope challenge.   
Instead of saving money chronologically (week 1 - $1, week 2 - $2, etc.) and depositing that amount into your savings account, you will fill out 52 envelopes—each with a dollar amount that corresponds with each week of the year.   
Once you have your envelopes labeled, give them a quick shuffle to randomize them, then place them back in the box (or set them aside).   
Each week, pull a random envelope from its place and save that amount. For example, if you pulled an envelope labeled $39, you would save $39 dollars that week.    If you are using cash, place the $39 in that envelope until the end of the year, or head to your local bank or credit union to deposit it. If you are completing this challenge with an online savings account, make sure to transfer the appropriate amount each week.   
Pause Your Subscriptions  
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, you may be paying for subscriptions without even realizing it.    
Take some time to review your bank accounts and credit card statements from the past few months and highlight any recurring charges.  Then analyze the charges and decide which subscriptions could be paused or canceled temporarily. Maybe you subscribed to a streaming service to watch one show a few months but haven’t watched anything on that platform since; 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 put that money in your savings account or investments instead. You may even find that after a few months, you don’t miss those subscriptions anyway!   
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.  made especially for this challenge. Link will be in the show notes 
Create Your Own Savings Challenge  
This challenge is great if any of the other savings' challenges don’t pique your interest OR if you are saving for something in particular-- such as a new car, an upcoming vacation, etc.   
Creating your own savings challenge is easy!   
Download our savings challenge template and fill it out with YOUR numbers.   
For example, if you are saving up for a down payment on a new car, figure out how much you need to save up and record that on the savings challenge page. Then, divide that number by 10 and label each section of the savings challenge tracker—that is how much you will save at a time in order to cross off sections of the tracker.   
Once the tracker is filled out completely, you will have the full amount needed for your car's down payment.   
If saving money is one of your New Year's resolutions this year, we hope you’ll consider one of these savings challenges as a fun way to jump-start your savings goals.   
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! 
 
 

3 Reasons to Get Pre-Approved Before Buying a Car - Money Tip Tuesday

President’s Day is right around the corner, which means if you’re shopping for a car, you’re in luck! Dealerships across the country offer discounts for the President’s Day weekend, sometimes extending them for a week or more. If you’re planning on shopping these deals, now’s the chance to head to the dealership with confidence and a pre-approval.  
Links:
Get a great on your next pre-approval with Triangle
Check out TCU University for financial education tips and resources!
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Learn more about Triangle Credit Union
Transcript:
Typically, Presidents’ Day sales are the first official sales events of the year. While this makes sense for dealerships experiencing a slump in auto sales during the cold winter months, this is also the perfect time for consumers who have recovered from the holiday season.  
If you’re on the hunt for an auto deal this President’s Day, consider getting preapproved for an auto loan before setting foot into an auto dealership.  
Stay on Budget
Staying on budget is essential during the car-buying process. Before applying for an auto loan, you must outline your budget to make sure you have a clear understanding of how much you can afford.  
Once you know how much you can afford, a preapproval is an extra step you can take to ensure you stay on budget, helping you go into the car-buying process as prepared as possible. 
Save Time at The Dealership
We’ve probably all been there. You go to the dealership expecting to test-drive a car, and the next thing you know, it’s been 3 hours, and you’re sitting in an office waiting for paperwork.  
Wouldn’t it be nice if you could cut that time down so you can spend less time at the dealership and more time doing what YOU want? 
 
If you go to the dealership with a preapproval in hand, you won’t have to sit there while they run your credit and search for auto loan rates, which saves you time in the end.  
Avoid Dealership Upsells
Another benefit of shopping for a car with a preapproval is being able to avoid dealer upsells and add-ons. A typical dealer tactic is to push buyers to sign up for extended warranties or other add-ons they typically aren’t interested in.  
 
With a preapproval, you have a designated amount you are approved for; therefore, when dealers approach you with all the extras, you can shut it down by saying those extras do not fit within your approved amount.  
What You Need to Get Preapproved 
If you’re interested in getting preapproved before shopping for a car, here is what you should have prepared:  
Personal Information: Name, date of birth, Social Security number
Housing Details: Address, how long you’ve lived at that address, monthly housing payment, information on whether you rent or own 
Income: Employment status, employer’s name, gross annual income
Loan Details: Desired loan amount, desired length of loan
Trade-in or Down Payment: Title and registration if trading in a vehicle or the amount of the down payment
If you’re on the hunt for a new or used car, now’s the time to start out strong with a pre-approval. We offer many affordable financing options and our competitive auto rates are here to help.  
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!