News and tips from Rio Grande Credit Union
January 2025
- The Benefits of Having a Checking Account
Does a checking account sound like one of those old-school things your parents had that you don’t need in these days of online financial wizardry? Find out why you need to rethink that!
- Should I Adopt a Minimalist Lifestyle?
Have you been thinking about the minimalist lifestyle? It’s not easy to follow, but the benefits can be big if you’re truly cut out for it. We’ve got the details!
- The Hidden Costs of Buying a Home
Buying a new home is really exciting, but don’t forget the hidden costs that come with the adventure! We’ve got a list to keep you covered in case you forget anything.
- Ways to Save on Airfare
If you’re traveling on vacation, airfare is going to take a big bite out of your budget. We’ve got tips on saving money on your flight!
- Beware of Bank Examiner Scams: How to Spot Them and Protect Yourself
You’re getting asked to help investigate suspicious activity at your bank or credit union. While you might be tempted, this is almost surely a scam. Find out how to spot the trickery!
- Should I Take Out a HELOC to Pay Off My Credit Card Debt?
With credit card interest rates high and getting higher, using your home’s equity to pay off all those bills looks tempting. Here’s why it might not be a good idea for some!
- Best Times to Buy-Clothing
Are your clothes a little out of date? Do they look like they need a decent burial rather than another washing? We’ve got the best times to refill your drawers and closets with new duds!
- All You Need to Know About Credit Freezes
Does it sometimes feel like there’s a school of sharks after your credit? Now you can keep those threats away with a credit freeze! Find out what it does and how to get it!
- New Year Projects
As the new year begins, it's the perfect time to embrace fresh starts and new opportunities. Whether you're looking to enhance your personal life, advance professionally, or make a positive impact in your community, the new year brings endless possibilities.
- Dine on a Dime: Chicken Parmesan
Tender chicken, crispy breadcrumbs, savory marinara, and melted mozzarella come together for a delicious, budget-friendly meal that feels like a restaurant dish without the hefty price tag.
- Are HELOCs A Good Idea These Days?
Did you know you might be living in your best source of financing for major expenses?
- How to Keep Your Phone Safe from Fraud
Did you know hackers are after your cellphone just like they used to go after your computer? We’ve got tips to keep your data safe and keep your phone secure!
- Workplace Resolutions for the New Year
Before you make another set of resolutions about weight loss or other things that won’t last until February, think about making some about your work life! We’ve got suggestions!
- What to Buy and What to Skip in January
Are you all shopped out after the holiday sales? Well, grab your shopping bags one more time because we’ve got deals for you to find (and stuff you’ll want to skip).
December 2024
- Scams to Watch for After the Holidays
As if the post-holiday blues weren’t bad enough, here come the post-holiday scams. They’ll look like charities, gift sellers, well-wishers and more. Find out how to dodge them!
- 12 Steps to Financial Wellness
Financial wellness is a continuous journey, and regularly revisiting your plan is essential for long-term stability and growth. Let’s take a moment to review your approach and make sure you're set up for future success.
- Post Holiday Budget Recovery Guide
Is post-holiday debt throwing a cloud over your new year? We’ve got tips to help you get out of the hole and plan ahead so you don’t end up there again!
- Affordable Sustainability: Green Cleaning Solutions for Your Home
We’ve got DIY cleaning hacks that actually work, will save you big money and keep harmful chemicals out of your home environment. Check it out!
- Financial New Year's Resolutions
Don’t forget your finances when you make your New Year’s resolutions!
- Financial Preparation for the New Year
We’re staring the new year in the face, and you need to get your budget in order! We’ve got tips to help you get started!
- Dine on a Dime: Holiday Breakfast Casserole
Start your day with something delicious that brings everyone to the table.
- How to Save on Last Minute Holiday Expenses
The holiday season is great, except for the part where the bills start to mount up and the credit cards start to come out. Manage your holiday expenses with our handy guide!
- It’s a Fabulous Job Opportunity – Or Is It
The work from home industry has been growing, and now it’s really exploded. Just be sure the job you take isn’t a scam. We can help you tell the good from bad!
- Low-Cost Holiday Family Activities
If one more round of family charades is going to put you over the edge, try these ideas!
- The Modern Job Hunt: Tips for Getting Noticed
Getting back into the job search pool can make you want to throw in the towel, but a little planning and prep can get you ahead of the game!
- All You Need to Know About Check Washing Scams
One of the most low-tech scams, check washing, is still alive and well. A check you mail can end up cashed by a crook for far more than you made it out for. Find out how to stay safe!
- Save Money This Holiday Season with These DIY Gift Hacks
Does the idea of crowded stores fill you with more dread than usual this year? We’ve got holiday DIY gift hacks that will let you stay home and still give great presents!
- What are Some Side Hustles I can Do This Holiday Season
Are you looking for a way to fill the holiday hole in your budget? There are tons of freelance opportunities this time of year that will make you the money you need. Read our guide!
- How to Prepare your Home for Winter
Is the time to start preparing your house for the cold weather, but what does that actually mean? Don't worry, we've got you covered! Keep your home warm and safe this winter by following our comprehensive to-do list before the real cold sets in.
- Best Time to Buy TVs
If you’re looking for great deals on a new TV, there are plenty of fantastic times to shop during the year, from Black Friday to back-to-school season. Check our guide!
- 5 Simple Ways to Pay It Forward This Season
The holiday season is the perfect time to give back and make a difference in your community. Discover five meaningful ways to spread kindness and pay it forward this year.
- The 12 Scams Of Christmas
Don’t let scams spike your eggnog this year. Here are 12 scams that pop up during the holidays that will turn you into a grinch!
- December Shopping Guide: What to Buy and What to Skip
Get the most out of your holiday shopping this December! Discover our quick guide on what’s worth buying and what to skip, so you can score the best deals and avoid overspending this season.
- Affordable Indoor Activities Your Kids Will Love
So flex your creative muscle with these affordable indoor activities your kids will love this winter!
November 2024
- What to Buy and What to Skip in November
As November rolls in, the holiday shopping season begins to heat up. Knowing what to buy and what to skip can help you make the most of your budget while still scoring some great deals.
- Anatomy of a Car Payment
Buying a new car? That means a new car payment to factor into your budget. What goes into figuring out the payment, and what other expenses will you have? We’ve got all the info!
- The Benefits of Consolidating Debt with an RGCU Signature Loan
Are you struggling to manage several debt payments each month? Consolidating your debts with a Rio Grande Credit Union Signature Loan could be a wise financial choice, making your life easier and helping you save money.
- Beware Payday Loan Scams
When your money doesn’t last until payday, it’s easy to fall victim to payday loan scams. They come in many shapes, but we can help you avoid them!
- 5 Ways You Can Improve Your Resume
Enhancing your resume is crucial for distinguishing yourself in a competitive job market. Here are some key strategies to elevate your resume and boost your chances of securing an interview.
- How to Celebrate Thanksgiving on a Budget
Whether you’re hosting or traveling for Thanksgiving, you can end up spending a lot. But there are ways to get around that and save big, and we’ve got them!
- When’s the Best Time to Buy Household Appliances
No matter how well you treat it, every household appliance will bite the dust sooner or later … but when to replace it? Fortunately, we’ve got all the intel you need on when to shop!
- Why You Should Refinance Your Car Loan with Rio Grande Credit Union
If you’re thinking about refinancing your car loan, now is the ideal time to discover the advantages with Rio Grande Credit Union. Here’s why you should take the leap and refinance today!
- 4 Reasons to Spend Mindfully
In our fast-paced consumer world, it’s all too easy to fall into the trap of impulse buying and overspending. But by practicing mindful spending, you can improve both your financial health and overall well-being. Here are four great reasons to start embracing this approach.
- Dine on a Dime: Savory Hoisin Chicken Thighs
Savory Hoisin Chicken Thighs are here! This sweet and tangy delight is sure to become a family favorite in no time.
- Don’t Get Caught in an Extended Warranty Scam
Extended warranty scams aren’t just the stuff of comedy routines … the scammers are out there! We’ll help you avoid their lures and stay safe, and show you how your CU might help!
- How to Host a Stress Free Holiday Meal
Are you hosting for the holidays this year? Worried about inflation taking all the joy out of the festivities? We’ve got ways to lessen the bite … and your stress!
- What to Buy and What to Skip This Black Friday
Are you ready for holiday shopping? Believe it or not, not everything is a great buy on Black Friday, or even Cyber Monday. We’ll advise you what to buy and what to skip!
- Why Members Should Refinance Their Home with RGCU
Thinking about refinancing your home? It could be a smart financial move! At Rio Grande Credit Union, we offer our members great reasons to explore this option. Whether you want to lower your monthly payments or access your home's equity, refinancing can unlock some amazing benefits.
- Tips for Staying Safe While Shopping Online
In today’s digital world, online shopping is super convenient—but it comes with its own security risks! Stay safe while you shop by keeping these essential tips in mind.