HAPPY 2014!

 

2014 is TOMORROW! As I begin our big countdown, I know I will review the past year, and subconsciously begin my list of New Year resolutions. Remember: all great accomplishments take time and dedication. The common resolutions are:

• Get Fit
• Increase Healthy Eating Habits
• Save Money
• Manage Debt

Here are a few tips on some to maintain these resolutions: 

Getting Fit: Commit to a 30 Minute routine. This can be as simple as walking to the entrance of where you work or even a few blocks around your neighborhood. Build the endurance and schedule four sessions per week. Don’t forget to change up the location, music and tempo to prevent boredom. Tip: Take your furry pet along with you for the walk.

Increase Healthy Eating: Meal Plans. Enter the grocery store with a meal plan for the week. Not only will this save you money, but it will slim your waist line. Making homemade chicken and vegetable mash will still be a healthier meal than the drive thru alternative. Tip: Pack snacks such as almonds and raisins to prevent the afternoon visit to the vending machine. Check out the weekly ads online and work your meal plans around discounted options.

Save Money: By curbing spending habits at the grocery store, you’re eliminating dining out. Dining out regularly will take a hit on your disposable income. Tip: Take a look at your “extra” purchases, and see if any reoccurring items can be purchased monthly rather than bi-weekly.   Take a look at your small monthly commitments, and determine if you’re fully utilizing all of your memberships.

Manage Debt: By tackling the three previous resolutions, you’ve already created a foundation on managing your debt. Create a ledger of your monthly requirements (power, water, etc.) and revolving debt. List all debts from highest to lowest interest rate. By focusing on the higher rates first in addition to your newly discovered disposable income, you’ll be able to pay off your debt at a faster pace. Tip: Once you’ve accomplished paying off each revolving debt, make sure you keep the last statement or final payment letter for credit reporting purposes. There is a website authorized by the Federal government called annualcreditreport.com. This site will provide you with one free credit report from each major credit bureau. By managing your debt and annually reviewing your credit report you:

• Confirm your credit is reported accurately
• Reduce your income to debt ratio
• Are able to prevent identify thief charges
• Prepare your credit for new financial purchases  

I hope you all have a wonderful new and prosperous year and I hope the suggestions and New Year resolutions recommendations I’ve made assist you in your financial goals for 2014.

 

Happy Savings!

 

^Cari

GIVING ALWAYS GIVES BACK

As we wind down 2013 and reflect back on the year we had, I will remember the goodness and generosity of the Tropical Financial family. We often refer to what we do as helping people, "one person at a time" and with that in mind we decided to adopt a family through the Neighbors4Neighbors program for the holidays.

A family with four children and a hard working mom was the recipient of gifts on behalf of all Tropical Financial employees who donated more than $500 in just two weeks.  A group of employees shopped for the gifts, wrapped them, and last week delivered them to the family.  As we hugged each child and their mom we were left with giggles, smiles and never-ending gratefulness.  That was the greatest Christmas gift this mom could have ever asked for.

On behalf of everyone here at Tropical Financial Credit Union I wish you and your family that same spirit of giving and gratefulness today and every day.

^Amy

ATTENTION LAST MINUTE SHOPPERS

Ding Ding Ding! You have two shopping days until Christmas! If your family tradition is to open gifts at midnight Christmas Eve, then I hate to break it to you, but you only have one day left. I don’t mean to scare you, but I’m just mentally preparing you for the long lines and maze of parking lots. Don’t hyperventilate or kick yourself for waiting until the last minute. Here are a few shopping tips for our last minute shoppers:

Online Pick Up: You’re able to shop online and select “In Store Pickup”. You’re able to purchase your items, and pick them up at costumer service. There will be a line yes, but you can rest assured, because your items will be waiting for you behind the counter.

Price Matching: Stores are now price matching offers that are sold online. Do your research before shopping, and see if there are any cheaper offers online. You may be too late for online ordering, but you may be able to save a few dollars by price matching.

Dollar Store Wonders: I’m a big fan of dollar store and family discount stores. You’re able to load up on essential stocking stuffers such as candy, crayons, travel toys, coloring and reading books. You could also offer to bring napkins, cups, silver ware and plates to your holiday party as well.

Baking vs. Shopping: The holidays can be an expensive time of the year and if you have a long list of people to shop for you may feel the financial hit come January. Embrace your sweet side and bake personalized tasty treats for your friends and family.

Gift Cards: Some people view the Gift Card as an “impersonal” Christmas gift; however, some people appreciate the ability to purchase something they truly want. Since the invention of the gift receipt, it’s customary to allow the gift recipient the ability to return an item to exchange for something else. Avoid the mental anguish guessing the person’s clothing size. Instead, tailor the gift card to the person’s favorite retail store. For the video gamers, there are also gift cards for game systems. They’re able to shop online for games, as well as add on functions - sometimes at a reduced rate.  

Donate your Time: If you’re still feeling in the spirit of giving, look into your local organizations by helping feed the homeless or assist in gift giving to the less fortunate this season. Donating your time to these organizations will be much appreciated.

I hope all these tips help you in your last minute shopping adventures. Make sure to keep all your receipts for record purposes, contact your local bank to notify of unusual spending habits so you’re not faced with any holds and remember that any gift given will be loved and appreciated.

Happy Shopping

^Cari

HAPPY HOLIDAYS FROM TFCU

One of my favorite things during the holiday season is the giving spirit that is shared throughout all our communities.  One of my favorite things about working for Tropical Financial Credit Union is the giving spirit that is shared amongst our employees all year long.

From all of us at Tropical Financial, we wish you the sharing spirit of the season, the happiest of holidays and a prosperous 2014!

^Amy