Financial Education News

June is here! The season of sunshine, road trips and well-earned getaways. But this year, let’s give vacation a smart twist. Instead of coming home to credit card bills and budget regret, imagine returning refreshed and financially confident. June is your chance to explore, unwind and make memories, without losing sight of your goals. With a little planning and a lot of intention, you can enjoy every moment of summer while keeping your wallet happy. Because the best trips aren’t just unforgettable, they’re affordable too. Set a Realistic Vacation Budget Start with a clear number. Review your monthly income, bills ...

Finding someone that you want to spend your life with is a wonderful feeling. However, the excitement that comes with planning your future can cause you to overlook key lifestyle differences, especially when it comes to how each of you approaches money. OKMM understands this challenge and is here to help. Explore these financial literacy conversation starters to help you connect with your partner. Financial Transparency - Share all financial information openly — income, debts, credit scores, spending habits, even financial anxieties.Why sharing financial information matters: Secrecy around money is one of the top predictors of relationship conflict.What this looks like: Review credit ...

With proper planning, summertime can mean fun in the sun, family adventures and relaxing getaways. However, the absence of a plan and savings can mean boredom and no means to decompress. Saving money for future goals can seem daunting, and difficult, especially when there are more expenses than income. Please know that you are not alone. A little patience and a lot of discipline can make your summer fun dreams come true. Here are some ways to help you set aside that little bit extra. Save your change. Whatever you have left in your pockets at the end of the day, ...

The majority of Americans spend hundreds of hours planning a wedding—what colors to use, who to invite, what kind of cake to serve—but seldom plan for their marriage. So, kudos to you for thinking about your financial future as Mr. and Mrs.! As part of your prenuptial planning, consider the following tips to help ensure marital—and financial—bliss. Discuss your goals and values. The majority of financial plans are based on long-term goals, so it’s important to discuss your values and priorities. Work together to develop a family financial plan that reflects those objectives, and put it into practice before you say “I do.” Review each other’s credit ...

The festive season has come and gone, and you might be left with more than just memories — perhaps a lingering holiday debt hangover. If overspending has left you in financial distress, don't fear; there are steps you can take to fix the situation and ensure it doesn't happen again. Step 1: Face the Numbers. Start by understanding the extent of your debt. Take a close look at what you owe and the associated interest rates. Quick repayment is key to minimizing interest charges. Be cautious of debt consolidation offers, as they often come with fees and high interest rates. ...

As the holiday season approaches, many of us eagerly compile our gift lists and prepare to shop for our loved ones. However, the excitement of giving should be balanced with the responsibility of managing our finances effectively. Overspending this time of year is a common pitfall, but there are strategies to ensure that you stay within your budget and enjoy a financially stress-free holiday season. Here are some valuable tips to help you keep your spending in check. Make a list and check it twice: Start by listing all the individuals you intend to buy gifts for during the holidays. Next ...