Tools and Resources to Help You Plan, Budget, and Thrive.
At Rio Grande Credit Union, we believe that everyone deserves to feel confident about their finances. Whether you're just starting out or reworking your financial goals, we're here to support your journey toward financial wellness.
This is your go-to space for free, practical tools that can help you take control of your money and plan for what matters most—without the stress.
Why It Matters
Taking small steps now can lead to big changes down the road. Budgeting isn’t about cutting back—it’s about moving forward with confidence. With the right tools and support, you can build a plan that fits your life and your goals.
Start Today
Ready to take the first step toward your best financial self? Here are some FREE financial resources available to help you become your Best Financial Self!
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Budgeting Workbook |
Financial Goals Worksheet |
Free Financial Coaching |
Financial Education Articles |
Financial 411
Financial Wellness Videos
New Blog Articles
October 2025
- What to Buy and What to Skip in October
With Halloween coming this month, there are tons of great deals to scare us out there, and not just on candy and costumes! Check our guide to see what to buy and what to skip.
- Super-Scary Scams To Watch For This Halloween
Like a mummy from a tomb, Halloween scams are lurking around this candy-filled holiday looking to haunt your wallet and scare up some quick cash. We can help you stay safe.
- Should I Buy A House During The Holidays?
Are you in the market for a new home during the holidays? You just might find some great deals while the snow flies. See the pros and cons to holiday house hunting!
- Halloween Costs Are Scaring Me. How Can I Save?
Thanks to inflation, even Halloween is getting scary expensive, but there are plenty of ways to save on everything from costumes to candy to the all-important decorations. We can help!
- Signs You’re Living Beyond Your Means
Does life just seem too expensive? You might be living beyond your means. We’ve got some ways to tell if you are, and tips to help you get your money back in line!
September 2025
- Reasons To Open A Money Market Account
Check out the money market accounts at today! You’ll get higher rates with the security you trust and easy access to funds!
- DIY Halloween Décor
Before you know it, Halloween will be here! We’ve got DIY decorating hacks that will make your house spook-tacular without breaking your budget.
- Shopping Hacks for Kohl’s
Kohl’s is managing to make it in the retail sales battles on the strength of tons of shopping hacks which can save you big money. Read on and take notes to save big!
- Beware of Robocall Scams!
Everybody knows the old, traditional robocall scams, but there are new tactics that might fool you if you’re not in the know. We’ve got all the info you’ll need!
- How to Play the Retail Game and Get the Biggest Bang for Your Buck
There are always deals to be had when you’re shopping, but the list we’ve put together here makes finding them like shooting fish in a barrel. Oh, and IKEA has barrels on sale!
- A Fast, Flexible Way To Fix Your Finances
If your paycheck goes up and down, your budget can still be steady. Let help!
- How to Shop for Fall on a Budget
Looking for ways to save on your fall and winter clothing buys? We’ve got a whole list of tips to keep your budget warm! Read on for six timely money-saving tips this shopping season.
- Get These Things Out Of Your Purse Or Wallet Now!
Don’t let a clogged wallet lead to an emptied bank account! Cut down on the weight and add to your peace of mind.
- Don’t Get Hooked: Recognize and Avoid Phishing Scams
Phishing, along with its evil cousins smishing and vishing, are the most common scams around. Read our guide to learn how to avoid them and keep your information safe!
- Wardrobe While on a College Budget
Need to update your wardrobe while on a college budget? Start by checking your closet to see what you already have. Make a list of essentials and set a spending limit.
- Ways To Pay Off A Loan Early
Want to get out of debt? Who doesn’t? You can take small steps that add up to big interest savings and earlier repayment. We’ve got the info!
- The 8 Most Harmful Attitudes Toward Money
Your relationship with money shapes your financial reality.
- How Much Money Should I Keep In My Checking Account?
How much should you be keeping in your checking account? Too little and you could be in trouble. Too much and you lose interest earnings. We can help you figure it out!
- How to Keep Your Finances Safe While Traveling
Summer travel is a ton of fun, but it can also bring fraud and theft if you’re not careful. Your security prep should start before you even pack your first bag, and continue after you get home!
- Why Choose A Credit Union?
Fed up with fees and slack service? Looking for great service and better rates on loans? A credit union is your best bet!
- How to Create a Budget in 6 Easy Steps
Do you have a budget? It’s not as hard as you might think to make one. We’ve got a simple six-step process that will have you in full command of your finances in no time!
- Buying A Home In Today’s Economy
If buying a home in this economy has you a bit scared, we’ve got helpful tips to make sure you’re a happy homeowner!
- Dine on a Dime: Barbeque Chicken
Hosting a cookout this year? Keep it fun and affordable with BBQ chicken, grilled corn on the cob, and a quick macaroni salad—easy, breezy, and delicious!
- Steps Toward Purchasing An Auto Insurance Policy
Are you shopping for car Insurance? It can be confusing, but we can help you get the best coverage for the best price. Read our tips!
- What to Buy and What to Skip in September
September means Labor Day, the last big summer holiday, and there are deals to be had this month, as well as stuff to skip buying. We’ve got all the info you’ll need to shop smart!
August 2025
- Steps To Checking Your Credit Report
Don’t get ambushed by identity theft! Learn how to check your credit report and what can do to help!
- Common Summer Scams and How to Avoid Them
Ready for some summer fun? Unfortunately, there are scammers out there just as ready for some summer crimes. Read our guide and learn what to watch for and how to stay safe!
- Steps To An Energy-Smart Home
Cut costs, save energy, and boost your comfort! These simple steps can make your home greener and your wallet happier.
- Debt Consolidation: Not A Silver Bullet, But Still A Good Idea
can help you figure out if a debt consolidation loan will help you slay your financial dragons.
- Budget-Friendly Family Activities to Enjoy This Summer
Summer is here, and everyone (especially the kids) are itching to get outside! We’ve got a great list of fun things to do together as a family while keeping your budget intact!
- How to Build Up Your Credit From Scratch?
If you’re just getting started in the credit world, you’re going to need to build your file. can help, and we’ve got other great tips to get your credit score up!
- What Should I Do If My Credit Card’s Been Frauded?
Credit card fraud is a fact of life. It happens to many of us, and how you react is the key to dealing with it successfully. Don’t panic! Follow our handy steps and you’ll be fine.
- The Real Deal on Refinancing: Is It Worth It?
Want to refinance your mortgage? It can save you thousands, but be sure you’re doing it for the right reasons. Our guide will help you decide!
- Paying Off That Credit Card Debt
Have you totaled up your credit card debt recently? Did it make you want to go hide in a corner? That’s not going to fix the problem, but we’ve got plans that will help!
- Single Or Dual Income: Making The Decision
Deciding between a single or dual income household? This article breaks down the pros, cons, and key factors to help you choose what works best for your life and finances.
- End of Summer Savings Tips
Summer’s winding down, and it’s time to put away the flip-flops and give your finances a checkup. Check out our tips on making sure you’re headed in the right direction!
- Beware Of Subscription Scams
Would you pay $19.95 a month for a flashlight app for your phone? If you’re not careful when signing up for subscription services online, you might end up doing so! Learn how to stay safe!
- Getting Back to Work After the Summer Break
Getting back into work after time away is never easy, and when summer is still blazing or the beach is calling, it can be even more challenging.
- How to Manage Debt
When you look at your debt, does it seem like you’ve stepped in financial quicksand? We’ve got ways to get out of the pit and get yourself back on solid footing!
- How To Keep Your Furry Friends From Breaking The Bank
If Fido gets sick or Fluffy needs a blood test, find out how to handle it without breaking the bank!
- A Family Budget
Making your first family budget? We can help!
- 6 Tips for a Scam Free Summer
Summer is time for fun, whether you’re on vacation or just hanging out at home, but scammers will come after you no matter where you are. We’ll help you steer clear!
- Getting The Most Out Of Youth Accounts
Getting your kid their first savings account is a big step. We’ve got tips to make the experience fun for both of you!
- Dine on a Dime: Retro French Chicken
Whip up this zesty, golden chicken dish in just 35 minutes! With fresh lemon, thyme, and a buttery garlic finish.
- From Our Community to Your Cart
Shopping locally doesn’t just make fantastic financial sense, it can be a way to save the earth, put some “wow” factor into your closets and cabinets, and get to know your local artistic community. Let show you all the benefits of keeping it local!
- What to Buy and What to Skip in August
With a real back-to-school time coming this year, what should you be shopping for besides pencils and notebooks? We’ve got tips on what to buy and what to leave on the shelf!