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
February 2026
- 8 Financially Responsible Ways to Use Your Tax Refund
It’s tax refund time, and you really want to go nuts after being so good the rest of the year. That’s fine, but we’ve also got some great ideas for things to do with the bulk of the refund!
- Saving on Home Renovations
Is it time to remodel your kitchen? We’ve got tips that can save you thousands of dollars and still leave you with the gourmet enclave of your dreams!
- Understanding Your Vehicle’s Trade-in Value
Understanding your vehicle’s trade-in value through independent research ensures you get a fair deal. But where do you begin? We can help!
- Common Tax Mistakes to Avoid
It’s tax time! Hoping for a refund? Be sure you don’t make these common mistakes that could cost you time and money!
- Love on a Budget: Ways to Enjoy a Free Date Night
It’s easier than you think to plan a date night together on a budget. We’ve put together a list of more than two dozen ideas, and they might even get you going on your own!
- Your Complete Guide To Identity Theft Protection
If you’re not worried about identity theft, you should be! We’ve got a list of simple steps you can take to keep yourself out of the thieves’ crosshairs!
January 2026
- Beware of Digital Kidnapping
Digital kidnapping sounds like a creepy TV plot, but it’s real. Imagine someone taking over your social media life and making it their own! We’ve got tips to help you stay safe.
- What’s a No-Spend Challenge?
Looking to give your wallet and finances a breather? A no-spend challenge can be just the thing to get your head back in the game. Let us show you how to do it!
- Rebuilding An Emergency Fund
If your emergency fund takes a hit, don’t wait to refill it! You never know when the next crisis will come.
- What’s In A Credit Union Membership?
As a member of , you get lots of benefits, from friendly service and great rates to community support and a voice in the way things are run. It’s a great thing!
- Should I shop for a new vehicle or buy a pre-owned one?
Should I buy a new car or used car? It’s a tough decision, with advantages and disadvantages on both sides. Let us help you with our handy guide, and great credit union financing!
- Sliding And Purse Safety
While you’re pumping gas, a “sliding” thief is stealing your purse. Find out how to protect yourself here!
- Impulse Spending Triggers and How to Outsmart Them
It might be a pricey new pair of shoes or that golf club you didn’t know you needed, but impulse buys are lurking everywhere. Find out how to get them out of your wallet!
- Honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.: Why Credit Unions Are Built on His Vision of Service
This MLK Day, we reflect on Dr. King’s vision of equality, service, and economic opportunity for all. Learn how credit unions, like Rio Grande Credit Union, carry forward his legacy by empowering communities through fair financial access and education.
- Ways to Trim Your Fixed Expenses
Trimming your monthly expenses can save you big money in your budget. Look at everything from your mortgage to monthly subscriptions and see what you can trim
- Auto Dealer Finance Scams
Ever wonder how the car finance guy got such a nice office? Hint: Not by letting you get away with the best possible deal. Let play on your team!
- Smart and Safe Charitable Giving
If one of your New Year’s resolutions was to give more to charity, there are a few things to watch out for before you write that check. We can help you donate safely and wisely.
- Why the Right Mortgage Consultant Matters
When you look for a mortgage, a mortgage consultant is an important part of the process. Here’s how to find the right one who will work with you for years to come!
- Steps to Kicking Your Debt in the New Year
If you’ve decided it’s finally time to get out of debt, congratulations! Before you get started, though, you’ll need a plan. We’ve got a ready-made one … just plug in your numbers and go!
- Shopping Hacks for Nordstrom
Believe it or not, even high-end retailers like Nordstrom have shopping hacks that will have your wallet think you’re shopping the bargain bin. We’ve got them all laid out for you!
- Tackling Holiday Debt: Your Guide to a Fresh Financial Start in the New Year
The holidays may be over, but the bills can linger. Learn practical, stress-free ways to tackle holiday debt, regain control of your finances, and start the new year with confidence.
- All You Need to Know About Account Takeover Scams
There are many online scams, but account takeover fraud is probably the worst of them all, letting scammers take control of and drain your accounts. Learn how to protect yourself!
- How do I Raise my Kids to be Financially Independent Adults?
We all want our kids to be successful, and a big part of that is being financially independent. But how do you teach them that? We’ve got lots of tips to help!
- Dine on a Dime: New Year’s Veggie Stir-Fry Noodles
This quick and budget-friendly New Year’s Veggie Stir-Fry Noodles is the perfect light comfort meal after the holidays—packed with flavor, made with simple ingredients, and ready in minutes without breaking the bank.
- Financial Red Flags in Relationships and How to Avoid Them
Money may not buy love, but it can certainly test it. This blog explores common financial red flags in relationships and how recognizing them early can help protect both your heart and your finances.
- Starting 2026 with Confidence and Community
Kick off the New Year with confidence, reflection, and purpose. Discover how small steps, smart planning, and community support can help make 2026 your strongest year yet.
- What to Buy and What to Skip in January
Start 2026 with confidence by learning what’s worth buying in January—and what purchases to skip—to keep your budget on track all year long.
- Your Complete Guide to Vacation Budgets
When it’s vacation time, the last thing you want to do is pinch pennies, but doing just that will make your vacation even more stress-free! We’ve got ideas to help.
December 2025
- Celebrating 2025, Honoring Our Community, and Welcoming a Stronger 2026 Together
As 2025 comes to a close, RGCU reflects on a year of growth, community support, and helping members achieve their financial goals — and looks forward to a prosperous 2026 together.
- Celebrating Christmas Day with RGCU
Christmas Day is a time of joy, reflection, and connection—a day when families come together, traditions shine bright, and the spirit of giving fills our hearts
- What is a Fraud Ring and How Can I Keep Myself Safe?
The organized crime of the computer age, fraud rings target personal information and account info to steal money, merchandise and identities. Find out how to stay safe!
- Host Without Draining Your Account
Don’t let holiday stress spoil the holiday meal! We’ve got tips to make your feast frugal and fuss-free!
- Make The Nice List With Your Credit Card Use
Make Santa’s suit the only “red” you see this season and watch your credit card usage closely!
- Beware of Gift Card Scams
Gift cards are a convenient way to give a gift to a niece or nephew, but scams demanding you pay with gift cards are also everywhere. We’ve got tips to help keep your money safe!
- Holiday Meal Hacks For Your Budget
Holiday entertaining doesn’t have to blow your budget! This handy article will give you tips on entertaining a crowd without big bills crashing the party.
- Building Long-Term Wealth
Building wealth is not something you’re going to do in a weekend, or even in a year or a decade. Wealth-building is a long-term process that requires discipline. We’ll help decode it!
- Ways To Beat Holiday Stress
If holiday stress is already nipping at your enjoyment of the season, your friends at understand, and we’ve got tips to help bring the cheer back and keep it!
- When a “Deal” Isn’t a Deal: How to Spot Sales
Do you pride yourself on being a bargain hunter, always looking for BOGO or limited-time deals? You might be falling prey to cunning marketers. Let us show you what to watch for!
- Beware of Medical Identity Theft
Medical identity theft is the latest threat to your finances. Scammers get your Medicare or insurance information and wreak havoc! We’ve got tips to stay safe.
- Dine on a Dime: Holiday Baked Ham with Brown Sugar Glaze
This Brown Sugar Glazed Ham brings all the flavor and cheer — without breaking your budget. Perfect for your holiday table (and tomorrow’s leftovers too)!
- The Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office Holiday Toy & Food Drive
Bernco Sheriff’s Office Holiday Toy & Food Drive ensure every family we reach has a holiday meal on the table and every child receives at least one gift to unwrap.
- Ways To Keep Your Finances Intact This Holiday Season
It’s time for holiday shopping, and we can help you keep your budget out of the snowdrifts! We’ve got shopping tips, budget advice and other info to keep your holidays jolly!
- What to Buy and What to Skip This December
Sure, Black Friday is over, but there are still great deals in December! From champagne to toys, we’ve got all the info you need to shop smart!
- 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!
- 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!
- 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.
- Savings Strategies for the New Year
If one of your resolutions is to improve your savings, Rio Grande Credit Union has lots of options!
- Affordable Indoor Activities Your Kids Will Love
So flex your creative muscle with these affordable indoor activities your kids will love this winter!
- Don’t Let Finances Turn You into a Grinch this Holiday Season
The holidays are upon us, and with it comes the financial stress that comes with the season. Here are some ways to keep yourself from becoming a (stress induced) grinch this holiday season.
- 8 Ways to Boost Your Mood Without Spending a Penny
Everybody loses their happy every now and again, and we’ve got ways to get yours back that don’t involve retail therapy. Check it out!
- Last Minute Holiday Hacks
The holidays are drawing closer and there’s still so much to do! With just a bit of planning and organization, you can have a stress-free and affordable holiday season.