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
September 2025
- 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.
August 2025
- 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!
July 2025
- How Can I Determine if a Debt Consolidation Service is Legitimate
If you’re looking for debt consolidation, you’re wading into one of the most scam-filled swamps there is. We’ll help you steer clear of the hazards!
- First-Time Home-Buyer’s Checklist
Ready to be one of the new home buyers in the neighborhood? You’ve got a lot of work ahead of you, but at the end you’ll have your new home, a place to make your dreams reality!
- Understanding Key Mortgage Terms
When you’re getting a mortgage, you’re going to come across a lot of unfamiliar terms, and a lot of alphabet soup like FHA, DTI, PMI and LTV. Fortunately, we’ve got it all spelled out!
- Should I Buy GAP Insurance And an Extended Warranty?
Cars are major investments these days, and things like GAP insurance and extended warranties make sense to have. But what are they and how do they work?
- Don’t Get Caught in a Crowdfunding Scam!
Crowdfunding is a great way for small causes to raise money, but you have to watch out for scams. We’ve got the info you’ll need to steer clear!
- Are Mortgage Advertisements Truthful?
Are you shopping for a mortgage? Don’t get taken by the deceptive offers of low rates and payments, no fees or anything short of a personal unicorn. Let us help!
- How Do I Read the Fine Print on My Credit Card Paperwork?
Who really reads all the fine print on a credit card offer? If you’re one of the many who don’t, you could be setting yourself up for a rude awakening. Read our guide to find out what to watch for!
- How to Get Fit Without a Gym Membership
Want to get fit without your money getting skinny? We’ve got all kinds of tips from diet to exercise!
- What do I Need to Know About Debt Consolidation?
If life has left you buried under a mountain of debt, you might be considering using debt consolidation to get out from under it all. Let credit union help you pick the right plan!
- Love, Lies, and Loss: The Truth About Romance Scams
From catfishers to romance scam artists, the internet is littered with men and women looking to trick you out of money and/or affection. Learn how to spot and avoid them!
- Saving on Landscaping
Is your landscaping fever starting to kick in? Can you see the grass greening up and are you itching to get your hands in the dirt? We’ve got some great ways to save money this year!
- How Much Does it Cost to Have a Dog
Congratulations on deciding to bring a dog into your life! Now, to figure out how much your furry new friend will cost you. We’ve got a guide that will help!
- How to Celebrate Milestones on a Budget
Hosting milestone celebrations is a huge amount of fun, and it doesn’t have to deep-six your budget! We’ve got tons of tips to help you keep the price tag under control and still have fun.
- What Should I Consider Before Getting an Auto Loan?
If you’re buying a vehicle, you’re probably going to need financing. Not only can credit union offer you a great rate, we’ve got all the tips you need to get the best deal on your wheels!
- Beware Car-Wrap Scams!
Someone wants to pay you $500 to let them shrink-wrap ads onto your car! At least that’s what the ad says … Find out about the shrink-wrap scam and how to avoid it!
- De-stress for Less While in College
From free campus resources to budget-friendly self-care ideas, we’ve got tips to help you unwind without breaking the bank.
- Inflation: Avoiding Lifestyle Creep
You’ve got a raise or a higher-paying job, but your finances still don’t seem to stretch to the end of the month. Why? Welcome to the menace of lifestyle creep. We can help you beat it!
- Saving Money at the Grocery Store
Are you starting to dread trips to the grocery store because of the bite they put on your wallet? We’ve got tips to help you survive with minimal damage!
- Shopping Hacks for Home Depot
Think you can’t get a discount at a home improvement store like Home Depot? Prepare to be surprised! From tool rental to the pro desk to the paint bargain bin, deals are everywhere!
- Dine on a Dime: Steak-Topped Baked Potatoes
Juicy, tender steak slices paired with fluffy, loaded potatoes make this the ultimate comfort meal—perfect for weeknights or impressing guests.
- What’s the Difference Between a Home Equity Line of Credit and a Home Equity Loan
Let’s break down the difference between a Home Equity Loan and a HELOC—so you can choose what fits your needs and budget best.
- What to Buy and What to Skip in July
Discover the best deals this July and learn what purchases are worth skipping. From summer clearance sales to Prime Day steals, this guide helps you shop smart and save more.