News and tips from Rio Grande Credit Union
July 2025
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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!
- 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!
- 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!
- 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.
- 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!
- 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!
- 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.
- 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!
- 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!
- 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!
- 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!
June 2025
- Developing a Strong Work Ethic
Building a strong work ethic is something that will affect your entire life. Whether it’s learning to manage your time or having to deal with failure, the effort put in will pay off down the road!
- Should I Use a Contactless Card
The current debate: are contactless or EMV chip cards better? The answer is: both! Chip cards can be used more widely, while contactless can’t be beat for speed. Get all the facts!
- Invest 15% of Income into Retirement: A Smart Move for Your Future
Discover why investing 15% of your income into retirement can set you up for long-term financial security. Learn how this smart strategy can help you build wealth, take advantage of compound growth, and prepare for a comfortable future.
- Beware of Property Rental Scams
The rental market is hot right now, and the scammers are everywhere. Be wary of deals too good to be true, and always do your homework. Read our guide to stay safe!
- How to Enjoy Outings Without Breaking the Budget
Weekend family outings don’t mean having to spend a ton. There are lots of ways to enjoy local attractions on the cheap, or even set up your own backyard for fun. We’ve got ideas!
- Support Our Teachers
By equipping new teachers with the tools and support they need, we create stronger classrooms where students are empowered to succeed.
- The Importance of an Emergency Fund
If you’ve put off setting up an emergency fund, you’re taking a big chance that nothing bad will ever happen. Best to get yours set up now so you can breathe easier and be secure!
- Shopping Hacks for Best Buy
No matter what your electronic needs are, we’ve got shopping hacks for Best Buy that will save you so much even Bowser will smile.
- How to Grow Green on a Budget: Gardening for Less
Looking for a new hobby that will get you outside? You can’t find a better one than gardening, and it doesn’t have to cost you much! Check out our tips for indulging your green thumb.
- Juneteenth and the Credit Union Difference: Honoring Freedom Through Financial Empowerment
Juneteenth celebrates freedom and reminds us of the ongoing fight for equity. Credit unions support that journey by empowering communities with access to fair, inclusive financial services. This Juneteenth, we honor the past by helping build a financially free future for all.
- What Happens When a Mortgage Lender Checks My Credit Score
If you need a mortgage but you’re worried about the negative effect on your credit from a credit check, remember the 45-day rule. Learn about that and more in our guide!
- What is a Share Certificate?
Want great interest income without the risk of stocks? Ask us about how much you can earn with a Share Certificate. It’s a great way to build your wealth!
- Ways to Detach From Work During Vacation
Explore practical tips to help you fully disconnect from work and recharge during your vacation.
- Should I Use an Unsecured Loan or a Credit Card for Large Purchases
When you’ve got a large purchase ahead of you, it can be tough to decide whether to use a credit card or an unsecured loan. Fortunately, we’ve got all the info you’ll need to decide!
- Beware of Parking Lot Scams
Parking lot scams are a summer hazard you don’t want to deal with! From fake parking lots to bogus mechanics, we’ve got the info you need to stay safe!
- Transform Your Home Without Spending a Dime
Celebrate the arrival of spring by giving your home a new look inside and out. We’ve got tips and tricks to get it done while keeping your wallet happy, too!
- The 50/30/20 Rule: A Simple Way to Manage Your Money
It’s never too early to start budgeting your own money, and the 50/30/20 rule is a fantastic, easy way to do it. Read our article and start doing it today!
- Ways to Reduce Your Plastic Water Bottle Waste
The world is slowly choking on water bottle waste, and it’s ridiculously easy to cut down or even eliminate. Read our tips for how to reduce your water bottle footprint!
- Mistakes First-Time Homeowners Make
Houses cost a lot of money, and figuring out what you can afford and how to find it can be tough. We can help!
- Beware of Credit Card Skimming Scams
If you use a credit card reader or ATM, and just about all of us do, you’re at risk of credit card skimming. Find out how to avoid skimmers and keep your money and info safe!
- Dine on a Dime: Skillet Steak & Veggies
Celebrate Dad without breaking the bank! In this edition of Dine on a Dime, we’re serving up a delicious and budget-friendly Skillet Steak & Veggies recipe perfect for Father’s Day. It’s hearty, simple to make, and full of flavor—no fancy grill required. Whether you're cooking for Dad or with him, this meal brings the love without the splurge.
- Popular Money Tips That Aren’t All That Great
Do you sometimes feel buried by all the free money advice out there? Just remember, free advice is often worth what you pay for it. Let us help do a little myth busting!
- What to Buy and What to Skip in June
June kicks off summer—and some of the best deals of the year! In this month’s shopping guide, we break down what’s worth your money and what’s better to hold off on. From Father's Day sales to early back-to-school promotions, find out where to save big—and where to wait. Whether you're eyeing new tech, outdoor gear, or seasonal produce, this guide will help you shop smarter all month long.
May 2025
- Free Ways to Spend Time with Your Kids
Think spending time with your kids involves spending money? We’ve got plenty of ideas that will build family togetherness and keep your wallet intact!
- Don’t Share Your Grad Photo Online
After years of work, you’ve made it to graduation! You can celebrate, but be safe about it. Don’t share your grad photos and other info online to steer clear of scammers. We’ve got the info!
- How Should I Handle a Pay Raise?
Starting off with a raise? Congratulations! It feels good to get rewarded for hard work. Now, be sure you use that new money right to amplify your success!
- Can I Buy A House When I’m Paying Off A Student Loan
Want buy a house while you’re fresh out of college and still paying down your student loans? We’ve got all the things you need to consider before you get that mortgage!
- Ways To Save On Your Summer Vacation
Traveling on a budget this summer? We’ve got all the tips you need to make a great vacation and save big bucks!
- How Can I Save on Energy Costs This Summer
Are you having the usual summer battle between having a cool house and keeping your energy costs down? We’ve got some hacks that will save you big bucks!
- 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!
- 6 ways to Plan for a Budget- Friendly Summer
It’s time for summer vacation, but you don’t want to lose sight of your budget completely. What do you do? Fortunately, we’ve got plenty of tips to help!
- Financial Advice For Graduates
New graduate? Here’s food for thought about your financial future!
- Grilling On A Budget
Hosting a cookout but worried about paying for it? From homemade drinks to cheap eats, we’ve got you covered!
- Best Times to Buy: Costco Hacks
Already famous for low prices (and cheap hot dogs), there are hacks for shopping at Costco that will make your savings even more awesome. We’ve got a great list!
- Summertime In Scam City
Summer scams are everywhere, and we’ve got what you need to know to steer clear and bask in the summer sun!
- College Road Trip: Mapping Out Your Dreams
College tours can seem like a summer-long slog. Get tips to save time and money and get the most out of the experience!
- Personal Loans: Your All-in-One Financial Solution
Need financial flexibility? A personal loan can help with debt consolidation, home improvements, or unexpected expenses.
- Mental Health in the Workplace
Mental health at work matters. Learn why it’s essential for productivity, morale, and overall well-being—and how we can all help create a healthier workplace.
- The 5 Golden Rules of Smart Money Habits Every Teen Should Know
We get it: It’s really tough to save money when there are so many things to spend it on. We’ve got handy tips that will help you develop habits you’ll use for your whole life!
- Don’t Get Scammed on Amazon
If you get a message asking you to verify a purchase or confirm a delivery address for an Amazon purchase, don’t respond. Instead, log into your Amazon account and confirm any necessary info there.
- 6 Ways to Boost Company Morale
If you want to build a successful company, there are a few steps you can take to get things headed in the right direction. We’ve got the tools you’ll need!
- Create a Vacation Budget: Your Guide to Stress-Free Travel
Budgets never go on vacation! Work out exactly how much money you can spend while on your getaway before you leave. This will help you avoid breaking your budget and returning home with a pile of debt.
- Can a Budget Wedding Be Beautiful?
Are you getting married? First off, congratulations! Second, no matter what you’ve heard, you don’t have to spend a zillion dollars planning your big day. We can help!
- Budget-Friendly Carnitas Recipe
Enjoy delicious carnitas without breaking the bank! This easy, budget-friendly recipe brings bold flavor to your table using simple ingredients you probably already have at home. Perfect for meal prep, family dinners, or taco night on a budget.
- What to Buy and What to Skip in May
May is full of shopping opportunities—but not all deals are created equal. Discover what to buy (and what to skip) this month to make the most of seasonal sales and smart timing