News and tips from Rio Grande Credit Union
April 2021
- Dine on a Dime: Pastrami Pizza
Check out this delicious “Dine on Dime” dinner option for an easy (and budget-friendly) dinner for kids and adults alike.
- Beware Stimulus and Tax Scams
This year is an absolute bonanza for scam artists, with tax filing season happening while stimulus checks are flowing out to almost every American. Don’t be a victim!
- Avoid These Spring Cleaning Scams
Is it time for some spring cleaning? Don’t let your wallet get cleaned out by falling prey to one of these nefarious scams.
- Financial Literacy Month - Celebrate Knowledge
"April showers bring May flowers,” goes the old saying. It’s also a great lesson about the importance of saving – where weathering some light showers can pay dividends during the nicer days that are to come.
- Free Weekly Credit Reports Extended Through April 2022
If you’re feeling anxious about your financial health during these uncertain times, you’re not alone. That’s why the three national credit reporting agencies, have extended free weekly credit reports until April 20, 2022.
- Save Some Green on Landscaping
Getting the itch to test out your green thumb now that spring is in full swing? Between tools, supplies, plants and seeds – it can really add up! Here are some tips to help you save on landscaping this year.
March 2021
- Ignore bogus COVID vaccine survey
Scammers are using a new trick to steal your money and personal information: a bogus COVID vaccine survey.
- 5 Ways to Uncover a Home Improvement Scam
Spring is here and so is home improvement season. If you plan to hire a contractor to make improvements to your home, be alert!
- Beware the Amazon Watch raffle scam
How great! You just got a text from Amazon telling you you’ve won a watch! There’s just one problem: Amazon’s not giving away watches. Read more about this scam.
- Spring Clean Your Finances
Spring is around the corner which means it may not only be a good time to chase away the dust bunnies, but also dust off your finances.
- 4 Must-Have Checking Account Perks
Let’s face it. A checking account is an essential tool you can find at virtually any credit union or bank. However, you may be surprised to find out not all checking accounts are created equal.
- Why Social Media is No Place for Your COVID Vaccine Selfie
While it may be tempting to document this exciting life event on social media, the Better Business Bureau and the FTC are advising against doing so for a couple of reasons.
- Tax deadline extended to May 17
The Treasury Department and Internal Revenue Service announced that the federal income tax filing due date for individuals for the 2020 tax year will be automatically extended from April 15, 2021, to May 17, 2021.
- All you need to know about the new stimulus bill
Times are tough right now for many of us. Chances are, there is something in the new stimulus bill with your name on it. Check out our article for all the details!
- Don’t get caught in an auto warranty scam
Car warranty scam calls are everywhere, and the average person gets 28 scam calls a month! Don’t fall for robot voices, demands for payment or pressure tactics. Learn how to guard your personal info.
- No, the government won’t call/text/email you for money
Lots of people are reporting receiving calls saying they owe the government money. They are scams and nothing to lose sleep over.
- Faster loan process coming
Beginning in mid-March, we are moving toward a more efficient lending process. Essentially, we are providing a quicker path to making your dreams come true.
February 2021
- If you hear this, you’re talking to a tax scammer
Every year, tax scams come out of the woodwork. If a caller or emailer says that you have to buy any kind of prepaid card to settle a tax debt or resolve identity theft, you’re getting scammed. Learn how to stay safe this tax season.
- 5 discounts for older adults you may not know about
You might have heard of a senior discount, but did you have any idea how many places offer deals for older customers? Before you open your wallet for anything, check for a senior discount!
- Five hidden ways to boost your tax refund
Tax time is here and wouldn’t a big fat tax refund come in handy? Well, here are steps you can take that may help boost your tax refund when you file.
- Tips for empty nesters downsizing
When the last kid leaves your home, you officially become an empty nester. Suddenly, you’ve got room for … well, everything! We’ve got some tips on how to handle the change.
- Not love actually
How can you spot a romance scam? Check out this video
- How to celebrate Valentine’s Day on a budget
It might seem unromantic to talk about saving money on Valentine’s Day, but what’s more romantic than a balanced budget and a full savings account? But seriously, there are great ways to still have a romantic time without spending a ton.
- The history behind Black History Month
You know that February is Black History Month, but do you know where the whole celebration started and why it takes place in February?
- Beware of PPP scams
The Paycheck Protection Program, or PPP, has been a lifesaver for many small businesses, helping them meet expenses and payroll. However, scammers have followed right along. Learn what they are doing and how to protect yourself.
- I was temporarily furloughed in 2020. What about taxes?
If you were temporarily furloughed in 2020 and then came back to work, there may be some tax implications.
- 28 Ways to Celebrate Black History Month
February is Black History Month, and we’ve got a different way to celebrate for every day of the month, from songs and poems and traditional recipes to games and shopping at Black-owned businesses and taking virtual tours of historic museums. There’s something for everyone!