News and tips from Rio Grande Credit Union
May 2025
- 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
- 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.
- 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!
- 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.
- 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!
- 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.
- 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!
- 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.
- Personal Loans: Your All-in-One Financial Solution
Need financial flexibility? A personal loan can help with debt consolidation, home improvements, or unexpected expenses.
- 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!
- 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!
- 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!
- Grilling On A Budget
Hosting a cookout but worried about paying for it? From homemade drinks to cheap eats, we’ve got you covered!
- Financial Advice For Graduates
New graduate? Here’s food for thought about your financial future!
April 2025
- Credit Card Smarts
When you get that first credit card, it’s easy to see it as free money. It’s easy to swipe for anything! We’ll show you why that’s a bad idea, and how to use your cards wisely.
- Your Emergency Credit To The Rescue
Your Emergency Credit to the Rescue" offers quick financial relief for unexpected expenses, giving you peace of mind when life takes an unexpected turn.
- When is It Worthwhile to Pay More
You’re famous for your ability to hunt a bargain but sometimes that’s not the best idea. Find out when to go cheap and when to pay full price for the best stuff with our guide!
- Reasons Not to Skip a Home Inspection
Found your dream home? Don’t sign anything until you have an inspection! It’ll save you money, heartache and even avoid safety hazards. See our tips!
- Beware the Pending Package Scam
There are package delivery scams out there looking to take advantage of our online shopping-obsessed culture. We’ve got all you need to know to stay safe!
- Financing a Home Renovation with a Home Equity Loan
Is home renovation on your spring to-do list? You might want to look into borrowing against your home’s equity to save. Call or stop by for details!
- How to Save on Entertainment Costs While on Vacation
Entertainment costs can take a big bite out of your budget, but with a little planning ahead you can have fun while keeping your wallet closed. Let us help!
- When Should I Put My House on The Market
If you’re selling your house, spring is the best time to get it done. You’ll spend less time on the housing market and get more out of the deal!
- Don’t Get Scammed this Spring Break!
Looking for a spring break getaway? Scammers are waiting, too, with offers of fake properties and calls to relatives trying to extort money. Get the details!
- Smart Money Tips for Easter
Tips for managing your finances during Easter, from setting a budget and creating DIY baskets to hosting a potluck meal and taking advantage of holiday sales. It helps you celebrate while keeping your spending in check.
- Tips for Running the Perfect Meeting
The unproductive meeting is a meme in the business world, but use these tips and you won’t see your whiteboard as a point of social media ridicule!
- Crafting on a Budget
Are you a crafty person on a tight budget? We’ve got tons of ways to get materials free or on the cheap that will make you the Picasso of your local craft groups!
- What To Look for When Buying New Appliances
Don’t let a new appliance drive your powerbill up! We’ve got tips to help you pick the right one for your needs!
- Don’t Hire a Scammer as a Contractor
Tips to avoid contractor scams, such as checking credentials, avoiding upfront payments, and seeking multiple bids. It helps consumers ensure they hire trustworthy professionals and protect themselves from financial loss.
- Is Your Tax Refund Too Big?
Are you happy because you’re getting a big tax refund this year? Sorry to rain on your parade, but that refund is an interest-free loan you gave Uncle Sam this year. Find out how to make your refund smaller!
- Dine on a Dime:Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala
Enjoy a budget-friendly, flavorful meal with this Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala. Tender chicken in a creamy, spiced tomato sauce, this dish is easy to make and perfect for busy weeknights. Delicious, affordable, and full of rich flavor!
- Reduce Your Energy Usage
Discover simple tips to reduce your energy consumption, save on bills, and help the environment. From small habit changes to energy-efficient upgrades, these easy steps make a big difference.
- How to Dance it Out at Home
Think you need to pay a ton to a dance studio and buy pricey lessons? Not at all! You can set up your own dance studio at home with your child and you’ll both have fun!
- Tax Security Tips
It’s tax time, and of course that means it’s also tax scam time. The scammers are everywhere, and you need to be careful. We’ve got tips to help you stay safe!
- What to Buy and What to Skip in April
The shopping holiday calendar may be empty in April, but there are still deals to be had for the smart shoppre! We’ve got the lowdown on what to buy and what to avoid this month!
March 2025
- How Can I Save on Healthcare Costs
One of the biggest budget battles you’ll face is paying for healthcare. You have to have it, but paying for it can be troublesome. We’ve got tips on saving money!
- Ways to Save on Hotel Stays
Unless you intend on sleeping in your car on vacation, you’ll need to book at hotel stay, and those can eat up a chunk of your travel budget! We’ve got hints to help you save.
- Disaster Scams
There’s been a disaster, and now the scammers appear to make the situation even worse. Learn how to spot and avoid them whether you’re donating or needing help!
- 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!
- Should I Sign Up for Budget Billing
If budget billing for your utilities sounds good, but you don’t like the fees or balloon payments, consider doing it yourself! We’ve got the info, and energy-saving tips
- Is Unlimited Data Worth It
If you’re reading this on your phone, chances are you’ve at least thought about an unlimited data plan. Let us help you decide!
- Tips for Upcycling at Home
Have you ever heard of upcycling? Chances are, you have most of what you need to jump into this trend sitting around your house. Check out our tips and get crafty!
- Shopping Hacks for Amazon
Amazon is like a department store with a bazillion aisles, and we’ve got hacks that will help you dive deep and find the best deals on just about anything you could imagine.
- Students Beware: Scammers Prey On Learners Of All Ages
Fall prey to one of these student scams, and midterms won’t be your biggest worry!
- Moving Vs. Home Improvement
Deciding whether to remodel or move can be a tough choice. We’ve got a breakdown of the options and whichever one you choose, credit union can help with financing!
- What are the Responsibilities of the Board of Directors at my Credit Union
You might think being a member of the board of directors at your CU is a pretty cushy job, but there’s actually a lot of responsibility involved!
- Don’t Get Caught in a Paper Check Scam!
If you think paper checks are artifacts of ‘90s life, you’re wrong! They’re still here, and so are the scams that prey on their users. Read our guide for staying safe!
- 7 Money Myths
Discover the truth behind seven common money myths and learn how to manage your finances more effectively.
- What Employers are Looking for in a New Hire
Want to stand out in the job market? Employers are looking for more than just skills—they want team players, problem solvers, and go-getters. Discover what it takes to land the job and thrive in your career!
- Is the Work-Life Balance a Myth?
Struggling to juggle work and personal life? Get practical tips, insights, and strategies to create harmony, reduce stress, and make time for what truly matters.
- Does Good Debt Exist?
While many fear going into debt, some types of debt can actually help increase your wealth over time. Let us break it down and explain the difference!
- Ensure Your Professional Data is Safe and Secure
Having a solid backup strategy is essential to protect your data from loss, theft, or unexpected disasters. Without one, you risk losing valuable information. Take action now with these expert tips to keep your data safe and secure!
- Dine on a Dime: Easy Stir-Fried Pepper Steak
Craving a tasty, budget-friendly meal? Try this Easy Stir-Fried Pepper Steak! Quick, flavorful, and easy on your wallet—perfect for any night!
- College Credit: The Dos and Don'ts of Your First Credit Card
Your first credit card is a major financial milestone! Learn the key dos and don’ts to build credit wisely and avoid common pitfalls.
- What to Buy and What to Skip in March
March has arrived, bringing the first signs of spring! As the season changes, so do the best shopping deals. From must-have discounts to items you should hold off on purchasing, we’re breaking down what’s worth buying this month—and what’s better left for later. Get ready to shop smarter this spring!