Financial Fundamentals Blog

We’re so close to Thanksgiving, which means that the Holiday season is upon us. For a lot of us, the most wonderful time of the year can feel overwhelming as the shopping, parties, baking, decorating, and general spending can take on a life of their own. With some help from KOFE (Knowledge of Financial Education), here are a few tips to put yourself back in charge during the Holidays to make sure that you start the New Year on the right financial foot.

The music has a jingle to it, the gift guides are out and the lights are twinkling, which can only mean one thing: the holidays are upon us. Here are a few tips on how to save money and avoid overspending this season.

The holidays are in full swing, and shopping days are running out. I know what you’re thinking: It’s too late to score deals and save money. Don’t worry; there are still steps you can take to cut costs even if your shopping has only just begun. Let’s review some of those steps as well as explore year-round measures that can help put you at the top of your financial game next year.

Money market versus savings accounts: What’s the difference? Which should you choose? At first glance, they may seem similar, but there are key differences that you should be aware of so you can make an informed decision based on your goals.

From the eggs in the grocery store to the gas at the pump, inflation makes everything a bit more expensive. And for many people, the hike in prices can make it difficult to pay for basic expenses.

The rising cost of college is a perennial concern for high school grads and their families. For Ohio residents looking to attend The Ohio State University, tuition and other costs have risen to more than $27,000 per year — or well over $100,000 for a four-year degree. The costs at local private schools or many public and...

If you’ve only done your banking at a traditional bank, the value of a credit union can be hard to understand. On top of that, the big advertising budgets afforded by banks mean that consumers start their financial journey having a stronger familiarity with big-name banks as opposed to local credit unions.

We’ve all been there: retail therapy after a bad or long day, new clothing, books or home items that caught your eye in an influencer’s post—even tacking on a candy bar in the checkout line or a latte while grocery shopping. All of these unexpected purchases that were made with little to no consideration are known as impulse...

Valentine’s Day is fast approaching, and with it, the reminder that you should shower your loved ones with lavish gifts. But expressing your love doesn’t mean emptying your wallet. You can still make romantic or thoughtful gestures without breaking the bank.

Using a credit card may sound like a smart way to finance a large purchase, but if you’re not careful, you may be falling into a debt trap. Most retailers offer store-branded, deferred interest credit cards to appeal to buyers, but few consumers are aware of the pitfalls of deferred interest.

No matter how big or small your financial goals are, a financial plan can help you make those goals a reality. Think of financial planning as a roadmap to help you achieve your goals. It’s an ongoing process that can help you feel more confident about your finances and navigate any bumps in the road, such as inflation or a...

School is back in session, and with it comes a myriad of costs. If you’re heading off to college for your first or last semester, don’t be afraid to look for ways to save. One way to cut costs is to eliminate visiting your college bookstore for textbooks. Don’t be afraid to look for deals or to get creative! Here are some tips to help.