Money Management
Affordable Hobbies
We regularly discuss budgeting in terms of needs and wants, with a primary focus on prioritizing “needs.” However, this month, we want to highlight how having space for your “wants,” like hobbies, is still essential. While they seem like just fun and games, research shows that hobbies can have mental health benefits such as reducing Read more Affordable Hobbies
Rent
IMPORTANT PROGRAM UPDATE FOR CURRENT PARTICIPANTS Before we begin discussing managing rent, Exodus Lending is pleased to launch a new online payment platform. All current program participants should have received an email from us with instructions on how to create a profile with the new Client Portal by March 31st, 2021. Please contact us if Read more Rent
Opening a Credit Card
Credit cards seem essential for adult life, but the process of opening one can be confusing and intimidating. So this month, we’re making space to demystify the process of opening and maintaining a credit card. Credit Card Basics Before opening a credit card, be sure you fully understand how credit cards work. Credit cards are Read more Opening a Credit Card
Managing Finances in Multigenerational Households
In 2018, the Pew Research Center found that more than 1 in 10 American parents were “multigenerational caregivers” because they provide unpaid care for a child (or children) under 18 years old and an adult, such as a relative, friend, or neighbor. Often, this extended family lives together under the same roof, which presents unique Read more Managing Finances in Multigenerational Households
Teaching Children about Money
Time and again at Exodus Lending, our participants share with us that some of their financial goals are to improve their money habits and be a role model for the children. Thankfully, there are many ways we can impart the importance of money to children, no matter their age! Here are some tips from Better Read more Teaching Children about Money
Pet Expenses
Pets are a significant part of our lives; pet owners often want to give them the best, but the prices of medical check-ups, grooming, and food are eye-popping! Here are some resources and tips on how to save money in various aspects of pet care, so you can give your furry family member the best Read more Pet Expenses
Energy Efficiency and Weatherization
If you’d like to bring down your utility bills and make your home more environmentally friendly, it’s essential to think about your home’s energy efficiency. Energy efficiency generally refers to how well something uses energy. The home uses energy in many different ways, such as heating and cooling. In other words, the more efficiently your Read more Energy Efficiency and Weatherization
Sinking Funds
A sinking fund is a budget category or savings strategy used to cover a planned and expected, but irregular and non-monthly, expense. Unlike an emergency fund where you don’t know when, how much, or if you’ll need the money, a sinking fund is a savings plan for expenses you’ll have within the next year. Some Read more Sinking Funds
Grocery Shopping
During the COVID-19 pandemic, many of us are trying to stretch our limited income as far as possible. One way to do so is to save money while grocery shopping. Here are some ideas on how you can cut down on your food costs. Preparing to Shop Before you set foot in the store, plan Read more Grocery Shopping
Moving Checklists
Moving is a hectic, expensive, and stressful process. And it is only more chaotic when it happens during a pandemic. If at all possible, postpone your move until after it’s safe to lift social distancing measures. But if you cannot reschedule, be sure to prepare and execute a comprehensive plan as soon as possible to Read more Moving Checklists