How to avoid Social Security scams: Spot the red flags and protect yourself

Social Security scams are one of the most common and costly forms of fraud targeting Americans today.

Criminals impersonate officials from the Social Security Administration (SSA), the Office of the Inspector General (OIG), or even the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) to try to trick you into handing over money or personal information.

These scams can arrive by phone, email, text, letter, or social media message. The scammers may even use real employee names, spoof government phone numbers, or send official-looking documents to gain your trust.

However, once you know the warning signs, you can protect yourself and help spread awareness to your friends and loved ones.

Four signs you’re dealing with a Social Security scam

Most Social Security-related scams follow a similar playbook. Watch out if you begin getting messages and they follow a pattern:

  1. They pretend to be from a government agency you know, especially SSA or OIG.
  2. They say there’s a problem or prize, like suspicious activity on your Social Security number or a sudden benefit increase.
  3. They pressure you to act immediately, creating a sense of panic.
  4. They tell you to pay in a specific, and often strange, way, like gift cards, cryptocurrency, wire transfers, or mailing cash.

The common thread is urgency—scammers want you to panic. They rely on fear (or excitement) to get you to act quickly without thinking. And once they have you anxious, they push for payment in unusual ways: gift cards, cryptocurrency, wire transfers, or even cash sent through the mail.

If the message feels rushed, emotional, or out of the blue, that’s your biggest clue something’s wrong.

What Social Security will never do

One of the easiest ways to identify a scam is by remembering what the SSA does not do. The real agency will never threaten you, demand immediate payment, or suspend your Social Security number. They won’t ask you to pay to unlock a cost-of-living adjustment or keep things secret, and they certainly won’t contact you through private social media messages. Any request for payment using gift cards, prepaid debit cards, wire transfers, crypto, or mailed cash is an automatic sign of fraud.

If someone does any of these things, you can confidently disengage—no legitimate SSA employee communicates that way.

The tricks scammers are using now

Scammers are constantly evolving their playbook, and some of their methods can seem frighteningly real. Fake phone numbers may appear as your local police department or a government office. Fraudulent social media profiles mimic official SSA accounts using logos, copy, and fake credentials. Some scammers even send official looking documents through email or text to “prove” who they are.

With advances in AI, they can even use voice cloning to mimic real voices—making phone scams harder to distinguish from genuine calls.

How to protect yourself from Social Security scams

If you get an unexpected message claiming to be from SSA:

  1. Stay calm. Scammers often create urgency to cloud your judgment.
  2. Hang up or ignore the message. Don’t click links or open attachments. Initiate communication with SSA through official channels.
  3. Don’t send money. Never send payment in untraceable ways like gift cards, crypto, or wire transfers.
  4. Guard your personal information. If the message mentions a problem you’ve never heard of, especially if they already know some of your personal details, be skeptical.
  5. Spread the word. Share scam warnings with friends and family, especially seniors who are frequent targets.

What to do if you’ve been scammed

Realizing you may have given a scammer money or personal information can be overwhelming, but acting quickly can limit the damage. Stop all contact with the scammer immediately. Then reach out to the three major credit bureaus—Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion—to place a fraud alert or freeze your credit.

If your Social Security number was compromised, you may need to request a replacement card or even a new number. And if money was stolen, notify your credit union or bank and local law enforcement right away so they can guide you through the next steps.

Stay vigilant and keep your Social Security safe

The most important thing to remember is this: the SSA will never threaten you, suspend your number, or demand unusual forms of payment. If someone pressures you to act fast or pay in a strange way, it’s almost certainly a scam. Hang up, delete the message, and protect yourself by reporting it.

What does it mean to consolidate debt?

Borrowing money can be a great way to build credit and achieve goals like higher education or buying a house. But with the costs of everything increasing, more people are taking on debt. Debt isn’t inherently bad, but for some people, it can get overwhelming quickly. If you’re dealing with multiple payments, then debt consolidation may be the solution for you. Need more information? Keep reading to learn the ins and outs of debt consolidation.

What is debt consolidation?

As the name suggests, debt consolidation involves consolidating—or combining—your outstanding debt or loan balances into a singular payment, often through a new loan. While consolidation doesn’t eliminate your debt, it does aim to make repayment a little easier. Instead of managing multiple loans and payments, consolidation allows you to make just one payment, usually with a lower interest rate. This helps you reduce your cumulative interest—lowering your overall payments so you can pay off what you owe more quickly. Depending on the type of debt you have and your overall financial goals, there are a few different options for you to consolidate.

Debt consolidation loan

The most common way to consolidate is through a debt consolidation loan, which is a type of personal loan. These loans offer lower interest rates and, by aggregating your payments into one, may lower your monthly payments as well.

With a consolidation loan, you borrow enough to cover the balances you want to consolidate and then once approved, use the funds to pay off your other debts. In some cases, lenders may be willing to pay off your balances directly. Debt consolidation loans are unsecured, meaning you don’t have to put up any collateral but are instead based on your credit score, credit history, and debt-to-income ratio.

Balance transfer

If you’re dealing with a lot of credit card debt, a balance transfer is another way to consolidate your debt. With balance transfers, you move your existing credit card balances onto a new card, often with a 0% APR promotional period. During this time, you can pay down debt transferred from another credit card without paying any interest. Balance transfer credit cards may also offer welcome bonuses, rewards, and other perks.

With a balance transfer credit card, you’ll usually request a balance transfer with your new card issuer, who will pay off your included balances directly. However, it’s important to note that balance transfers may charge an upfront fee, which may count towards your credit card limit. Additionally, you won’t know your credit limit until you’re approved, which means you may not be able to transfer your entire balance.

Does consolidation hurt credit?

The short answer is that mostly depends on you. When applying for a new loan or credit card, financial institutions will do a hard pull which will cause a small temporary dip in your credit score. Pre-qualifying for a loan doesn’t require a hard pull and won’t impact your score. Opening a new account lowers the average age of your credit history, which can also cause a temporary dip. However, in the long run, your credit score should improve—especially if you make your payments on time. You should also try to keep your accounts open, even after using your consolidation loan to pay them off, as this reduces your utilization ratio and also has a positive impact on your score. On the flip side, if you miss your payments, this will negatively impact your score. And if you run up those credit cards again after paying them off, you’ll increase your utilization ratio, lower your credit score, and likely end up with more debt than when you started.

When to consider debt consolidation

The big reason to consider debt consolidation is if you have multiple high-interest debts and you’re struggling to track payments. If you’re looking to simplify, debt consolidation may be right for you. But what strategy is best depends on your financial situation.

A debt consolidation loan is best if you’re dealing with a mix of unsecured debts, like credit card debt and medical bills, or you’re managing a significant amount of debt that may require several years to repay. These are also available if you have a lower credit score, though a higher score may get a better rate. Balance transfers are best if you have a smaller amount of debt, especially if it can be paid off during the 0% promotional period, and only for borrowers with good to excellent credit.

Comparing Debt Consolidation Strategies
Debt consolidation loan Balance transfer card
Best for paying off multiple types of unsecured debt, like medical bills and credit cards. Best for paying off credit card debt.
Best for larger debts that may take more time to pay off. Best for smaller debts that can be paid off within the promotional period, usually 15 to 21 months.
Available to borrowers across the credit spectrum, including those with fair or bad credit. May be able to pre-qualify. Available to borrowers with good to excellent credit.
Includes fixed monthly interest. May charge an origination fee. Includes zero-interest promotional period. May charge 3% to 5% balance transfer fee.

Pros and cons of debt consolidation

There are several advantages to consolidation, one of which is simplification. It can be overwhelming trying to manage multiple payments and due dates, and consolidating makes it much easier by only having to manage one bill. Another benefit of consolidating is a lower interest rate, saving you money over time. Additionally, it may also reduce your credit utilization ratio, which combined with consistent on-time payments—made easy thanks to one bill instead of many—can increase your credit score.

Alternatively, there are some downsides. Some consolidation options may come with upfront fees, which may not be feasible for you. You may also end up extending the terms of the loan, which could cost you more over the life of your loan, even with lower interest rates.

It’s also important to remember that this isn’t a long-term solution for overspending. If you’re constantly living above your means and refuse to change, you’ll likely end up with additional debt instead of less. Whether you consolidate or not, you should review your finances and your spending habits to see how you can make changes to your overall financial strategy.

Key takeaways

  • Debt consolidation is when you pay off one or more debts by taking out a new loan with a better interest rate.
  • There are several options for debt consolidation, including a loan, a balance transfer, and a HELOC.
  • Debt consolidation won’t change your spending habits.

Overall, debt consolidation can be a helpful way to manage multiple debts, and with a few options for consolidation, you can find a method that works best for reaching your financial goals.

Cybersecurity for tax season: protect your identity and refund

Tax season brings enough stress without adding scammers to the mix. But the reality is that criminals ramp up attacks in the first few months of the year, often impersonating the IRS or trusted tax services.
By adopting these eight smart security habits, you can protect your data and ensure your tax refund goes where it belongs—your bank account.

1. File your taxes early

Here’s our top tip for tax time cybersecurity: file your taxes as soon as possible. Filing quickly reduces the risk of tax fraud. A common scam is for criminals to try to submit fraudulent tax returns using stolen Social Security numbers to claim refunds. Employers must send out W-2s and 1099 forms by January 31st, so once you have your documents, don’t delay. If a criminal files before you do, reclaiming your refund is a lengthy and stressful process. If you’re in this situation, contact the IRS as soon as possible.

2. Secure your return with an IRS IP PIN

The IRS offers an Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN)—a six-digit code that prevents unauthorized tax filings using your Social Security number. You can apply for an IP PIN through the IRS website. While we recommend that everyone signs up for an IP PIN, this is especially true if your SSN has been exposed in a data breach. Once issued, this number should be kept private and used only when filing your return.

3. Enable multifactor authentication (MFA)

Use multi-factor authentication on all accounts related to your taxes, including your IRS account, tax preparation software, and any account with a financial institution, like your credit union or bank. MFA requires an additional verification step, like a scan of your face or entering a one-time code, making it much harder for hackers to gain access—even if they have your password.

4. Look out for tax scams and phishing

Cybercriminals commonly impersonate the IRS, tax preparers, and financial institutions. Be on high alert for phishing emails, scammy phone calls, and fake websites designed to steal your personal information.

Red flags of a tax phishing scam:

  • Unsolicited IRS communications: The IRS never initiates contact via email, text, or social media.
  • Urgency and threats: Scammers use scare tactics, like threats of arrest or financial penalties, to pressure you into immediate action. They play on your emotions and use a sense of urgency to try to get you to not think about what you’re doing.
  • Requests for sensitive data: Don’t respond to emails or calls asking for your Social Security number, banking details, or login credentials. The IRS and financial institutions don’t use these methods to transmit sensitive data because they aren’t secure.
  • Attachments or links: Phishing emails typically contain malicious links or attachments that can install malware on your device. Think before you click.

5. Ask about your tax preparer’s cybersecurity practices

If you use a tax professional, make sure they take cybersecurity seriously. Ask these critical questions and take note of their responses: How do you protect client data? Do you use encrypted portals for document sharing? Who has access to my information within your firm? How do you back up sensitive tax records? How long do you store tax records?

Encryption for protecting data, documents, and communications is critical, and you want them to limit who can access your records. You also want a tax service that uses encrypted, secure backup systems and only stores your records for three to seven years.

6. Safely exchange tax documents

Avoid emailing tax documents as regular attachments. Instead, use encrypted email services or a secure file-sharing portal your tax preparer provides. If mailing documents, send them through a trusted courier service with tracking options.

7. Back up your tax records

Make digital and physical backups of your tax documents. Store electronic copies in an encrypted cloud storage service or an external hard drive (or both!) and keep printed copies in a secure location, like a safe deposit box. The IRS generally recommends retaining tax records for three years, but depending on your situation, you may need to keep them longer.

8. Report scams to the authorities

If you think you’re the target of a tax scam, report it immediately.

Protect yourself from tax time scams

By staying vigilant and following these cybersecurity best practices, you can protect your identity, secure your tax return, and reduce the risk of fraud. Don’t let cybercriminals make tax season more stressful than it already is! Stay safe online and file with confidence.

Holiday Closings

Georgia’s Own observes 11 holidays and closes our offices and branch locations on these days. If a holiday falls on a Saturday or Sunday, we close the Friday before or the Monday after, respectively. We also close on the Friday after Thanksgiving and close early on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve. Online and mobile banking, as well as TeleTalk, are available 24/7.

Our 2026 holiday closings are:

  • January 1st – New Year’s Day
  • January 19th – Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
  • February 16th – Presidents Day
  • May 25th – Memorial Day
  • June 19th – Juneteenth National Independence Day
  • July 3rd – Independence Day (Observed)
  • July 4th – Independence Day
  • September 7th – Labor Day
  • October 12th – Columbus Day
  • November 11th – Veterans Day
  • November 26th – Thanksgiving Day
  • November 27th – Friday after Thanksgiving
  • December 24th – Christmas Eve (Closing at 1pm)
  • December 25th – Christmas Day
  • December 31st – New Year’s Eve (Closing at 1pm)

10 common cybersecurity misconceptions for businesses

Running a business takes dedication—from day-to-day tasks and managing your employees to managing finances, a business owner wears many hats. When considering all the responsibilities at hand, cybersecurity may not be at the forefront of your mind. However, it’s a critical component that needs to be considered. You need to protect your employees’ and customers’ personal and financial information—and protect your business’s hard-earned cash. Below are ten common cybersecurity misconceptions that you need to be aware of, as well as the actions you can take to safeguard your business.

1. My data isn’t valuable

Organizations of all sizes maintain (or have access to) valuable data worth protecting. Such data may include, but is not limited to, employment records, tax information, confidential correspondence, point-of-sale systems, and business contracts. All data is valuable. Assess the data you create, collect, store, access, and transmit. Then, classify that data by its level of sensitivity so you can take appropriate steps to protect it.

2. Cybersecurity is a technology issue

Organizations cannot rely on technology to secure their data. Cybersecurity is best approached with a mix of employee training, clear and accepted policies and procedures, and implementation of up-to-date technologies such as antivirus and anti-malware software. Securing an organization is the responsibility of the entire workforce, not just the IT staff. Educate every employee (in every function and at all levels of the organization) on their responsibility to help protect information. The National Institute for Standards and Technology offers a guide with more information on creating, developing, and implementing an employee awareness training program.

3. Cybersecurity requires a large financial investment

A robust cybersecurity strategy does require a financial commitment if you are serious about protecting your organization. However, there are many steps you can take that require little or no financial investment.

Create and institute cybersecurity policies and procedures, restrict administrative and access privileges, enable multi-factor or two-factor authentication, train employees to spot malicious emails, and create backup manual procedures to keep critical business processes in operation during a cyber incident. Such procedures may include processing payments in case a third-party vendor or website is not operational. The “Quick Wins” sheet created by the National Cybersecurity Alliance is an excellent starting point for steps you can begin implementing.

4. Outsourcing work to a vendor will wash your hands of security liability in the case of a cyber incident

It makes complete sense to outsource some of your work to others, but it does not mean you relinquish responsibility for protecting the data a vendor can access. The data is yours, and you have a legal (and ethical) responsibility to keep it safe and secure.

Ensure you have thorough agreements in place with all vendors, including how company data is handled, who owns the data and has access to it, how long the data is retained, and what happens to data once a contract is terminated. You should also have a lawyer review any vendor agreements.

5. Cyber breaches are covered by general liability insurance

Many standard business liability insurance policies do not cover cyber incidents or data breaches. Speak with your insurance representative to understand if you have any existing cybersecurity insurance and what type of policy would best fit your company’s needs. The Federal Trade Commission’s (FTC) Small Business Center has more information on how to handle this.

6. Cyberattacks always come from external actors

Simply put, cyberattacks do not always come from external actors. Some cybersecurity incidents are caused accidentally by an employee—such as when they copy and paste sensitive information into an email and send it to the wrong recipient. Other times, a disgruntled (or former) employee might take revenge by launching an attack on the organization.

When considering your threat landscape, it is crucial not to overlook potential cybersecurity incidents that can come from within the organization and develop strategies to minimize those threats. The Cybersecurity and Critical Infrastructure Agency offers free resources to help you mitigate the risk of a cyberattack.

7. Young people are better at cybersecurity than others

The youngest person in the organization often becomes the default IT person. However, age doesn’t correlate to better cybersecurity practices. Before giving someone the responsibility to manage your social media, website, network, etc., educate them on your expectations of use and cybersecurity best practices.

8. Compliance with industry standards is enough for a security program

Complying with the Health Insurance Portability & Accountability Act (HIPAA) or Payment Card Industry (PCI), for example, is a critical component to securing sensitive information, but simply complying with these standards does not equate to a strong cybersecurity strategy for an organization. Use a robust framework, such as the NIST Cybersecurity Framework, to manage cybersecurity-related risk.

9. Digital and physical security are separate

Many people narrowly associate cybersecurity with only software and code. However, do not discount physical security when protecting your sensitive assets.

Assess your office’s layout and how easy it is to gain unauthorized, physical access to sensitive information and assets (e.g., servers, computers, paper records). Once your assessment is complete, implement strategies and policies to prevent unauthorized physical access. Policies may include controlling who can access certain areas of the office and appropriately securing laptops and phones while traveling. Here are some steps you can take to protect the information in paper files and hard drives, laptops, point-of-sale devices, and more.

10. New software and devices are automatically secure when I buy them

Just because something is new doesn’t mean it’s secure. The moment you purchase new technology, secure the device and ensure it is operating with the most current software. Immediately change the manufacturer’s default password to a secure passphrase. When creating a new passphrase, use a lengthy, unique phrase for the account or device. Did you sign up for a new online account? Be sure to immediately configure your privacy settings before using the service.

In today’s increasingly digital world, it’s more important than ever to look beyond outdated beliefs and recognize cybersecurity isn’t just a tech issue, an expensive add-on, or something only “big companies” have to worry about. Cyber threats are real, evolving, and capable of affecting organizations of every size. By debunking the above misconceptions and embracing practical steps like educating your team, implementing layered security practices, and continually evaluating your defenses, you can build stronger protection for your business and the people you serve.

6 ways to save on holiday travel

Between gifts, meals, decorations, and events, we try to squeeze a lot into our holiday budgets—and travel often takes up a big slice of the pie. Flights, hotels, gas, and meals add up fast. But even if you’re just beginning to think about the cost of visiting loved ones this season, it’s not too late to save. And the decisions you make now can also set you up for smarter travel spending in the new year.

According to a recent NerdWallet study, U.S. adults are expected to spend a total of nearly $311 billion on holiday travel. Their survey also found that 45% of Americans plan to spend money on flights or hotels this holiday season, spending $2,586 on average.

Whether you’re booking last-minute holiday travel or already thinking ahead to 2026 trips, these tips can help you save now and build better habits going forward.

1. Start watching rates early (and keep watching)

Holiday travelers tend to book flights for Christmas by the end of October. While that window may have passed for this season, setting up price alerts can still help you avoid overpaying.

Use tools like Google Flights or Kayak to track prices. If fares begin creeping up as your travel date approaches, it’s often better to book sooner rather than wait for a last-minute deal that may never come.

New Year takeaway: For trips next year, start tracking prices as soon as you know your dates—even if you’re not ready to book. Awareness is often the difference between a good deal and an expensive one.

2. Free up cash where you can

According to NerdWallet’s survey, 91% of holiday travelers are acting to save money on their upcoming holiday travel-related expenses. Even if time is short, you can still make room in your budget.

Take a temporary pause on optional spending like dining out, entertainment, or impulse shopping. Skipping a few meals out or happy hours over several weeks could easily cover baggage fees, airport parking, or a rideshare or two.

New Year takeaway: Consider creating a dedicated travel fund in the new year. Setting aside a little each month can make future trips far less stressful.

3. Make your credit card work for you

A quarter of holiday travelers plan to use their credit card rewards to pay for at least a portion of their holiday travel to save money. Cash-back cards, travel rewards cards, and cards with perks like trip protection or no foreign transaction fees can help you earn while you spend.

It can be tempting to save points for a major trip, but points and miles can lose value over time, so it’s best to use them as you need them.

New Year takeaway: Review your cards and benefits early next year. Using the right credit card consistently throughout the year can turn everyday spending into future travel savings.

4. Avoid paying interest at all costs

Rewards don’t mean much if you’re paying interest. In fact, 31% of people who charged last year’s holiday travel are still paying it off today.

If you expect it’ll take more than a month or two to pay off travel expenses, plan. An interest-free introductory credit card can help if you qualify. Otherwise, aim to pay more than the minimum each month to reduce interest quickly.

New Year takeaway: Build travel costs into your annual budget so you’re not relying on credit without a payoff plan.

5. Keep shopping after you book

Booking doesn’t have to mean you’re done saving. Many airlines offer a 24-hour refund window, even on non-refundable tickets. If you see a lower price within that window, you may be able to cancel and rebook.

The same goes for hotels. If your reservation is cancellable, continue checking rates. If prices drop, you can often rebook and save—just be mindful of cancellation deadlines.

New Year takeaway: Flexibility is one of the easiest ways to save on travel. When possible, choose refundable or changeable options.

6. Let your presence be the present

If travel is your top priority and you’ve done what you can but still feel stretched, don’t be afraid to rethink traditional gift-giving. With inflation driving up the cost of everyday essentials, many families feel the pressure more than ever.

Being able to show up, spend time together, and make memories may matter far more than exchanging gifts, especially during a season when costs are already high. Conversations about money can be awkward, but setting that expectation now can help ease financial stress and create more sustainable holiday traditions in the years ahead.

New Year takeaway: Have open conversations about expectations. Setting boundaries around travel and gift-giving now can make future holidays more enjoyable—and affordable.

Bottom line

Holiday travel doesn’t have to derail your finances, and it doesn’t have to be stressful. With a few smart moves now and some planning for the year ahead, you can enjoy time with the people who matter most, without carrying the cost into the new year.

Holiday prep on a budget

It’s tiiiiiiime! The holiday countdown is on, and if you’re like me, you still haven’t decked the halls—and definitely haven’t shopped for presents. With trends changing yearly and social media posting Hallmark-worthy houses, it can feel overwhelming trying to get in the holiday spirit while staying within your means, especially if you waited until now. Keep reading for six tips to make the season bright while staying on budget.

1. Before you go

You may think the first thing to do is set a budget. But before you get there, channel your inner St. Nick by making a list and checking it twice. Do you have a theme or color scheme in mind? Are you looking for a particular type of décor? Write it all down and then prioritize what matters most. It’s also a good idea to pull out the decorations you already have so you can factor them into your plan. Once you feel confident in your list, then you can make a budget. Starting with a list can help you create a more realistic budget that fits your financial goals while filling your home with holiday cheer.

2. Holiday swap

Didn’t find what you were looking for in your holiday stash? Try your neighbor! It’s easy to accumulate holiday decorations, and while some are sentimental, some just take up space. But one man’s clutter is another’s treasure, so organizing a holiday swap can help everyone find some new decorations while also potentially freeing up space. You can also do a gift swap with things like gently used or unopened toys, books, and puzzles. Now’s the perfect time, too, as some people may have already decorated and found plenty of things they’d be happy to swap, while others are just getting started.

3. Shop secondhand

Thrift and secondhand stores are also great places to hunt for holiday décor. You can find vintage ornaments and centerpieces, along with wreaths, garlands, pillow covers, and more. Shopping secondhand often allows you to acquire pieces that are special and unique, so you can create your own magical holiday moment without spending a fortune.

Secondhand stores can also be a good place to find gifts. For example, you may have a friend who collects records or CDs, or a friend who loves old books. Thrift stores can be the perfect place to purchase these special items. If you have a child in your life, you can often find name-brand toys like Hot Wheels cars and Jellycat stuffed animals, minus the standard price tag.

Lastly, be sure to take a trip through the glassware before you go, especially if you need a hostess gift. Grab a thrifted vase as the perfect accompaniment to a bouquet of flowers or snag a beautiful picture frame for a special memory from this year. If you’re bringing food, you can also check out any platters or casserole dishes. Not only are they more sustainable than plastic, but they’re also much cuter. Plus, a vintage Pyrex dish can double as a gift.

4. Do it (yourself) with love

It’s the thought that counts! There’s a reason this expression exists—not everyone needs or wants a fancy present. And sometimes, the most impactful gifts are the ones that show you’ve put in more effort. If this sounds like someone you know, consider making something this year instead of buying, especially if you already have the supplies on hand. If you love to crochet, you might make a blanket or a scarf. If you’re an artist, consider recreating a special moment.

Sometimes the excitement of DIY-ing can be more exciting than reality, and the result is more costly than buying, so don’t go overboard. One of my most treasured presents is a leaf book my grandma made for me out of a binder, construction paper, and leaves from her yard. Things created with love are often cherished forever, even long after the person is gone.

5. Redeem those points

Sometimes secondhand or DIY won’t cut it—and that’s okay! Maybe you’ve had your eye on a particular item or your loved one’s gift list is very specific. In that case, now’s your chance to redeem your credit card points. Since your points are often redeemable in various manners, you can choose the method that works best for you—and your wallet. Had your eye on a gorgeous but expensive wreath? Redeem your points for a gift card! Trying to surprise your parents with a vacation? Use your points to book their airfare or hotel. The possibilities are endless, and if you’ve been hoarding points—accidentally or otherwise—you may be able to redeem them for different options.

6. Holiday help

Occasionally, despite months of planning, we need extra help during the holidays. If you need  wiggle room, one option may be a payment holiday. This allows you to temporarily delay or suspend a loan payment for a set period, which can give you some leeway for short-term financial needs. Another option is a holiday loan. Whether you need more funds for gifts, travel, or additional expenses, a holiday loan can help bring the holiday spirit to life.

Moving forward, you may also consider opening a holiday savings account. While it won’t help you this year, consider it a present for yourself next year. These accounts are a dedicated way to save money specifically for the holidays, with your balance transferring automatically to your primary savings on November 1st. You may still procrastinate on shopping and decorating, but you’ll be a step ahead of your budget.

Key takeaways

  • Make a list of wants and needs, prioritize it, and then tackle your budget.
  • Secondhand stores are a great way to save money while finding decorations and gifts.
  • Redeem your credit card points.

’Tis the season to be jolly, and saving money on presents and holiday decorations is a great way to spread the cheer even further. We hope these tips help keep your season bright, even as the sun sets a little too early. Have a favorite holiday money-saving hack? Share it in the comments below!

6 tips for safe online holiday shopping

With holiday shopping in full swing, it’s important to know about a few online shopping trends we’ve noticed and share tips about how to stay safe online while buying gifts for everyone on your list.

Because of the rising cost of goods, Americans are projected to spend $1 trillion this holiday season. This means every dollar is even more important, so we want to help you protect your hard-earned cash from the scammers and hackers that pop up yearly.

Here are six tips for you to stay safe while shopping online this holiday season:

1. Keep an eye on your bank statements

Your first defense against identity theft and fraud is to pay close attention to your financial records, like bank statements and credit card transactions—even if you don’t often use the account. You can usually follow this data up to the minute online. Flag suspicious activity (like being charged for a purchase you didn’t make) and contact your institution immediately.

2. Know how much items should cost

When shopping online, have a general sense of how much the items you want to buy should cost. Not only will that make you a comparison-shopping extraordinaire, but you can also get a sense of whether an online store has prices too good to be true. In these cases, you might pay less, but then you might get an item that doesn’t match the description, is a counterfeit, or you might pay and not get any item at all! A little bit of research can help protect you.

You can browse sites like Google Shopping to compare prices at different retailers and see where you can score the best deal. Or, you can download a browser extension like Honey, which scours the internet for coupon codes. But, if a store is carrying what you’re looking for at a drastically low cost, you might want to stay away. You should also still be cautious when using coupon code sites. Scammers create websites that mimic real coupon sites. They steal your personal information and use it for identity theft or sell it to other scammers.

3. Make a cybersecurity list

Give yourself the gift of peace of mind by following these guidelines:

  • Protect each account with a unique, complex password that is at least 12 characters long, and use a password manager.
  • Use multifactor authentication (MFA) for any account that allows it.
  • Turn on automatic software updates, or install updates as soon as they’re available.
  • Know how to identify phishing attempts, and report phishing messages to your email program, work, or other authorities.

4. Don’t shop on public Wi-Fi

Public Wi-Fi and computers are convenient and sometimes necessary to use. However, public Wi-Fi isn’t very secure—never online shop or access important accounts (like banking) while connected to public Wi-Fi. Shopping online or reviewing your bank accounts while on public internet networks exposes your sensitive information to hackers. Public networks usually lack encryption, which allows anyone to see your login activity, including login details and credit card information. Hackers can also set up fake login pages, which trick you into entering your credentials.

If you must buy a few gifts online while away from your home or work network, use a VPN (virtual private network) or mobile hotspot. VPNs act as a middle ground between your device and the internet router, which lowers the risk of using public Wi-Fi. While a quality VPN is a great layer of security, you should still remember that it’s not completely foolproof.

5. Avoid “Grinch bots”

Last year, a record number of “Grinch bots” were recorded. These are automated programs that quickly buy up popular toys, sneakers, or other items and then resell the item for a huge markup. Of course, buying supposedly new items on a resale market opens you up to an increased risk of fraud and counterfeit goods. The best way to disable “Grinch bots” is to refuse to buy from them and to only buy items from vendors you can verify.

Here’s how you can spot “Grinch bots” when shopping online:

  • A highly sought-after item is available in large quantities.
  • You have difficulty adding items to your cart due to sudden “unavailability.”
  • Items are listed at significantly inflated prices.

If you suspect you’re dealing with a “Grinch bot,” carefully review the seller’s feedback and see if anyone else had negative experiences. You can also reach out to the seller directly and ask them questions about their product if something seems suspicious. If all else fails, look for another legitimate seller.

6. Don’t share more than you feel comfortable with

While you need to share data to make a purchase online, you should be wary of any retailer that is requesting more information than you feel comfortable sharing. Oftentimes, you don’t need to fill out every field, and you shouldn’t if you don’t want to. If an online store requires you to share more information than you want, find another retailer on the internet.

Key takeaways:

  • Practice normal cybersecurity habits, like using strong passwords, enabling multifactor authentication, and knowing how to identify phishing attempts.
  • Don’t shop or log into sensitive accounts, like online banking, on public Wi-Fi. If you must, use a VPN.
  • Use caution when buying items online from unfamiliar sellers.

Keep the spirit of cybersecurity going all year long

While these are great tips for shopping safely online during the holidays, they’re also sensible habits to follow no matter what month it is. Want to make some cybersecurity resolutions for the new year? It’s easy—we promise! Share one thing you plan on trying in the comments.

5 ways to make the most of your year-end finances

As the year winds down, it’s the perfect time to review your finances and set yourself up for a strong 2026. A few simple check-ins now can help you save money, reduce stress, and step confidently into the new year with a plan. Here are five smart moves to make the most of your year-end finances.

1. Review your budget and track your spending

Before setting new goals, take a moment to look back. Evaluate your spending over the past year and identify where your money went. Did certain categories—like dining out, travel, or subscriptions—cost more than expected? Are there areas where you consistently underspent?

Use this insight to update your budget so it reflects your real-life habits, not what you hoped they’d be. Most online banking tools and budgeting apps can make this a quick, visual process. For example, some apps automatically categorize transactions, making it easy to see trends over the year at a glance.

Once you understand your patterns, consider adjusting your budget for the new year. This doesn’t mean you need to make drastic changes; small tweaks—like cutting back on unnecessary subscriptions or setting limits on dining out—can add up quickly. The goal is to create a budget that reflects reality, not aspirations.

2. Max out or boost retirement contributions

Year-end is a great time to revisit your retirement accounts and see if you can bump up your contributions. If you have a 401k, IRA, or other retirement accounts, adding a little extra before December 31st can help you increase your savings and potentially reduce your taxable income. If maxing out isn’t in the cards this year, even increasing your contribution by 1-2% can make a meaningful difference over time. Each account has different contribution limits set by the IRS, so it’s best to check those to ensure you don’t go over that amount.

It’s also a smart moment to double check whether you’re taking full advantage of any employer match. Leaving match money on the table is one of the most common missed opportunities because some people aren’t contributing enough to get the full match.

3. Use remaining FSA funds

If you have a Flexible Spending Account (FSA), remember that many plans follow a “use it or lose it” rule. That means unused funds may expire at year-end. Now’s the time to schedule appointments or buy eligible items, like glasses, prescriptions, or first-aid supplies.

If you have a Health Savings Account (HSA), funds roll over, but making an additional contribution may help you maximize tax benefits while building a cushion for future medical costs.

Taking advantage of these accounts not only ensures you don’t lose money but also helps you strategically plan for future healthcare expenses.

4. Check your credit report and strengthen your credit health

Your credit score plays a big role in what you’ll pay for loans, credit cards, and other financial products, so checking in before the new year is a smart habit. Pull your free credit reports, look for any errors or signs of fraud, and dispute issues right away.

If you want to strengthen your credit score going into 2026, consider:

  • Paying down revolving balances
  • Keeping credit utilization under 30%
  • Setting up automatic payments to avoid late fees

A healthier credit profile today can save you thousands of dollars in interest rates and open doors to better financial opportunities, whether you’re thinking about refinancing a loan or making a major purchase, like buying a house.

5. Plan for big purchases and financial goals

Before the year wraps up, take a moment to outline your financial goals for 2026. Are you saving for a down payment? Planning a big trip? Hoping to pay off debt? Mapping these out now gives you a clear direction—and makes it easier to build a plan.

Consider creating sinking funds for big expenses or automating your savings so the work happens behind the scenes. A sinking fund is a dedicated savings account for a specific purpose where you regularly deposit small amounts throughout the year. This strategy can make big expenses feel manageable and prevent last-minute financial stress.

If you’re thinking about refinancing a loan or exploring new financial products, starting early gives you more time to research options. Comparing interest rates, loan terms, and other financial products now gives you time to make informed decisions versus rushing into something in January.

Final thoughts

You don’t need a major overhaul to start the new year feeling financially confident—it just takes a few intentional steps. By reviewing your spending, boosting retirement contributions, using FSA funds, checking your credit health, and planning next year’s goals, you can finish 2025 with confidence and start 2026 on solid ground.

How to be a bookworm on a budget

With the rise of TikTok, a new era of readers has come. Books and social media allow us to travel the globe and visit new worlds, all from the comfort of our coziest chair, so the pairing is a natural one. But there’s a cost that comes with rising interest in reading and new commitments to fandoms. Books can be expensive, and your reading habit can get costly fast. Whether you’re looking for a friend or to add to your own library, keep reading for six tips on how to be a bookworm on a budget.

Get a library card

One of the easiest ways to save money on books is to visit your local library! Library cards are free, and you can check out multiple books at a time, allowing you to experiment with titles you might not normally pick up without the extra cost. But the library benefits don’t end at the door—your library card can get you access to a digital catalog as well. With the  Plus, the app is compatible with eReaders like your Kindle, making checking out books even easier.

Organize a book swap

Physical books are fantastic, but they also take up a lot of space—especially if you’re not planning to reread them. A good way to lighten your load and potentially find new books is to organize a neighborhood book swap. Reach out to your neighbors or post in your local neighborhood group about organizing a time to come together. Then, hit your bookshelves and pull out any of the titles you didn’t enjoy, won’t read again, or that your kids may not be interested in anymore. Book swaps are a great way to clear up space while also finding new titles you may have been looking for.  This is also particularly helpful for families with children, as they can pass on books their kids might’ve outgrown while picking up ones about their new interests.

Skip the big retailers

Sometimes you encounter a book that you just have to own. In that case, before hitting the big box retailers, check out your local secondhand bookstores. You’ll often find the titles you’re looking for at lower prices, and it can be a fun addition to find notes in the margins from past readers. Some secondhand bookstores also offer trade-in programs, allowing you to free up shelf space for some new-to-you titles. Another great option is to check out your warehouse club during the holiday season. While most people associate warehouses with bulk buys, you can also snag some great deals on books for the whole family—no bulk purchase necessary.

Little Free Libraries

A walk through your local neighborhood may also be a surprise way for you to score some exciting new books. Little Free Libraries are free book-sharing boxes where anyone may take a book or share a book. Functioning on the honor system, they don’t require you to exchange a book to pick one up, though it’s considered best practice to return the book to that free library or another in the area, and add to it when you can. Little Free Libraries are also a great way to share some of your books that you no longer have room for. There are more than 200,000 registered Little Free Libraries around the world—you can find your nearest one using the mobile app and web map.

Check out a (book) festival

Another great way to save money on books is to check out your local book festivals. Last month, I went to my first—but their nineteenth—Decatur Book Festival. It was a fantastic community event packed with vendors and local authors. In addition to scoring some great titles from the local bookstores, I was also able to get some free works from newer authors looking to gain awareness.

Atlanta is also home to a variety of other book festivals, including MCJCCA’s Book Festival and the National Book Club Conference. Plus, Agnes Scott College’s Annual Writers’ Festival in the spring is the oldest continuous literary event in Georgia.

Redeem your rewards

While some people prefer casual readership, some people like to dive into a fandom dedicated to authors and the worlds they’ve created. If you’re ready to go all in but don’t want to exhaust your resources, consider redeeming your credit card rewards. You may have the option of getting reduced travel, hotel costs, or even early access to tickets for some of your bucket list literary events, like cons or meet-and-greets. Are you a more casual reader? No worries—redeem those rewards for gift cards or cash back to spend on more (basically free!) books. Win-win!

Key takeaways:

  • Get great (and free!) access with a library card.
  • Skip the big-box stores and check secondhand stores or warehouse clubs.
  • Redeem your credit card rewards for gift cards or cash back to spend on books.

Reading is not only a fantastic form of entertainment, but it’s also a good way to get your mind—and eyes—off your screen. Whether you’re a new reader or a long-time bibliophile, we hope these tips help you grow your library without shrinking your wallet. Got a favorite book series or author? Shout them out in the comments below!