Small Business Week highlight: Cat Eye Creative

This week, we celebrate the contributions of our small business owners and entrepreneurs with National Small Business Week (NSBW). For more than 60 years, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has celebrated NSBW, acknowledging the hard work, ingenuity, and dedication of our small business owners. In honor of National Small Business Week, we’re highlighting one of our members, Adam Crawford, owner of Cat Eye Creative.

With multiple locations, Cat Eye Creative is home to over 3,000 square feet of gallery and studio space available to artists, designers, brands, and private events. The space is able to host an array of events, from fine art solo exhibits to live music, thanks to a stage, floating walls, and a bar for private dinners and events. Moreover, the space also features an outdoor area, where they hold pop-up markets for artists and other makers.

About Cat Eye Creative

What started as a three-month pop-up in 2019 has evolved into a communal space representing more than 100 artists and dedicated to exhibiting local art alongside works from around the world. Community is key to what they do—their social media following grew during the initial pop-up, extending their stay for six months before they settled into a permanent home. Cat Eye Creative believes art is for everyone, and without a community, there is no art.

“There are different ways [to approach art]—the billionaire budget and go crazy or the person just getting started. Our goal is making it as approachable and educational. You want everyone to fit in: the third grader interested in art, the families, the art connoisseurs,” Crawford said. “With Oakland [Cemetery], we sold more than 8,800 tickets for the Foundation for restoration. Using art as a vessel and a medium to fundraise is huge. You’re coming to see the cemetery at night, but the art and the caliber of the installations bring more people out. They had 1,500 more people this year than previous years.”

Inside the gallery, the exhibitions change every two to four weeks, allowing for a consistent flow of new art and opportunities. And the opportunities abound—from fine-art curation and consulting to large-scale mural installations and artist residencies programs, Cat Eye offers various services, allowing them to serve a wide variety of audiences. As Crawford said, “You need a business sense about it.”

The film industry also provides a source of opportunities. Aside from renting artwork and mural clearance, people who work in the creative industries tend to be supportive collectors, as they understand the value of the pieces. “You never know who will walk through the door,” Crawford stated. “You can get people just walking down the streets who don’t know anything about art, or you’ll have CEOs and entrepreneurs looking to buy for the office or their personal collections. It’s a good communal space to share ideas.”

Because Cat Eye serves so many markets and is determined to guarantee a space for creatives, it was only natural they’d need another location. When looking for a financial partner to take on this next step, Georgia’s Own was the clear choice. Crawford has been a member since his early teens, when his mother—a 40-year member herself—signed him up for a kid’s account. Nearly six years to the day after the pop-up opened, Crawford celebrated the opening of the Decatur location.

Looking ahead

To Crawford, it’s clear that success is more than just monetary. Artists evolve over time, and the jobs and placements are getting bigger. He mentioned placements with Hunter Museum in Chattanooga, Piedmont Healthcare, murals with Fulton County and the City of Hapeville, and of course “I can find you an expensive piece of art but the artist is long gone, and you lose the sense of meeting the artist and following the journey from start to end. Some people really enjoy that and watching their growth—seeing them actively painting a mural or their work getting acquired by a museum,” Crawford said. “We’re supporting the community of artists in a financially sound way. We provide a place where artists and building owners are in the same room at the same time. It’s a unique cultural experience that breaks down those barriers.”

Long-term, Crawford aims to expand what already exists, in particular, a place to support artists, helping them to figure out strategic growth partners, and opportunities for them to mingle with CEOS, breaking down the barriers. “Artists need spaces to show, and they’re not always the most business-minded people,” Crawford added. “We have a space to take work on and store or sell it, and the more locations we have, we can get in front of as many eyes as possible.”

And that would be his advice for new business owners, as well. Crawford didn’t come from an art background, yet has managed to thrive in this industry. “It’s all about baby steps,” Crawford continued. “Stabilize the asset you own and build off that. Just keep expanding, leveraging the clients and opportunities presented, stacking it up, and saving it until the next opportunity.”

Georgia’s Own is proud to support Cat Eye Creative, as well as other small businesses, as a top-five SBA lender in Georgia. In the market for a business loan? Speak to a business loan expert today!

 

How to budget during inflation

Inflation is a term we hear quite a bit, but we may not fully understand what it means for us, or how it will affect our daily lives. But, as with any new idea you want to understand better, knowing is half the battle—and we have some info that can help you with the rest of the fight.

What is inflation?

Simply put, inflation just means paying more for the same goods and services. Your favorite brand of soda might go up a few cents, or going to the movies will likely take a few more bucks than you’re used to. If you’ve heard someone mention how cheap a carton of eggs used to be, you are familiar with inflation.

What causes inflation?

Inflation seems to be the result of a few different phenomena:

The “Demand-Pull effect” – the demand for a product or service is higher than the current economy was prepared to meet. Prices rise as more and more consumers seek out certain items (see: toilet paper in 2020), often resulting in prices above the market value.

The “Cost-Push effect” – this effect works in the opposite direction—it’s the cost of the production process or service that rises, which in turn is passed onto consumers. Keeping up with demand while low on supplies or with increased prices of supplies means the consumer pays more.

Built-in Inflation – when prices rise, those in the workforce need to increase their wages to keep up with the cost of living. It’s a cycle of inflation: prices rise, wages rise, and prices rise again.

Budgeting during inflation

One of the biggest ways to handle inflation is by updating your budget. While you know that your budget should be reviewed and updated as your life changes, you can’t forget to factor in external events like inflation. For example, if you currently depend on a medication that is going to cost more, you need to factor that into your budget. If your grocery bill will go up, you should also factor that into your budget. Here are some steps to make your budget go further:

Review your spending

Before you can make any adjustments, your first step should be to review your budget and look over your spending habits. Examine which parts of your budget have been the hardest to keep under control and if there are places you are overspending.

Find ways to save

Once you know how and where your money is being spent, it’s time to find ways to save. If grocery bills are hitting you the hardest, picking generic products, meal planning, and buying in bulk (when it makes sense) can help you reduce your costs. Save on transportation by combining your errands, carpooling when possible, or joining gas rewards programs.

Cut unnecessary expenses

When you reviewed your budget, you might’ve noticed services that you no longer use. Be sure to cancel any nonessential subscriptions or services. There may be other expenses you feel comfortable eliminating, either temporarily or forever, like cable television or a daily coffee habit.

How else can I reduce the impact of inflation?

Unfortunately, the effects of inflation are unavoidable and impact everyone—some more than others. Here are some other steps you can take if inflation affects you:

Take stock of your finances

If you’re worried about inflation and its effects, this is a great time to speak with a financial advisor who can help you determine the state of your finances and ways you can continue to budget and save. Getting an objective, professional opinion can go a long way in identifying potential danger areas and the places where you can grow your wallet.

Keep an eye on the job market

We’ve talked about how inflation means many earn higher wages, but it can also mean fewer jobs. If a company hopes to maintain its own budget while giving raises to some of its employees, there may be fewer jobs available. You don’t need to rush out and find a new job today— just keep your finger on the pulse of your own job while looking at options for others.

Know your home’s value

You may not be planning to move ever again, but it’s always a good idea to know the value of your home. This is a simple task—you can sign up for websites like Zillow that will give you an estimate of your home’s worth. Check out the value occasionally to keep in the back of your mind—you never know when that info could be useful, especially in the current housing market.

Check out your retirement plan

You or your partner are likely paying into a retirement plan already. While this is a great idea, you will want to take a look at the plan and see how inflation can affect your ability to save for the future.

If retirement is a long way off, you have a little more flexibility when it comes to making any changes. But, if you’re looking to get out of the workforce in the next few years, review your retirement account and make necessary changes to ensure your financial security. Consider discussing your options with a financial advisor so you can plan strategically.

Key takeaways

  • Inflation is when the prices of goods and services increase. Unfortunately, inflation affects everyone, though it may impact certain people harder.
  • Review your budget to ensure you’re spending wisely. Cut unnecessary expenses and implement cost-saving tactics like meal planning to make your budget go further during inflation.

Inflation is a fact of life—but you don’t have to be afraid of it. Some of these changes may seem overwhelming, but you’ve already won half the battle with your new knowledge. Make a goal this week to sit down, review your budget, and determine your best next steps for keeping your financial security stable.

7 strategies for paying off student loans

Graduation is a time of celebration. You’ve finished four (okay, maybe five) years of school, and you’re ready to conquer the world. Do you know what else you should be ready to conquer? Your student loan debt.

In 2024, the total amount of student loan debt in the U.S. was at an all-time high at more than $1.7 trillion. Spread over 42 million borrowers, you can take comfort in the fact that you’re not alone. While the idea of repaying your debt may be overwhelming and a seemingly impossible feat, take heed. We’ve got a few words of wisdom that can help you get started. With some self-discipline and a little sacrifice, you’ll be able to wipe out that I.O.U. sooner than you think.

Here are some practical strategies you can use to get your finances in order, knock down that debt, and be well on your way to financial freedom:

1. Live like a college student

You’re eager to venture out into the real world and live on your own. You want to rent a cool apartment that doesn’t include a hand-me-down couch and four other roommates. We get it. But if you can stand it, try not to inflate your current lifestyle too quickly. By keeping the same penny-pinching habits you used in college, you’ll be able to send a bigger chunk of your paycheck to your lender. The quicker you pay it down, the faster you’ll graduate to a more comfortable lifestyle that doesn’t include a repayment plan.

2. Send more than the minimum payment

If you continue to send the required minimum loan repayment each month, it’ll take the full term of your loan to pay it off. You’ll also wind up paying the maximum amount of interest. Consistently sending more than your $50 minimum payment, for example, will not only help you pay the balance down more quickly, it’ll significantly reduce the total amount of interest you pay over the term of the loan. Increasing your payment by any amount will save you both time and money, and who wouldn’t want that?

3. Pick up a side hustle

If you need more money, find a way to bring in additional income. Maybe you DJ on the weekends, wait tables at night, or work as a freelance photographer. Whatever your talent, parlay it into a side hustle. The key here is to have enough discipline to take the extra income and pay down your student loans. It’s not a way to save for a vacation, to buy a new car, or that designer bag—right now, anyway. If your objective is to tackle your student loans, keep your eye on the prize!

4. Send extra payments

Did you get a tax refund, a bonus at work, a little extra cash in your birthday card? It might not be the most exciting thing to do, but paying down your loan with a windfall, no matter how big or small, is the financially smart thing to do. Making extra payments, whether it’s each month, every quarter, or whenever you happen upon some extra cash, will speed up your loan repayment and reduce your total interest expense. The faster you pay it down, the more money you save, and the quicker you get out from underneath that student loan debt.

5. Add loan repayments to your gift wish list

How many Starbucks gift cards do you really need? When friends and family ask you for birthday or holiday gift suggestions, you might tactfully ask them for a cash gift to pay down your student loan balance. If a loved one wants to help, they can make a direct contribution to your student loan debt if they’re a co-signer or by being granted third-party access. It takes a few extra steps, but borrowers can grant someone third-party access by contacting their loan servicer and filling out a form identifying who they want to have access. You can find more information on your loan servicer’s website on how to fill out the form or if they offer that feature in the first place. If the gift-giver doesn’t have third-party access to your loan or isn’t a co-signer, the easiest way to receive those funds is through cash or check. It’ll take some self-discipline on your part, but it’s a practical and useful gift that you’ll appreciate for years to come.

6. Refinance your student loans

Consolidating and refinancing your student loans at a lower rate can help you reduce the amount of interest you’ll pay. It may also allow for a shorter repayment term and a quicker route to becoming debt free. With one loan, one monthly payment, and a more competitive interest rate, it’s worth a look. There’s no harm in evaluating your options, especially when there may be an opportunity to save some cash and reduce your debt more quickly.

7. Look for employers who can help

More and more people in the workforce today have some amount of student loan debt—and employers know that. One way that organizations attract and retain employees is by offering some form of student loan repayment benefits. Some common student loan repayment benefits include:

  • Contributions to employees’ student loans: If an organization offers an educational assistance program, employer contributions up to $5,250 annually are income-tax free for employees through December 31, 2025.
  • Match contributions to retirement accounts when employees make student loan payments: Some employers match contributions to your retirement account when you make a student loan debt payment. Employees can work toward paying off student loan debt and simultaneously receive their employer retirement match, even if they’re not making direct contributions to their 401K. The SECURE Act 2.0, implemented in 2024, lets employers treat employees’ qualified student loan debt payments as if they were 401K contributions for matching purposes.
  • Personalized student loan counseling: Some employers offer personalized student loan counseling to help their employees navigate the many federal repayment plan and forgiveness options available.

There are other similar programs, too. Government employees may be eligible for the federal government’s Student Loan Repayment Program. Nurses and teachers may be eligible for the Nursing Education Loan Repayment Program and Teach for America, and public sector employees may be able to receive assistance through the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

Bottom line

Being weighted down with student loan debt isn’t the ideal way you’d like to begin this next chapter of your life, but it’s a reality for most college students. You can make the minimum payments, repay your loans as scheduled, and live happily in the process. But, if you’re anxious to finish those monthly payments and begin investing in your future, use these strategies and get started sooner than later.

How to protect yourself from phishing

Phishing is when criminals use fake emails to lure you into clicking on links or attachments and handing over your personal or financial information, or installing malware on your device. It’s also one of the most common cybercrimes, with an estimated 3.4 billion spam emails sent daily. It’s easy to avoid a scam email, but only once you know what to look for. Below are a few tips on how you can protect yourself from phishing:

Types of phishing

Email phishing

When you typically think of phishing, the first thing that comes to mind are phishing emails, which is one of the most common forms of phishing. Phishing emails use tactics like legitimate-looking email addresses and hyperlinks to lure recipients into sharing their personal information. They may also impose a sense of urgency, even claiming your account has been hacked, to get you to follow through.

Spear phishing

Where most email phishing attacks cast a wide net, spear phishing works by targeting a specific individual or organization. These attacks can be customized with personalized messages or important-sounding documents, which makes them appear more credible and unfortunately, more effective.

Smishing

With the increased use of mobile devices to manage so much of our lives, it’s no surprise scammers have moved to this medium to target your sensitive information. Smishing is a phishing message received via text message. Just like an email phishing attempt, the scammers are targeting your sensitive information—they’ve just changed tactics since we’re often more likely to click on a text than an email. SMS click-through rates are between 8.9%-14.5%, whereas emails have an average click-through rate of only 1.4%.

Vishing

Voice phishing, also known as vishing, is when you receive a call from attackers attempting to trick you into providing sensitive information over the phone. Like email phishing, these calls often involve a sense of urgency and pose as legitimate organizations and sometimes will use social engineering to try to get you to download an app that carries malware.

Telephone-oriented attack delivery (TOAD)

In between smishing and vishing lies telephone-oriented attack delivery (TOAD). TOAD attacks typically combine smishing with vishing to trick you into disclosing your information. Often the initial message contains nothing but incorrect information, but when you call the number, the attack chain is activated. Alternatively, TOAD attacks can start with a call, and once trust is built, they’ll send an email or text with a phony link. These attacks are on the rise—according to Proofpoint’s 2024 State of the Phish report, an average of 10 million TOAD messages are sent every month.

Phishing ads

Google is the go-to for answers, but it’s also a new go-to for scammers. Online criminals are targeting businesses and individuals using Google Ads by phishing for their login credentials through fraudulent ads that impersonate other businesses. Sponsored ads on Google can be purchased by essentially anyone, so scammers can set up legitimate-appearing sites with fake login pages to steal their information.  It can be easy to assume than any ad is legitimate, but you should always verify before clicking on the link. The best way to check is by clicking on the three dots next to the ad and confirming advertiser. You can also verify the ad here. However, if you’re looking for a specific website, like your online banking for example, it’s generally best to type the web address directly into your browser instead of searching for it via Google.

Common phishing tactics

While the type of attacks may vary, scammers utilize a lot of the same tactics across the board to create the perfect storm. Regardless of attack type, scammers will do their best to legitimize their appearance. This can be through fake hyperlinks, fake email addresses, or simply by lying during a vishing attack. Scammers will also prey on your sense of urgency and create a perception of need. By exploiting emotions like fear and anxiety, coupled with other tactics like impersonating trustworthy sources like Microsoft or Google, they can trick you into acting before you even realize you’ve been duped.

Learn how to spot phishing attempts

New spam filters typically do a good job at filtering emails and now spam calls, but fraudsters are always trying to outsmart filters. The signs can be subtle, but once you recognize a phishing attempt you can avoid falling for it. Here are some quick tips on how to clearly spot a phishing email or ad:

  • Contains an offer that’s too good to be true
  • Language that’s urgent, alarming, or threatening
  • Poorly crafted writing with misspellings and bad grammar
  • Greetings that are ambiguous or very generic
  • Requests to send personal information
  • Urgency to click on unfamiliar hyperlinks or attachments
  • Strange or abrupt business requests
  • Sending email address doesn’t match the company it’s coming from

What to do if you receive a phishing message

Don’t worry, you’ve already done the hard part which is recognizing that an email, text, or call is fake and part of a criminal’s phishing expedition. If you get a phishing email or text at work, report it to your IT manager or security officer as quickly as possible. If you’re at home and the message comes to your personal email or phone, don’t click on any links (even the unsubscribe link) or reply, and delete the email altogether. You can take your protection a step further and block the sending address or number, and report it to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). You can also report vishing calls here.

What to do if you accidentally click a phishing link

If you accidentally click a phishing link, you need to act quickly. Immediately disconnect your device from the internet. If you’re connected via Wi-Fi, locate the Wi-Fi settings on your device and disconnect from the network. If you’re connected using an ethernet cable, unplug it immediately. After disconnecting from the internet, back up your files using an external hard drive, like a USB thumb drive or cloud storage.

After, scan your device for malware. If you’re not technologically savvy, it’s best to leave this to a professional. Some malware can be disguised as a legitimate program. You’ll also want to change your credentials, so your personal or financial information can’t be compromised. If you don’t already, be sure to use different passwords across accounts, so it’s more difficult for scammers to access your information. Lastly, freeze your credit and set up fraud alerts with one of the three major credit bureaus (Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion). Once you’ve notified one bureau, they legally must notify the others.

You may also want to write down all the details of the attack as soon as possible, so you can report it to the FTC or law enforcement, especially if you’ve lost money or had your identity stolen. Unfortunately, once you’ve sent your information to an attacker, you’ll likely receive even more phishing messages, so be alert.

Key takeaways:

  • Scammers are constantly coming up with new ways to try to trick you into revealing information.
  • Always double-check the sender when receiving emails or texts, and review links before clicking.

Scams are becoming increasingly more common, especially in today’s age with technology. It’s important to remain vigilant and continue to educate yourself, friends, and loved ones on new tactics that may arise.

Should you consider a mortgage through a credit union?

Finding the perfect home that checks all your boxes is critical, whether you’re on the hunt for a fixer-upper or something that’s move-in ready. But choosing a mortgage that works for you and your needs, as well as getting the best rate, is just as important. If you’re in the homebuying process, consider these reasons to get a mortgage through a credit union.

Mortgages Through Credit Unions vs. Banks
Feature Credit Unions Banks
Interest rates Typically lower due to not-for-profit model Often higher to generate profit for shareholders
Fees Lower fees and more flexibility Higher fees and less flexibility
Personalized service More personalized, member-focused experience More transactional, less individualized
Loan approval process More flexible lending criteria and member-friendly Stricter underwriting guidelines
Membership requirement Must meet eligibility requirements (e.g., live or work in a certain area) Open to the public

Credit unions offer lower mortgage interest rates

A credit union is a not-for-profit financial institution that is owned by its members rather than shareholders, so it’s able to return profits to and invest in members. That’s why credit unions can typically offer lower mortgage interest rates on fixed-rate and adjustable-rate loans. As of March 2025, a 30-year, fixed-rate mortgage with a credit union has an average rate of 6.68%, according to the National Credit Union Association. However, a mortgage with the same terms but from a bank has an average rate of 6.81%. Even though the difference is small, it still helps you save money in the long run. Dozens of factors determine your rate and providing a loan, so the best way to know what rate you qualify for is to contact the financial institution directly for a quote.

There are fewer and lower fees

There are dozens of costs and fees in addition to a down payment that are associated with getting a mortgage—closing costs, origination fees, vendor fees, and other processing costs. Credit unions prioritize helping people instead of turning a profit. So, when you have a mortgage with a credit union, origination fees, private mortgage insurance, and processing costs are often reduced. These lower fees can save you thousands of dollars.

Credit unions are less likely to sell your loan to other financial institutions

Mortgage lenders typically sell a mortgage for two reasons: they need to open more lines of credit to lend money to other borrowers, and they make money from the sale. Usually, having your mortgage sold isn’t a big deal. However, when your mortgage is sold, this can sometimes result in confusion regarding where you should make your payment. If your mortgage payment is made to the wrong institution, you could incur late fees. Credit unions don’t typically sell their mortgages because their ultimate concern is to preserve the relationship between the institution and the member. Here’s how this benefits borrowers:

  1. Consistent service: Borrowers typically deal with the same institution throughout the life of their loan because credit unions typically retain the loans they originate. Consistency in service ensures that loan officers and support staff are familiar with each member’s financial history, which gives them the ability to offer personalized advice and quickly address any issues that might arise.
  2. Reduced payment confusion: When a credit union holds onto the loan, the communication channel remains clear and direct. Unlike loans that are sold to third parties or other loan servicers, borrowers aren’t forced to adapt to new payment systems or run into unexpected changes in terms. This minimizes the risk of payment errors or misunderstandings, ensuring that members feel secure and well-informed about their obligations.
  3. Stronger relationships: By retaining the loans, credit unions can invest in building long-lasting relationships with members. This fosters trust because borrowers know that they’re working with an institution that prioritizes their well-being over short-term profits. Credit unions can also offer tailored solutions, proactive financial advice, and continued support that adapts to their members’ changing needs.

Even though credit unions don’t often sell their mortgages, it’s best to refer to your contract just to be sure.

Credit unions provide more personalized service

Credit unions are often more attuned to their members’ needs, so they tend to offer better customer service and flexible lending criteria than traditional banks. They normally serve a selected area, so they can focus on what specifically will benefit its members or how they can help when members are in need. Credit unions are dedicated to preserving the relationship between its members and ensuring their best interest is served. Plus, it’s easier to receive services and better customer support through a local credit union with which you have a relationship.

Branch access and digital service options

Credit unions may not always have as many physical branches compared to national banks, but credit unions are fully committed to maintaining a strong digital presence. We know that not everyone can visit a branch in person—that’s why we offer digital banking services, including a user-friendly mobile app that allows you to manage your mortgage and other financial needs securely and efficiently.

Many credit unions now have also invested in remote assistance options, like video calls and chat support. This lets you get the help that you need or the option to discuss your mortgage choices from anywhere.

How to become a member

If you’re not a member, most credit unions offer a straightforward process. At Georgia’s Own, you can become a member one of three ways: live or work in one of 77 counties throughout the state; work for one of our 600+ partner companies; or be related by blood, adoption, or marriage to a current member. If you meet the requirements and are approved, all you need is a $5 deposit to establish your membership, which represents your share in the Credit Union. Requirements at other institutions vary.

What about after closing?

Credit unions treat members like people—not just another account number. If you have a question about your payment or need help navigating a financial hardship, you’re able to speak with a representative who’s familiar with your situation and may be able to help.
Plus, if unexpected life changes affect your ability to make payments, credit unions are more likely to work with you to find a solution. That might include loan modifications, payment deferral options, or financial counseling—always with your long-term financial well-being in mind.

Bottom line

Credit unions offer a member-first approach to mortgages, combining competitive rates, lower fees, and personalized service that you can count on. With strong loan retention, ongoing support after closing, and convenient digital tools, they provide a seamless and trustworthy borrowing experience.

If you’re purchasing a home, consider Georgia’s Own for all your financing needs. We offer lower interest rates, up to 100% financing, flexible loan terms, a program for first-time home buyers, and more—we even provide refinancing options. Ready to start making memories in your dream home? Click here to learn more about our mortgage options or apply today.

How to budget for pet ownership

Owning a pet is one of the greatest joys in many people’s lives. Bringing love and laughter into our homes, owning a pet can be seriously fun. But pet ownership is also a serious commitment: many pets can live for more than 10 years, leaving some pet lovers unprepared for the price tag attached to owning and caring for an animal in a responsible manner.

Here, we break down what to expect and how to best budget for pet ownership.

What to expect

Basic pet care costs

Regardless of where you live, the cost of getting a new pet is significant. If you purchase your pet from a reputable breeder, you can expect to spend anywhere between several hundred and several thousand dollars, while adoption fees from a shelter can range from zero to several hundred dollars. But regardless of that upfront cost, the cost of ongoing care for your new pet is even more important to consider.

Of course, you’ll need to feed your pet. According to the American Pet Products Association (APPA) 2021–2022 National Pet Owners Survey, feeding a cat can cost on average $4.88 per week, and it increases to $5.52 a week for a dog. Additionally, you’ll likely want enrichment tools like toys and treats, as well as beds, leashes, and crates.

Veterinary visits

Medical care is another guaranteed expense. Four-legged friends need basic medical care to prevent future problems, and even fish get sick. For dogs and cats, a yearly checkup is routine maintenance. According to the APPA survey, the average American spends about $583 in medical expenses per dog each year; medical expenses for cats are estimated to be about $343 per year, although most cat owners have more than one.

Just like humans, taking your pet for their routine checkups is critical to staying ahead of any health issues, and in turn, unexpected expenses. It’s much more expensive—and risky—to treat illnesses than to protect against them. It’s also a good idea to shop veterinary practices by comparing fees for preventative care.

Spaying or neutering your pet can also save a lot of money by preventing serious health problems, including cancers. Many local shelters provide resources for low- or no-cost spay/neuter surgeries.

Other considerations

Beyond the basic costs, many pet owners also need to open their wallets to pay for expenses such as grooming and boarding. If you take your pet with you on your travels, most hotels and airlines will charge hefty fees to accommodate Rover or Fluffy. Additional costs can also come in the form of pet sitting while you’re at work, as some pets can’t be left alone for long periods. Lastly, it’s important to note that as your pets age, their needs may change. They may require specialized diets, more regular veterinary care, or a daily pet sitter, all of which equals more money. Keep all these things in mind as you start the budgeting process.

Budgeting for a pet

Overall, pet spending has increased over the last few years. Many pet owners have demonstrated an increase in spending in the past 12 months, with food as a top expense, regardless of pet type owned. Veterinarian care is also a greater expense for pet owners. That said, there are still ways for you to save some cash while properly caring for your pet.

Review and update your budget

We know you’re already a rockstar with a budget. Adding a new pet adds a new category of expenses, which means it’s time for another budget review. You may want to reserve a set amount each month to cover all anticipated expenses, like a bag of food, so that when it’s time to restock, you’ll already have money allocated for that purpose. And if you want to splurge for a special treat, you can check your budget and make sure there’s money available.

After your first year of pet ownership, consider setting aside at least $80 every month for your cat or $200 for your dog.

Pet insurance

To cope with the medical costs, an increasing number of pet owners are turning to insurance policies. Some employers offer pet insurance programs, but others can be purchased independently. Pet insurance functions more like property insurance than health insurance. Unlike health insurance, the policyholder must pay for their pet’s healthcare directly, then be reimbursed by the insurance provider.

Pet insurance never covers preexisting conditions. While insurance can be helpful in an emergency, be sure to read the fine print and make sure that you understand applicable spending caps, deductibles, and coverage limitations.

Pad your emergency fund

Ideally, the money you set for routine pet expenses will cover everything your new companion will ever need. However, accidents can happen, and an emergency vet visit can cost as much as $5,000—and sometimes even more!

Every pet parent should have an emergency fund for unexpected expenses. Your emergency fund can cover everything from a surprise surgery to a flat tire. Consider opening a Money Market account for your emergency fund, so your money can grow while it sits.

Key takeaways

  • Many pets live for more than 10 years, so it is important to be fully aware of the costs of owning a pet.
  • Annual costs of owning a pet can range from several hundred to several thousands of dollars, with food being the biggest cost, along with vet bills.
  • Pet insurance is one way to manage the medical part of the expense of caring for a pet. You may also want to add to your emergency fund for potential emergencies.

Overall, owning a pet is not cheap but is so worth it. Their unconditional love brings so much happiness into people’s lives. April 11th is National Pet Day, and we want to celebrate all the wonderful pets out there. And if you’re considering adding a new member to your fur family, be sure to consider the above factors before committing.

Inventory checklist of fraud controls

All participants in the ACH network will be required to have fraud controls in place. If you’re unsure where to begin, take a look at the checklist below and document all the controls you have available.

Effective date: March 20, 2026

1. Authentication and access controls

  • User access management: Restrict access to ACH origination systems based on job roles and responsibilities.
  • Session Timeouts: Automatically log out users after periods of inactivity.
  • IP Address Whitelisting: Allow access only from approved IP addresses.

2. Fraud detection and monitoring systems

  • Transaction monitoring: Implement systems to monitor transactions in real time or near real time for anomalies.
  • Velocity controls: Set thresholds for the number or value of transactions allowed within a specified time frame.
  • Geolocation monitoring: Detect transactions originating from unusual or high-risk geographic locations.

3. Customer validation and account verification

  • Pre-notification entries (pre-notes): Send zero-dollar test transactions to verify account details before initiating live payments
  • Micro-deposits: Send small test deposits and require customers to confirm the amounts to verify account ownership

4. Data security and encryption

  • Data encryption: Encrypt sensitive data in transit and at rest, including account numbers and personal information.
  • Network segmentation: Isolate ACH systems from other parts of the network to reduce vulnerability to cyberattacks.

5. Fraud alerts and notifications

  • Threshold alerts: Automatically trigger alerts for transactions exceeding predefined thresholds.
  • Suspicious activity alerts: Notify administrators of unusual activity patterns or failed login attempts.
  • Customer alerts: Inform customers of initiated transactions and allow them to confirm or dispute them.

6. Training and awareness

  • Employee training: Train employees on fraud risks, red flags, and compliance requirements for ACH origination.

7. Incident response and reporting

  • Fraud incident response plan: Develop and maintain a documented plan for responding to suspected fraud incidents.
  • ODFI communication: Establish protocols for reporting fraudulent transactions to us promptly.
  • Customer notification: Notify impacted customers of suspected fraudulent activity and provide steps to mitigate risks.
  • Post-incident review: Conduct a root-cause analysis of fraud incidents and update controls to prevent recurrence.

8. Audit and testing

  • Regular audits: Perform periodic internal and external audits of fraud controls and ACH origination processes and adjust as necessary.

How to tell if your computer has a virus (and what to do about it)

Computer viruses have caused headaches for many of us. Some viruses brick your devices and make them impossible to use, but more often, viruses slow down your computer or steal your data. But there are steps you can take to boot a virus off your machine.

Computer viruses replicate themselves, spreading through your device’s operating system and network. The virus is also simultaneously wreaking havoc: it can damage programs, delete files, and make devastating changes to your hard drive, which can result in reduced performance. Some viruses will even crash your entire system. Viruses can also give their cybercriminal creators an opportunity to destroy or steal your sensitive data and documents.

The idea of having a virus on your computer is scary, but we’re here to help! Here we’ve gathered tips on how to prevent, detect, and defeat computer viruses.

How does a computer get a virus?

The most common reason your computer gets infected is because you downloaded or installed infected files. Pirated media and free games are common culprits, and so are phishing attacks where you click on a bad link, button, or email attachment. Once clicked, the virus or other malware installs itself. Similarly, viruses can infect your computer when you visit scam websites. Sometimes, you can unintentionally install a virus from an infected external drive, like a USB stick.

How do I tell if my computer has a virus?

If you notice any of (or all) these symptoms, your computer might have a virus:

  • Suddenly slow computer performance, meaning it takes a noticeably longer time to start up or open programs
  • Problems unexpectedly shutting down or restarting
  • Missing files
  • Frequent system crashes
  • Frequent error messages
  • Unexpected pop-up windows
  • New applications (like web browser toolbars) that appear without you downloading them
  • Overworked hard drive, which you can detect if your device’s internal fan seems to be whirring and working hard when you aren’t doing much
  • Emails that are sent automatically from your accounts without you sending them
  • Lagging web browser or your web browser constantly redirects
  • Malfunctioning antivirus programs or firewalls

What to do if your computer has a virus

If you think your computer has a virus, you should act fast to eradicate the malicious code. Don’t panic—we’ve broken down what you should do into a few easy-to-understand steps:

1. Run a full system scan

If you suspect your computer has a virus, use antivirus software to run a full system scan of your device. It’s best to set your antivirus program to do this automatically on a regular basis so you can detect any issues before they become emergencies. Review the detected threats and act—many antivirus and antimalware programs guide you through this.

2. Restore to an earlier backup

If you can’t delete the virus or infected files, try restoring your computer to an earlier backup before your problems started. Scan your system again with antivirus software and see if the same issues exist.

3. Delete temporary files

Delete the temporary files on your computer. How you delete these files is usually easy, but it depends on your operating system (like Windows or macOS). You can find detailed information if you search for your specific system.

4. Use safe mode

If you’re prevented from deleting files because your computer is malfunctioning, try booting up in safe mode. Safe mode restricts certain programs so you can work to fix the issue without interruption.

5. Reinstall your operating system

As a final measure to get rid of a computer virus, you can reinstall your device’s operating system. This can result in the loss of critical files or other data. It’s a good idea to seek professional help and take your device to a computer store. Many shops or experts will guide you through reinstalling your operating system for free.

The only way to ensure that you eliminate a virus is to wipe your device and reinstall a new operating system.

This is why you should practice good backup habits. The process (called reimaging) eliminates everything on the hard drive (both the virus files and all of your files).

Depending on the severity of the issue, you might be able to deal with malware or a virus without taking this step (by using a quality antivirus software or going into safe mode and removing bad files, for example). Still, reimaging is the most effective option if you want to be sure that the virus is removed.

There have been rare instances where a computer virus even survives reimaging. Consult a tech professional if you’re considering this drastic step.

How to prevent computer viruses

Follow these best practices to prevent viruses from infecting your devices:

1. Use antivirus software

You should always have a trusted antivirus installed on your computer—it’s best to boot up some antivirus software as soon as you start using a new device. You should be able to turn on regular scans of your entire device so you know ASAP if there are any issues.

2. Follow the core 4

By following four basic cybersecurity behaviors, you can forge good habits that make it difficult for computer viruses to get through:

  • Use complex passwords that are at least 12 characters long and are unique to each account; use a password manager to store your passwords
  • Turn on multi-factor authentication (MFA, sometimes called 2-factor authentication) for any account that permits it
  • Turn on automatic updates for your hardware, software, and apps
  • Learn how to identify phishing—don’t take the bait

3. Be careful on public Wi-Fi

Public Wi-Fi in cafes, airports, and other businesses can be convenient, but they are often unsecured and leave your phone, tablet, or computer susceptible to viruses. Using a mobile hotspot or VPN (virtual private network) is a more secure way to connect when you’re on the go.

4. Get your software fresh from the source

One of the oldest tricks in the cybercriminal’s book is to sneak viruses and malware into software and files people want to pirate. Always download software from verified sources and get your apps from your device’s official app store. You might think you’re saving money by pirating software, movies, or other media, but you’re also putting your device and network at risk.

Key takeaways

  • Prevention is key. Install and regularly update antivirus software, follow the core 4 cybersecurity practices, and be cautious on public Wi-Fi.
  • Early detection is crucial. Regularly scan for viruses and know the common signs of infection.
  • Act quickly. If you suspect a virus, isolate your device, disconnect from the internet, and run a full system scan.
  • Use reimaging as a last resort. Consider reimaging your device if other methods fail, but be prepared for potential data loss.

By taking these steps, you can enjoy a safer computer experience and protect your personal information. Knowledge is power in the fight against digital threats—so stay informed and safe online!