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	Tips to Enhance Your Plans to Save More November 2009 Overall in 2009, we Americans are saving more money. That’s one positive thing, at least, that the current recession has prompted us to do. According to the latest figures from the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, the savings rate is over 4% (as a percentage of disposable income). A few years ago our relative savings rate was essentially zero. So this is a great trend—a positive for personal finances that I hope everyone will continue to do even after the economy recovers. Getting in the habit of saving regularly, however, is not easy for most people. There are so many temptations to spend. It’s a little like resolving to eat in more healthful ways—you do great for a couple of days until a co-worker brings in delicious sweet treats for the break room. Nevertheless, you are determined to start saving and build up at least the recommended emergency fund equivalent to six months’ living expenses. A worthy goal. Read More November 2009 Federal tax credit for home buyers extended and expanded Subprime ploys in reverse mortgage market put seniors at risk, says a new report (pdf) from the National Consumer Law Center. Read More Credit Cards vs. Debit Cards! Sure, credit cards can be a great way to have a financial safety buffer in your pocket, and they build credit pretty quick, too. But everybody has heard of dangers that can come with credit cards if you’re not careful, as well as the horrific statistics: The average college senior has about 4 credit cards, but only 50% of those students have a job. The average balance on these cards is $2,864. The number of 18 to 24-year-olds declaring bankruptcy has increased 96% in 10 years. Read More This site contains links to other sites ("Linked Sites") which are not under the control or direction of the Credit Union. The inclusion of any link does not imply endorsement by the Credit Union of the site or any association with its operators. The Linked Sites are not bound by the Credit Union's privacy policy and therefore you access them at your own risk.	Featured Program Commercials You'll Like! Brain Food November 2009 Each month, Brain Food highlights podcasts by others on key issues that impact your wallet. This month we highlight 2 video podcasts from Consumer Reports. Read More Web Links November 2009 The 2010 Census is fast approaching. Every household will receive a questionnaire in February or March 2010. Census phishing and email scams are already appearing. These tips from the Census Bureau will help you avoid the scams. The 2010 Fuel Economy Guide is now available. The annual fuel cost estimates in the online 2008-2010 fuel economy guides are updated weekly to reflect the Energy Information Administration's current national average prices for gasoline and diesel fuel. How to pay down your debt This article from Consumer Reports evaluates 3 different strategies for paying off your credit card balances. Net Cetera: Chatting With Kids About Being Online This guide from OnGuard Online can help adults talk to kids about how they live their lives online and help them reduce the risks of socializing and communicating online. The RealityCheck Team Our RealityCheck team of Nick, Will and Remar brings three generations of consumer knowledge to the Elevations Credit Union Community. Each month, Nick, Remar and Will will be bringing all of our community topical and tough consumer information, and we’re proud to have them as part of the Elevations team. Read More