Category: Personal Finance

7 Easy Ways To Reduce Your Food Waste

Couple unpacks food from grocery store

According to National Geographic contributors Samantha Cohen and Eric Estroff, Americans throw out an average of $165 billion of food every year. Not only is excess food waste a problem for people’s wallets, it also has a detrimental effect on the environment and makes it harder for food to reach those who really need it…. Read more »

How Much Should You Actually Spend on Housing?

Young couple unpacks boxes in their new home

When you’re laying out your budget, housing money is probably a pretty big chunk. But are you setting your housing budget wisely? Before you sign up for a new lease or mortgage, make sure the monthly payments won’t ruin your financial plans. Following the 28/36 Rule As with many financial concepts, there’s a rule to… Read more »

How to Budget for Entertainment and Leisure

Group of friends enjoying a leisurely activity after budgeting for entertainment

Budgeting is daunting, especially since it means cutting down on how much money you can spend on entertainment and leisure. But being smart about your spending doesn’t mean cutting out fun altogether. Remembering entertainment in your budget will help you stick to it and enjoy the times you do decide to spend.  Setting a Realistic… Read more »

Save Money When You Ace the 30 Day Rule

Two women applying the 30 day rule savings challenge to their shopping habits

So, what exactly is the 30 Day Rule? If you’ve never heard of it before, no worries! It’s an easy way to save money. The rule is this: when you’re out shopping and see something you want, don’t buy it. Instead, come home and write down the name of the item on a sticky note…. Read more »

Success Story: Welcome Home to Marge Meiring

White house with blue shutters purchased with welcome home grant funds through minster bank

Between understanding closing costs and filling out paperwork, buying a home for the first time can be daunting. But for Marge Meiring, a Minster Bank customer who took advantage of the Welcome Home program, it was much smoother. “I’m 67 and I had never bought a house, so I was a little overwhelmed with it… Read more »

How to Talk to Another Insurance Company After a Car Accident

Two men standing by wrecked cars looking at an insurance policy

If you’ve recently been in a car accident, the other driver’s car insurance company might try to ask for a statement. Before you say anything, learn about the risks of talking about the crash with the other insurance company, as well as find a wiser strategy to pursue in this scenario. What Not to Say… Read more »