How to Train an Abused Dog

by @ How to of the Day

Tue Mar 27 01:00:00 PDT 2018

Dogs who’ve suffered abuse may be withdrawn, depressed, inactive, and distrustful. While not all fearful and shy dogs have been abused, abuse can make the dog hesitant and nervous around humans. While it takes time to help a pup overcome its past, abused dogs can become loving pets if the right person comes into their life. If you’ve rescued an abused dog, then you’ll likely want to train it. Before you can train your dog, you need to take care of the dog’s health and safety so that it can learn to trust you. Then you will be able to housebreak your dog, teach it basic commands, and help it overcome its past.

Synthetic marijuana linked to 6 cases of severe bleeding in Illinois

by Joe Millitzer @ FOX2now.com

Wed Mar 28 05:40:23 PDT 2018

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – The Illinois Department of Public Health is issuing a warning about synthetic cannabinoids after six people who used them suffered severe bleeding. The substance is also referred to as “fake weed,” “K2,” and “spice.” Dr. Nirav Shah is director of public health. He says the perception is that synthetic cannabinoids are a safe and legal alternative to marijuana. But he says their potential harm is shown by six cases of bleeding among users of the substance in […]

Mercy Running Analysis Night

by Staff Writer @ FOX2now.com

Wed Mar 28 07:21:11 PDT 2018

ST. LOUIS, MO — Most runners have no idea what they look like when jogging.  Physical Therapist Chris Heck from Mercy Therapy Services screens running styles. He says it is important to have good running mechanics. Mercy Running Analysis Night 6:00pm – 7:30pm Thursday, April 5th Mercy Therapy Services – Town & Country 1176 Town And Country Commons Chesterfield www.Mercy.net/ktvirun 636-893-1118

The Best Current and Historical Bank Interest Rates — March 2018

by Rob Berger @ Consumerism Commentary

Thu Mar 01 04:00:28 PST 2018

We’ve tracked bank rates since 2008. The latest list shows the best bank interest rates available nationwide as of March 2018 (with daily updates). Since many banks are constantly updating their interest rates offered on savings, money market and checking accounts, this chart should come in handy. On the 1st of every month, this page […]

The post The Best Current and Historical Bank Interest Rates — March 2018 appeared first on Consumerism Commentary.

6 Ways to Get Free Redbox Codes

by Stephanie Colestock @ Consumerism Commentary

Thu Nov 23 14:54:00 PST 2017

Redbox is a great way to watch moves. And while it’s cheap, you can do even better. Here are six ways to get free Redbox codes. I’ll be honest: I can’t even remember the last time I paid just to watch a movie. Between streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and my Amazon Fire Stick, I […]

The post 6 Ways to Get Free Redbox Codes appeared first on Consumerism Commentary.

Ally Invest Review

by Kevin Mercadante @ Consumerism Commentary

Mon Dec 18 04:00:00 PST 2017

Ally Invest offers is a low cost and very easy to use online broker. Formerly TradeKing, we cover all of its features and costs in this review. You’ve probably heard about Ally Bank. They’re perhaps the best-known online bank, offering some of the highest interest rates available on savings accounts and certificates of deposit. As […]

The post Ally Invest Review appeared first on Consumerism Commentary.

How Many Savings Accounts Do You Need?

by Abby Hayes @ Consumerism Commentary

Fri Nov 10 04:51:08 PST 2017

Back in the day, we had just one savings account. Mine came with a passbook. Now we ask–how many savings accounts do you need? We have the answer. These days, more banks are offering low- or no-fee savings accounts. This can make it tempting to open a lot of different accounts. And, in some cases, […]

The post How Many Savings Accounts Do You Need? appeared first on Consumerism Commentary.

Do Something Different this Year with our Holiday Gift Guide

by Stephanie Colestock @ Consumerism Commentary

Fri Dec 08 06:01:04 PST 2017

No reason to give the same boring gifts this year. Our holiday gift guide offers creative and inexpensive gift ideas that your friends and family will love. Christmas is right around the corner. Do you have all of your gift shopping done yet? If you’re anything like me, the answer is no. This isn’t because […]

The post Do Something Different this Year with our Holiday Gift Guide appeared first on Consumerism Commentary.

Message from CEO

by Rebecca Smith @ America's First Federal Credit Union

Fri Mar 02 14:14:30 PST 2018

To our Valued Members: You may be aware that America’s First experienced a failure in our debit card processing systems between approximately 5:00 pm on Thursday, March 1st and 9:00 am on Friday, March 2nd. Perhaps you were one of a number of members whose card was declined at a merchant or ATM during this time [...]

How to Develop Film in a Darkroom

by @ How to of the Day

Mon Mar 26 09:00:00 PDT 2018

Film photography is a great way to capture personal, unique, and long-lasting photographs. The first step in turning the captured exposures on your film camera into physical prints is developing the film. Taking the time to develop your film correctly is critical if you want your prints to turn out beautifully. To develop your film, you'll need some basic photography tools and chemicals, as well as access to a dark room.

How to Improve Your Credit Score

by Stephanie Colestock @ Consumerism Commentary

Wed Dec 06 05:00:27 PST 2017

A good credit score can save you thousands of dollars in lower rates. To help boost your FICO score, here’s our guide on how to improve your credit score. Somewhere along the line, debt became “normal.” In fact, American consumer society has progressed to the point that access to debt is almost essential to living […]

The post How to Improve Your Credit Score appeared first on Consumerism Commentary.

How to Stop Fighting With Your Brother or Sister

by @ How to of the Day

Fri Mar 23 17:00:00 PDT 2018

Fights between siblings are inevitable, even if they can be frustrating. If you and your sibling want to stop fighting, there are a few strategies you can try before, during, and after a fight. You may be family, but with a little effort, you can get along like friends!

Digital Lending Must Go Beyond Eliminating Paper

by Guest Contributor @ The Financial Brand

Mon Mar 12 21:03:54 PDT 2018

To get the optimal benefits of digital lending, back office processes, front office solutions and marketing communication all must be digitally-based.

The post Digital Lending Must Go Beyond Eliminating Paper appeared first on The Financial Brand.

The Four Pillars of Digital Transformation in Banking

by Lisa Joyce @ The Financial Brand

Mon Mar 26 21:04:59 PDT 2018

Banks and credit unions know they need a digital strategy, but few actually have one. Use this outline as your strategic checklist and self-assessment tool.

The post The Four Pillars of Digital Transformation in Banking appeared first on The Financial Brand.

Earther Why the High-Tech Plan to Bring Back the Northern White Rhino Matters | TV Club The Conner f

by Kinja! on Kinja Roundup, shared by Virginia K. Smith to Lifehacker @ Lifehacker

Wed Mar 28 07:02:00 PDT 2018

Earther Why the High-Tech Plan to Bring Back the Northern White Rhino Matters | TV Club The Conner family tries to prove it hasn’t just grown in numbers in Roseanne’s season premiere | The Takeout This month in overturned trucks: McDonald’s fries, beer, milk |

Read more...

How to Train an Australian Shepherd

by @ How to of the Day

Tue Mar 20 01:00:00 PDT 2018

Australian shepherds are herding dogs that are popular pets. They are very intelligent dogs that thrive when thoroughly trained. To train an Australian shepherd you should focus on rewarding good behavior and reinforcing training with repetition and consistency. With some time and effort, your Australian shepherd will be a wonderfully trained companion for years to come.

My First Car

by Jodi @ My Financial Wingman

Tue Jun 04 10:12:08 PDT 2013

The summer season brings back great memories of earlier days when I was young and carefree… and fond memories of my 1st car. It was a bright orange, 1971 Ford Mustang. All those summer nights cruising down Main Street… Boy I loved that car!! I knew the moment I saw it I had to have […]

Should Businesses Stop Accepting Cash?

by rapid! PayCard @ rapid! PayCard

Fri Aug 18 12:08:23 PDT 2017

Visa is paying out a jackpot to vendors willing to bet against old money, and roll the dice on cashless transactions. Visa will give $10,000 to 50 restaurants that pledge to go cashless. The new initiative, what Visa executive Jack Forestall calls “a journey to go cashless,” will incentivize vendors to rip off the bandaid of paper transactions and progress to a cashless system. The money can be used for marketing and updating point of sale technology to focus payment exclusively on credit and debit cards and electronic payment. Visa will select participating merchants in August. Cash remains the predominate method of payment, according to the Federal Reserve. A report... Read More

How to Plant in Poor Soils

by @ How to of the Day

Wed Mar 21 09:00:00 PDT 2018

Whether you want to grow flowers, trees, or vegetables, plants can add natural beauty to your yard. However, planting and growing plants may not seem so simple if your yard doesn’t have rich soil. Fortunately, there are several things you can do throughout the planting process to ensure that your plants thrive, including amending the soil with compost, planting the root ball properly, and/or choosing to plant specific plants that thrive in your particular soil type.

It’s time payment systems caught up with the demands of the gig economy

by rapid! PayCard @ rapid! PayCard

Tue Feb 13 16:10:28 PST 2018

Is your payment system ready for the gig economy or are you just a big wannabe? According to a Forbes article, 35 percent of the workforce have a gig, and collectively they earned $1 trillion from ad hoc work last year. But, freelance workers, who have come to expect payment as instantaneous as their work, are turning their noses up at outdated companies that can’t keep up. If you’re still mailing checks, might as well be using the Pony Express as far as tech-savvy gig workers are concerned. We are on the precipice of a major sea change, and the traditional employment model is quickly becoming as outdated as the... Read More

Edwardsville man indicted on child sex crimes

by Kevin S. Held @ FOX2now.com

Wed Mar 28 08:59:25 PDT 2018

ST. LOUIS COUNTY, Mo. – The St. Louis County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office charged a 39-year-old Edwardsville, Illinois man for soliciting sex and nude photos from a minor. According to court documents, the defendant, identified as Kyle Werner, contacted an undercover detective who was posing as a 14-year-old girl online in late September 2017. Werner allegedly inquired about having sex with—and requesting nude pictures from—the girl. The detective, posing as the girl, arranged a meeting with Werner for the purposes of […]

Best Student Checking Accounts in 2018

by Luke Landes @ Consumerism Commentary

Mon Dec 04 06:00:55 PST 2017

We’ve complied a list of the best student checking accounts in 2017. Options include online and traditional banks that pay bonuses, high interest rates, or both. As we head into a new year, thousands of young adults will be heading to college for the first time. It’s important to get started on the right financial […]

The post Best Student Checking Accounts in 2018 appeared first on Consumerism Commentary.

Don’t Let Bad Data Kill Your Financial Institution’s Brand

by Guest Contributor @ The Financial Brand

Wed Mar 07 21:02:37 PST 2018

When you try to personalize your marketing communications and fail, you lose people's trust and undermine your brand. Here's three ways to make sure that doesn't happen.

The post Don’t Let Bad Data Kill Your Financial Institution’s Brand appeared first on The Financial Brand.

APR vs. APY: How One Letter Makes a Big Difference

by Stephanie Colestock @ Consumerism Commentary

Thu Feb 15 03:00:00 PST 2018

APR vs. APY: While the seem similar, there’s a big difference between annual percentage rate and annual percentage yield. Here’s what you need to know. APR and APY are short acronyms with big importance. Despite the confusion, these two terms are not interchangeable. What exactly is the difference between APR and APY? Here’s a quick […]

The post APR vs. APY: How One Letter Makes a Big Difference appeared first on Consumerism Commentary.

Getting Out of Debt: You Can Do It and Here’s How to Get Started

by Liz Oliver @ LRRCU

Thu Jan 18 03:41:02 PST 2018

Most goals or resolutions that people set for themselves are neglected within a few weeks. It’s likely that this happens because people set far-reaching goals for themselves and then lose momentum when they don’t see results right away. A perfect example of this is the financial goal that many people set for themselves: getting out […]

The post Getting Out of Debt: You Can Do It and Here’s How to Get Started appeared first on LRRCU.

How Long Should It Take to Build a Digital Bank?

by Jim Marous @ The Financial Brand

Sun Mar 11 21:03:54 PDT 2018

To keep up with the market, the competition and the consumer, financial institutions that want to roll out a digital bank need to move quickly.

The post How Long Should It Take to Build a Digital Bank? appeared first on The Financial Brand.

Use Data and Next-Gen Tools to Drive Digital Banking Transformation

by Guest Contributor @ The Financial Brand

Wed Mar 07 18:03:52 PST 2018

The need for extensive digital transformation in banking will require the combination of data insights, analytics and innovative technologies.

The post Use Data and Next-Gen Tools to Drive Digital Banking Transformation appeared first on The Financial Brand.

Overnight Sibling Summer Camp

by Vandana Desikan @ Maryland Department of Human Resources

Tue Dec 12 10:49:43 PST 2017

AGENCY CONTROL NUMBER: BCODSS/CS-18-006-S Issue Date: Friday, December 08, 2017 Pre-Proposal Conference: December 27, 2017, at 10 am-12:00 pm Local Time Proposal Due Date: January 31, 2018 at 4:30 pm Local Time

The post Overnight Sibling Summer Camp appeared first on Maryland Department of Human Resources.

How to Save Money Without Worrying About Coupons

by Abby Hayes @ Consumerism Commentary

Sat Nov 25 05:00:00 PST 2017

Clipping coupons can save you money. It’s also a pain. Here’s how you can save money without coupons or the hassle that comes with them. The retail industry has everyone fooled. Millions of people spend their time scouring for deals, clipping coupons from the newspaper, plugging into the latest mobile deal applications, and sharing their […]

The post How to Save Money Without Worrying About Coupons appeared first on Consumerism Commentary.

What Happens If Your Bank Account Is Hacked?

by Luke Landes @ Consumerism Commentary

Wed Mar 28 04:00:23 PDT 2018

What happens if your bank account is hacked? Are you liable or is your bank? We have the answer, along with some tips how to keep your money safe online. As society’s reliance on technology grows, especially for things like banking, we will continue to see more and more issues with account hacking. Whether on […]

The post What Happens If Your Bank Account Is Hacked? appeared first on Consumerism Commentary.

Holiday Shopping Tips for Your Spending Personality

by Kara Vincent @ LRRCU

Mon Nov 20 10:19:45 PST 2017

Although 41% of consumers report starting their holiday shopping in October or even earlier (Wow! Good for you!), an estimated 69% of Americans will shop over the Thanksgiving weekend. Early research from the National Retail Federation shows that the 2017 season will be a big deal, with holiday spending forecasted to be near $680 billion, up almost 4% […]

The post Holiday Shopping Tips for Your Spending Personality appeared first on LRRCU.

St. Louis designer offering apparel for new moms

by Staff Writer @ FOX2now.com

Wed Mar 28 06:49:48 PDT 2018

ST. LOUIS, MO — New moms have a lot on their plate. So what does a nursing mom wear for to match a busy lifestyle? Lauren Pershing is the founder of Lottie Life active nursing apparel.  Her clothes are all designed here in St. Louis and are made to flatter a postpartum figure. Want to buy some of the apparel?  Make certain to enter FOX2Moms at checkout for a 25-percent off discount. More information: www.LottieLife.com.  

Outside the Box: Escaping the Confines of Obsolete Consumer Banking Strategies

by Guest Contributor @ The Financial Brand

Tue Mar 20 21:01:29 PDT 2018

Financial execs must ditch the tired paradigms that served as the bedrock of 20th century banking models, and break free from the mental roadblocks holding the industry back.

The post Outside the Box: Escaping the Confines of Obsolete Consumer Banking Strategies appeared first on The Financial Brand.

10 Legitimate Ways to Watch Free Movies Online

by Abby Hayes @ Consumerism Commentary

Wed Nov 29 04:00:00 PST 2017

There are now more ways than ever to watch free movies online. Here are 10 of them, some of which offer recently released flicks. If you’re anything like me, your family time and date nights often involve watching movies. There’s nothing our five-year-old likes better than curling up on the couch with some popcorn to […]

The post 10 Legitimate Ways to Watch Free Movies Online appeared first on Consumerism Commentary.

Will the Courts Accept a Jury Duty Excuse Letter If You’re in a Pinch?

by Rachel Gray @ Payroll Tips, Training, and News

Mon Mar 19 05:10:23 PDT 2018

Sometimes, you or your employees’ personal responsibilities conflict with your business. For many small businesses, if you miss work or lose an employee for an extended period of time, there can be harmful effects on productivity in the workplace. But if you or an employee are called in for jury duty, you might not have […]

The post Will the Courts Accept a Jury Duty Excuse Letter If You’re in a Pinch? appeared first on Payroll Tips, Training, and News.

What’s with these so-called ‘patriots’ calling for the breakup of America?

by Casey Michel @ ThinkProgress

Tue Mar 27 16:02:01 PDT 2018

For some so-called patriots, the prospect of gun regulations, from banning AR-15s to eliminating high-capacity magazines, is too much to bear. In fact, the way they see it, the only solution isn’t to lobby Washington, but to break up the U.S. wholesale. Couched in terms like “amicable divorce,” these far-right figures — some claiming to […]

The Fall of Summer

by AmandaC @ My Financial Wingman

Thu Sep 22 10:15:13 PDT 2011

You know those people that love fall? I am not one of those people. I’m a summer kind of gal. The fall upsets me because I know that after fall comes winter. All of this leaves-changing business sends me into a tailspin of seasonal depression. I don’t think it’s pretty and I don’t want to wear […]

Trump ends protected immigration status for Liberians, gives them one year to pack up their lives

by Esther Lee @ ThinkProgress

Tue Mar 27 13:39:51 PDT 2018

President Donald Trump will wind down a temporary immigration program for Liberian immigrants who have legally lived and worked in the United States for the past 16 years, according to a presidential memorandum released Tuesday afternoon. Authorized at the president’s discretion to conduct foreign affairs, the Deferred Enforced Departure (DED) program for Liberia is an immigration […]

Cheap and Easy Desserts

by Jodi @ My Financial Wingman

Sat Mar 09 09:46:16 PST 2013

  With the holidays fast approaching and more invitations to get together with friends and family, it got me thinking about what to bring to the next gathering, or just to serve when they come to visit! Here are two, deliciously fast, cheap and easy ideas! The first one I came across because I always seem to […]

How to Search Military Records

by @ How to of the Day

Sun Mar 25 17:00:00 PDT 2018

If you want to find military records, there are several ways in which you can do so. Keep in mind that limited military records are available to the public, so specific veteran records will only be released to the veteran or their next of kin.

Pulling an all-nighter isn’t good for your working memory

by Staff Writer @ FOX2now.com

Wed Mar 28 06:29:40 PDT 2018

ST. LOUIS, MO — Pulling all nighters happens for some at least once in a while. How does that affect our working memory? Dr. Joseph Ojile from the Clayton Sleep Institute says it isn’t very healthy. More information: www.Claytonsleep.Com

New Banking Ecosystems Will Use Data and Collaboration to Deliver Value

by Guest Contributor @ The Financial Brand

Wed Mar 21 21:03:04 PDT 2018

Open banking requires strong data and analytics skills, a digital culture and a willingness to share and collaborate with alternative providers.

The post New Banking Ecosystems Will Use Data and Collaboration to Deliver Value appeared first on The Financial Brand.

10 Tips for Avoiding Overdraft Fees

by Luke Landes @ Consumerism Commentary

Thu Mar 08 04:00:37 PST 2018

What’s a quick way to empty your pockets? Paying for overdraft fees. Here are ten tips to help you avoid those bank penalties. Consumers overdraft their bank accounts . . . a lot. According to data compiled by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, these fees totaled more than $11 billion in 2015. More recent data […]

The post 10 Tips for Avoiding Overdraft Fees appeared first on Consumerism Commentary.

Banks Must Look Beyond Traditional Credit Scores

by Guest Contributor @ The Financial Brand

Mon Mar 26 21:03:21 PDT 2018

Increased data and advanced technology is is expanding the availability of credit to consumers with thin credit scores.

The post Banks Must Look Beyond Traditional Credit Scores appeared first on The Financial Brand.

Call Center open Sunday 3/4/18

by Kyle McDougal @ America's First Federal Credit Union

Fri Mar 02 15:53:59 PST 2018

Our local call center will be open from 10am until 5pm tomorrow, 3/4/18. 205-320-4000 or toll-free 1-800-633-8431

How to Calculate a Raise

by Rachel Gray @ Payroll Tips, Training, and News

Wed Mar 14 05:10:09 PDT 2018

Employees have money on their minds. According to a Gallup poll, 59% of employees were not completely satisfied with their current pay. And, one SHRM survey found that 44% of respondents said they would leave their job to make more money elsewhere. To avoid losing their top employees, many businesses offer pay raises. Learn why employee […]

The post How to Calculate a Raise appeared first on Payroll Tips, Training, and News.

What’s The Best Mobile Payment Platform: Zelle, Venmo, Square or Apple Pay?

by Guest Contributor @ The Financial Brand

Mon Mar 19 21:02:04 PDT 2018

Mobile payments are table stakes for banking providers looking to remain relevant with today's digital consumers. Which one should you offer?

The post What’s The Best Mobile Payment Platform: Zelle, Venmo, Square or Apple Pay? appeared first on The Financial Brand.

How to Get Out of a Cell Phone Contract without Paying a Fee

by Kevin Mercadante @ Consumerism Commentary

Wed Dec 27 04:00:00 PST 2017

Being locked into a cell phone contract is no fun. Here’s how to get out of a cell phone contract without paying an early termination fee. We recently received a question that probably every reader can relate to. The writer is asking how to get out of a cell phone contract without paying a fee: […]

The post How to Get Out of a Cell Phone Contract without Paying a Fee appeared first on Consumerism Commentary.

New Mueller court filing links Trump campaign, Russian intelligence, and WikiLeaks

by Aaron Rupar @ ThinkProgress

Wed Mar 28 06:10:25 PDT 2018

In a Tuesday night court filing, special counsel Robert Mueller’s office revealed that it has linked a Trump campaign official who is cooperating with the special counsel’s investigation to a person who “has ties to a Russian intelligence service and had such ties in 2016.” According to Mueller’s office, Rick Gates — a longtime associate […]

YouTube’s warnings don’t deter Alex Jones from attacking Parkland survivors

by Luke Barnes @ ThinkProgress

Tue Mar 27 17:18:19 PDT 2018

Alex Jones is supposedly on thin ice with YouTube. After the Parkland, Florida school shooting, the Infowars host and far-right conspiracy theorist immediately started to popularize the idea that the survivors were, in fact, crisis actors, paid to make the shooting seem worse than it was and to advocate for gun control. In response, YouTube cracked down. […]

Correcting Employment Taxes: What to Do If You Withhold the Wrong Amount

by Rachel Gray @ Payroll Tips, Training, and News

Wed Feb 28 05:10:52 PST 2018

It’s easy to make mistakes, especially when you have a million and one things on your plate. One error you could make is deducting the wrong amount from employee wages. Correcting employment taxes is necessary if you withhold too much or too little from your employees’ paychecks. This article provides an overview of employment taxes […]

The post Correcting Employment Taxes: What to Do If You Withhold the Wrong Amount appeared first on Payroll Tips, Training, and News.

Request for Proposal for Summer Youth Employment Program

by borimoloye @ Maryland Department of Human Resources

Wed Dec 06 07:45:17 PST 2017

AGENCY CONTROL NUMBER: CARLN/FIA 18-010-S Issue Date: Tuesday, November 21, 2017 Pre-Proposal Conference: December 14, 2017, at 2:00 pm Local Time (Caroline County DSS; Multi-Service Center; Room 133; 207 S. Third Street; Denton, MD 21629) Proposal Due Date: January 8, 2018 at 3:00 pm Local Time

The post Request for Proposal for Summer Youth Employment Program appeared first on Maryland Department of Human Resources.

rapid! PayCard Green Dot Announcement

by rapid! PayCard @ rapid! PayCard

Tue Jan 31 14:03:14 PST 2017

Green Dot to Acquire UniRush, LLC, Operating Company for RushCard and Rapid! PayCard Transaction Expected to Generate Significant Strategic and Financial Synergies PASADENA, Calif.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Green Dot Corporation (NYSE:GDOT) today announced that it has entered into an agreement to acquire UniRush, LLC, and its operating businesses RushCard, a leading online direct-to-consumer general purpose reloadable prepaid card provider, and Rapid! PayCard, a leading corporate payroll card provider. The acquisition, which maps to “Step Five” of Green Dot’s “Six Step Plan” to enhance shareholder value, materially expands Green Dot’s scale with the addition of the RushCard and Rapid! PayCard installed customer bases, while establishing Green Dot as a formidable player in the growing... Read More

How to Open Your First IRA Account

by Stephanie Colestock @ Consumerism Commentary

Tue Feb 20 03:00:00 PST 2018

No more excuses. It’s time to open your first IRA account. We walk you through the entire process, including where to open your account. It’s easy! Establishing your first IRA, or Independent Retirement Account, is a big deal in the world of finance. This tax-advantaged account is a great way to save and invest for […]

The post How to Open Your First IRA Account appeared first on Consumerism Commentary.

8 Ways to Get Free Amazon Gift Cards

by Stephanie Colestock @ Consumerism Commentary

Tue Nov 21 14:44:00 PST 2017

The one thing better than an Amazon gift card is a free Amazon gift card. Here are eight ways to score free Amazon gift cards. If you’re anything like me, you’re used to seeing “Amazon” on your bank statement. Those boxes with blue tape are a mainstay on my front porch, delivering everything from vitamins […]

The post 8 Ways to Get Free Amazon Gift Cards appeared first on Consumerism Commentary.

Capital One 360 Savings Account Review

by Luke Landes @ Consumerism Commentary

Mon Mar 26 07:00:54 PDT 2018

Capital One 360 is one of the oldest online banks. In this review, we look at the savings products it offers, the interest rates, and the fees. When Capital One purchased ING Direct to create Capital One 360, it made a splash in the online savings account market. Now, Capital One 360 offers a whole […]

The post Capital One 360 Savings Account Review appeared first on Consumerism Commentary.

131 Retailers Will Ship for Free This Year

by Stephanie Colestock @ Consumerism Commentary

Fri Dec 08 04:00:00 PST 2017

On Free Shipping Day (December 15) 131 retailers will ship your purchases to you for free. Here are all the details you need to know. According to the latest statistics, over 55 percent of shoppers are now buying their Christmas gifts online. This isn’t surprising to me personally. With Amazon’s free Prime shipping, I do most […]

The post 131 Retailers Will Ship for Free This Year appeared first on Consumerism Commentary.

Successfully Plan for Holiday Shopping on a Budget [Downloadable Budget Sheet]

by Kara Vincent @ LRRCU

Wed Nov 15 04:02:02 PST 2017

‘Tis the season to be jolly! ‘Tis the season for the gifts, decorations, family, friends, and children on their best behavior. ‘Tis the season for overloaded shopping bags, impulse buying, and credit card bills. Wait! That doesn’t sound as cheery. In 2016, according to a survey conducted by The American Research Group Inc., Americans spent […]

The post Successfully Plan for Holiday Shopping on a Budget [Downloadable Budget Sheet] appeared first on LRRCU.

Discover Bank Online Savings Account Review

by Luke Landes @ Consumerism Commentary

Sun Feb 25 09:00:18 PST 2018

Discover Bank is an online only bank that offers excellent rates for savers with low fees. In this review, we cover its products, rates and fees. Interested in opening a savings account at Discover® Bank? Read this article first. Most every consumer knows the Discover brand, but for it’s extensive line of credit card products. […]

The post Discover Bank Online Savings Account Review appeared first on Consumerism Commentary.

Statement of Need / Request for Proposals for DETP and HIGH Residential Child Care Programs

by Vandana Desikan @ Maryland Department of Human Resources

Fri Nov 03 11:27:06 PDT 2017

Pre-Proposal Conference Date: Tuesday November 14, 2017 at 10:00 AM at the Department of Human Services; 311 W. Saratoga Street, Room 104 Proposal Due Date and Time: 3:00 PM Tuesday December 19, 2017 DHR AGENCY CONTROL NUMBER:SSA-SONGH-18-001-S  

The post Statement of Need / Request for Proposals for DETP and HIGH Residential Child Care Programs appeared first on Maryland Department of Human Resources.

How to Lose Birth Control Weight

by @ How to of the Day

Fri Mar 23 09:00:00 PDT 2018

Gaining weight is a fairly common (and annoying) side effect of some methods of birth control. If you find yourself packing on the pounds after starting a new birth control routine, you might need to take some action. You can try exercising regularly and eating a balanced diet to help minimize the water weight your body may be retaining. You can also try talking to your doctor about your symptoms, or even switching to another form of birth control with fewer hormonal side effects.

Planned Parenthood branch calls for ‘Disney princess who’s had an abortion’, then deletes tweet

by Joe Millitzer @ FOX2now.com

Wed Mar 28 07:32:55 PDT 2018

A Planned Parenthood branch in Pennsylvania is responding after tweeting that Disney should add an animated princess “who’s had an abortion” or is “pro-choice.” Planned Parenthood Keystone, a branch based in the Lehigh Valley, tweeted Tuesday: “We need a disney princess who’s had an abortion. We need a disney princess who’s pro-choice. We need a disney princess who’s an undocumented immigrant. We need a disney princess who’s actually a union worker. We need a disney princess who’s trans.” The tweet […]

‘Purina Pooches in Ballpark’ games lets Cards fans bring pets

by Staff Writer @ FOX2now.com

Wed Mar 28 06:46:54 PDT 2018

ST. LOUIS, MO —  Cardinal fans will soon be able to bring their furry friends to the ballpark. The 14th annual “Purina Pooches in Ballpark” game is on Saturday, May 5th. Tickets go on sale at 10am Wednesday. Last year’s event sold out in a matter of hours. Tickets are $155- dollars for a pet owner and a dog. Admission includes a pet goody bag filled with Purina samples, coupons, a buffet and unlimited water, soda and beer. Learn more and purchase […]

Five Big Strategic Shifts Bank and Credit Union CMOs Must Make

by Amber Sullivan @ The Financial Brand

Tue Mar 13 21:02:05 PDT 2018

Customer centricity, CX and digital transformation are among the dominant themes that preoccupy the most effective CMOs in the world today.

The post Five Big Strategic Shifts Bank and Credit Union CMOs Must Make appeared first on The Financial Brand.

Are Online Banks Safe?

by Rob Berger @ Consumerism Commentary

Tue Mar 20 07:00:35 PDT 2018

Online banking is a reality for everybody. Even traditional banks with branches offer account access online. But are online banks safe? Here are several tips to help keep your money secure online. This article was first published several years ago. At that time, most individuals were still doing their banking transactions in person or over […]

The post Are Online Banks Safe? appeared first on Consumerism Commentary.

How To Be Financially Smart At Any Age

by Kara Vincent @ LRRCU

Thu Aug 31 08:18:27 PDT 2017

  As you go through the stages of life what it means to be “financially smart” will change. A smart financial move when you’re approaching your 40s is not the same as a smart financial move for a 19-year-old in college. At 40, there are more things to consider when making decisions about your money, […]

The post How To Be Financially Smart At Any Age appeared first on LRRCU.

7 of the Best Places to Open an IRA in 2018

by Kevin Mercadante @ Consumerism Commentary

Tue Jan 16 03:00:00 PST 2018

Opening an IRA is an important decision. To help, here is our survey of the best IRA accounts for 2018, including fees and features of each option. Just about every bank, investment brokerage, and robo-advisor welcomes Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs). But there are a handful of institutions that stand out above the rest. Below are […]

The post 7 of the Best Places to Open an IRA in 2018 appeared first on Consumerism Commentary.

How to Wash High Windows

by @ How to of the Day

Sat Mar 24 01:00:00 PDT 2018

Cleaning high windows can be tricky, especially if they are above a sloped area or in a hard to reach spot. High windows also tend to get very dirty, especially if they have not been wiped or washed in awhile. Though you can hire a professional to wash high windows, doing them yourself can save you money and give you the satisfaction of maintaining them on your own. By using an extendable pole on a day that is not too sunny or hot, you can have clean, streak-free windows in no time.

How to Compare Handwriting Samples

by @ How to of the Day

Sun Mar 25 09:00:00 PDT 2018

Handwriting analysis is both an art and a science. Whether you want to compare handwriting samples for fun or for legal or forensic purposes, you’ll need a sharp eye. The first step is to obtain samples, which typically include a sample in question and several documents you know someone actually wrote. Examine each document individually, and look for formal, formatting, and stylistic quirks. Determine if samples share any of these subtle characteristics, and form a conclusion about the documents’ authorship based on your findings.

Should You Offer a Nonqualified Deferred Compensation Plan?

by Mike Kappel @ Payroll Tips, Training, and News

Mon Mar 26 05:10:00 PDT 2018

You know employees like employer-sponsored benefits. As an employer, offering benefits is advantageous for your business, too. A nonqualified deferred compensation plan is one type of benefit that both you and your employees can enjoy. Find out what a nonqualified deferred compensation plan is, why you might consider offering it, and how to set it […]

The post Should You Offer a Nonqualified Deferred Compensation Plan? appeared first on Payroll Tips, Training, and News.

Geotargeted Marketing Strategies: Using Location Data to Engage Banking Consumers

by Lisa Joyce @ The Financial Brand

Mon Mar 12 21:02:31 PDT 2018

Banks and credit unions can drive greater marketing ROI by leveraging location-based data from consumers' mobile devices.

The post Geotargeted Marketing Strategies: Using Location Data to Engage Banking Consumers appeared first on The Financial Brand.

How to Wash Jeans by Hand

by @ How to of the Day

Thu Mar 22 09:00:00 PDT 2018

Hand washing is a great way to extend the life of your favorite pair of jeans. It is a gentler process than machine washing and prevents, or at least slows, the fading and break down of fibers. Choose between hand washing your jeans in cool water or spot cleaning.

Cost Allocation Services

by Vandana Desikan @ Maryland Department of Human Resources

Fri Feb 16 07:32:34 PST 2018

SOLICITATION NO: N00B8400326 Issue Date: February 14, 2018 Pre-Proposal Conference: 02/26/2018 at 2:00 PM Local Time. 311 West Saratoga Street, Rm.508A Baltimore, Maryland, 21201. See Attachment E for Response Form Proposal Due Date: 03/30/2018 at 02:00 PM Local Time

The post Cost Allocation Services appeared first on Maryland Department of Human Resources.

The Best Travel Rewards Credit Cards of 2018

by Michael Pruser @ Consumerism Commentary

Tue Jan 30 05:00:49 PST 2018

Enjoy free travel with this list of the best travel rewards credit cards of 2018. I’ve personally used several of these credit cards for free flights and hotel stays. It’s time to plan your holiday travel. That may mean cashing in the travel rewards you’ve accumulated on credit cards–or it may mean starting to use […]

The post The Best Travel Rewards Credit Cards of 2018 appeared first on Consumerism Commentary.

Actor Corey Feldman says he was attacked and stabbed

by Joe Millitzer @ FOX2now.com

Wed Mar 28 07:54:25 PDT 2018

LOS ANGELES – Los Angeles police are investigating an alleged attack on actor Corey Feldman, who tweeted that he was hospitalized after being stabbed. Officer Drake Madison says Feldman was stopped at an intersection Tuesday night when an unknown male made a stabbing motion at his stomach and fled. Police say Feldman drove himself to a hospital. He is in stable condition. Madison says it doesn’t appear Feldman was cut in the alleged attack. Feldman, 46, appeared in “Stand By […]

How to Automate Your Savings

by Luke Landes @ Consumerism Commentary

Mon Mar 12 06:30:50 PDT 2018

A simply way to save more is to automate your savings. In this step-by-step guide, we show you how to put saving money on auto-pilot. Recently, I’ve been doing a lot of reading about the power of habits. Books like The Power of Habit and Making Habits, Breaking Habits have given me insight into how habits work. They’ve […]

The post How to Automate Your Savings appeared first on Consumerism Commentary.

5 Ways Fintech Firms Help Banks and Credit Unions

by Guest Contributor @ The Financial Brand

Wed Mar 14 18:03:14 PDT 2018

Combining benefits of traditional banking organizations and new fintech start-ups can improve the development of digital solutions and enhance the consumer experience.

The post 5 Ways Fintech Firms Help Banks and Credit Unions appeared first on The Financial Brand.

5 Ways Banks & Credit Unions Can Apply Machine Learning Today

by Guest Contributor @ The Financial Brand

Thu Mar 22 21:02:01 PDT 2018

Fueled by the large volumes of data available in today's digital world, machine learning has the power to completely transform the experience financial institutions deliver.

The post 5 Ways Banks & Credit Unions Can Apply Machine Learning Today appeared first on The Financial Brand.

National Teach Children to Save Day

by rapid! PayCard @ rapid! PayCard

Mon Apr 24 07:00:35 PDT 2017

Like any company that provides technology to make life easier, we examine the millennial demographic. They are the population sector interested in options – from ways to communicate, to ways to bank. In their April 2016, article, Pew Research Center cited estimates by the U.S. Census Bureau that millennials have now “surpassed Baby Boomers as the nation’s largest living generation”. A powerful consumer force, the members of this group are working “real jobs” and building careers. They are open to alternatives. They also need them as they don’t typically comply with traditional banking methods. Per rapid! PayCard’s October 2016 article about banking options for millennials and the flexibility of getting... Read More

Touchy Subject!

by Amanda @ My Financial Wingman

Wed Sep 28 14:27:01 PDT 2011

I read an interesting article today regarding awkward money situations. It was a fairly long, but the key point I took away from it was this; awkward money situations with friends or family can often be avoided if you use discretion and honesty. Tips Talk things out and don’t let annoyances bother you endlessly. This […]

Card PIN transaction issue with some cards.

by Kyle McDougal @ America's First Federal Credit Union

Sun Mar 04 10:55:19 PST 2018

Sunday March 4, 2018 We understand that some members are unable to successfully use their debit card as a PIN transaction, either at a merchant or an ATM. This appears to be related to the outage we experienced last Thursday evening. We continue to work closely with VISA and our processor to identify the cause of [...]

How to Change Your Name in Skype

by @ How to of the Day

Wed Mar 21 01:00:00 PDT 2018

This wikiHow teaches you how to change your Skype display name, which is the name people see when you appear in their contacts. You can change your Skype display name on the Skype website and on the mobile version of Skype, but you cannot change your Skype display name in the Skype program for Windows and Mac computers. You also can't change your Skype username without creating a new account.

Apple Pay Cash is Now Live — How Does it Work?

by rapid! PayCard @ rapid! PayCard

Tue Feb 13 15:11:25 PST 2018

Learn everything you need to know about the new Apple P2P payment system That one friend, the one who still hasn’t repaid you for pizza because he “doesn’t have the right app,” is in trouble. Today, iPhone users can access what experts in the tech industry are calling “the Venmo Killer”: Apple Pay Cash. Apple Pay cash is a P2P payment service which allows users to send and receive payment through iMessage The days of P2P fragmentation are over. Thanks to Apple Pay Cash, all money transfers can take place through a central, default iOS application, and ultimately unify all P2P transactions under one secure, and intuitive, system. How to... Read More

When to Pay Employees for FLSA Hours Worked

by Kaylee Riley @ Payroll Tips, Training, and News

Wed Mar 28 05:15:18 PDT 2018

When nonexempt employees are doing their primary job duties, it’s easy to tell that they are working. Their working time should be compensated. But, when nonexempt employees are not doing their main job duties, it can be more difficult to tell if they are working and if they should be compensated. The Fair Labor Standards […]

The post When to Pay Employees for FLSA Hours Worked appeared first on Payroll Tips, Training, and News.

Schedule a Check-up for Your Financial Life

by rapid! PayCard @ rapid! PayCard

Fri May 05 09:13:33 PDT 2017

Most of us are diligent about maintaining the various aspects of our life. We swap out the batteries on our smoke detectors with regularity; we schedule annual physicals, and get our car’s oil changed based on the manufacturer’s mileage recommendation. Still, many of us tend to take better care of our cars than we do our financial life. The irony being, an un-tended financial life can break down just as assuredly as an under-serviced automobile. It can run out of gas, but it can also seize up and need a roadside tow. In short, a well-examined financial life is worth exploring. 1. Schedule. Set a recurring point in time for... Read More

Store Credit Cards, Balance Transfers & More: Make the Smart Money Decision

by Liz Oliver @ LRRCU

Fri Oct 13 08:55:31 PDT 2017

Every day we’re faced with making decisions about our money. What feels like a smart money choice in the moment may have repercussions in the future. You might be tempted to save money on a purchase now only to have your credit score suffer.  You might choose to delay payments on a big ticket item […]

The post Store Credit Cards, Balance Transfers & More: Make the Smart Money Decision appeared first on LRRCU.

Video shows inmate escape jail by diving under closing garage door

by Joe Millitzer @ FOX2now.com

Wed Mar 28 08:19:26 PDT 2018

PORTER COUNTY, Ind. — An Indiana inmate who escaped custody by diving under a closing garage door on Monday has been caught, authorities said late Tuesday. In video released earlier Tuesday, Michael Maldonado can be seen dashing under a closing garage door at the jail as police transported him. He was handcuffed and barefoot at the time. Maldonado was arrested in Burns Harbor, Ind., and returned to Porter County Jail, according to police. When an officer made a traffic stop […]

Which Credit Card Should Be Your First?

by Aliyyah Camp @ Consumerism Commentary

Mon Nov 13 04:50:10 PST 2017

Getting a credit card as a young adult is a big step. To help, we’ve researched the best first credit card options and how to make this important choice. Getting your first credit card is a significant financial milestone. Maybe you’re a college student jumping into personal finance for the first time. Or maybe you’ve […]

The post Which Credit Card Should Be Your First? appeared first on Consumerism Commentary.

All 22 female senators, GOP and Democrat, just sent a very pointed letter to Senate’s male leaders

by E.A. Crunden @ ThinkProgress

Wed Mar 28 07:44:18 PDT 2018

A bipartisan letter signed by every woman in the Senate and circulated Wednesday slammed the body’s “inaction” on moving sexual assault legislation forward despite successful efforts in the House of Representatives. Led by Democratic Senators Amy Klobuchar (MN), Kirsten Gillibrand (NY), and Patty Murray (WA), the letter was sent to Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell […]

The growing gig economy, and what that means for electronic payment

by rapid! PayCard @ rapid! PayCard

Fri Aug 04 11:09:31 PDT 2017

Millions of Americans have jobs with little security, no benefits and irregular pay — and they love it. The gig economy is a booming business model that has changed the way employees make money. Gig work translates entrepreneurial spirit into earnings with no strings attached — whether that is to break into a new field, earn extra income for saving and investment, or make some weekend spending money. Nearly a third of the working population have a gig, according to Investopedia. Either as a primary means of income, or as a supplementary job, gigs allow flexibility in employment for a generation characterized by adaptability. This model is especially attractive to... Read More

How to Dress Up Jeans

by @ How to of the Day

Tue Mar 20 09:00:00 PDT 2018

While jeans are traditionally considered casual wear, the right pair can easily be dressed up for your next Casual Friday, romantic date, or night out with friends. As long as you start with the right jeans, you can create a dressy look with the right top, shoes, and accessories.

Best Robo Advisors

by Kevin Mercadante @ Consumerism Commentary

Tue Jan 23 03:00:00 PST 2018

A robo advisor can make it easy to invest in an IRA or taxable account. But how do you choose? Here’s our 2018 list of the best robo advisors for your money. This is something of a controversial topic. There are any number of “best robo-advisors” lists, and they all look a little bit different. […]

The post Best Robo Advisors appeared first on Consumerism Commentary.

Banks ‘backslide’ into financing the world’s most carbon-intensive fossil fuel projects

by Mark Hand @ ThinkProgress

Wed Mar 28 05:00:38 PDT 2018

In 2016, after the signing of the Paris climate agreement, there was a sharp decrease in bank financing for “extreme fossil fuels.” However, 2017 was a year of “backsliding” into financing the fossil fuel sector again, according to a new report. The world’s largest banks provided $115 billion in funding to the fossil fuel industry […]

Desperate right-wing smear campaign tries to compare Parkland survivor to Nazis

by Luke Barnes @ ThinkProgress

Tue Mar 27 15:41:16 PDT 2018

David Hogg has had to put up with a lot over the last month and a half. After a mass shooter killed 17 of his fellow classmates and teachers at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida in February, Hogg quickly started advocating for stricter gun control measures. Almost immediately, he was smeared by […]

Vacant north St. Louis home catches fire

by Staff Writer @ FOX2now.com

Wed Mar 28 05:00:44 PDT 2018

ST. LOUIS, MO — Fire crews are trying to figure out what sparked an early morning fire at a vacant home in north St. Louis County. The blaze broke out around 2am on Diamond Drive near Hobkirk Drive. A neighbor says he woke up to sounds of noise popping outside  and spotted the blaze. He then called 911. Fire crews quickly put out the flames.

Mother’s Day Gift Ideas

by Jodi @ My Financial Wingman

Mon May 06 07:46:08 PDT 2013

Mother’s day is just around the corner! May 12th in fact! If you’re like me and tend to wait until the last minute to figure out what your gift will be, I have good news! Not only do you not have to spend any money, but I have it under good authority that Mom’s Love […]

Barclays Online Savings Review

by Luke Landes @ Consumerism Commentary

Wed Mar 14 06:00:25 PDT 2018

Barclays online savings account offers one of the highest interest rates and lowest fees available today. In this review, we cover the details to help you determine if Barclays Bank is right for you. Barclays Bank is a relative newcomer to the U.S. online savings market. It’s been around as a bank, though, since 1690. […]

The post Barclays Online Savings Review appeared first on Consumerism Commentary.

How to Live in Japan

by @ How to of the Day

Wed Mar 28 09:00:00 PDT 2018

Japan is home to a unique and vibrant culture, along with stunning natural landscapes and exciting, ultra-modern cities. Additionally, Japan has one of the lowest crime rates in the world. While there are many advantages to living in Japan, moving to any new country requires careful preparation and a lot of adjustment. If you want to live in Japan, you will need to secure the right documents, find a place to live, and make sure that you have a source of income. Learn how to manage the ins and outs of daily life in Japan, and take time to get familiar with Japanese culture.

Fall Football Food

by Amanda @ My Financial Wingman

Tue Sep 18 09:01:40 PDT 2012

Getting together for the big game doesn’t have to stress you or your wallet out. Let’s face it, getting together is fun, but the dent it makes in your pocket book is not! So why not host a game party but ask everyone that will be attending to bring one ingredient from a dish you […]

Digital CX Now The Ultimate Factor In The Fate of Banking Brands

by Lisa Joyce @ The Financial Brand

Sun Mar 18 21:02:24 PDT 2018

Is there a future for traditional banks and credit unions? Yes, but everything now hinges entirely on the digital experience they deliver.

The post Digital CX Now The Ultimate Factor In The Fate of Banking Brands appeared first on The Financial Brand.

How to Keep a Dress Shirt from Riding Up

by @ How to of the Day

Thu Mar 22 01:00:00 PDT 2018

If you tend to have trouble keeping your shirt tucked in throughout the day, it may be time to try out a new method of holding it in place. First thing’s first—make sure that you’re wearing a dress shirt that’s been sized and cut specifically for your frame. You can then create a neat, trim profile by folding the excess fabric on the sides of the shirt before you tuck it in. If all else fails, invest in a pair of handy shirt stays or make the switch to a more casual untucked style.

How P2P Payment is Changing Personal Finance

by rapid! PayCard @ rapid! PayCard

Wed Sep 13 13:18:58 PDT 2017

Emerging Peer-to-peer payment technology is growing in popularity, and will soon make back-of-napkin IOUs obsolete. Peer-to-peer payment, also known as P2P payment, is online technology that allows users to transfer funds from a bank account or credit card via the internet or mobile phone. One study found that nearly a quarter of mobile users sent money to another person from an app in 2016 — this statistic nearly triples when it comes to the millennial generation. The growing trend of P2P payment is just another chapter in 21st century technological augmentation of traditional services. Whether it’s ridesharing, online shopping, or P2P payment, consumers are foregoing tradition, and choosing digital alternatives... Read More

The Massive Millennial Shake Up in Traditional Wealth Management

by Jim Marous @ The Financial Brand

Mon Mar 19 21:03:50 PDT 2018

As baby boomers change their financial objectives, the millennial investor provides wealth management opportunities that can't be ignored.

The post The Massive Millennial Shake Up in Traditional Wealth Management appeared first on The Financial Brand.

How to Find the Most Affordable Cell Phone Plans

by Abby Hayes @ Consumerism Commentary

Thu Jan 11 06:00:00 PST 2018

The cell phone company war bodes well for consumers, with cellular plans reaching all-time lows. Here are some of the cheapest cell phone plans we could find. Over the past few years, cell phone providers have declared an out-and-out war to win over consumers. This spells good things for the consumers, who can now take […]

The post How to Find the Most Affordable Cell Phone Plans appeared first on Consumerism Commentary.

Phone Call Scam

by Rebecca Smith @ America's First Federal Credit Union

Thu Feb 15 12:34:05 PST 2018

We have been made aware from some members, that someone posing as an America’s First employee is calling and offering a special loan rate and asking for sensitive information. This is a scam! Please remember that America’s First will never call you and ask for sensitive information over the phone.

Safe Online Banking: For You & Your Money

by Kara Vincent @ LRRCU

Mon Mar 26 13:44:22 PDT 2018

From 24/7 account access to quick and easy bill paying, online banking offers members a convenient way to handle their finances. However, the rise of technology also brings an increase in potential hackers, scams, and fraud cases. Whether you’re looking to shield your small business or family’s finances, there are many strategies to stay vigilant […]

The post Safe Online Banking: For You & Your Money appeared first on LRRCU.

Earther This Canadian Pipeline Battle Is Starting to Feel a lot Like Standing Rock | Film The Justic

by Kinja! on Kinja Roundup, shared by Virginia K. Smith to Lifehacker @ Lifehacker

Tue Mar 27 14:33:00 PDT 2018

Earther This Canadian Pipeline Battle Is Starting to Feel a lot Like Standing Rock | Film The Justice League Blu-ray is a bizarre exercise in hiding the truth about moviemaking | The Takeout Shake Shack fan’s shoutout to the chefs goes viral |

Read more...

How Will The Smartphone of the Future Impact Banking?

by Jim Marous @ The Financial Brand

Sun Mar 25 21:03:08 PDT 2018

Advances in smartphone technology and user growth provide opportunities for innovation and differentiation for banking organizations.

The post How Will The Smartphone of the Future Impact Banking? appeared first on The Financial Brand.

How to Activate Night Shift on an iPhone

by @ How to of the Day

Tue Mar 27 17:00:00 PDT 2018

This wikiHow teaches you how to turn on Night Shift on your iPhone, as well as how to schedule Night Shift to automatically come on during certain hours of the day. Night Shift is a blue-light filter that helps prevent interruptions to your circadian rhythm at night, which can improve your sleep.

Bringing Simplicity to Banking

by Michelle Brown @ The Financial Brand

Sun Mar 25 21:02:21 PDT 2018

With banking, people don’t want to have to think too hard or put forth a lot of effort. Today's consumer demands the banking experience be simple across every touchpoint.

The post Bringing Simplicity to Banking appeared first on The Financial Brand.

Mobile Deposit has Arrived!

by Amanda @ My Financial Wingman

Fri Oct 18 12:48:17 PDT 2013

We’re very excited to announce the newest feature within our smart phone app… Mobile Deposit! That’s right, you can deposit checks simply by taking a picture of the check! Submit deposits to your account after hours, on the go, when you’re out of town… ANYWHERE! It’s so easy. Sign up today and see! For more […]

Betsy DeVos is using school shootings to justify draconian new discipline guidelines

by Casey Quinlan @ ThinkProgress

Wed Mar 28 07:33:13 PDT 2018

Education Secretary Betsy DeVos and Republican lawmakers are considering moves that may undo years of progress in dismantling the school-to-prison pipeline. A White House commission on school safety plans to hold its first meeting on Wednesday. According to Politico, the first meeting will be closed press, but subsequent meetings will have open press. There are […]

4 Financial Resolutions To Start Any Day of the Year [Downloadable Family Budget Worksheet]

by Kara Vincent @ LRRCU

Thu Dec 28 00:09:30 PST 2017

Who says resolutions have to start on New Year’s Day?  Get yourself started whatever day you feel inspired.  Here are few important financial goals that you can begin whether it’s January 1, August 1 or a random Tuesday in November. #1: Look at the Financial Big Picture – Use Our Family Budget Worksheet You feel […]

The post 4 Financial Resolutions To Start Any Day of the Year [Downloadable Family Budget Worksheet] appeared first on LRRCU.

Financial Institutions Aren’t Prepared for the Digital Revolution

by Jim Marous @ The Financial Brand

Tue Mar 20 21:03:28 PDT 2018

As interview with Chris Skinner on his newest book, Digital Human, where he discusses the Digital Revolution and its impact on financial services.

The post Financial Institutions Aren’t Prepared for the Digital Revolution appeared first on The Financial Brand.

5 Best Money Market Rates for 2018

by Michael Pruser @ Consumerism Commentary

Thu Mar 22 03:00:00 PDT 2018

The best money market rates today pay interest in the top 5% of all deposit accounts. These rates come from online banks. Here’s our list of the top 5. I’ve never been a big saver. And that’s especially when it comes to putting money into an online savings account or money market. During the adult […]

The post 5 Best Money Market Rates for 2018 appeared first on Consumerism Commentary.

How to Lose Fat With Weights

by @ How to of the Day

Sat Mar 24 09:00:00 PDT 2018

If you want to get rid of stubborn body fat, adding strength training to your exercise regimen can help. To start losing fat, create a consistent weekly routine to build muscle and burn calories. One effective way to lose fat is doing compound exercises, which will work out multiple muscle groups at once. Keep in mind that to lose fat, you must ultimately burn more calories than you eat. Thus, you should also incorporate other healthy weight loss practices into your life.

How to Apply for a Credit Card Hardship Program

by Stephanie Colestock @ Consumerism Commentary

Wed Dec 13 04:00:00 PST 2017

A credit card hardship program can help you deal with mounting credit card debt. This guide walks you through these programs, including what they are, how they work, how to apply, and their effect on your credit score. No matter how particular you are with your budget, life can always knock everything off-kilter. Illness, injury, […]

The post How to Apply for a Credit Card Hardship Program appeared first on Consumerism Commentary.

Why Financial Institutions Are Betting on Multi-Sensory Branch Experiences

by Guest Contributor @ The Financial Brand

Mon Mar 19 21:01:53 PDT 2018

Here's how banks and credit unions are using all five senses to shape people's perceptions of their brands in branch environments.

The post Why Financial Institutions Are Betting on Multi-Sensory Branch Experiences appeared first on The Financial Brand.

How to Wait for an Exciting Event

by @ How to of the Day

Mon Mar 26 01:00:00 PDT 2018

It’s always fun to have an event to look forward to, but it can be hard to stay patient when you have to wait for something you’re excited about. The more you focus on the future event, the more you want it to happen right away. Fortunately, if you keep a busy schedule, try new things, and focus on the present, time will go by before you know it.

Spring has Sprung!!!

by Amanda @ My Financial Wingman

Thu Mar 29 10:00:39 PDT 2012

Spring is here… which always makes me want to redecorate or go shopping! Since I don’t always have the budget to pick up things I like, I have found a way to get new things without spending any money! The best part? My friends benefit too! It’s called a Swap Party, and anyone can do it. […]

Meet 11 of the Most Interesting Chatbots in Banking

by Jim Marous @ The Financial Brand

Tue Mar 13 21:03:23 PDT 2018

The use of chatbots in the banking industry is exploding, with a variety of ways to apply the technology and improve the digital experience.

The post Meet 11 of the Most Interesting Chatbots in Banking appeared first on The Financial Brand.

Zions Bank Online Savings Account Review

by Luke Landes @ Consumerism Commentary

Fri Dec 15 06:30:47 PST 2017

In our detailed Zions Bank review, we cover its savings products, rates, and fees. We also compare it to other online banking options. As of today, Zions Bank offers one of the highest interest rates among high-interest savings accounts. But is it worthwhile to move your money there to take advantage of this interest rate? […]

The post Zions Bank Online Savings Account Review appeared first on Consumerism Commentary.

Couponing 101: Chapter 2

by AmandaC @ My Financial Wingman

Thu Oct 06 13:34:34 PDT 2011

I don’t think I’m cut out for extreme couponing. Anyone who knows me will testify that I love a good deal, but I really struggle to get into the couponing craze. Our former wingman, Cate, dove into the trend a few months back and documented a successful first trip. She also had a successful second […]

How to Transfer an Image Onto Glass

by @ How to of the Day

Tue Mar 20 17:00:00 PDT 2018

Putting an image onto a glass object—such as a glass, mason jar, mirror, or window—is a way to personalize and decorate your living space. You can transfer any type of image that has been printed from a laser printer, or that you find in a book or magazine. To transfer an image onto glass, fix adhesive packing tape to the image you’d like to transfer. Soak the image and tape in warm water, then remove the paper and stick the image onto a glass object. Alternately, you can use a gel transfer medium to move the image directly on to a glass surface.

How Banks and Credit Unions Can Survive Rising Interest Rates

by Lisa Joyce @ The Financial Brand

Sun Mar 11 21:02:40 PDT 2018

To make a significant difference in the amount of deposits you attract — and keep — the marketing strategy for your deposit products will have to shift.

The post How Banks and Credit Unions Can Survive Rising Interest Rates appeared first on The Financial Brand.

How to Break Boards with Your Bare Hands

by @ How to of the Day

Thu Mar 22 17:00:00 PDT 2018

Learning how to break boards with your bare hands can be done right at home. Start by conditioning your hands to get them ready for striking, and make sure your board is set up properly and safely. By having confidence in your ability to break the board and following some simple strategies, you'll soon master the martial arts stunt of board-breaking.

15 Applications of AI and Machine Learning in Financial Marketing

by Jim Marous @ The Financial Brand

Sun Mar 18 21:04:59 PDT 2018

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and machine learning are very powerful marketing tools that must be used by banks and credit unions to meet consumer expectations.

The post 15 Applications of AI and Machine Learning in Financial Marketing appeared first on The Financial Brand.

Consult This Employee Termination Checklist to Keep Things Running Smoothly

by Rachel Gray @ Payroll Tips, Training, and News

Wed Mar 07 05:10:00 PST 2018

Employees leave companies every day to pursue growth opportunities, accommodate personal lives, or experience change. As an employer, you hope employees won’t leave your business, but you know this is wishful thinking. When an employee resigns, you need to know what to do. The average annual overall turnover rate is 19%, according to SHRM. If […]

The post Consult This Employee Termination Checklist to Keep Things Running Smoothly appeared first on Payroll Tips, Training, and News.

2018 United TravelBank Card Review – WalletHub Editors

by John S Kiernan @ Wallet HubWallet Hub

Fri Mar 23 01:00:46 PDT 2018

Posted by: John S Kiernan

EDITOR’S RATING

Your Guide to Direct Deposit During the Holidays

by rapid! PayCard @ rapid! PayCard

Thu Nov 16 05:07:27 PST 2017

The holiday season is around the corner, which for some means eggnog and lights on display, but for others it means payroll delays. Automated payment through direct deposit is proven to be more efficient, secure and cost-effective than paper checks. Still, there are a few considerations to keep in mind when switching over to electronic payment — especially around the holidays. The holiday season is a double-edged sword: it’s likely the most expensive time of the year, but is also full of banking holidays which can affect the timeliness of direct deposit. Here’s why. What is the ACH and why does it matter? The Automated Clearing House is an electronic... Read More

Do You Know About the 2017 Tax Filing Extension?

by Liz Oliver @ LRRCU

Thu Mar 15 02:14:14 PDT 2018

The date April 15 is probably as quickly recognizable to most Americans as July 4 or December 25. Traditionally recognized as Tax Day, it’s the deadline for filing your previous year’s tax return.  With one month to go, you may be feeling the pressure and scrambling to get the task completed in the remaining days.  But […]

The post Do You Know About the 2017 Tax Filing Extension? appeared first on LRRCU.

A Look at Federal, State, and Local Minimum Wages

by Mike Kappel @ Payroll Tips, Training, and News

Wed Mar 21 05:30:00 PDT 2018

You can’t just pay your employees any amount you want. You must follow federal, state, and local laws that set minimum wages. What is minimum wage? Minimum wage is the lowest amount you can pay an employee per hour of work. You can pay more than the minimum wage, but you should never pay less […]

The post A Look at Federal, State, and Local Minimum Wages appeared first on Payroll Tips, Training, and News.

How to Track Mileage Without an Odometer

by @ How to of the Day

Mon Mar 26 17:00:00 PDT 2018

Whether you’ve got a busted odometer or you’d just rather not have to do a lot of mental gymnastics to calculate your annual mileage for work-related tax deductions, there are a couple simple ways to find out how many miles you’re averaging. Downloading a mileage tracker app for your smartphone can take all the guesswork out of adding up your drive time by automatically ticking off the miles while you’re on the road. If you only make the occasional business trip, consider simply plotting out your route and recording the estimated distance in advance.

Saint Louis University holding e-waste recycling drive

by Joe Millitzer @ FOX2now.com

Wed Mar 28 05:46:27 PDT 2018

ST. LOUIS, MO — It’s time for some spring cleaning. St. Louis University is sponsoring an e-waste recycling drive Wednesday. Students are collecting used electronics, appliances and paper on a lot next to Chaifetz Arena. The event started at 7am and runs until 2pm. It’s all part of the “Recyclmania” competition among college students across the country. Last year, SLU came in third for collecting over 60 tons of electronic equipment. Saint Louis University says they charge a fee to […]

Discover it® – Cashback Match™ Review

by Joe Taylor Jr. @ Consumerism Commentary

Wed Nov 22 13:00:49 PST 2017

Learn More The Discover it® – Cashback Match™ makes a habit of saying no. No annual fee, no late fee on your first late payment, and no APR hike for paying late. Discover®’s latest incarnation of cash back cards aims to simplify the relationship between cardholder and card issuer into one of easy cooperation. The […]

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Former Disney star joins White House press team

by Joe Millitzer @ FOX2now.com

Wed Mar 28 05:22:05 PDT 2018

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The White House press office is getting a bit more Sunshine these days — former Disney Channel star Caroline Sunshine, that is. She’s joining the team as a press assistant. Sunshine, 22, is known for her role alongside Zendaya as Tinka Hessenheffer in “Shake It Up,” a Disney Channel show about teen dancers that ran from 2010 to 2013. She was also in the 2010 film “Marmaduke,” among other roles. The California native has established her career apart from […]

How Financial Services CEOs Can Embrace Social and Lead By Example

by Guest Contributor @ The Financial Brand

Thu Mar 08 21:03:21 PST 2018

Social media is an important communications tool for bank and credit union CEOs, providing a 'voice' to customers, employees, partners and shareholders.

The post How Financial Services CEOs Can Embrace Social and Lead By Example appeared first on The Financial Brand.

What You Need to Know About a Qualifying Life Event

by Rachel Gray @ Payroll Tips, Training, and News

Mon Mar 12 05:10:40 PDT 2018

Employees have a window of time each year to sign up for certain types of employer-sponsored insurance. Although this open enrollment period takes place at the end of each year for all employees, an employee can add or remove coverage at any time of the year if they have a qualifying life event. What is […]

The post What You Need to Know About a Qualifying Life Event appeared first on Payroll Tips, Training, and News.

Are You Ready for Retirement?: Essential Information on IRAs and 401(k)s

by Kara Vincent @ LRRCU

Tue Aug 22 03:05:44 PDT 2017

While you’re young, you may not be thinking about saving for retirement. You’re probably more focused on paying off student loan debt, searching for a job, or buying a house. But, starting to save for your financial future early will only benefit you in the long run. Start your retirement planning as early as you can. Think […]

The post Are You Ready for Retirement?: Essential Information on IRAs and 401(k)s appeared first on LRRCU.

What Is an FEIN?

by Mike Kappel @ Payroll Tips, Training, and News

Mon Feb 26 05:10:00 PST 2018

When you run a business, you must meet many IRS requirements. You might need an FEIN to identify your business on documents like payroll tax forms. What does FEIN mean? What is an FEIN? FEIN is an acronym for Federal Employer Identification Number, also known as an EIN. This unique, nine-digit number is used by […]

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How to Cope with Nicotine Withdrawal

by @ How to of the Day

Fri Mar 23 01:00:00 PDT 2018

If you have been a smoker for a while, you may experience nicotine withdrawal symptoms—intense cravings, headaches, anger, trouble sleeping, and even anxiety or depression—when you attempt to quit. These undesirable side effects of quitting may tempt you to pick the habit back up. But, if you seek support, come up with a plan to deal with triggers, and practice good self-care, the symptoms will eventually subside. Hold out and give it time— you'll get through withdrawal and be smoke-free sooner than you think!

Why every business should consider switching to electronic payroll

by rapid! PayCard @ rapid! PayCard

Thu Oct 05 05:37:57 PDT 2017

Due to advancements in technology, utilizing payroll checks is becoming an outdated form of payment. Automated payment through direct deposit saves time and money, enhances security1, 2 and can make payday easy for employers and employees. Yet, resistance to modern banking solutions like direct deposit and paycards prevent many businesses from progressing in the 21st century. Paycard technology is growing in popularity, and as the benefits of switching to electronic payroll compound,  it becomes more difficult for businesses to avoid trying out alternative payment methods such as the rapid! PayCard. Still not convinced? Here are 3 reasons why paycheck holdouts are making the switch to a more convenient, modern, and... Read More

Why In-Store Supermarket Branches Are a Bad Idea

by Guest Contributor @ The Financial Brand

Wed Mar 14 20:03:16 PDT 2018

In-store branch locations may seem appealing in theory, but compared to traditional branches, they are rarely successful.

The post Why In-Store Supermarket Branches Are a Bad Idea appeared first on The Financial Brand.

The Correct Way to Pay Off Personal Debt: The Debt Avalanche

by Luke Landes @ Consumerism Commentary

Fri Dec 01 05:00:46 PST 2017

The debt avalanche is the fastest and cheapest way to pay off you debts. But is it always the best way? Sometimes the debt snowball may be better. When it comes to math, things are pretty straightforward. No matter what language you speak, one and one always equals two. And, in theory, finances should work […]

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RESOLVED Card Processing Problem

by Kyle McDougal @ America's First Federal Credit Union

Thu Mar 01 19:31:24 PST 2018

America’s First Federal Credit Union would like to thank everyone for their patience. All cards are active now.

50 Tips to Help Establish Your Emergency Fund

by Luke Landes @ Consumerism Commentary

Tue Nov 14 05:00:21 PST 2017

50 Ways to build an emergency fund. Tips, tricks and strategies on saving more for emergencies and where to keep your rainy day money. There’s a reason Dave Ramsey’s famous Baby Step #1 is to build an emergency fund. It helps people get on track for becoming financially independent. I don’t agree with everything Ramsey […]

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Five Key Things Financial Marketers Need to Know About Gen Z Now

by Guest Contributor @ The Financial Brand

Tue Mar 20 21:02:32 PDT 2018

Here are the relevant characteristics that define Gen Z — what financial marketers need to know so they can get ahead of this massive demographic trend.

The post Five Key Things Financial Marketers Need to Know About Gen Z Now appeared first on The Financial Brand.