Blogs

Short and sweet, we're here to help with blog posts.

Illinois Extension educators have advice to carry you through all the stages of life: college, family, children, retirement. Read a blog post to help you with life's daily financial challenges.

Finance educators across the state share their experiences and knowledge.

Plan Well, Retire Well Blog
Smiling woman with computer

Should I do my own tax preparation?

Is it better to pay someone else or file your taxes by yourself? Many people can do their own taxes effectively, especially when using the tax preparation software programs that help complete the forms. However, other people benefit by hiring a professional to do their taxes.
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Stormy clouds over field

Weathering the storm.

Natural disasters and other emergencies are unexpected, often dangerous, and require immediate action. They come in many forms and can affect any of us. Developing a financial plan helps reduce the stress and anxiety that comes with these challenging and life-changing experiences.
Read More.
People shopping for vegetables

How to realistically save money on food.

How can you keep your costs down? Planning our food purchases and comparison-shopping can help. Considering the season when purchasing fruits and vegetables also makes sense.
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Is this your first gig at adulting?

College may be the first time you're making your own decisions about money. From takeout meals to apartment leases, bad habits can be costly and stay with you for years to come. Illinois Extension has advice to walk you through the early financial situations you'll face in college. Read our blog posts or talk to one of Illinois Extension's Money Mentor volunteers to get started on the right path to financial security.

Be 'Centsible' with Money
Blog Articles
How can I save money while on vacation?
How can I save money while on vacation?
Vacations are costly, even if you start planning months before your vacation. While you are on the trip food, activities, and nightlife can get...
What are loans, scholarships, and grants?
What are loans, scholarships, and grants?
Choosing the right college can be daunting. One concern students often have when applying to college is the affordability of their college tuition....
How can I save up for my next big event?
How can I save up for my next big event?
As college students, money often runs tight, but we still want to blow off steam going to fun events or activities. I often find myself wondering how...
How can I prepare for a vacation?
How can I prepare for a vacation?
Traveling as a student can seem impossible. Between the checks from low paying university jobs and monthly allowances from parents, sometimes we must...
What are some common credit misconceptions?
What are some common credit misconceptions?
There are a lot of misconceptions around various personal finance topics. Many of this misinformation stems from confusion around credit scores and...
People shaking hands
What should I ask about a company's 401K when starting my first job?
Fantastic, you made it through college, walked across the stage at graduation, received your diploma, and got that first career job offer. What...
How can I stay motivated in achieving my financial goals?
How can I stay motivated in achieving my financial goals?
Congratulations! You have taken action to get your financial life in order. Whether your goal is saving, budgeting, investing, or repaying debt, the...
Do you really need that? 
Do you really need that? 
In an age dominated by social media and keeping up with the latest trends, it is easy to overspend on “wants” and ignore spending on “needs”. It ...
Around the Table: Family-Finances-Food
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