That first paycheck feels good, and you’ve earned every dollar of it. Before it disappears on gas, food, and a few online purchases, take a minute to decide what you want it to do for you. So, what should you do with your first paycheck? Start...
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July 7, 2026
Buying a Home Family Financial Planning Home Improvement Mortgage
Is it better to build or buy a home in a small town? The answer depends on your timeline, budget, location needs, and how much control you want over the finished home. Buying an existing house may help you move sooner, while building can give you more...
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June 25, 2026
As summer winds down, it’s a natural time to look around your home and think about what could use a little attention before fall sets in. Maybe you’re planning to sell in the next year, or maybe you just want your space to feel a little more...
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June 25, 2026
Summer can get pricey before you realize it. Between extra gas, weekend plans, cookouts, fair season, home projects and higher utility bills, those “little” expenses can add up fast. If your budget could use a little breathing room, a summer...
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April 5, 2026
April is here, and you know what that means: longer days, spring planting, and… financial literacy? Hear us out. Money Smart Week (April 5–12, 2026) is a national campaign focused on helping everyday folks feel more confident about managing...
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April 2, 2026
Between budgets, bills, savings goals, and credit scores, it’s easy to push those “I’ll deal with it later” thoughts to the back burner. Well, April is Financial Literacy Month, so it’s the perfect time to tackle those thoughts....
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October 7, 2025
October is National Retirement Security Month, and for many Iowans, it hits close to home. A recent survey found that nearly half of Iowa residents feel unprepared for retirement. If you’re in your 30s or turning 40 soon, you might be wondering:...
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June 17, 2025
Starting your first job is a big milestone—and for many teens, it’s their first taste of financial independence. Whether your teen is working a summer gig or kicking off a longer-term role, it’s the perfect time to teach the basics of...
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March 20, 2025
As the seasons change, many of us take the opportunity to declutter our homes and organize our lives. But what about our finances? Spring is the perfect time to review your subscriptions and make some changes to save money and simplify your spending. Why...
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February 26, 2025
When it comes to our overall well-being, mental health is just as important as physical health. However, did you know that money can have a significant impact on our mental health? Financial stress, in particular, can be a major contributor to anxiety,...
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