​Recovering from identity theft can be tough. There are easy steps you can take each day to keep your identity safe and secure. The information below outlines a few best practices to help keep your personal information from falling into the wrong hands in-person or online. You’ll also find some trusted credit monitoring services if you want some back-up security. We hope this information helps you avoid identity theft and find more peace-of-mind in your daily life!

Studies show that unwanted sales calls, robocalls and outright scam calls are on the rise. Between the extended tax season and COVID-19 pandemic, scammers had many reasons to call this year, and they’re not stopping yet. So how can you tell which calls are legitimate, and which ones are better off sent straight to voicemail or even blocked?

To help you spot these phony calls, we compiled a few tips, so you’ll never have to fall victim to scammers or illegal sales tactics. The information we're sending this month contains common types of phone scams and offers best practices for handling calls that look like they are from your bank or another local number but may actually be scammers. You’ll learn where to report illegal scams and robocalls and what Apps you can get to block pesky spam calls.

These tips will help you protect your personal information and give you one less thing to stress about in 2020. As always, if we can assist you or your family in any way to protect you from these common scams, we're here for you!

​If you’ve already spruced up your curb appeal, perhaps you’re ready to tackle some projects inside the home! Spending so much time at home during the past several months probably has you dreaming up a few improvements for your space — the information below contains innovative, easy-to-use apps that help you plan the perfect renovation! Learn where to get inspiration, how to start your planning and a few tools to use as you start your projects. You don’t have to take on a home renovation alone, either! We know a great contractor who can make your renovation dreams a reality in a healthy and safe manner. Just give us a call! 

It goes without saying that deep down, every homeowner aspires to have the most beautiful property on the block! Your home is your little piece of the neighborhood, so of course you want it to turn some heads. Now is the perfect time to make your home stand out!

Take advantage of the warm late-summer weather and spruce up your home’s exterior to make it shine. The information I’m sending this month offers simple ways to make your front yard pop. You’ll also get step-by-step instructions on how to create the most beautiful garden in town and what plants will thrive during the fall. All of these small changes will do wonders for your curb appeal and even improve your home’s value should you decide to sell this year or next.

It may be August but there’s no need to curb your enthusiasm when it comes to boosting curb appeal! Beautifying your home will benefit you and your neighbors year-round. If you start to think about selling, give us a call — we're happy to walk you through the process in a way that’s safe and healthy!

When peer-to-peer payment (P2P) apps and mobile wallets make it so easy to spend cash in a flash, it’s good to have a roadmap you can follow to stay on top of your expenses. This information provides some strategies to help you account for cashless means of spending in your budget. Get tips on how to spend responsibly when it comes to P2P apps and other contactless methods of payment. Plus, check out a few great budgeting apps to keep you on track along the way. So whenever you tap your phone or card to pay, you’ll know exactly how that fits into your budget — even if it didn’t actually feel like spending!

As we come through the impact of COVID-19, contactless forms of payment have become more common over the past several months and, going forward, will be important in everyday life. Contactless payment tech is easy to use and healthier than exchanging cash, making it an attractive option for consumers looking for safety and convenience at the grocery store, takeout counter or in some cases, the gas pump.
 
As this technology continues to catch on in your community, and across the world, we wanted to send you a quick guide to how it all works. The information we are sending this month explains the various forms of contactless payment and where you can use it, plus some security tips for paying with your phone. You’ll learn more about popular peer-to-peer payment apps that allow you to pay someone back without handing off cash.
 
Our society isn’t going totally cashless anytime soon, but contactless payment is proving to be a secure, cleaner option at the checkout counter. Hope this helps you out next time you’re on a grocery run!

Did you know that sleep is a huge part of any self-care routine? It’s an easy thing to overlook, especially if stress has you tossing and turning or spending late nights on Netflix. To truly reset and refocus after a difficult time, you need to physically refresh with some quality shuteye. Below is some information to help you understand how sleep works and some tips on how to adjust your routine for better night’s rest. You’ll start feeling more refreshed and re-centered in no time! 

The events of the past few months have been unparalleled. Now more than ever, it is important to stay on your A-game and keep your spirits lifted. Be sure to spend some time taking care of yourself!
 
As you continue to navigate your personal situation, we want to share some tips for focusing on your own well-being. The information we're sending this month includes ways to reset your goals and to reboot your routine so that you feel recharged and ready to support your family, friends and community. You’ll also learn a few helpful ways to practice self-care, so that your emotional wellness remains in great shape.
 
While we can’t control what happens to us, we can control how we view those situations. We hope this information helps you and your family stay strong, hopeful and encouraged as you move through your daily lives. If we can help in anyway, please do not hesitate to call!

​Social distancing doesn’t have to pause your social interaction! Fortunately, the digital world has made it easier than ever to stay connected with friends and family from afar. In the eReport below, you’ll find everything you need to know to plan the perfect online gathering. Learn what video platforms to use, how to send invites and even ways to play games or watch movies at the same time — but not in the same place. Enjoy! 

Recently, we have been receiving much information regarding COVID-19.  As we continue to navigate uncertainty together, it is important to remember that THIS TOO SHALL PASS. That’s why this month, we want to share information to help you prepare for life after these trying times.
 
Credit is one subject that will always be important, which is why this Item of Value is helping separate credit facts from fiction. No matter what your current financial situation is, you can use this information to become a credit master and strengthen your own score down the line.

There is also a breakdown of the different scoring models to highlight habits that will help you achieve credit success.
Even though the world seems to be on pause right now, the situation will pass. When it does, you will be ready to view your credit situation with fresh eyes and come out stronger, no matter where you started. In the meantime, please know that we are here for you and your family during these challenging times. If there’s anything we can do to help, do not hesitate to call. Stay healthy!