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What to Do in Tough Economic Times

You hear it from your parents . . . You hear it from your teachers . . . You hear it on TV . . . We’re in tough economic times here in the United States and around the world. As a teen, you may think there is not much that you can do to help your family stretch the budget to cover the costs of food, clothing and other expenses. But think again. Here are a few suggestions to make small changes in your lifestyle that may make a big difference:

• Eat out less.
• Offer to do more tasks at home. If your parent has to work a second job to bring in extra income, you can be a big help by offering to help out more around the house. You could even learn to cook simple meals and offer to make dinner once or twice a week.
• Get a part-time job and offer to pay for more of your own expenses.
  Check out www. snagajob.com
• Recycle clothing. Thrift and consignment stores have long been the secret of the trendy and fashionable on a budget. Have a swap day with your friends. You can swap clothing, DVDs, books, magazines, video games . . . the sky’s the limit. Understand what you really NEED versus what you WANT.
• Do the movie math. Movie at the theater + large popcorn = $12.00. Rental movie + microwave popcorn at home = $4.50. Borrowed movie from the library or friend + microwave popcorn = $1.50.
• Carry less cash. It’s simple: Less cash, less spending on candy bars, soft drinks and other stuff that you might buy “just because” you have the money handy.

 

I want to:
(Info about VSECU products and services)

• Join VSECU
• Open a Savings Account
• Open a Checking Account
• Apply for an ATM/Visa Check Card (Debit Card)
• Apply for a Credit Card
• Apply for a Car Loan

 

Help! I also want to know how to:

• Set up a budget
• Get my free credit report
• Build a good credit score
• Find ways to save money
  
  
  
  
  

Other great resources:

• Credit Unions Rock
• High School Financial Planning Program
• Money Talks
• Consumer Jungle

 

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