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Category: February 2023

Financial Tips

Posted on by djbechard

Create a vacation savings account.  Rename a savings account to the location of your vacation destination. Set up a recurring deposit into that account either from your paycheck or checking account.

Take advantage of your retirement contribution match. Don’t leave free money on the table. Some employers will deposit into your 401(k)-retirement account based on the amount you put in yourself. This is a great way to increase your retirement savings. Find out your employer’s match and start maximizing your earnings.  If you are self-employed and need to find your own retirement plan, reach out to your financial institution and ask about their individual retirement account (IRA) options.

Take $5 to treat yourself when your taxes are filed. One aspect of positive money management is to bring joy and celebrate. Reward yourself for financial discipline!

File your taxes early – Three benefits from filing early:

  1. Receive your return faster.
  2. Allow more time to make your refund work for you.
  3. If you owe money in taxes, you’ll have more time to plan and prepare your payment.

For more information on how to get ready to file taxes, visit the Get Ready page of IRS.gov at https://www.irs.gov/individuals/steps-to-take-now-to-get-a-jump-on-next-years-taxes

By: Brenda Langdon

Sweet Ideas Without Added Sugar

Posted on by djbechard

It seems like most holidays focus on food, and usually include something sweet like candy, chocolate, or desserts. Don’t get me wrong, I love a yummy piece of chocolate! But if you’re looking to make this Valentine’s Day a little healthier for you and your family, consider starting the day with a fruit-filled smoothie or a parfait. I love smoothies and parfaits because you don’t need to follow a recipe. Choose your family’s favorite fruits and yogurt, place in a blender with a little bit of milk or 100% fruit juice and blend to a desired consistency for a smoothie. For a parfait, layer fruit and yogurt, then top with granola or nuts.

Fruit is a quick, easy, and healthy Valentine’s treat. While looking for ideas for my children, I came across two cute ideas using clementines and apples sauce. The messages read, “Happy Valentine’s Day, Cutie” and “You’re AWESOMEsauce, Valentine.” Be creative and think outside the (candy) box.

Visit with your children about healthier alternatives and let them help you pick them out at the store. Here are some additional non-food Valentine ideas for daycare or school:

  • Friendship bracelets
  • Toy cars
  • Bubbles
  • Sidewalk chalk
  • Balloons
  • Glow sticks
  • Bouncy balls
  • Pencils
  • Erasers

By: Jamie Rathbun

We’re Hiring!

Posted on by djbechard

K-State Research and Extension Post Rock District is taking applications for a full-time Office Professional to be located in the Lincoln, KS office.
The Office Professional provides general administrative support to the local K-State Research and Extension educational program. This position offers work-life balance, sense of purpose, competitive pay, benefits, and more!
Visit www.postrock.ksu.edu for position description and application procedure. Position is open until filled.
K-State Research and Extension Post Rock District is an equal opportunity provider and employer. A criminal background check is required.