With FTC and FBI reports showing billions lost to cybercrime in 2024, we stress the importance of vigilance, real‑time alerts, and identity protection tools. In this episode, we break down the rising threat of identity theft, from phone and email scams to crypto fraud and even AI-driven voice cloning. We also share personal experiences and practical advice to help listeners stay proactive and prevent fraud.

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*Better Checking is not an insurance product

As we step into a new year, now is the perfect time to start fresh-and that includes safeguarding yourself against tax identity theft. Everyone is at risk of falling victim to tax identity theft, and thousands of Americans are impacted by this crime each year. Fraudsters often target taxpayers early in the year, hoping to take advantage of the busy tax season preparations. 

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Welcome to Money Tip Tuesday from the Making Money Personal podcast.  

According to the IRS, tax-related identity theft occurs when someone uses your stolen personal information, including your Social Security number (SSN), to file a tax return claiming a fraudulent refund. A successful scammer can create an online return using your SSN, even if they don’t spell your name right. Once the fraudulent account is established, they can not only use it to file taxes on your behalf and receive your refund but also to receive future payments from the federal government. The criminals are adept at using accounts that funnel money into prepaid debit cards so that it is untraceable and unrecoverable. 

Here are five tips to help you avoid becoming the next victim and help protect yourself against tax-related identity theft. 

Keep your Social Security number (SSN) or individual tax identification number (ITIN) in a secure location. When asked for these numbers, be skeptical and verify that it is a legitimate need. Additionally, keep your home computer security software up to date, and run regular software updates on your connected devices, including the seemingly less risky ones like smartwatches. 

The sooner you submit your tax return, the harder it is for fraudsters to submit a fake one in your name. As soon as you have the necessary documentation, go ahead and take care of this right away. Always file taxes through a reputable service and use a secure internet connection if filing online; avoid transmitting such sensitive information through public Wi-Fi. You may consider filing through IRS Free File Guided Tax Software. If you feel more comfortable relying on a professional to prepare your tax return, choose your tax preparer with care. 

Regularly check account statements for any unusual activity. Your first sign of tax identity theft this season will usually be a letter from the IRS after filing your return, informing you that one has already been filed using your SSN. Year-round, expected payments that are not received are another sign to watch for. Also be mindful of any tax reporting documents from employers you have never worked with. Rather than ignoring them, follow up to ensure someone else hasn’t stolen your identity and taken a job using your information. 

Beware of unsolicited emails, phone calls, or text messages asking for personal information, and verify the source before you respond. Remember, the IRS will never initiate contact with taxpayers by email, text, or social media to request personal or financial information, including your taxpayer Identity Protection PIN, nor will they ever threaten lawsuits or arrest. 

Visit the IRS online account website (www.irs.gov) to create your account now and monitor it regularly. While a lot of personal information is required to create the account, once you have done so, you can monitor your tax activity throughout the year, including if a return has been filed in your name. Through your online IRS account, you can then request an Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN). Once established, the PIN must be included on your federal tax return in order for it to be processed as valid. 

Remember, even with all these precautions, tax-related identity theft can still happen. That’s why Triangle Credit Union offers Fully Managed Identity Theft Recovery services for Better Checking account holders. If you suspect your identity has been compromised or you suspect identity theft for any reason, Identity Theft Recovery Advocates will help you recover and mitigate any damage. Learn more about Better Checking at trianglecu.org or click the link in the show notes.  

If there are any other tips or topics you would like us to cover, let us know at [email protected]. Like and follow our Making Money Personal FB and IG page and look for our sponsor, Triangle Credit Union on social media to share your thoughts.  

Thanks for listening to today’s Money Tip Tuesday and check out our other tips and episodes on the Making Money Personal podcast.  

Have a great day! 

So many of us look over our finances in the new year, not only to look back on how much we spent during the holidays, but also to optimize our finances going forward. It's time to look at ways to free up some money this year and one of those ways might involve examining your existing auto loan. 

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Welcome to Money Tip Tuesday from the Making Money Personal podcast. 

The holidays might be over, but the spending continues. If you’re recovering from holiday spending, you’re probably tallying up the money you’ve spent, planned, and unplanned.    

4 Reasons to Refinance Your Car This Winter   

One of the benefits of refinancing your auto loan, when you qualify for a lower rate, is that your monthly payment can decrease, which means you will be saving more each month.   

Some lenders offer deferred loan payments for 30, 60, or up to 90 days after loan closing.    

Depending on when you financed your current car loan, it’s probable that either auto loan rates have fallen, or your credit score has improved, or both.    

Not everyone wants to refinance their auto loan for a lower monthly payment. If your current auto loan is longer than you’d like, consider refinancing for a shorter term.    

Auto refinancing is not a standard process for everyone, as each person has a unique situation.    

If there are any other tips or topics you would like us to cover, let us know at [email protected]. Like and follow our Making Money Personal FB and IG page and look for our sponsor, Triangle Credit Union on social media to share your thoughts.  

Thanks for listening to today’s Money Tip Tuesday and check out our other tips and episodes on the Making Money Personal podcast.  

Have a great day! 

Though the Holiday season has just wound down and we’ve celebrated the arrival of a new year, this time of year is still peak season for cybercriminals and identity thieves. 

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Welcome to Money Tip Tuesday from the Making Money Personal podcast.  

With online shopping, traveling, and increased sharing of personal information, the risk of identity theft can rise dramatically this time of year. Follow these tips to help keep your identity safe and, in turn, keep this season, and your new year, stress-free. 

Whether you’re still shopping in-store or online or traveling to visit friends and family, limit the information that you share. Avoid oversharing and only provide the details necessary for a purchase or transaction. Shred any sensitive documents, since discarded holiday offers, receipts, and financial statements can be goldmines for thieves. Finally, stay vigilant of potential phishing scams. Ignore unsolicited emails or messages asking for personal details for payment information. 

Cybercriminals ramp up their activities before and after the holidays. Keep your accounts secure and help protect your personal information by enhancing the security of your accounts and your devices. You can stay secure by keeping software up to date. Regular updates help patch vulnerabilities in your devices and the applications that you use. Additionally, when you enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) you can significantly reduce the risk of unauthorized access to your account by validating your identity through more than one authentication method. And remember to use strong, unique passwords for each of your accounts.  

While the season inspires generosity, it’s also exploited by scammers. Before you donate, take time to verify the charity’s legitimacy. Trusted sites like Charity Navigator and Give.org can help you identify and evaluate charity ratings and donor resources. Avoid donating through email or social media links and go directly to the charity’s official website. 

During this time of year, your mail and travel habits can expose you to risks. Hold your mail if you are traveling or ask a trusted neighbor to collect it. Beware of package theft, too. If you are unavailable to bring deliveries inside right away, consider using secure delivery options or pick-up lockers to keep your parcels safe. Additionally, if you’re traveling in the near future, be mindful about what you share. Advertising your absence or accidentally revealing sensitive data in photos, such as full name and date of birth, could increase your risk of identity theft and fraud. 

At Triangle Credit Union, your security is our top priority. By following these tips now and throughout the year, you can significantly reduce the risk of becoming a victim of identity theft. Stay vigilant and proactive in looking after your personal and financial information.  

If you suspect identity theft for any reason, contact us - even if it’s not related to your account at Triangle. If you have a Triangle Better Checking account, you have access to a professional, certified Identity Theft Recovery Advocate who can work with you one-on-one to identify and resolve identity theft or fraud and return your identity and your accounts to pre-event status. 

If there are any other tips or topics you would like us to cover, let us know at [email protected]. Like and follow our Making Money Personal FB and IG page and look for our sponsor, Triangle Credit Union on social media to share your thoughts.  

Thanks for listening to today’s Money Tip Tuesday and check out our other tips and episodes on the Making Money Personal podcast.  

Have a great day! 

During the holiday time, we’re all shopping a lot in-person or online, and most of us are using credit or debit cards for convenience. If you're one of the many who prefer to use cards to pay, there are a host of reasons why storing your cards digitally in your phone’s mobile wallet increases efficiency and security, especially during the busy holiday season. 

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Transcript:

Welcome to Money Tip Tuesday from the Making Money Personal podcast.   

If you have a smartphone, you can use its mobile wallet feature to shop smarter and safer this year. 

Here are a few reasons to load payment cards to your phone’s mobile wallet to use at your next check out. 

Reason 1: Your transactions are secure. 

When you set up your mobile wallet, your card details are protected by a PIN, fingerprint, or password, so only you can access them in the app. 

When you pay, your phone uses near-field communication to connect with the terminal. This process encrypts your data and keeps your information safe. 

Your credit card number is replaced with a random digital ID, called a token, so your actual card number isn’t shared when you pay. 

If you’ve been unsure about paying with your phone because of security, rest assured that extra steps are in place to keep your transactions safe.

Reason 2: It’s more sanitary than using cash or cards. 

Cash can carry a lot of germs since it passes through many hands. With everyone more aware of germs and viruses these days, especially during cold and flu season, using your mobile wallet means you don’t have to handle cash that’s been everywhere. 

Reason 3: It’s much easier. 

It can be frustrating to dig through your wallet or purse for a card. With a mobile wallet, you just open the app, pick your card, and hold your phone near the terminal. Since you’re often already holding your phone, you’re ready to pay right away. 

Reason 4: It’s helpful if you forget your wallet. 

Have you ever left your wallet at home or in the car? It doesn’t happen often, but it can. If your cards are in your mobile wallet, you have a backup if you forget your wallet or purse. Even if you don’t use it often, it’s worth setting up just in case you ever need it. 

Mobile wallets are a great alternative to traditional wallets and can make shopping easier and more convenient. 

Now might be a good time to give it a try if you haven’t already. 

If you have other tips or topics you want us to talk about, email us at [email protected]. Don’t forget to like and follow our Making Money Personal Facebook page, and check out our sponsor, Triangle Credit Union, on Instagram and LinkedIn to share your thoughts. 

Thanks for listening to today's Money Tip Tuesday. Check out our other tips and episodes on the Making Money Personal podcast. 

Have a great day!

The holiday season can bring with it many surprises, some of which might come in the form of a holiday bonus. If you got a bonus or are expecting a bonus this time of year, hold off on spending it all right away, because there are a few ways to maximize that cash for some great financial benefits.  

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Transcript:

Welcome to Money Tip Tuesday from the Making Money Personal podcast.  

A holiday bonus can feel like a windfall—a chance to splurge on gifts, vacations, or luxury items. But before you spend it all, consider this: that extra cash could be the key to building financial security and achieving your long-term goals. Here are five smart strategies to make your holiday bonus work for you. 

1. Pay Down High-Interest Debt

Credit card balances, personal loans, and even student loans all carry interest rates that can drain finances over time. If you’re looking to improve your financial health and free up future income, consider using your bonus, or a portion of it, to pay down some of that debt.  Reducing debt not only lowers your monthly obligations but also improves your credit score and financial flexibility. 

2. Build or Boost Your Emergency Fund

Life is unpredictable—medical bills, car repairs, or sudden job changes can happen anytime, and without a safety net, these surprises can lead to financial stress or debt. An emergency fund acts as a financial cushion, giving you peace of mind and stability when life throws curveballs. Experts recommend saving at least three to six months of living expenses in a separate, easily accessible savings account. This ensures you can cover essentials like housing, utilities, groceries, and transportation without relying on credit cards or loans. This is another great way to use some or all of that bonus money.  

3. Invest in Retirement Accounts

Your bonus can be a powerful tool to accelerate your retirement savings. Contributing to accounts like a 401(k), IRA, or Roth IRA not only helps secure your financial future but can also offers valuable tax advantages. The earlier you invest, the more you benefit from compound growth—your money earns interest, and that interest earns interest over time.  

Look at your retirement contributions and if you haven’t maxed them out yet, consider putting a portion or all of your bonus money into your retirement account. Even small, consistent investments can grow significantly over decades, thanks to compounding. And remember—prioritizing retirement savings now means more flexibility and security later. 

4. Fund Short-Term Goals

Dreaming of a vacation, a home upgrade, or another big-ticket item? Your bonus can help you achieve these goals without relying on credit cards or loans. Using cash instead of borrowing keeps you out of debt and saves you from paying interest later. Start by identifying your top personal goal—whether it’s a family trip, a kitchen remodel, or a new tech gadget—and estimate the total cost. Then, earmark a portion of your bonus specifically for that purpose. This approach allows you to enjoy life’s luxuries guilt-free while staying financially responsible. 

5. Treat Yourself or Others

Being thoughtful about how to spend your bonus doesn’t mean cutting out all enjoyment for yourself. If you’re already a budgeting pro and have all the prior items I mentioned covered, then by all means, celebrate this time of year and feel free to use that bonus to get yourself or your family something special. After all, using it to celebrate yourself, your family, or those close to you can bring forth returns in other ways. Treating yourself can provide returns of self-satisfaction, care and personal healing while treating others can build bonds and create memories that’ll last for years to come.  

If you have other tips or topics you want us to talk about, email us at [email protected]. Don’t forget to like and follow our Making Money Personal Facebook page, and check out our sponsor, Triangle Credit Union, on Instagram and LinkedIn to share your thoughts. 

Thanks for listening to today's Money Tip Tuesday. Check out our other tips and episodes on the Making Money Personal podcast.

Have a great day!

Saving money this time of year is almost impossible, but all is not lost! In this episode we discuss tips on some practical and helpful saving habits for the holidays.

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The holidays bring a lot of excitement, but even with all the talk of cheer and togetherness, they can sometimes feel overwhelming. Luckily, there are simple and affordable ways to lower your stress and enjoy the season more. 

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Welcome to Money Tip Tuesday from the Making Money Personal podcast.  

For most families, the holidays are a busy time. There’s gift planning, budgeting, gatherings, and then all the clean-up and organizing. It can feel like you’re being pulled in every direction, so it’s no surprise that stress and anxiety go up this time of year. 

Taking care of your mental health can be tough, but it is possible. Here are a few ways you can look after your mental and physical health this season. 

The holidays should be a time to relax and enjoy yourself. Don’t let stress take away your peace and joy. Take care of your mental health so you can make the most of the season. 

If there are any other tips or topics you'd like us to cover, let us know at [email protected]. Also, remember to like and follow our Making Money Personal Facebook and Instagram to share your thoughts. Finally, remember to look for our sponsor, Triangle Credit Union, on Facebook and LinkedIn.         

Thanks for listening to today's Money Tip Tuesday. Check out our other tips and episodes on the Making Money Personal podcast. 

The holidays are busy. We’re all too often distracted by planning, shopping, and preparing that responsibly managing our money sometimes get pushed to the back burner. Fortunately, there are ways to maintain a bit of control during this time by being disciplined and preparing ahead.  

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Transcript:

Welcome to Money Tip Tuesday from the Making Money Personal podcast.   

The holiday season is a time for joy, family, and celebration—but it can also bring financial stress. Between gifts, decorations, and festive meals, expenses add up quickly. The good news? With a bit of planning and wise choices, you can enjoy the holidays without breaking the bank. Here are five easy strategies to help you save money this season.  

Before you start shopping, create a detailed gift list. Write down everyone you plan to buy for and rank the gifts by importance. Assign a spending limit for each person and make sure to stick to it. This approach keeps your spending intentional and helps you avoid impulse purchases that could derail your budget. 

Timing is everything when it comes to holiday shopping. Plan your purchases around significant sales like Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and other holiday special events. If those big shopping days have already passed, you can still use price comparison tools and coupon apps to ensure you’re getting the best deal during the season. For essentials like wrapping paper or stocking stuffers, consider buying in bulk to save even more. Once the holidays are over, take advantage of post-holiday clearance events to purchase items at deeper discounts to use next year.  

Making small sacrifices today can pave the way for substantial savings down the line. Consider skipping those daily coffee runs, cutting back on dining out, or putting a temporary hold on subscriptions you can live without. By redirecting that money into your holiday fund, you’ll be surprised at how quickly it adds up! Even saving just $20 a week for a month can give you an extra $80 to spend on thoughtful gifts or festive celebrations. It’s all about making those little adjustments now to ensure a more joyful, stress-free holiday season later. Enjoy the extra financial freedom that comes with careful planning! 

Maximize your holiday shopping experience by leveraging loyalty programs, credit card rewards, and cashback apps. Lots of retailers have awesome holiday deals that let you rack up points or get cash back on your purchases. These rewards can really make a difference—think about using them to give lovely gifts to your friends and family or to help cover other holiday costs. By taking advantage of these offers, you can stretch your budget further and make your shopping trip a lot more fun. So before you start loading up your cart, take a minute to check out all the rewards available to you and make this holiday season even better! 

Homemade gifts and decorations are not only budget-friendly but also add a personal touch. Consider baking treats, crafting ornaments, or creating photo albums. These thoughtful gestures often mean more than store-bought items and can turn into fun family activities.  

Saving for the holidays doesn’t have to be stressful. By planning, shopping smart, and getting creative, you can celebrate the season without overspending. Start implementing these tips today and enjoy a festive, worry-free holiday season. 

If there are any other tips or topics you would like us to cover, let us know at [email protected]. Like and follow our Making Money Personal FB and IG page and look for our sponsor, Triangle Credit Union on social media to share your thoughts.  

Thanks for listening to today’s Money Tip Tuesday and check out our other tips and episodes on the Making Money Personal podcast.  

Have a great day! 

The holidays are in full swing, marking the beginning of the giving season. This year, as we search for gifts for our friends and family, let's also keep in mind the needs of our community by taking time to make a positive impact now and even throughout the following year. 

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Transcript:

Welcome to Money Tip Tuesday from the Making Money Personal podcast. 

Today is Giving Tuesday, a day celebrated worldwide to honor the countless individuals and organizations dedicated to serving those in need. This global initiative promotes generosity and fosters a sense of shared humanity, ensuring that everyone can receive help through acts of service and giving.  

Take a moment today to reflect on how you can contribute to the mission of Giving Tuesday by helping and serving others. Here are a few inspiring ways to celebrate today and throughout the week: 

Direct your efforts toward local organizations that truly make a difference. Many community groups—homeless shelters, humane societies, food pantries, and soup kitchens—always need donations. Visit their websites to find out what items are most urgently needed. You can gather items individually or come together with friends or family to make a bigger impact.  

If you enjoy being outdoors, take the time to beautify your community. Giving back to your community doesn’t have to involve physical items and can involve giving your time to improve your surroundings. One great way to do this is to pick up trash in local parks, along roadways, or in other overlooked areas. Just be sure to stay safe by wearing bright clothing so that motorists can see you easily while you work especially when on the side of the road.  

While donating is wonderful, volunteering can create an even greater impact. If you love interacting with people or are looking for a fulfilling way to give back, try giving your time to help organizations by assisting with in-person needs. Many local nonprofits need volunteers to help with tasks like food service, shelf stocking, food distribution, or even dog walking. Most organizations offer simple sign-up forms on their websites, allowing you to choose a time slot that works for you. Consider how you'd like to contribute and explore the opportunities available.  

Sometimes, the chance to give comes unexpectedly. You might encounter someone in need—a person on the street, someone at the grocery store, or a local coffee shop. Prepare a few kindness kits to keep in your car or with you, so you can easily share them when the moment arises. Include items like basic hygiene products, gift cards, encouraging notes, snacks, and maybe an extra special item or two. With these kits on hand, you'll be ready to spread kindness not just during the season, but throughout the year.  

On this Giving Tuesday, embrace the spirit of generosity and take action to uplift others. Additionally, don't miss your chance to participate in our Share ‘Cuz You Care campaign by voting for the nonprofit organization that you believe deserves the top donation from Triangle Credit Union. Visit trianglecu.org or click the link in the show notes to learn more.  

If there are any other tips or topics you would like us to cover, let us know at [email protected]. Like and follow our Making Money Personal FB and IG page and look for our sponsor, Triangle Credit Union on social media to share your thoughts.  

Thanks for listening to today’s Money Tip Tuesday and check out our other tips and episodes on the Making Money Personal podcast.  

Have a great day!