October is often associated with trick-or-treat, witches and ghosts. While Halloween is a frightful time, you should never let your financial situation spook you! As an effort to get area youth to learn valuable financial skills, Ohio Valley Bank has once again joined the American Bankers Association’s Get Smart About Credit campaign.
OVB has taken part in the Get Smart About Credit initiative for several years. While today is Get Smart About Credit Day, OVB plans to celebrate the campaign for the remainder of the fall season. Hope Roush, OVB communications specialist, described the campaign as a great tool to teach students the importance of managing money and how credit can have an impact on nearly every area of their lives.
“Credit is something that can impact your ability to own a home, buy a car, and it can even determine future employment opportunities. Get Smart About Credit is a great program that helps students understand and see the importance of using credit wisely,” Roush said. “We look forward to spreading the Get Smart About Credit message once again as well as sharing resources that are helpful to all ages.”
Get Smart About Credit also encourages families to discuss financial matters. Here are seven tips to help students shape their financial future:
- You are in charge. It’s your job to manage your money. Set yourself up for success by creating a realistic budget and sticking to it.
- Watch your spending. It all comes back to the simple lesson of needs vs. wants. Pace spending and increase saving by cutting unnecessary expenses, such as dining out or shopping, so that your money can last longer.
- Use credit wisely. Understand the responsibilities and benefits of credit. How you handle your credit in college could affect you well after graduation. Find a card that best suits your needs. Be sure to pay as much as you can, as soon as you can, and to always make your payments on time.
- Utilize your bank’s services. Banks are more than money in a vault. They offer valuable services that students can benefit from. At OVB, students ages 15-25 years old can take advantage of the Right Start Checking Account . This account does not have a monthly service fee and offers free online banking as well as free eDelivery statements.
- Be cautious when it comes to money. Don’t trust just anyone with your money. Always maintain a healthy skepticism of classmates, friends or salespeople that have ideas for your money.
- Save, save, save! Things happen, and it’s important that you are financially prepared for life’s unexpected emergencies. No matter how small the amount, it is a good idea to start saving as soon as possible.
- Do not be afraid to ask for help. It is a learning experience when it comes to forming healthy financial habits. If you need help, ask. Trusted family members and your community bank are good resources.
For interactive Get Smart About Credit lessons, be sure to check out OVB’s Virtual Classroom. The Get Smart About Credit series includes lessons geared for both older and younger students. Teachers can also schedule a virtual presentation at their school by contacting Roush at hdroush@ovbc.com.
