Prepare Your Finances for Winter

As days get shorter and temperatures cool down, it's the perfect time to prepare a winter budget and make sure you have the tools you need to keep your finances as happy as we hope your holiday season will be. While winter is a time for celebrations and spending time with loved ones, it can also be a time of financial surprises and unexpected costs.

At OHecu, we're here to help. Check out the tips and tricks below to help keep your budget on track as winter arrives.

Keep Your Home Warm, Safe, and Cost-Effective
When preparing your winter budget, keep in mind the increased costs that come along with homeownership during the colder months—snow and ice removal, busted pipes, heating costs, winter storm damage, and more.  

Consider investing in tools to keep energy costs lower, such as weather stripping or improved insulation, or a smart thermostat that better regulates your home temperatures. It's also wise to set aside some extra funds to cover emergency expenses that may arise during the months when budgets are already stretched thinner.

Stick to a Holiday Budget
While it's easy to get swept up in the holiday season, sticking to a gift and celebration budget can help prevent you from feeling grinchy after the New Year. Decide before the season starts who you plan to shop for and how much you hope to spend. Remember to set aside a little extra for those unexpected gifts, too.

Homemade gifts like cards, cookies, scarves, or hot cocoa kits can offer a low-cost alternative for the more causual folks on your list!

Travel Safely
Keeping your sleigh... or car maintenance up to date can help you avoid costly repairs that leave you stuck in the snow. Don’t forget to check your battery and replace antifreeze and windshield wipers before the temperatures dip too low. And consider investing in an emergency winter car kit before long trips to see family or friends.

Enjoy the Season
Above all, we wish you a happy, healthy winter! Stop by a local branch just to say "hi" or for further budgeting tips and tricks.