University of Illinois Student Money Management Center

SMMC and the University Bursar wish everyone a Happy Thanksgiving! ?? FYI: Our offices are closed until Monday, December 2nd. #UIUC #UIC #UISedu #Thanksgiving

Money conversations during the holidays can be challenging, but they’re an important step in fostering financial clarity and well-being within your family. From discussing budgets to planning for college expenses, these conversations can pave the way for stronger financial habits. Dive into our latest article for strategies to make these discussions productive and meaningful. https://lnkd.in/gRGaET-i

College isn't just a time to build your academic knowledge—it’s your chance to grow crucial money management skills that will shape your future! ?? Building financial literacy today can pave the way for long-term success by helping you: 1. Build a strong financial foundation ??? 2. Avoid debt and manage student loans 3. Maximize your money ?? 4. Prepare for future financial responsibilities 5. Reduce stress and improve mental health ?? 6. Empower independence ?? 7. Set up lifelong success ??? Curious to learn more? Check out our article, The Power of Financial Education, where you'll discover resources that can support you on your financial education journey: https://lnkd.in/gestaP4P #UIMoney #UIUC #UIC #UISedu #FinancialEducation

During the holidays, it can be easy to overspend on food, gifts or travel. If you're worried about your spending during this holiday season, check out our podcast that features a myriad of holiday savings tips so you can navigate your finances with ease this December. Click the link here to listen in: https://lnkd.in/gFXfdEYw #UIUC #UIC #UISedu #Podcast #HolidaySpending

Still working on getting your holiday budget in shape? We can help! ?? Our Budgeting for a Week: A Realistic Approach article breaks down budgeting into 5 steps you can take today to plan your finances effectively: 1. Identify sources of income ?? 2. Outline expenses ?? 3. Choose a budget strategy ?? 4. Record expenses and income ?? 5. Step back and reassess ???? Curious to learn more? Get all the details by reading the full article, linked below: https://lnkd.in/g-p6UcdS Don’t forget to share so others can level up their budgeting game this season too! #UIMoney #UIUC #UIC #UISedu #budget

?? Planning holiday travel? Staying on budget doesn’t mean sacrificing the joy of celebrating with family and friends. ??? In this episode 97 of Making Cents of Money, we share practical tips to help you save money while making the most of the season. ?? Don’t let financial stress steal your holiday cheer. Listen now: https://lnkd.in/eGF_PNVT #HolidayTravel #BudgetSavings #MakingCentsOfMoney

If you or someone you know has become victim to a romance scam, here are the steps you should take to prevent further escalating the situation. Like this post if you found these tips helpful to know ?? Source: https://lnkd.in/g2dEV8XB #RomanceScams #ScamPrevention

We've told you the signs of romance scams and shared some stories of romance scam victims, but how do you avoid romance scams? Check out this reel for the U.S Secret Service's tips on how to avoid romance scams. Share with your friends if you found these tips helpful! #RomanceScams #Scams #ScamAvoidance

There is no typical romance scam victim profile, and anyone can potentially become a victim. Pat, Mark, and Sarah all became victims of romance scams. But despite this, they all managed to persevere and share their stories so that others don't fall into the same trap. Which one of these stories resonates with you the most? Comment below ?? #RomanceScams #Stories #Awareness

Romance scammers lie to you to gain your trust so they can exploit you for financial gain. According to the FTC, these are the eight most common lies used by scammers. If you are talking to someone you don't know online and they mention one of these phrases, watch out! Remember: If you believe you are a victim of a scam, be sure to report it to the FTC's website ReportFraud.ftc.gov ??? Which of these lies was most shocking ?? to you? Comment below ?? #UIUC #UIC #UISedu #FinancialEducation #RomanceScams