Thanksgiving, Christmas, Hanukkah, New Year’s… holidays bring family, food, and irregular but expected costs. Find out how to protect your budget against these holiday costs in this video from @famfinpro Amanda Christensen.

Have you filed your taxes yet this year? There’s a reason so many people opt to hire someone else to do their taxes for them— it can be a daunting task! Doing them yourself is a good way to save a little money. Today we’re featuring some free programs to help you get them done.

Spring is here, and you know what that means: tax season. If you haven’t filed yet, there are some great programs through Utah Tax Help that can guide you through the process of filing online or even file your taxes for you, depending on your household income.

Earn it. Keep it. Save it. is a coalition of Utah statewide partners from the public, private, and non-profit sectors and provides free tax preparation and filing assistance for people who make $64,000 or less and want to prepare their own federal and state tax return, FOR FREE, with limited assistance. To get started taxpayers need basic computer skills, internet access, an email address, a valid Social Security Number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), and tax documentation.  CAP Utah leads this coalition.  T

To file your federal and state tax return for FREE visit,www.UtahTaxHelp.org (tax filing software is provided by unitedway.org/myfreetaxes).

If your household income is less than $54,000, you can qualify to have your taxes prepared for free at a VITA site located in many of your local communities.  Call 211 or 1-888-826-9790 and they can set up appointments in your area.  This Volunteer Income Tax Assistance service is provided by Earn it. Keep it. Save it Coalition.

1: Visit a Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Site

You can file your taxes utilizing the skills and expertise of one of our IRS certified volunteers by visiting a designated Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) site. There you will be matched with a volunteer trained to assist you. If your household income is $54,000 or less you qualify to have your taxes prepared for free at a VITA site.

Call 2-1-1 or 1-888-826-9790 to schedule an appointment.

Find a VITA Site.

2: File Online Now for FREE

You can also file your taxes for free from the comfort of your own home. All you need is a computer, internet access, an email account, and all of your tax documentation. The process takes about 60 minutes. If your household income is $64,000 or less, you qualify to file online for free. 

File online for free now.

If you are going to file online for free make sure to download and print these instructions to help you through the process.

Download the instructions.

If you have questions or are experiencing difficulties (including if you are accidentally charged by the online software), please contact the national helpline:

• 1-855-My-Tx-Help or 1-855-698-9435
• Hours of Operation: Monday – Saturday, 7:00AM – 8:00PM MST
• Email support: info@myfreetaxes.com

Visit utahtaxhelp.org for more information on these great programs.

Struggling to get that money conversation going with your partner? We’ve got some tips on how to discuss finances without creating contention.

Talking with a significant other about money-related decisions can be difficult. Financial experts suggest one reason we may struggle to communicate about money is that we are unaware ourselves of the underlying values and beliefs that inadvertently guide financial decisions.

Communicating about value-driven money decisions can often lead to contention or misunderstanding when we do not first attempt to understand each other’s money values and attitudes. The way we choose to spend, save, invest and otherwise allocate our money is often a reflection of our knowledge, personal beliefs and values—including how we were raised with regards to money management.

To start the money conversation, try answering the following questions for yourself and ask your significant other to do the same. Once you have your answers, have a conversation and share with the intent to listen and understand each other’s perspective.

• What are your first money memories?
• How did your family handle money when you were growing up? How does that affect the way you handle money now?
• What was the first big purchase you made entirely on your own? How old were you?
• How would you choose to spend $1,000?
• If you could change one thing about your current financial situation, what would it be?

Talking through questions like these may provide valuable insights to help you understand your own money values as well as those of your loved one. Focus on listening to each other and being honest when communicating. Do not hold anything back, even if you think it may be different from how the other person thinks and feels about money.

Once you have discussed each other’s answers, consider setting a goal that will help you achieve a money-related objective. For example, you may decide to save for a major purchase or pay off a debt. Whatever you agree on, do it together and decide what each person will sacrifice in order to accomplish the goal.

Having different money values can be a great strength in a relationship. Take time to discuss and focus on the positive aspects together. You might find you have more in common than you think.

By: Amanda Christensen, Utah State University Extension Associate Professor

What’s the deal with  layaway programs? Learn how to assess if layaway is a good option for you and how to set up your own layaway savings plan from USU Extension finance pro Amanda Christensen.

Layaway Highlights:

1. Read the fine print
2. Look at the cancelation policy
3. Will the payments fit into your budget?
4. Is there a sale price credit?
5. Will you be tempted to overspend?

Set Up Your Own Layaway Savings Plan:

1. Set a goal and stick to it
2. Make a plan
3.  Set up an automatic transfer
4. Watch sale prices
5. Stick to your list

Be sure to watch the video for the details on each tip.

Amanda Christensen is an Extension Assistant Professor for Utah State University. Follow her on Twitter: @FamFinPro, Facebook: Fam Fin Pro, Instagram: @FamFinPro.

Check out these tips keep healthy food on your table no matter your financial situation.

We live in times that are unique to anything we’ve ever experienced. Our economy has brought about challenges, and many people are trying to survive on their paychecks. Layoffs, cutbacks and business failures have taken their toll, and we are left to use our resources to the best of our abilities and look for ways to make the most of what we already have.

Where do we pull money from when finances are tight? What is the most flexible budget item we have?  It’s the food budget. A lot of the other expenses don’t change a lot from month to month. The mortgage or rent doesn’t change, utilities are basically constant,  so if the car breaks down or the kids need new shoes, it seems easiest to take the money from the food budget. That may leave many people living off ramen noodles or macaroni for the rest of the month.

Believe it or not, a few of the following simple behavior changes can reap big savings on the food budget, and a family can eat healthy meals inexpensively.

1. The first thing you need to do is learn to plan. You can’t expect to get good results unless you put a little forethought into the process. Take note of what’s on hand. What’s in the refrigerator? This includes leftovers. What’s in the pantry? What’s on sale at the store? Begin to plan menus using this information. Try to build the main part of your meal around rice, noodles or other grains. Use small amounts of meat, poultry, fish or eggs. Plan snacks that give your family the nutrients they need. Buy fresh fruits and vegetables in season. Keep them handy instead of potato chips. Use planned-overs to save time and money. Prepare a roast, serve half of it and freeze the remaining half to use later for sandwiches, soups or stir frys.

2. After you’ve planned your menus, make a shopping list and stick to it. This helps avoid impulse buying. How often do you go into the store needing one thing and come out with a whole cart full of groceries?
3. Shop alone, when you’re not hungry. When children accompany you, you tend to buy items you did not intend to buy. When you are hungry, everything looks good and you end up with a lot of unnecessary items.
4. Incorporate beans into your diet. These are a very inexpensive protein and can stretch a meal a long way.
5. Cook meals from scratch rather than using convenience foods. It’s far cheaper. You can save a lot of money by washing your own lettuce, slicing your own cheese or peeling your own carrots. Don’t pay extra for individual serving sizes. Buy yogurt, applesauce, cereal and snacks in large containers. It only takes a few moments to transfer servings into bags or reusable containers to pack in your lunch.
6. Compare fresh, frozen and canned food to see which is cheapest. Seasons affect the prices. One type is not always cheaper than another.
7. Use the cheaper store brands rather than name brands. Advertising costs add extensively to the cost of an item.
8. Cook soups or casseroles in large amounts and freeze for later meals. Cook once, eat twice. This saves time and money.
9. Buy items that are in season, on sale and available in bulk. Buy the large package of ground beef and divide it into meal-sized portions.
10. Change your eating habits. Give up luxury items like potato chips and soda. Cut down on fast foods. Our society has become very dependent on it. Some reports say we spend as much as 65 percent of our food budget on fast food! Much of this food is high in fat and calories and not as nutritious as cooking your own.

It is possible to eat healthy meals on a reduced budget. It will take planning and effort, but the results will be well worth it!

This article was written by Ellen Serfustini, USU Extension FCS Agent, Carbon County

Financial freedom is something that most people want, but only a few learn how to master.  While it does take some up-front planning, in the end the payoff is substantial.  Here are five things that can be done to ensure more financial freedom.

1. MAKE SURE THERE IS MORE MONEY COMING IN THAN GOING OUT. It is amazing how many Americans are still struggling with this basic concept.  Yes, that does mean being more conscientious about assigning every dollar, and dealing with needs first and wants later…but it works!  It is a proven concept that if you ignore, you will never have money to save, which leads to financial bondage rather than financial freedom.

2. DISTINGUISH BETWEEN WANTS AND NEEDS. How much of your daily and weekly expenditures are purposeful, planned expenses for the basic needs of life?  It is not hard to find plenty of things to spend money on, but do you NEED it?  If you try to rationalize these expenditures (WANTS) as a need, your financial freedom will be a very long way away.

3. BE PATIENT, FLEXIBLE AND PREPARED FOR EMERGENCIES. If you and your partner are both working, can you try to live on just one income?  The extra money can then be put away for a rainy day.  This cushion will give you flexibility and financial freedom that so many others cannot enjoy when the unexpected happens.  In fact, the best motto to follow here is, “Expect the unexpected.”  Big ticket emergencies hit all of us at one time or another.

4. EDUCATE YOURSELF ON FINANCIAL MATTERS. The sooner you master the game of money management, the sooner you will enjoy more financial freedom.  Find good, sound sources of financial information.  Read books on financial matters…there are plenty in our local libraries.  Take a class or two – many are offered in the community and often from your local Extension office.

5. KEEP TIME ON YOUR SIDE. Use both your time and your money wisely over time.  A little bit of money and a little interest in your favor, and a lot of time, can provide you with rich rewards.  A 6 percent interest rate, with $25/month, from age 18 to 65 can mean just over $78,000!  Your contribution?  $14,000.  As difficult as it may seem right now to part with $25/month, the time and consistency do pay off.

This article was written by Teresa Hunsaker, USU Extension family and consumer sciences educator, Weber County

Looking your best is an important part of your image. But it doesn’t have to break the bank. You can look amazing and save at the same time.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (2010), the average American spent $1,700 on apparel and related services in 2010.  Even though the last statistic on consumer expenditures was released in 2010, the current economic situation can suggest that Americans are interested in ways to save money on apparel to maintain a certain look for personal and professional life.

Here are 10 ways that individuals and families can save money on apparel and clothing related items.

1. Consider the quality and durability of the new clothing that you purchase.  Clothing that is well constructed and sturdy will last longer than some of the inexpensive choices available.  Choose those few pieces that add to your wardrobe, not take it in a new direction.
2. When purchasing new clothing, consider buying items that mix and match with clothing that you already own.  By selecting classic choices, you broaden the use and versatility of your wardrobe.
3. If you have extra time, shopping at consignment or thrift stores can open up your wardrobe creatively and affordably.
4. Watch out for metal hangers.  They stretch your clothing out of shape.  Use wooden or plastic hangers depending on the fibers of your clothing.
5. Gather your friends and family and host a clothing swap where you can trade clothing with those you know.  With more people involved, the better selection you will have.
6. Before purchasing, simply ask yourself, “Do I need this?”  If you make a list before you go shopping, it will be easier to stick to it.
7. Natural fibers may require more attention by the wearer (ironing, etc), but synthetic fibers can wear out faster and don’t always wear as well.
8. Buying clothing at an outlet mall doesn’t always mean you are getting the best deal.  Comparing prices before you purchase can save you money in the long run.
9. We all have those items that we don’t wear anymore, but are still in great shape.  Sell previously loved clothing from your closet to free up space and create a funding source for new clothing.
10. The more you wash your clothing, the faster it will wear out.  Make sure you treat stains quickly to prevent them from becoming permanent.  Avoid clothing that is dry clean only, as going to the cleaners frequently can be expensive.

This article was written by Margie Memmott and Lindsey Shirley, USU Extension.

It’s that time of year again. Many people will be getting tax returns (or already have) and are looking for the best ways to use that money as well as other “extra” money they have received.

Many of us hope for a windfall or a large gift or bonus. However,  more than likely, most of us will be hoping for a tax refund this time of year.  Here are five ways to consider using your tax refund (or gift or bonus).

1. Add it to your Savings.  Whether you are saving for a particular item or event such as a vacation, new baby or retirement, your savings account is a great place for any extra money you receive.  Powerpay.org can help you set savings goals, help you with steps to reach them and also find resources to help you with overall  financial goals.
2. Reduce Debt.  If you have any debt, this is also an important category to pay attention to.  Powerpay.org can be an especially useful tool to help you power your way out of debt.  There is also an iOS app for PowerPay.  These tools will help you determine which debts should be paid first and outcomes if you pay different amounts on each debt.
3. Contribute to your Posterity’s Future.  Set up or contribute to a college fund, wedding plans or other event for your children or grandchildren. The Utah Educational Savings Plan can be a tool for college savings.  Be sure you understand the details before participating.
4. Charitable Giving.  If you decide to contribute to a charity, be sure to check a website such as Charity Navigator or Charity Watch before donating.
5. Create or Add to an Emergency Fund.  If you don’t have one, do what you can to get one started. This can be a useful tool to help keep you out of debt.  Any amount can be helpful to start with and add to.  A minimum to aim for should be $1,000, and recommended is three to six months of your income.

These 5 tips will help you manage money as a team!

The Cost That Money Can Have

Successful couples have learned to blend their money styles by being in harmony with the way they build a budget and spend money. So how do they do it?

Everyone has a money style. Many people love to save, others enjoy spending and unfortunately some just don’t want to be bothered with thinking about money, and they are the avoiders.

Often spouses are opposite in their habits, which can work well; but unless they can discuss it and make a successful plan, it can lead to arguments and dissatisfaction in the relationship.

It may have been learned from parents or developed later in life, but everyone values money differently and has a preferred style for handling it. No style is right or wrong, but how it is handled is critically important.

Some regard money as a security and have a desire to save and protect it. Some enjoy spending money because it makes them feel good, and still some don’t want to even open an envelope that might have a bill inside.

Unless you understand how your partner values money, it can cause frustration in a relationship.

When a couple fails to communicate about how each person values money and there is not a financial plan, arguments often arise. Many unhappy marriages and divorces are a direct result of financial issues.

A strong relationship will put the value of money into what makes family members happy and content. Money will be used for meeting goals and planning ahead for the future. When you can build a financial plan, you will have the freedom to work on areas of need for your family.

Consider these tips for building a financial plan:

1. Discuss how you value money and what is important (saving, spending or not discussing it). Visit Olivia Mellan’s website if unfamiliar with money styles. Take the quiz at https://www.moneyharmony.com/moneyharmony-quiz.

2. Discuss your family goals for this year, the next five years and then for future needs and retirement.

3. Make a financial plan (a budget) where you can set aside money to save and money for charity. If things are tight, start where you can. Most financial planners will encourage you to set aside 10 percent for each of these; however, you can begin with less. Even a little can make a difference because it sets a precedence.

4. Set up a plan for your family needs and wants and review it monthly.

5. Be sure to set aside weekly activity nights for the two of you. Spending quality time together can help you discuss your financial plans in a more direct and positive way.

Couples with strong relationships have developed money management skills that work for them. For example, they set aside time each month to go over finances, talk about how they value money and set goals.

Generally one of the individuals will be the money manager; however, both should discuss and look at the plans each month. Both partners must be happy with the spending arrangement.

Understanding the value each person places on money helps build respect in a relationship. Both partners should have input about where the money goes.

Relationships are fragile, and money is a major issue. It doesn’t matter how much or how little you have, but how you work as a team to plan and be content with your financial decisions.

This article was written by Carolyn Washburn, Utah State University Extension family and consumer sciences professor

Budgeting can be easy if you take it one step at a time!

Little by Little

Are you feeling overwhelmed by your financial situation? Well you’re definitely not alone! According to the American Psychological Association, money, work and the economy remain the most common sources of stress in Americans.

To help you get back on track and feel confident about your finances, financial expert Amanda Christensen offers three baby steps to budgeting. No matter where you are or what state you’re in, the key to budgeting is taking one step at a time.

Click here or click below to watch the clip from Studio 5!