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20Jun

Budget Travel: Off the Beaten Path ...

Having the travel bug can be tough if you’re trying to maintain a budget or if you’re living paycheck to paycheck. However, if you’re careful with your planning and saving, you can venture out and enjoy the world. One of the best ways to make travel and vacations more affordable is to travel to destinations that are a little off the beaten path. Because demand for airfare and hotel rooms is overall lower, the rates will be better. Plus, you’ll get to enjoy destinations with less crowds and a lower cost of living. We’ve picked four of our favorite off-the-beaten-path destinations for your budget travel plans.

13Jun

Father’s Day: Gifts that Keep Givin ...

We all know the generic gifts to give dad every year. A tie, cologne, or a coffee mug. While he probably appreciates anything you give him, putting in a little more effort can go a long way. This Father’s Day, show Dad how much you appreciate him with something he really wants. These gifts may be within your budget, but if you want to make the day extra memorable, getting an installment loan with CreditBox is always a great option.

5Jun

The Best Summer Music Festivals in ...

Winter can feel like it lasts forever, especially in the Midwest. Along with warmer weather, the best part of summer is the music festivals. Luckily, the Midwest boasts some of the most popular in the country! Nothing is better than enjoying great music outside with close friends. Worried you don’t have the funds? Turn to CreditBox! If you live in Chicago, Milwaukee, or St. Louis, keep reading for our list of music festivals you don’t want to miss this summer.

29May

You Graduated College, Now What?

Graduating college is an exciting time, but can also be scary. There is a lot of uncertainty as well as opportunity. You are finally out in the real world after years of schooling and homework, but you are not alone! Millions of graduates are in the same boat as you, wondering what to do next and how to plan for the future. Do you start the job search right away? Should you delay paying student loans? Before you panic, read our tips on the next steps you can take after college to plan your finances the smart way.

21May

Memorial Day Weekend: Chicago Drivi ...

The long Memorial Day Weekend is the perfect time to pack your things, fill up your gas tank, and get away. If you live in Chicago, you’re lucky to live within driving distance of some of the country’s most beautiful destinations – and perfect spots to spend your Memorial Day weekend getaway. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, history buff, beer connoisseur, foodie, or photographer, there’s a destination for you within driving distance of Chicago, Illinois.

16May

Sneaky Expenses: Top 6 Budget-Break ...

Do you feel like you are living paycheck to paycheck? Do you create a budget only for it to be busted by the end of the month? It could be you are spending money on things you aren’t even aware of. See below for CreditBox’s list of sneaky expenses that could be being taken out of your bank account right under your nose! Once you are aware, you can start to save money.

8May

Mother’s Day: 5 Gift Experiences Mo ...

With Mother’s Day just around the corner, you may be struggling to think of a last-minute Mother’s Day gift. Don’t waste your time at the mall or store trying to find something perfect to buy. Chances are you’ll wind up spending too much money on something that’s not perfect, just to get your shopping done. This year, give your mom an experience for Mother’s Day instead. These experiences call all be purchased or performed last-minute, so you can make mom feel special even if you procrastinated.

25Apr

Grocery Shopping on a Budget: Farme ...

Most people go to their local grocery store to do their grocery shopping, often not thinking of their other options. Farmer’s Markets can be found in almost any town and are often overlooked as the more expensive choice. Which establishment is the better alternative for your grocery budget and lifestyle? We did the research so you don’t have to!

18Apr

6 Budget-Friendly Ways to Go Green ...

“We only have one earth, so we need to take care of her,” said Senator Gaylord Nelson from Wisconsin. He first started Earth Day on April 22nd, 1970 after witnessing a massive oil spill in Santa Barbara, California. His purpose was to force environmental protection onto the national political agenda and he succeeded. 20 million Americans demonstrated in parks, auditoriums, and streets to protest for a sustainable environment. By the end of 1970, The United States Environmental Protection Agency was created as a result of that first Earth Day, as well as the passing of the Clean Air, Clean Water, and Endangered Species Acts. Earth Day went global by 1990 and is still a strong movement today. Even though you may be on a budget, there are ways to go green and save green at the same time.

10Apr

Summer Travel: Most Budget-Friendly ...

Are you dreaming of summer, warmer weather, and travel? Start planning your summer trip now to give yourself plenty of time to lay out and stick to your travel budget. Two of the best ways to save on summer travel are to drive instead of fly and camp instead of staying in a hotel room. This year, combine those two ideas to save lots of money and see some of the most spectacular sights the United States has to offer. Check out these three budget-friendly national parks that are perfect for your budget road trip.

27Mar

How to Spend Your Tax Refund Respon ...

Getting your tax refund is exciting, especially if you’ve waited a long time to receive it – and you probably already have something in mind that you’d like to buy with it. However, this year, instead of spending your entire tax refund all at once on a pair of new shoes, headphones, or a new computer, consider spending it responsibly. Using your tax refund towards debt or long term goals might be hard right now, but your future self will thank you.

21Mar

Smart Shopping: How to Bargain-Shop ...

Clothing is more than just a thing that we wear daily. Clothing is the way we express ourselves and tell the world a little bit about us. For those who love shopping, being on a budget doesn’t have to mean sacrificing your style. Getting creative and bargain-hunting while you shop on a budget means you can have the closet you want without overspending.

16Mar

March Madness: Where to Watch the T ...

One of the most exciting times of the year for sports fans is March Madness, and for good reason. The top 68 teams in men’s college basketball compete for the coveted NCAA Championship. While some of the best college basketball players display their athleticism in the upcoming tournament, cheer them on from a bar stool at a local watch party! Check out our list of the best places to watch March Madness in Chicago this year.

13Mar

Tax Season: What the IRS “Dirty Doz ...

Waiting for a big tax refund is an exciting time. But while you are distracted thinking of how you’re going to spend your extra cash, someone else is thinking of ways to scam you. Every year, the IRS comes out with a list of the worst tax scams called the “Dirty Dozen.” Read our guide below on everything you need to know about them and how to avoid them.

12Mar

12 Budget-Friendly Ways to Save on ...

If you’re on a tight budget, planning a Spring Break vacation may seem impossible. However, using the 12 easy tips in this article, you can plan a budget Spring Break trip without worrying about overspending or breaking your financial plan for the rest of the year. Traveling doesn’t have to be expensive if you get creative, make a plan, and stick to your budget.

12Mar

March Madness: 10 Fun Facts about t ...

One of the biggest events in American sports is right around the corner, March Madness. Aptly named, March Madness is one of the most unpredictable and intense sporting events. Out of 68 teams, only one will win the NCAA Championship in men’s college basketball. Before the madness begins, check out these little-known facts about the tournament.

1Mar

4 Ways to Celebrate St. Patrick’s D ...

Break out your green and gold – St. Patrick’s Day is almost here. On March 17th, you can celebrate in style even if you’re living on a budget. Check out these 4 ways to enjoy this month’s biggest Irish celebration for free or next to free.

27Feb

Tax Prep: Start Your Tax Return Now ...

As of January 26, 2018, you can file your paper or electronic tax return with the IRS. The deadline isn’t until April 17, 2018, but there are many benefits to filing your tax return early, including the possibility of receiving a larger tax refund. Not convinced? Check out this list of benefits of filing early.

21Feb

Spring Break Travel Prep

Spring break is still a couple of months away, and if you start planning now, you can go on an amazing vacation without the higher costs of booking later on. You have time to really do your research, book when the price is right, and get the best deal possible. Use the four tips below to get the most bang for your buck on this year’s spring break travel.

15Feb

Conserving Energy and Keeping Winte ...

Keeping your home or apartment heated during the winter can drive your energy and heating bills sky-high. If you’re already living paycheck to paycheck, paying for extra utilities is something you may not be able to afford. Have no fear – we’ve got four tips that can help keep your heating bill under control.

6Feb

Valentine’s Day: Romantic Recipes t ...

Going out to eat is always more expensive than eating at home, and Valentine’s Day is no exception. Valentine’s Day is one of those holidays that we feel obligated to make a reservation at the fanciest restaurant in town, just to let that special someone know how much we care. Here at CreditBox, we think it means more to make a homemade Valentine’s Day meal, and it saves quite a bit of money, so it’s a win-win. We’ve scoured the Internet for the perfect recipes for a romantic Valentine’s Dinner. Just follow along, light some candles, and show your sweetheart how much they mean to you.

24Jan

Budget Winter Outdoor Activities

During wintertime, we traditionally head inside to stay warm, drink cider, and sit by the fire. Yet, by the time January rolls around, you might be feeling some pretty serious cabin fever. Don’t let the cold keep you inside. Check out these four free (or next to free) winter activities and you and your friends will be having fun in the snow in no time.

18Jan

How to Go on a Midwinter Vacation o ...

Summer vacations aren’t the only ideal times to take a trip. As January and February roll around and the excitement of the holidays dies down, you may start craving a wintertime getaway. Whether you’re looking to ski or sit on a beach, you can take a winter vacation without breaking your budget. The tips in this article will make planning an affordable getaway easy.

10Jan

New Year, New Credit: How You Can A ...

The New Year always brings a sense of limitless possibility – the notion that you can achieve anything you set your mind to by January of next year. With a little planning and hard work, you can achieve your best credit score ever by the end of the year. If you need a little help along the way, we’ve got some tips in this article that can keep you on the track toward raising your credit score and removing negatives from your credit report.

3Jan

So You Overspent This Holiday Seaso ...

We’ve all done it; We’ve all gotten caught up in the excitement and magic of the holiday season and gone way over budget purchasing holiday gifts, attending holiday parties, or traveling to visit family and friends during October, November, and December. Even if you tried to be careful about spending, you may have found yourself with a mountain of holiday debt that completely broke your budget for the year. This January, you can start new and recover from your holiday overspending using the simple tips in this article.

28Dec

Happy New Year: 5 Money Saving Goal ...

Happy New Year! You’ve set your New Year’s resolutions for your fitness and your career, why not make some New Year’s savings goals for the next 365 days? In this article, we’ve got 5 practical money saving goals for 2018.

20Dec

Smart Shopping: 5 Post Holiday Don’ ...

The holiday shopping season is almost over, but there’s one more big spending rush on the day after Christmas, December 26th. You can snag some amazing post-holiday deals, similar to Black Friday, if you go shopping on the day after Christmas. Before you get caught up in the rush of the sales, read these five don’ts to avoid overspending and blowing your holiday budget.

13Dec

5 Holiday Party Ideas That Won’t Br ...

The holidays are the most festive time of the year, full of parties and gatherings with friends and family that leave our spirits feeling bright. Hosting a holiday party can be a lot of fun, and doesn’t necessarily have to cost a lot of money. Check out the 5 cheap, fun-packed holiday parties below for ideas on how you can be the host or hostess with the mostess this holiday season.

5Dec

Plan Your Winter Getaway on a Budge ...

CreditBox has a few tips to help you save big while enjoying some much-needed time off.

28Nov

Spend Money on Unusual Gifts and Ex ...

Instead of buying a material gift, break the mold this holiday season and give experiences to your friends and family. CreditBox has some great experiential gifts that your love ones will not forget.

15Nov

Holiday Shopping on a Budget

During the holidays, we take great pleasure in thinking of others and buying them holiday gifts. Gift exchanging is a very old tradition that dates back thousands of years, springing from customs found in different faiths and cultures. We’ve carried this tradition through today, and the holiday shopping market is bigger than ever. Doing your holiday shopping on a budget can be a challenge, but we’ve got some tips that can help you check off everyone on your list and still stay true to your budget.

15Nov

Money Saving Tips: Black Friday & C ...

After Thanksgiving, the exciting shopping days of Black Friday and Cyber Monday come quickly. These two days are an awesome opportunity to shop smart, get your holiday shopping done, and buy items that you’ve been saving for all year. Before you fight the crowds and start spending, read this article to make sure you get the most out of Black Friday and Cyber Monday without overspending.

7Nov

Winter Break: Money Saving Tips

Winter break is approaching and many young people will be traveling home to spend time with family or to get away to somewhere warm for a little while. Traveling at any time of year can be expensive, but during winter break, when everyone is trying to travel, prices can be at an all-time high. Using the tips in this article, you can save money on winter break travel so that you’ll have more to save or spend when you get there.

30Oct

Grown Up Halloween Treats for Cheap

Halloween is coming! If you’re hosting a Halloween party, check out this article for easy, cheap adult Halloween treats to serve to your guests. These treats all use affordable ingredients you can buy at your local grocery store.

25Oct

Last Minute Costume Ideas That Won’ ...

Did you procrastinate on putting together a Halloween costume? Renting or buying an elaborate costume last minute can get expensive quickly. Don’t worry – we’ve got six costume ideas that you can put together from your own closet.

18Oct

5 Outdoor Fall Activities to Fit Yo ...

If you are planning some family fun this fall AmeriCash Loans has 5 fall outdoor activities that will fit your budget.

11Oct

5 Must-Read Online Financial News S ...

Staying on top of financial news may not seem like the most exciting way to spend your time, but it’s a good way to learn about finance and make sure you’re making the right financial moves for you. Reading financial news will help you become more rounded and spend smarter, especially if you read a variety of content about everything from investing to personal finance. In the article below, we’ve got 5 financial news sources that you should read every day to understand the world of money around you.

13Sep

Your Guide to Paying Off Student Lo ...

Accumulating student debt is easy. Paying it off can seem very hard. However, using the tips in this article, you can start paying your student debt off now.

5Sep

How to Build a Holiday Budget

The holiday season is approaching, and with it comes lots of extra expenses for gifts, travel, dinners, and celebrations. Planning your budget for October, November, and December can seem like a daunting task, but when you follow the steps in this article, creating a Holiday budget and sticking to it will be easy. Your future self will thank you for taking the time now to plan for holiday expenses.

29Aug

College Earning: How to Make Money ...

hile you’re at college or university, studying and earning your degree should be your top priority. However, if you have some extra time and would like to make some extra cash, there are a few ways you can make money while you’re at school. Plus, if you’re making a little extra money and putting it directly toward your student loans, you’ll graduate with less debt to worry about.

23Aug

4 Myths About Your Credit Score and ...

Having good or bad credit affects how you can spend money and what you can buy. Building your credit up opens a lot of doors like having the ability to buy a house or car or open a credit card. However, there’s a lot of confusion about which things truly affect your credit positively and negatively. Below, there are four credit myths that are commonly perceived to be true.

21Aug

Your Guide to the August 2017 Total ...

On Monday, August 21, 2017, a very exciting cosmic event can be viewed across the United States. A total solar eclipse will cross the U.S.A. from Salem, Oregon to Charleston, South Carolina. In a total solar eclipse, the moon passes between the Earth and the sun, blocking the sun and its corona, or atmosphere, completely from the Earth’s view. If you’re in the path of the total eclipse, or the Path of Totality, you’ll get to see it in its entirety. However, if you’re not directly in the path, the areas surrounding will still see a partial view of the eclipse. If you’re viewing the eclipse, make sure you wear proper eye protection and take care while traveling. Check out our guide for where to view the eclipse and how to safely view it!

14Aug

5 Easy Ways to Prepare Your Car for ...

Spending money up front to winterize your car may seem like a waste of money right now, but taking preventative action like this can save you thousands of dollars. If you don’t make these small adjustments to make sure your car is winter-ready, you could face breaking down and needing costly emergency car repairs. In this blog, we have five easy steps to get your car ready for cold temperatures, snow, and sodium chloride.

10Aug

Budget Hack: End of Summer Road Tri ...

Nothing says summer like an epic, cross-country road trip with your closest friends or family. However, between fuel, attractions, and food, a road trip can get expensive, fast. With the simple tips in this article, you can still go on your summer road trip, but you’ll stay under budget and avoid paying for the trip for the rest of the year.

8Aug

Summer Travel Series: Nevada on a B ...

Nevada, known as “The Silver State,” “The Sagebrush State,” and the “Battle Born State,” entered into statehood on October 31, 1864 as the 36th state to join the Union. People tend to associate Nevada with Las Vegas, but there are many other interesting cities and attractions in the state. Whether you’re visiting to gamble a bit, see the city sights, or explore Nevada’s vast array of outdoor attractions, you can take a fun-filled vacation without breaking your budget. Check out the complete guide to Nevada budget travel below to fill your trip with free or next to free fun.

2Aug

Back to School: Buying Textbooks on ...

College tuition and housing are expensive on their own, but going back to school has lots of costs that aren’t always apparent up front. Thinking and planning for these hidden expenses beforehand will help you stay on track with your budget and graduate with less student debt. One of the hidden expenses of going back to school is buying textbooks. Textbooks are much more expensive than regular books, and if each of your classes requires multiple books, the cost can add up before you know it. In this article, we have four tips on saving money on textbooks.

13Jul

15 Things You Can Get for Free (or ...

It’s your birthday; your special day; the one day of the year that can be all about you. What could make your birthday even better? All the freebies and discounts you can get during your birthday month. We’ve got a list of 15 restaurants, stores, and brands that offer coupons and free items for your birthday. Most of them require you to become a part of their perks program, but getting a few emails and collecting points is a fair trade for their freebies.

10Jul

5 Books for the Financially Savvy

Summer is the perfect time to catch up on your reading. If you’re traveling, sitting by the pool, or just relaxing at home, reading is a great alternative to staring at a phone or tablet screen. You can even listen to audiobooks while you drive to work or on a long road trip. Plus, you can read all kinds of books that help you improve your life. We’ve added these five books to our AmeriCash Loans summer reading list because they’re sure to make you more financially savvy.

6Jul

When Buying Bulk Saves You Money

Buying more than you need to save money seems like a counterintuitive notion, but sometimes buying in bulk can be the smartest way to shop. When you buy in bulk, you’re typically paying less per item that if you bought them separately. Plus, buying bulk saves you from using gas to go to the store because you’ll go far less often.

4Jul

Budget Holiday: D.I.Y. 4th of July ...

Throwing a great 4th of July party doesn’t have to mean spending a lot of money. With a little bit of research and elbow grease, you can throw an awesome Independence Day party and stay under budget. We’ve got some creative ideas in this article to help you throw a 4th of July bash they’ll be talking about for years.

29Jun

The Art of Learning: How to Take Co ...

Learning is addictive and can be one of the best things you can do to further your career. However, sometimes getting a college degree or graduate degree is out of reach financially. You can still take your education into your own hands and gain valuable skills for cheap or free.

27Jun

Budget Hack: Last Minute Ways to Ma ...

The first of the month is just around the corner and you don’t have enough money to pay all of your bills. You need cash now. There’s nothing to be ashamed of; We’ve all been there at one time or another. Don’t panic yet – there are still a few tricks you can use to make some extra cash before your due dates are here. Some of these methods can even get you cash today.

21Jun

The Truth About Bankruptcy

If you feel completely overwhelmed by debt, you may think personal bankruptcy is your only option. However, declaring bankruptcy is a big, life-altering step with long-lasting consequences. Before you declare bankruptcy, make sure you know all of the facts to ensure it’s the right option for your financial situation.

15Jun

How to Make the Most of Your Stayca ...

If you can’t afford to go on a vacation or weekend getaway this summer, take time for a staycation to relax and recharge. There are plenty of ways you can make staying at home just as rewarding as getting away. We’ve got tips and tricks to help you find your creativity and make the most of your staycation.

8Jun

4 Ways to Improve Your Credit Score ...

Bad credit happens to everyone now and then, but now is the perfect time to start turning it around. The fight for good credit can be an intimidating uphill battle if you’re not sure where to begin. When you take it one step at a time, you’ll be on the way to an excellent credit score in no time. There are several simple steps you can take this week to get your credit score on the right track.

6Jun

Summer Travel Series: Missouri on a ...

Missouri, the “Show Me” state, entered into statehood on August 10, 1821 as the 24th state in the Union. The state is rich in cultural, natural, and historical attractions that will make any weekend away, staycation, or vacation a memorable experience. Even if you’re on a shoestring budget, you can enjoy all that Missouri has to offer for nothing or next to nothing. You’ll never run out of affordable things to do with our complete guide to Missouri on a budget!

24May

You Graduated! Now for Paying Off T ...

Congratulations graduates – you did it! You now have a college degree and are ready to move into the real world and start using your smarts. You also likely have a mountain of student debt that seems insurmountable right now. There was no college course for paying back student loans, but don’t panic – we’ve got ideas to help make paying those student loans as stress-free as possible.

17May

10 Legit Ways to Earn Extra Money o ...

Are you having trouble making ends meet? Are you saving up for a vacation or a shopping trip? Either way, a little extra cash is nice to have, and in today’s economy, it’s easy to pick up side jobs here and there to make a little extra money.

9May

9 Habits to Learn from Self-Made Mi ...

Self-made millionaires were once regular people with regular incomes, just like you and me. They achieve success and wealth through constant dedication and hard work. We can’t guarantee the tips in this article will make you a millionaire, but they’re healthy and productive habits that can improve your way of life.

3May

Budget Hack: Grocery Shopping on th ...

Grocery shopping is the most budget-friendly way to eat, and preparing food at home is much more cost-efficient than eating out, using a meal-prep service, or ordering in. Yet, buying groceries, especially healthy ones, can still get expensive when you’re on a tight budget. Try using these tricks to save a little extra money when you go grocery shopping

24Apr

Earth Day: 5 Easy Ways to Do Your P ...

Earth Day is the day we celebrate the planet we call home. Showing nature that you appreciate it doesn’t have to mean making a grand gesture. Here are 5 easy ways you can do your part this Earth Day and contribute to the planet’s future.

19Apr

So You Missed the IRS Tax Deadline… ...

Every year, from January to April, every taxpayer has the same thing on his or her mind: getting their tax return filed by the IRS tax deadline. Somehow, every year, that IRS tax deadline sneaks up on some of us, and passes some by entirely. What happens if you miss the IRS tax deadline? Don’t panic – you have options.

12Apr

5 Unconventional, Money-Saving Ways ...

As the saying goes, “Where there’s a will, there’s a way.” This couldn’t be more true for summer travel. Even if you don’t have a large budget to go on, you can take advantage of unconventional programs to save on summer travel or even travel for free. The spirit of adventure is all that’s required!

7Apr

Renting Vs. Buying: What’s Best for ...

In the past, buying your own home was the American dream. Now, more and more individuals, couples, and families are opting to rent instead. How can you decide which option is right for you?

31Mar

How to Avoid 9 Common Tax Filing Mi ...

If you’ve procrastinated until the last minute on filing your taxes, you’ll likely be hurrying to get through them. The more quickly you move, the more likely you are to make mistakes, so be aware of the nine most common listed below. Avoiding mistakes will ensure that your tax refund isn’t delayed and that you don’t have to do extra work after you file. The keys are to double check all of your work and if you’re not sure of a number or name, compare it to official paperwork before submitting.

22Mar

Seven Smart Ways to Spend Your Tax ...

We’ve all been there: opening the mailbox and finding a tax refund check after weeks of waiting for it. The anticipation has grown for a while, especially if your tax refund was delayed for any reason. The excitement builds and the urge to go out and immediately spend it on clothes, electronics, or trips is strong. But wait – stop and think for a moment about all of the ways you could use that money to invest in your future instead of something that gives you immediate, but brief gratification. AmeriCash Loans has thought of seven ways you can make your tax refund check work far beyond the present.

17Mar

5 Reward Apps that Help You Earn Ex ...

Earning a little bit of money on the side to help boost your income can make all the difference. If you have some spare time, you can easily make a little extra money every day. Here are 5 mobile apps that reward you for using them (and, bonus, they’re also pretty fun to use).

15Mar

10 Ways to Save on an Epic Spring B ...

Whether you’re a student traveling on Spring Break or you’re someone who just needs a break from the cold temperatures of a long winter, March is the perfect month for a getaway. Many shy away because they feel stuck between traveling well and staying on-budget. Traveling in style doesn’t have to be costly if you use a few tricks. We’ve got some ways you can save money and enjoy your vacation, sans the worry of blowing your budget.