Blog

Tax Season: What the IRS “Dirty Dozen” are and How to Avoid Them

• Educational

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. 

12 Budget-Friendly Ways to Save on Spring Break

• Budget
• Vacation

• Travel

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.

March Madness: 10 Fun Facts about the NCAA Tournament

• "Tips and Tricks"

• Community

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. 

4 Ways to Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day on a Budget

• Budget
• Illinois
• "Tips and Tricks"

• Holidays

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.

Tax Prep: Start Your Tax Return Now and Save

• Bills
• CreditBox

• Finance

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.

Spring Break Travel Prep

• "Tips and Tricks"
• Vacation

• Travel

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.

Conserving Energy and Keeping Winter Bills Down

• Bills
• "Save Money"

• Educational

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.

Winter Storm Delay

• CreditBox

• News

Due to the winter storm affecting the Chicago area, you may experience delayed response times here at CreditBox. We will resume regular business hours on Saturday, February 10th. We appreciate your patience and look forward to serving you. We will continue to provide updates as the weather progresses.

Valentine’s Day: Romantic Recipes to Make at Home

• Budget
• "Save Money"

• Holidays

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. 

Budget Winter Outdoor Activities

• "Apply Now"
• Budget

• Community

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.