personal finance - Live Smart Ohio

July 28, 2015

Addressing Student Loan Repayment

College is one of the most fulfilling and exciting experiences for many people. It is a time filled with challenging classes, friends and football games, and the endless quest for knowledge. After graduation, you feel like you could take on the world! That is until you receive notice that your student loans will soon be […]

WRITTEN BY: Amanda Woods, M.Ed. Healthy Finances Program Specialist, Family and Consumer Sciences, Ohio State University Extension

REVIEWED BY: Carmen Irving, M.A., CFLE, CYC-P, Extension Educator, Family and Consumer Sciences, Ohio State University Extension, Union County

January 14, 2015

Replace Resolutions with Specific Goals

It’s the time of year when we are all committed to being “better” versions of our last year’s selves. For many, these improved versions have an improved financial picture. New Year’s resolutions are a great personal commitment – if you can stick to them. Though intentions are good, research from the University of Scranton indicates […]

April 9, 2014

Where do I begin?

In everyday life, we’re surrounded by information that has to do with money. Turn on the TV or radio, pick up a newspaper or magazine, search the web or look at social media sites…information is everywhere. How do we know what is credible and worth our attention? First, catch your breath…start by evaluating where you […]

November 3, 2013

Planning for the Holidays

The holidays are around the corner!! While I love the time with family and friends, I get a little anxious when I think about all the extra time and money that can come along with them. Below are some tips that I try to follow that you may find helpful too: *The guideline for holiday spending is about […]

April 10, 2012

Emergency Funds: Vital Help in a Crisis

Many families have faced challenges with loss of income and/or extra expenses during this recession. Families are often called upon to help pay bills or provide necessities if they are not covering their own emergencies. So, the message about having a reserve fund of cash may not be a “hard sell” in these times. Coming […]

March 24, 2011

Made You Look!

When we were kids, one of the first practical jokes we learned to play on each other was to tell someone their zipper was down (or something was spilled on their shirt). When they would look down in alarm, the other person would say “made you look.” The person being pranked usually acknowledged the joke […]