35 Ways To Save Some Dollars

Posted on March 13, 2014 by vcnbfamily

While it’s tempting to look for big ways to save money, don’t discount the small things you can do to save a few dollars that will ultimately add up to big dollars. Here are 35 small things you can do, simple behavior changes, that can help you stretch your hard earned cash a little further.

Little changes can save big money over time!

1. Pay bills on time to avoid late fees and interest charges.2. Mom was right. Turn off the lights when no one is using the room.

3. Swap sugary drinks for water. It’s free and it’s good for you!

4. Use Billpay at VCNB! This service is free to online banking customers as long as you use it at least once a month. You just schedule your payment and we take care of the rest. There’s no stamp to buy or envelope to lick, making it convenient and easy to use

5. Skip the drive thru and make your coffee at home. Along those lines, carry a reusable water bottle when you travel. It will save you money and help the environment.

6. Sign up for rewards programs at stores you frequent. Grocers and pharmacies will often give you coupons for discounts or even free merchandise.

7. Try the store brands of your favorite foods. Often times, the packaging looks different and the price is higher but the contents are the same as the name brand.

8. Share music, books and movies with a friend. It’s a great way to introduce each other to new artists.

9. Remember it’s usually cheaper to cook for your family than to pick up fast food. Stock your freezer with some convenience meals for those nights you’re tempted to order takeout.

10. Cancel memberships and subscriptions that you don’t use. There’s no sense paying for a magazine that you don’t read or a gym membership if you never go.

11. Skip the vending machine and try bringing snacks from home.

12. Jazz up leftovers to avoid wasting food. There are a lot of websites and blogs dedicated to cooking and some to reinventing leftovers. See number 16 another great idea for leftovers!

13. Improve gas mileage by airing up your tires. Experts say that for every two PSI that all of your tires are below the recommended level, you lose one percent on your gas mileage.

14. Try your hand at Meatless Monday. There are tons of great casseroles and soups that are delicious and inexpensive to make because they don’t use meat.

15. Plug your electronic devices into a surge protector. All those cords for your TV, DVD player and gaming devices have to plug in somewhere. Many people don’t realize that they continue to use power even when turned off so be sure to flip the switch when they aren’t in use.

16. Pack your lunch and save a bundle every month. By bringing leftovers or a sandwich from home, you can eat a healthier lunch and save money. If you typically spend just $5 a day on lunch, at five days a week for four weeks, you can save $100 a month!

17. Close the blinds or drapes during the day to keep light and heat from coming in during the summer. The extra heat will make your air conditioner work harder in the summer. On the other hand, open them up to let in sunshine to help with winter heating.

18. When conditions are appropriate, use cruise control to regulate your speed and improve your gas mileage.

19. Another great way to save on gas is to combine errands into one trip. If some stops are close together, park your car and walk a bit. Since walking is good for your health there’s an added benefit!

20. Going to the movies? Check out the matinee instead of the evening show. Ticket prices at some theaters are significantly cheaper earlier in the day and theaters are less crowded.

21. Kick your vices to the curb. Whether it’s smoking or a daily run to the ice cream shop, these habits can be expensive and bad for your health.

22. Do you shop when you’re bored? Why not play a game with your kids, take a walk or check out a community event instead?

23. Check out your local library for all sorts of free resources. You might be surprised to find so many new release books and movies as well as magazines, free events and things for the kids to enjoy.

24. Ask your physician to consider prescribing generic drugs. Generic drugs can cost several hundred dollars less to purchase annually than brand-name drugs.

25. Lower the thermostat on your hot water heater just a few degrees to save a lot of dollars each year.

26. Plan ahead for holidays. Buying cards, wrapping paper and gift bags after Christmas can save you 50 to 75 percent on these needed items. But you can also find cupcake wrappers, cards and decorations deeply discounted after every holiday throughout the year.

27. Repair (or work around) before you pitch. Don’t toss out that blouse because it needs a button or that vase because it has a chip in the side. Learn to sew that button back on and how to turn the vase so no one sees the flaw!

28. Buy produce that’s in season. It will taste better and save you dollars. If you find a great deal on berries, buy extra to freeze for later and enjoy the flavor of the season for less.

29. Make sure that your drapes and furniture don’t block heating and cooling vents.

30. Unplug your cell phone charger when it isn’t in use.

31. Leave the thermostat alone. If you’re cold, put on a sweater or get up and move around.

32. Open the windows! If the outside temperature is moderate, open the windows and let the breeze and sunshine in. It will save on your electric bill and help to air out your home.

33. Carpool to work. Make friends with a coworker in your neighborhood and take turns driving. You will save wear and tear on your vehicle and on fuel. Plus you will have company along the way!

34. Have a spill that’s not too messy? Use a dish towel instead of a paper towel. The expense of disposable products adds up quickly.

35. Plan your week. Don’t wake up every day wondering what your kid will take for lunch. Create a meal plan and shop for it and prepare meals and pack leftovers into your lunch the night before. Also remember to plan for what tomorrow will bring. If your daughter has soccer practice, pack some snacks so you don’t have to swing into the drive thru.

Do you have other tips for saving money in your everyday life? We would love to hear them! Post a comment below and remember also to subscribe so you never miss a post from VCNB.

Checking My Way: Flexible and Easy

Posted on March 5, 2014 by vcnbfamily

Have you heard about our Checking May Way account? We really like the flexibility and options this account provides!

With Checking My Way, there is no minimum balance required and there are no fees for electronic statements. If you would like to have a paper statement mailed to you each month, the cost is $3 per month without check images and $5 per month with check images.

The account comes with a standard debit card but for a $5 fee that can be upgraded to a vanity debit card.

Free Online Banking, Bill Pay and Mobile Banking will help you to stay connect on the go and from anywhere you have internet access. Plus, Account Alerts can help you stay in the know about what’s happening with your account with various kinds of transactions.

Another great feature is Mobile Deposit which is available with our Touch Banking app. This allows Checking My Way customers to deposit a check by taking a picture of it with their mobile phone.

This is a terrific account for people of all ages and for anyone looking for an account that allows them choice in features. Are you ready to sign up? Click here to open your account online today! We also welcome you into our 13 branches to sit down with a New Accounts Representative and receive the personal service you deserve.

Cost Cutting Tuesday: Television

Posted on March 4, 2014 by vcnbfamily

Television. It’s an amazing invention that brings the world into your living room with just a click of the remote. It can take you on an African safari, give you a front row seat at Carnegie Hall and take you to midcourt of your favorite basketball game. It’s entertaining and a terrific time killer.

It’s also a budget buster if you allow it to be.

Fortunately, there are some opportunities to trim costs in this department.

Buy an antenna – If you don’t watch a lot of TV and are happy with local channels, a simple HDTV antenna could be the solution. They are inexpensive and a great option for those who just want the basics.

Cut back on channels – How many channels do you really watch? Take a look at your package and consider cutting back. Basic packages typically include the most popular channels so you may not miss anything. If you actually watch those premium channels and see value in having them, there are other options.

Watch for deals – Satellite and cable companies tend to run a lot of promotions to attract new customers. However, these promotions are sometimes available to existing customers too. Check out their website and watch the mail for coupons and offers. If that doesn’t work, call customer service and ask if there are any deals available.

Shop around – Consider your options. Is there another cable provider in your town? Have you considered satellite TV? Often times, these companies offer better packages for your needs, discounted introductory rates or other promotions to attract new customers.

Go online – Many shows can be streamed online for free or for a monthly subscription. If you have reliable internet, using these online resources may be the way to go.

Bundle Up – Bundling your TV service with phone and internet may save you a few bucks without sacrificing the amount of channels you have to choose from. Ask your provider if this is an option.

Digital Media Players – Using the power of the internet, these set top box-like devices allow you to stream live content or watch programming on-demand at your convenience. Roku, Google Chromecast, and AppleTV are popular choices, but did you know that your gaming system may serve as a streaming device as well? Smart TVs are an option and are becoming more the ‘norm.’ The most popular channels tend carry a minimal monthly fee in the range of $5-$10, but there is also an abundance of free content. Purchasing a few must-have channels in addition to the free programming could allow you to cancel your cable or satellite subscription altogether!

Trimming just $10 a month can save you $120 a year and $25 would add up to $300 in a year. It’s tough to remember sometimes but the little things really do add up in a big way.

Think Spring

Gallery

Posted on February 26, 2014 by vcnbfamily

It will be here before you know it – in 21 days to be exact. Are you ready to build your dream home? We offer loans for construction and for lots. Contact your local branch today so that we can help you … Continue reading →

Tips To Help You Get More Done

Posted on February 21, 2014 by vcnbfamily

When was the last time you didn’t feel like there was too much to do? In this “do more with less” and “work smarter, not harder” age we live in, it is easy to feel overwhelmed by responsibilities. Here are some productivity tips to help!

Make a list (and check it often) – It’s easy to forget details and it’s even easier to get off track when you don’t have a clear picture of what needs done. Keep a to-do list either on paper or on your phone and remember to check it frequently. When working on a large project, write down each piece of the project so you don’t lose track of the small picture. Remember to celebrate when you scratch something off!

Start on the right foot – Begin with a few easy tasks to give you a sense of accomplishment. Or do the opposite and start with something you normally procrastinate.

Keep it together – Store often used items in a convenient place and like items together. Keep your gym clothes, shoes and iPod in a bag together so they are ready when you are. Always put your keys, shoes, coat, purse and other daily used items in the same convenient place.

Visualize your goal – When you start to feel distracted or stressed, take a moment to consider how good it will feel to cross that project off your list.

Time yourself – Set an egg timer or the alarm on your phone. You will be amazed how much can be accomplished when you’re working against the clock!

Mess creates stress – Clutter is distracting. If you are distracted by the stack of mail on the kitchen table or the pile of files that should be put away at work, take a few minutes to bust through that clutter. Sometimes a clean work space is all you need to get started.

Start early – Most people have the most energy in the morning. Do tedious or difficult tasks early because your concentration is at its best. Put off the easy, mindless work until the afternoon slump.

Cut the cord – Technology is a great tool and terrible distraction. A lot of people aren’t productive because they are playing on Facebook or checking email every few seconds. If you are really trying to focus and get a lot done, turn off your smart phone, sign out of social media and close your email. It will all be waiting for you when you’re done.

Tech support – With that said, technology can be a huge help providing you with websites and apps that help with everything from managing projects to editing pictures. Seek out sites that can aid with workflow rather than distract from your focus.

Recover lost time – If you commute 30 minutes a day, that’s almost 8,000 hours you spend in the car each year. Listen to an audio book or learn to view the drive as “me time” instead of stressing over where you are going. While waiting for that oil change or doctor appointment, make your grocery list or read a book.

Give yourself a break – It sounds counterproductive but sometimes you just need a little break to clear your mind. Get up for a cold drink, take a quick walk or find a snack. Whatever you do, periodically give yourself a few minutes to decompress and reenergize.

Set yourself up to succeed – Do things during off-peak hours when you are less likely to experience lines and delays. Don’t hit the grocery store at 5 p.m. on a Friday when you know it’s busy. Try going later in the evening or on Sunday morning. Ask for your dentist’s first appointment of the day.

What are your favorite productivity tips and tricks? Post in the comments section and we will share our favorites on our Facebook page.

Happy Presidents’ Day!

Posted on February 17, 2014 by vcnbfamily

All VCNB locations will be closed today in observance of Presidents’ Day. We will resume regular hours tomorrow morning. Meanwhile, remember that we are always open online at www.vintoncountybank.com.

HSA 2013 Tax Year Deadline Approaches

Posted on February 11, 2014 by vcnbfamily

Are you thinking about opening a Health Savings Account (HSA) with VCNB? Time is drawing near if you want your contributions to count toward the 2013 tax year.

An HSA is beneficial to families and individuals with high deductible insurance plans who want to save money for qualified medical expenses. To be eligible for an HSA in 2014 you must have an annual deductible of at least $1,250 for an individual or $2,500 for a family

Contributions to an HSA are tax deductible and withdrawals to pay qualified medical expenses are never taxed. The money you deposit into your HSA rolls over from year to year and can be used only for approved medical, vision and dental expenses.

April 15, 2014 is the deadline for contributions to count toward the 2013 tax year.

An HSA at VCNB features free checks with unlimited check writing, a debit card, a monthly statement, online access and interest checking with tiered rates. There is a monthly service charge of $3 and an initial set-up fee of $25. However, if you open an HSA now through March 31, 2014 you can find a coupon here. This coupon can be used to waive the initial set-up fee.

Do you believe an HSA is right for you? At VCNB we have account representatives who can talk to you about eligibility requirements and to help you get started! Call your local branch or 1-800-542-5004 to talk with one of our knowledgeable account representatives.

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What to Buy in February

Posted on February 7, 2014 by vcnbfamily

February is the shortest month of the year but is packed with savings opportunities. What are the best things to buy this month?

Winter clothes and coats ‑ Retailers are making room for Easter dresses, flip flops and bathing suits. That means you can find great deals on all things winter. Coats, gloves, scarves and hats are deeply discounted this time of year. It’s also a great time to pick up heavy sweaters, boots and other winter necessities.

Electronics ‑ New models of cameras, televisions and other electronics have been introduced and last year’s models are now on clearance. Even smaller items like tablets or blue-ray players that didn’t sell over the holidays are deeply discounted. Also, a lot of cellular phone companies offer great deals for sweethearts who want to upgrade their phones or their phone packages.

Outdoor furniture, grills and AC ‑ Ohio has been hard hit this winter with sub-freezing temperatures and snow so it’s kind of tough to think about hosting an outdoor barbeque. But in just a few months you will be ready to do just that and may be in the market for new patio furniture and other expensive outdoor merchandise. Many retailers will be trying to jumpstart sales of these warm weather items this month with sales.

Appliances and furniture ‑ Usually around mid‑February, retailers begin marking down these items. In fact, some of the lowest prices of the year can be find on washers, refrigerators, beds, sofas and other major household purchases around President’s Day.

Do you shop sales or do you just buy things as you need them?

Sunshine

Posted on February 4, 2014 by vcnbfamily

With severe Winter weather moving through Ohio this week, we feel it important to remind you that Spring is just 43 days away! Meanwhile, maybe this sunny beach will keep you warm. Remember, if it’s too cold and snowy to go outside, you can always bank online with us at www.vintoncountybank.com.

Sign Up For Mobile Money Today

Posted on January 30, 2014 by vcnbfamily

Have you ever needed to make a payment or check an account balance at VCNB and wished you could do it from your smart phone? Now you can! Signing up for our Mobile Money is incredibly easy and can be done in just a few easy steps.

The first step to using Mobile Money is that you need a mobile phone with internet capabilities and you need to be enrolled in our online banking service.

Follow these instructions to get our Mobile Money app:

– Go to the App Store or Google Play and download Touchbanking.

– Enter the app code VCNB1867 and your online banking ID.

– Answer your previously set security question.

– Enter your online banking password.

Follow these instructions to enroll in our Mobile Browser Banking or Text Messaging.

– Log in to Online Banking.

– Select the Options tab.

– Click on Mobile Settings.

– Enter phone number and have your mobile device on hand.

– Choose either Mobile Browser Banking or Text Messaging.

– Select accounts to view by phone.

– Read and accept mobile agreement.

Look for a text message to confirm enrollment with a web site address. Save it to your favorites for browser banking.

With just these few easy steps you will be ready to view balances, transfer funds, pay bills, deposit checks and do more with VCNB on your mobile device!

Watch this video to learn more about Mobile Money or click here to read frequently asked questions. Standard messaging and data rates may apply.

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