Palmetto Connection Newsletter
News and Events for Palmetto First Federal Credit Union Members
GETTING SCHOOLED ON BACK-TO-SCHOOL
Summer will end soon enough, and, as children begin to sulk, their parents secretly join in the dance of back-to-school jubilation. The dance, however, turns into more of a nervous trudge if they failed to plan for the second biggest shopping season for retailers. Unlike the winter holidays, back-to-school and college spending can sneak up on a family. It can be jarring re-establishing morning routines, making lunches, getting kids to school, sticking to new bedtimes and helping kids with homework. However, the number one stressor for most families is the cost. According to the National Retail Federation, back-to-school spending has spiked 55% over the past 10 years. Back-to-college spending has grown 18% since 2009. The average shopper spends $674 on back-to-school supplies.
There is a more cost-friendly way to shop, and it all begins with a plan:
Take a clothing inventory. Scope out your children’s closets (yes, even those big kids going to college). First, search for suitable hand-me-downs for your other children. Take the nicer clothes that no longer fit to a consignment store, or explore what you can sell online, particularly children’s shoes. As for the rest, see if you can make a few bucks at a yard sale. If all else fails, you can at least make an impact on your community with a donation to your local thrift store.
Know when to shop. The harsh reality for many parents is that the all-important school supply list comes either before or after the back-to-school sales. What are you certain you need to buy? What items can wait? Look at the ads for each store and compare prices. Also, remember Tax-Free Weekend is Aug. 4-6 this year. That’s a 6% savings! These weekends are especially useful for electronics, clothing and backpacks.
Make and share a detailed list. When making your back-to-school list, go into detail about not only what you need but also what you have to offer. Share your list among friends, family and neighbors. Chances are, there is someone out there willing to swap items, particularly parents of college-bound students in need of secondhand apartment items.
Set a budget and stick to it. It’s easy to get caught up in the back-to-school excitement. You want your child to go to school or to college in style. Know and understand that you will be bombarded with messages of adorable bookbags, must-have clothing brands and extravagant dorm room accessories. With patience and planning, you can make it out of back-to-school season with money left in your pocket.
If you need to finance, play it smart. Let’s face it, there are a lot of school essentials. You may be overwhelmed with the cost of musical instruments, uniforms, laptops, sports equipment, books, tuition, dorm room needs and more. Instead of reaching for your credit card, you might want to consider a personal loan. A low-cost loan for all your back-toschool needs offers affordable payments with a fixed term.
7th Annual Hott Headz Challenge
First Place Jana Goss The Salon of Florence Styled by Karyn Delapré
Second Place Aubree Nguyen Just Teasin’ Salon Styled by Kelsey Hicks
Third Place Krystall Bell Just Teasin’ Salon Styled by Brittany Wise
“When my car messed up a few years ago, I applied for a car loan at 3 different places to compare rates. Palmetto First had me approved with a good rate before the other 2 banks even looked at my application. That’s why I’ve chosen to stay with Palmetto First.”-Corbin Witt
“As I go off to USC, I plan to continue using the credit union. I’ll have access to free ATMs throughout the country, so I don’t feel limited doing business with my hometown credit union that has always offered me great service.”- Colby Witt
You’re covered thanks to Courtesy Pay.
Courtesy Pay is available for your debit card and checking! Courtesy Pay may cover your debit card purchases to your approved limit for one low fee per covered transaction.
In Sympathy
The Board and Staff of Palmetto First Federal Credit Union, along with our members, would like to extend heartfelt sympathy to the friends and families of… Ruth Arrington • Martha Edwards William Fields • Walter Worrell Jr. …all valued members of your family and ours.
We regret that our updated system no longer notifies us of a member’s passing. We appreciate your assistance in bringing the names of those who have passed to our attention.