Featured Image Want to find out how your budget stacks up? Take a look at these 10 Characteristics of the Best Budgets, compliments of BALANCE. Find out what you’re doing right and what you can do to improve your budget.Has been measured against actual spending activities for a period of time (tracking)Is realistic for your situationAllows for savings, especially for emergenciesHelps you work toward stated goalsHas “rewards” built into so that you aren’t depriving yourselfLets you adjust on-the-fly if circumstances change or initial projections aren’t accurateDoesn’t include overtime or bonuses as a part of guaranteed incomeReflects empowering choicesHas input from everyone whose life will be impacted by the budgetIs as thorough as possibleSo how does your budget compare? Where can you make improvements? Use our interactive budgeting worksheet to see where you stand.Making small changes to your budget can have a big impact on how quickly and effectively you meet your financial goals. Our accounts, financial tools, and convenient services help you grow your money and live more confidently. Learn more about everyday banking at VACU
5 Ways to Entertain on a Budget Big family means big celebration. I grew up with many siblings, cousins, and now am blessed to have a bunch of nieces and nephews. Celebration happens often, from birthdays to congratulatory dinners.