AVOID OVERSPENDING THROUGH SAVVY SHOPPING
Marketers are magicians at luring shoppers to buy more than they intend. Whether you are shopping online or in a store, vendors use a variety of tactics to heighten the allure of their products, helping drive total U.S. household debt to a record $17.3 trillion. To help combat this, here are four financial tips to keep your budget intact and your debt under control. BE WARY OF ‘BUY NOW, PAY LATER’ OFFERS. These short-term, interest-free loans with fixed payments don’t require a credit check and are quick and easy to obtain. Not surprisingly, they tend to be most popular among consumers already in debt and strapped for cash. The Consumer Financial Protection Board says this puts consumers at greater risk of piling up more debt than they can afford. Also, returning items purchased this way may not always result in a refund. DON’T APPLY FOR EVERY CREDIT CARD OFFERED. Agreeing to apply for a store credit card seems like a no-brainer when you are offered 20%
off for doing so at checkout. What’s not to like about that? It dings your credit score, for one thing. Applying for a credit card results in a hard pull on your credit report. Signing up for loyalty programs can also be self-defeating because they can maneuver you into excess spending to get
more points and perks. Also, loyalty programs can discourage comparison shopping, which could otherwise save you money over time. DON’T FOCUS ON MONTHLY PAYMENTS ALONE. When making an installment purchase, car salespeople, real estate agents, and other marketers of big-ticket items will often ask you how big a monthly payment you can afford, then stretch the payments out over the maximum period of time to entice you into a larger purchase. But consider the whole cost and how much the interest adds to that total. It may shock you. Also, notice price-anchoring ploys. Retailers often claim a $76 shirt is on sale for $38 — when they never intended to sell it for anything but $38. ABSTAIN FROM RETAIL THERAPY! Shopping for fun is a major factor driving consumer debt to a record high. Make a list before you shop, and avoid browsing or shopping with friends. Turning shopping into recreation can easily lead to impulse purchases and spending more than you intended!
Beware of Winter Workplace Hazards
TIPS TO AVOID INJURIES AND UNDERSTAND WORKERS’ COMPENSATION
WHAT TO DO IF YOU’RE INJURED If you suffer an injury at work during the winter, here’s what you need to know about handling a workers’ compensation claim: 1. Report the Injury Immediately: Notify your employer quickly after the injury. Delaying this can cause issues with your claim. 2. Seek Medical Attention: Even if the injury seems minor, it’s essential to see a doctor to document the extent of your injury. 3. File a Workers’ Compensation Claim: You have a limited time to file a workers’ comp claim, so don’t delay. Your employer should give you the paperwork and instructions to file the claim. 4. Follow Your Doctor’s Instructions: If your doctor recommends treatment or time off, follow their advice. This helps strengthen your claim and ensures you recover correctly. KNOW YOUR RIGHTS Winter hazards can lead to severe injuries, but you have rights under workers’ compensation law. If you’ve been injured at work this winter, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and more.
Winter workplace hazards become a serious concern as the colder months roll in. Even just icy sidewalks can lead to lasting injury, and it’s no surprise that over 20,000 people each year suffer snow or ice-related injuries. If you experience a workplace injury this season, knowing your rights and navigating a workers’ compensation claim is essential. COMMON WINTER WORKPLACE HAZARDS One of the most common hazards is slipping on icy sidewalks, parking lots, or work areas. Employers should ensure that outdoor spaces are shoveled, salted, and ice-free. For employees, wearing weather-appropriate footwear with good traction can help prevent falls. Winter road conditions present a higher risk of accidents for people who drive for a living. Employers should encourage drivers to track the weather closely, give vehicles proper winter tires, and ensure all vehicle equipment is in good condition. Meanwhile, outdoor workers should receive warm, insulated clothing and footwear due to an increased risk of frostbite and hypothermia. Waterproof gloves, boots, and wind-resistant jackets are essential. Employers should also offer regular warm-up breaks and access to sheltered areas where workers can escape the cold.
Stay safe, stay warm, and know that our team is here to help you get back on your feet if an accident happens.
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