2025 BV Bankwise Articles
November
BV Bank Monthly: Holiday Budgeting Made Easy – November Tips for Smart Spending
As we enter the holiday season, it’s easy for spending to get out of control. Between gift-giving, travel, entertaining, and end-of-year sales, November can take a toll on your budget and your peace of mind.
At BV Bank, we believe financial wellness doesn’t have to take a back seat to the holiday spirit. With a little planning and the right tools, you can enjoy the season without overspending or adding to your debt.
Here are five timely tips to help you spend wisely and save where it counts this November:
1. Create a Holiday Spending Plan
Start with a list of who you want to buy for, what you plan to spend, and any additional seasonal expenses like décor, meals, or travel. Assign a dollar amount to each category and stick to it.
BV Bank Tip: Use our online and mobile banking features to set Notifi spending alerts and monitor your balance.
2. Shop Smart with a Strategy
Take advantage of Black Friday, Small Business Saturday, and Cyber Monday deals but shop with purpose, not pressure. Research prices ahead of time and avoid impulse purchases.
BV Bank Tip: Support your community by shopping at local businesses and using your BV Bank debit card or Digital Wallet to access secure and fast checkout options.
3. Avoid Holiday Debt Traps
It can be tempting to put everything on a credit card and “deal with it later.” But overspending now can lead to financial stress in the new year.
BV Bank Tip: Consider using a BV Bank Christmas Club account for next year.
4. Automate Your Bills & Savings
With so many things happening in November, it’s easy to forget regular payments.
BV Bank Tip: Avoid late fees and missed savings by setting up automatic transfers and bill pay in your BV Bank account.
5. Give the Gift of Financial Wellness
Looking for meaningful gift ideas? Consider starting a savings account for your child or grandchild, contributing to a loved one’s emergency fund, or giving gift cards with budgeting lessons for teens.
BV Bank Tip:
Open a youth savings account or Zen Card Account account in just a few minutes. www.bvnb.com/personal-banking-services/personal-checking-saving/
Make the Most of the Season – Without the Financial Stress
At BV Bank, we’re here to help you navigate holiday spending with confidence. Whether you need budgeting help, loan options, or just a few smart money tips, our team is ready to support you.
Visit us online or stop by your local BV Bank branch and make this your most financially mindful holiday yet.
October
Smart Holiday Spending: Protect Your Wallet and Your Identity
The holiday season is right around the corner… family gatherings, and shopping deals. But it’s also a time when budgets can easily get stretched and scammers look for opportunities to take advantage of distracted shoppers. By planning ahead and taking a few precautions, you can enjoy the season without overspending or putting your personal information at risk.
Create a Holiday Budget That Works
It’s easy to get caught up in the spirit of giving, but setting a clear spending plan can save you stress later.
- Make a list and set limits: Write down who you’re shopping for and assign a spending cap for each person.
- Track as you go: Use an app, spreadsheet, or even a simple notebook to log purchases and make sure you’re staying on track.
- Plan for extras: Don’t forget holiday meals, decorations, and travel expenses. Including these in your budget helps avoid surprises.
Tip: Using your BV Bank debit card tied to your checking account can help you stick to your budget and avoid carrying a balance into the new year.
Watch Out for Holiday Scams
Cybercriminals know that people are busy and distracted during the holidays. Common scams include fake shipping notifications, counterfeit gift cards, and fraudulent online stores. Protect yourself by:
- Verifying websites before making purchases – look for “https” in the web address and read reviews.
- Being cautious with emails and texts – don’t click links from unknown senders claiming shipping delays or “exclusive” deals.
- Monitoring your accounts regularly – check your online and mobile banking apps for unusual activity.
Safe Ways to Pay
Consider using tools that add layers of protection when you shop online.
At BV Bank, checking accounts with debit card access makes it easy to track your spending while giving you secure payment options for both in-store and online purchases. Plus, with our mobile banking app, you can set up alerts to spot any suspicious activity quickly. Learn more about Notifi real-time alerts: bvnb.com/notifi-alerts/
Build an Emergency Cushion
While it’s fun to be generous, it’s also wise to set aside money for the unexpected. Even putting a small amount into a savings account each payday can provide peace of mind when life throws a curveball. If you’re looking for a safe way to grow your holiday savings, a BV Bank Christmas Club is a great option.
Final Thoughts
The holidays should be a time to enjoy family, friends, and traditions, not a time to worry about overspending or fraud. By creating a realistic budget, watching out for scams, and choosing secure banking products, you can make this season both joyful and financially smart.
