September often feels like a fresh start. Kids are back in school, summer vacations wind down, and many of us are ready to reset our routines. It is also a great time to refocus on your financial goals. At BV Bank, we want to share some simple banking and budgeting strategies to help you finish the year strong.

Summer fun can sometimes come with extra costs such as travel, camps, or family outings. September is the perfect month to revisit your household budget. Look at your checking and savings accounts, review your debit card transactions, and identify areas where you may have overspent. Adjust your monthly budget categories so you are set up for the fall.

The holiday season sneaks up quickly. By setting aside a little money each week now, you can avoid credit card stress later. Consider setting up an automatic transfer from your checking account to a dedicated Christmas Club account.

Are you saving for retirement, a home, or your child’s education? September is a good reminder to check your progress. Review your retirement account contributions, or talk with a banker about opening an IRA or a CD.

Back to school season often means more online shopping and digital payments. Be sure your online banking password is strong, update your security questions, and enable two factor authentication. This helps protect your account from fraud.