Summer is slowly ending and soon the kids will go back to school but you can still keep stay on the savings wave with your finances. Honolulu-based Hawaiian Tel Federal Credit Union is one of the premier personal and online banking institutions in the state and wants you to create healthy financial habits. Since 1936, the credit union has helped members achieve financial independence, which is why they’re offering some suggestions to keep your finances on track.

Some Short-term Savings
Christmas will be here sooner than you know it and you don’t have to go into debt over the holidays. Think about opening a Christmas savings account and a financial institution that allows you to automatically contribute. Christmas savings accounts usually have an interest rate so that whatever money you deposit gains interest. Set up automatic transfers at regular intervals like on paydays so that the impact of the withdrawal isn’t as noticeable.

Think of Some Long-term Goals
You’re thinking it’s practically only mid-year but think of it as a new year since summer vacation is ending and the kids will go back to school. Now is a perfect time to plan for the next year and beyond. Think about what your plans are in the next few years. Do you want to move to a bigger house now that the kids are getting older? Maybe you want to finally take that family trip to the east coast? Take the time and talk it out with your other half and start planning. Maybe you want to go back to school and take some classes to get ahead in your career? Whatever it is, it won’t happen by just thinking about it.

Bottom Line
Now is the best time to plan for the future. Write down your goals and start planning so that you can be financially independent and comfortable in the short and long term.

If you’re interested in establishing a Christmas savings account or diversifying your investments to secure your future, let the experienced personal banking specialists at Hawaiian Tel Federal Credit Union help. To learn more about their services and to find your nearest credit union location, visit hitelfcu.com or call them on Oahu at 832-8700 or toll-free at (800) 272-5255.