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Your Back-in-Motion Checklist: 4 Money Moves for August

by | Aug 3, 2026 | Financial Blog

4 Money Moves for August Best Ways to Save Money Money Saving Tips

Money Moves: Smart Ways to Save, Budget and Prepare for Fall

August has a way of sneaking up on us.

One minute, you’re soaking up summer. The next, you’re looking at back-to-school lists, fall schedules, vehicle needs, savings goals and maybe one last getaway before the season wraps up.

The good news is you don’t have to overhaul your entire financial life to feel more in control. A few smart money moves now can help you head into September with more confidence and a little less “where did the summer go?” energy.

Here’s your back-in-motion checklist for August:

1. Money Moves: Give your payment schedule a little breathing room

If summer spending has your budget feeling stretched, Community Resource FCU’s Skip-A-Pay program may help eligible members free up some short-term cash flow.

Skip-A-Pay is available during July and August, and again in November, December and January 2027. Eligible loans may include personal, auto, powersports, RV and boat loans. If your loan qualifies, you may be able to skip one monthly payment and use that extra room for other seasonal expenses.

Think school supplies, travel costs, home projects or just a little breathing room before fall routines kick in.

Good money move: Review your upcoming payment schedule and see whether skipping an eligible payment could help your monthly budget.

Important note: Skip-A-Pay requests are subject to approval. Fees apply. Interest will continue to accrue, and skipping a payment may extend the term of your loan.

2. Money Moves: Put your savings back on track

Summer is fun. It can also be expensive.

That’s why August is a great time to reset your savings habits before fall expenses arrive. Community Resource FCU offers several savings options to help members save for everyday goals, rainy days, youth savings and longer-term plans.

Not sure where to start? Keep it simple. Choose one goal, set a realistic amount and make saving automatic when possible. Our Learning Center also has free tools if you want a little extra structure.

A few ideas:

  • Start rebuilding your emergency fund
  • Set money aside for holiday spending
  • Open or review a youth savings account
  • Create a separate savings bucket for travel, home projects or annual expenses

Good money move: Pick one savings goal for the rest of the year and give it a name. “Holiday fund” feels a lot more real than “miscellaneous savings.”

3. Money Moves: Let your money work while you get back into routine

If you have money sitting in savings that you don’t need to use right away, a certificate may be worth exploring.

Community Resource FCU’s Certificates offer a secure way to grow your money while keeping your savings plan structured. Certificates can be helpful when you want to set funds aside for a specific period of time and earn a higher yield than a traditional savings account may offer. You can check current rates any time before deciding on a term.

CRFCU also offers IRA Certificates for members who are thinking about longer-term savings. Because retirement-related accounts can have tax considerations, it’s always smart to review the details and speak with a tax advisor if you have questions about what fits your situation.

Good money move: Look at your savings balance and timeline. If you have funds you won’t need right away, compare certificate options and current rates before making a decision.

4. Money Moves: Plan the trip without draining your savings

Still hoping to squeeze in one more summer getaway? A personal loan, branded this season as a Vacation Loan, may help you cover travel costs without emptying your savings account.

Community Resource FCU’s Personal Loans can be used for a variety of needs, including travel, unexpected expenses or other planned purchases. With fixed terms and no early payoff, origination or hidden fees, a personal loan may offer a more predictable way to borrow when used responsibly.

That said, a vacation should still fit your bigger financial picture. Borrowing for travel makes the most sense when you have a clear budget, understand the repayment terms and feel comfortable with the monthly payment.

Good money move: Before booking the trip, estimate the full cost, including travel, lodging, meals, activities and the “we forgot sunscreen again” extras.

Your August reset does not have to be complicated

You don’t need a 20-step financial plan to get back in motion. Start with one move:

A little planning now can go a long way once September schedules, school routines and fall expenses arrive. Have questions about what fits your situation? Stop by a branch or give us a call at 518.783.2211. We’re happy to help.

Disclosures: All loans are subject to credit approval. Rates, terms and conditions are subject to change. Skip-A-Pay requests are subject to approval. Fees apply. Interest continues to accrue during skipped payment periods and may extend the term of the loan. Certificate and IRA Certificate rates and APYs are subject to change. IRA products may have tax implications; consult a tax advisor for guidance specific to your situation.