Blogs
October 4th kicks off the annual celebration of Customer Service Week. Customer Service Week is an international celebration of the importance of customer service and of the people who serve and support customers on a daily basis. This year’s theme is “The Power of Service.” It gives us a great opportunity to remind you of how important you are as a client and the support available to you as a customer of Century.
Delivering excellent customer service is a goal our team strives for every day. Providing this type of excellent customer service is a journey that takes practice and a genuine desire to treat you, our clients, with the same excellence that we would expect for ourselves. To give you some insight into how our team provides this level of service to you, here are some principles we carry into every one of our client interactions.
- Know Our Service – To provide excellent customer service, we need to know what we do for our clients inside and out. We are constantly training our staff to be able to answer all of your questions and how to articulate the answers in a way that will leave you satisfied.
- Be Friendly – We understand that being in debt is a stressful situation. We train our team to help alleviate that stress by being friendly and courteous in all of our client interactions.
- Say Thank You and Celebrate Great Moments – We are truly grateful that you have put your trust in us to help with your debt relief and we strive to make sure that you know how appreciative we are. Our staff ends every client interaction by saying thank you and reminding clients that it is truly our pleasure servicing your program.
- Listen – If we don’t listen to you attentively, we can’t know how to best serve your needs. Our staff practices active listening techniques so that we can be the customer advocate you deserve. We also have a team that reads every client response we get from surveys and reacts to them if follow-up is needed.
- Be Responsive – We do our absolute best to respond to every client question as quickly as possible. Whether it be via a phone call, text or chat session, we want to get you the answers you need, through the communication channel you prefer.
Century strives for excellence every day in everything we do. We thank you for letting us be your partner on this journey and we will continue to do our best to provide you with the excellent customer service you deserve.
Contact Century to Learn About Debt Settlement
If debt settlement sounds like it might be the right debt reduction strategy for you, contact Century Support Services. Century has helped hundreds of thousands of people settle debts that they otherwise couldn’t pay, and has saved clients a lot of time, aggravation and money in the process. To date, Century has settled more than $1.3 billion in debt and maintains a 94% satisfaction rating.
To get started, you’ll receive our free assessment and our Certified Debt Specialists will create a personalized program plan for you.
To learn more about the debt settlement process or if you have any general questions relating to how long does debt settlement take or how long will it take to recover from debt settlement, we’re happy to answer any questions.
Contact us today!
According to Breastcancer.org, as many as one in eight women will develop invasive breast cancer at some point during her life. If not caught early and treated effectively, breast cancer can be fatal. For this reason, it is important to raise awareness of the risks of breast cancer, as well as the steps women can take to protect themselves.
In order to spread breast cancer awareness, October has been designated as "Breast Cancer Awareness Month."
Breast Cancer Facts
Breast cancer can affect anyone, but some people may be at a higher risk of developing this condition. For example, smoking may raise your risk of breast cancer. In addition, some people may have hereditary genetic factors that make them more likely to get this type of cancer.
Symptoms of breast cancer vary but may include a lump in the breast, inverted nipple, and changes to the skin on the breast. In the early stages, however, breast cancer may not cause any symptoms. Breast cancer is most treatable at its earlier stages, so regular mammograms are recommended for women after they reach a certain age. The age at which mammograms should begin will depend on the woman’s individual risk factors.
About Breast Cancer Awareness Month
Breast Cancer Awareness Month was first established in 1985 by the American Cancer Society and AstraZeneca. The purpose of this annual event was to not only bring awareness to breast cancer, but also to promote the use of mammograms to offer early detection. In addition, Breast Cancer Awareness Month also aims to raise money for breast cancer research.
During the month of October, you may have access to a number of events that promote breast cancer awareness. Different organizations may schedule educational sessions, breast cancer screening promotions, media events, and more. Some organizations may also schedule events designed to provide support to families that have already been affected by breast cancer.
How to Observe Breast Cancer Awareness Month
There are several steps you can take to observe Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Some examples include:
- Attending an educational session to gain more knowledge about breast cancer symptoms, screening, diagnosis and treatment.
- Talking to family and friends about breast cancer awareness.
- Donating to an organization that supports breast cancer research (within your financial means).
- Scheduling a breast cancer screening, such as a doctor appointment or a mammogram.
Breast cancer is a serious disease that impacts millions of families every year, leading to expensive treatments and loss of life. Observing Breast Cancer Awareness Month is one of the best ways to help combat this disease and spread awareness.
Contact Century to Learn About Debt Settlement
If debt settlement sounds like it might be the right debt reduction strategy for you, contact Century Support Services. Century has helped hundreds of thousands of people settle debts that they otherwise couldn’t pay, and has saved clients a lot of time, aggravation and money in the process. To date, Century has settled more than $1.3 billion in debt and maintains a 94% satisfaction rating.
To get started, you’ll receive our free assessment and our Certified Debt Specialists will create a personalized program plan for you.
To learn more about the debt settlement process or if you have any general questions relating to how long does debt settlement take or how long will it take to recover from debt settlement, we’re happy to answer any questions.
Contact us today!
Emma and her husband had thought they had everything on track. Working hard all their lives and saving for retirement, they were approaching what they thought were the best years of their life.
One day they received a letter from the IRS saying they owed back taxes. Emma was astonished, “How can that be”, she exclaimed “We have always filed our taxes on time and paid in full”. After a bit of digging in, they found that their tax preparer made an error and they were on the hook for over $30,000. The IRS started garnishing their wages, which was over $600 a month. Along with prescription co-pays, health insurance and other bills, they soon became reliant on credit cards.
That’s when Emma and her husband turned to Century for help. “Working with Century Support has done a great deal to calm our fears about starting this process.” Emma stated when explaining why she chose Century. “Anytime I call or email them, I get the answers I need.”
Nearly a year into enrolling in Century’s debt settlement program, Emma and her husband have resolved almost half of their debt and by increasing their monthly deposits, are on track to settling the rest of their debt before their estimated 48-month program length.
“I cannot thank them (Century) enough for how they take the stress out of what is an extremely delicate and stressful matter!” Emma exclaimed.
Congratulations on your program success, Emma!
We thank you for trusting us to be a part of your journey toward better financial health and celebrate your diligence in staying with the program to make such great progress!
*We protect the privacy of our clients by changing their names and omitting any identifying details.
Contact Century to Learn About Debt Settlement
If debt settlement sounds like it might be the right debt reduction strategy for you, contact Century Support Services. Century has helped hundreds of thousands of people settle debts that they otherwise couldn’t pay, and has saved clients a lot of time, aggravation and money in the process. To date, Century has settled more than $1.3 billion in debt and maintains a 94% satisfaction rating.
To get started, you’ll receive our free assessment and our Certified Debt Specialists will create a personalized program plan for you.
To learn more about the debt settlement process or if you have any general questions relating to how long does debt settlement take or how long will it take to recover from debt settlement, we’re happy to answer any questions.
Contact us today!
With National Crush a Can Day just around the corner, it is a great time to remember you can recycle not just to help the environment – but also to earn money!
On September 27th, people all over the U.S. will gather their aluminum cans to smash, squash, squeeze, stomp and crush, all in an effort to bring awareness to the benefits of recycling. Some will save and collect cans during the weeks leading up to the big day, while others will call on friends and family to bring their cans for a “crush party.” Not only is it fun, stress-busting, and good for the environment (recycling a single can save enough energy to operate a TV for 3 hours), but it can also give your budget a boost to keep you on track towards your financial goals.
Turning Aluminum Cans into Cash
Converting your cans to revenue is as simple as locating a local recycling facility and bringing them your cans. It does not matter if the cans are crushed already, as compensation is determined by weight. Note that reimbursement rates can vary from day to day, state to state, and by region. Typically, recycling facilities located in the same area will have similar rates, but call to compare aluminum can compensation prices at your local facilities before choosing one to recycle with.
ScrapMonster.com publishes average scrap metal prices, so you can get an idea of the going rates in your area. For example, at the time of this writing, aluminum can scrap is valued at 46 cents per pound for the State of Texas, but in the localized region of Fort Worth, Texas, it can go for an average of 71 cents per pound. If your family drinks a lot of sodas or other carbonated beverages, taking the extra step to save your cans and recycle them in bulk can provide some extra financial support.
You Can Recycle More than Just Cans
Although National Crush a Can Day puts the spotlight on the ease of recycling cans, there are plenty of other commodities in high demand. In fact, there are many unconventional ways of recycling your unwanted trash – even if it means selling items to crafters or small businesses that can make use of it. For example, crafters are often in search of goods they can repurpose and sell, such as wine corks or wine bottles. Often, these buyers wish to purchase in bulk, so carve out some space to collect these types of items as you use them. Some states even offer glass bottle compensation programs, paying as much as 15 cents per bottle or more to consumers who bring their bottles to a participating recycling center.
Other items that can be recycled include household and office items. Often, stores will offer buy-back programs, providing cash or gift cards for things like used ink cartridges, electronics, and even batteries. Contact businesses that specialize in the sale of these types of goods to find out if they or an affiliated business or organization can compensate you for your used or unwanted items. If you happen to have an old vehicle that is damaged beyond repair, car salvage yards may also pay top dollar either for your working car parts or otherwise by the weight of your vehicle.
Recycle to Save
The sky is the limit when it comes to recycling. Finding companies or individuals that offer an incentive for recycling or who are willing to pay for your unwanted items takes some effort, but also financially rewarding. This year on National Crush a Can Day, gather some cans to recycle, and then think of other ways you can turn unwanted items into cash, whether by hosting a garage sale or contacting your local recycling facility to learn about their compensation programs.
Contact Century to Learn About Debt Settlement
If debt settlement sounds like it might be the right debt reduction strategy for you, contact Century Support Services. Century has helped hundreds of thousands of people settle debts that they otherwise couldn’t pay, and has saved clients a lot of time, aggravation and money in the process. To date, Century has settled more than $1.3 billion in debt and maintains a 94% satisfaction rating.
To get started, you’ll receive our free assessment and our Certified Debt Specialists will create a personalized program plan for you.
To learn more about the debt settlement process or if you have any general questions relating to how long does debt settlement take or how long will it take to recover from debt settlement, we’re happy to answer any questions.
Contact us today!
Active, working parents have a lot on their plate. While holding down a full-time job, they are still feeding, educating and entertaining children in a constantly changing world. And along comes a day that recognizes those efforts, celebrating working parents.
Whether it falls on a weekday or over the weekend, National Working Parents Day is on September 16th. And parents, grandparents, and guardians can all get on board! This is a great time to escape the rat race—it can be for a few hours or the day—and appreciate those busy adults nurturing the young people of tomorrow.
What to Do For a Working Parent
It is easier said than done. The working parent of today has to be present for their child, helping them with school projects and picking them up from afterschool activities, only two examples of the many small responsibilities that come with parenting. This is in addition to keeping a social life, staying healthy, and enjoying quality time with a partner. It is all too easy for one of the balls to drop. This is reality after all, and sacrifices are going to be made. Consistent self-care, a good night’s sleep, or simply some uninterrupted quiet time, can seem like a long-ago dream. What can we do for the working parents in our lives?
- Let them know you care. You can call, email or text. This is the day to let a friend, family member or coworker know you think they are doing a wonderful job. A nice hand-written card can become a thoughtful memento that they can reread when feeling alone or overwhelmed. The work involved in being a working parent often goes unseen and now is the perfect time to point out how well they are doing.
- Give them a break. Whether you can offer some free babysitting for a few hours, or take the child(ren) for the day, a frazzled parent can enjoy the free time to just do them. The parent with a now quiet home can actually meet up with an old friend, have an adult conversation over the phone, or simply laugh at memes while taking a much-deserved bubble bath. Most parents would love a few extra hours to themselves. And if you are a supervisor, allowing a working parent the ability to either come in later or leave an hour or two earlier on that day, can let them know they are appreciated. Now there is no rush and they can linger over that coffee once they get the kids off to school, or enjoy a late afternoon walk listening to their favorite podcast.
Feed your parent. Of course, good food is always a win. Human Resources can plan a small luncheon where working parents can feel free to talk about parenting, and how it is to manage work with child-rearing. This may be the perfect time for an organization to arrange an ongoing group so that parents can continue to get emotional support and forge connections with colleagues. Friends and family can feel free to treat a working parent to lunch or dinner. If it’s not possible to meet up, a gift card to a favorite restaurant or to Uber Eats is always welcome.
Giving Back to Overworked Parents
It can be at home or at work. There is no better time to tell or show a working parent how important they are to your life or to your organization. Feel free to collaborate with others to come up with other activities they may like based on their interests and needs.
Contact Century to Learn About Debt Settlement
If debt settlement sounds like it might be the right debt reduction strategy for you, contact Century Support Services. Century has helped hundreds of thousands of people settle debts that they otherwise couldn’t pay, and has saved clients a lot of time, aggravation and money in the process. To date, Century has settled more than $1.3 billion in debt and maintains a 94% satisfaction rating.
To get started, you’ll receive our free assessment and our Certified Debt Specialists will create a personalized program plan for you.
To learn more about the debt settlement process or if you have any general questions relating to how long does debt settlement take or how long will it take to recover from debt settlement, we’re happy to answer any questions.
Contact us today!
September means different things to different people, but for many, it is a time to get serious. Carefree summer days are ending, and it is time to buckle down and get serious. Kids are back in school, and often that means parents give themselves a bit of permission to work on themselves. Even people who aren’t actively raising kids, may see autumn as a more diligent season.
The Impact of Financial Stress
Financial stress can affect almost anyone. No matter how much money a person makes, it can easily seem like it isn’t enough. It often takes a dedicated decision to take a step back in order to relieve the necessary pressure to make a true step forward in our lives. Often women feel this especially strongly because they often make less money and have more direct caregiving responsibilities in their family. As they take care of everyone else, their own needs can easily fall by the wayside. Stress can lead to extra work, and less attention of physical and mental health. Having reminders, even something as simple as Self Improvement Awareness Month or National Women’s Health & Fitness Day can give them the excuse they need to make themselves a priority.
These things don’t need a national month to encourage a step in the right direction, but embracing these dates can help provide a type of guidance that can be truly helpful when challenging changes are before you.
Building on Positive Changes
If you have already made a conscious effort to make self-improvement strides in different areas of your life, such as consolidating debt in order to get your finances under control, taking daily walks or eating more fresh fruits and vegetables, September can be a great time to reevaluate or even take things up a notch. If you have been doing light exercise, try more intense workouts, or making a new commitment to the way you eat. Decide to volunteer more or just be available to family and friends who might need you.
If you are having issues with controlling your debt or have experienced a recent hardship, it may be a good time to consider debt relief services. Century can offer a free financial assessment and a personalized program to fit your needs.
Contact Century to Learn About Debt Settlement
If debt settlement sounds like it might be the right debt reduction strategy for you, contact Century Support Services. Century has helped hundreds of thousands of people settle debts that they otherwise couldn’t pay, and has saved clients a lot of time, aggravation and money in the process. To date, Century has settled more than $1.3 billion in debt and maintains a 94% satisfaction rating.
To get started, you’ll receive our free assessment and our Certified Debt Specialists will create a personalized program plan for you.
To learn more about the debt settlement process or if you have any general questions relating to how long does debt settlement take or how long will it take to recover from debt settlement, we’re happy to answer any questions.
Contact us today!
As summer’s dog days fade in the rear-view mirror, Americans look forward to celebrating Labor Day. This 3-day weekend, the so-called ‘last-hurrah of summer,’ is considered the unofficial or practical close of the summer season because it signals the beginning of a new school year for most children and young adults. In addition, Labor Day marks the start of many sports that run the fall season, with the NFL kicking off its season at this time.
Labor Day became an official federal holiday in 1894 as the result of a Congressional Act. The holiday was developed to honor the contribution of the American labor movement (and its many workers) to the success and growth of the country. Labor Day is celebrated each year on September’s first Monday, with many local and national events planned to honor the occasion.
Observing Labor Day
To celebrate Labor Day, many Americans choose to vacation at a favorite getaway or a new and exciting destination. This is because most of the country’s weather is warm and conducive to outdoor activities, which will soon yield to shorter days and dropping temperatures. But some of these incredibly popular Labor Day traditions and activities make little sense during a pandemic, considering the consequences, and for many, the cost.
Families who want to celebrate Labor Day locally will find numerous ways to celebrate the holiday without venturing too far from home or the need to spend boatloads of money. Labor Day has become one of the busiest retail sales days, spearheaded by back-to-school sales and other discounts. Many businesses claim that their Labor Day sales numbers rank second only to Black Friday.
Wondering What to Do on September 6, 2021, Without Breaking the Bank?
- Host a BBQ & Backyard Tournament of Games – A bar-be-cue is one of the most traditional ways to celebrate the holiday. While the burgers & the hot dogs are grilling (and the music is flowing), there are many great and affordable games for a gathering of friends and family to enjoy under the summer sky. Try a homemade batch of s’mores – deliciousness traditionally made from marshmallows, graham crackers, and chocolate – melted over an open fire. Make it a pot-luck celebration to help spread the costs to everyone attending.
Take Advantage of Labor Day Sales – Retail sales and discounts on Labor Day offer significant savings for back-to-school essentials, designer finds, and gear for the upcoming cold-weather season. You can take advantage of holiday discounts by shopping locally while supporting local businesses that need and appreciate your patronage, especially during this challenging time.- Cool Off in Your Backyard – Turn on the sprinkler and remember why kids have great memories of this summer activity. Inflatable kiddie pools are an affordable way for adults to sip cocktails in the summer sun.
Attend A Local Outdoor Festival or Community Picnic – Depending on your location; many planned festivals offer great entertainment at affordable prices that support the local economy. Check around for a music festival, a BBQ cookout, a car, or a local art show. Top the day off with plans to see fireworks.- Explore a Nearby Park – visiting a local park is a great way to calm one’s nerves created by busy modern life. Park fees are usually moderate as many are partially subsidized by the government. A day picnic is a great option, but for the adventurous types, try camping for a night or two.
A long holiday weekend of fun doesn’t necessarily need to break the bank. Stay local and enjoy the options nearby while choosing to support businesses challenged by the current economic climate created with COVID-19.
Contact Century to Learn About Debt Settlement
If debt settlement sounds like it might be the right debt reduction strategy for you, contact Century Support Services. Century has helped hundreds of thousands of people settle debts that they otherwise couldn’t pay, and has saved clients a lot of time, aggravation and money in the process. To date, Century has settled more than $1.3 billion in debt and maintains a 94% satisfaction rating.
To get started, you’ll receive our free assessment and our Certified Debt Specialists will create a personalized program plan for you.
To learn more about the debt settlement process or if you have any general questions relating to how long does debt settlement take or how long will it take to recover from debt settlement, we’re happy to answer any questions.
Contact us today!
Morgan, a single mother of five children, experienced a significant loss of income and was struggling to stay above water. She tried other debt relief programs but unfortunately they did not work for her and the situation she found herself in with her unsecured debt. She sought out a new option and enrolled in the Century program to help her with her finances.
Morgan was able to better manage her debt with the flexibility that her program provided her. “I discussed with the Century representatives what my budget was able to afford, and they gave me an estimate of my monthly deposit and how long it would take to complete my program”, Morgan said.
Morgan was also able to see improvement in her credit as her program progressed, unlike other programs she had tried before. She found Century’s articles and resources very helpful — “The program works for me because it was within my budget and it actually did something for my credit. Century has positively affected my credit. And they have given me advice on what to do and what financial mistakes not to make again.”
“I’m at the end of the road and things are working out well. When I do have any issues, they are very eager to help. Everything they explained about the program is happening,- you just have to be patient. They are awesome.”
Congratulations on your program success, Morgan!
We thank you for trusting us to be a part of your journey toward better financial health and celebrate your diligence in staying with the program to make such great progress!
*We protect the privacy of our clients by changing their names and omitting any identifying details.
Contact Century to Learn About Debt Settlement
If debt settlement sounds like it might be the right debt reduction strategy for you, contact Century Support Services. Century has helped hundreds of thousands of people settle debts that they otherwise couldn’t pay, and has saved clients a lot of time, aggravation and money in the process. To date, Century has settled more than $1.3 billion in debt and maintains a 94% satisfaction rating.
To get started, you’ll receive our free assessment and our Certified Debt Specialists will create a personalized program plan for you.
To learn more about the debt settlement process or if you have any general questions relating to how long does debt settlement take or how long will it take to recover from debt settlement, we’re happy to answer any questions.
Contact us today!
More and more people are noticing that their financial lives need more attention than they are giving it. It is easy to get into a routine of using credit cards to get what is needed when things are on sale, and figuring that somehow things will work out by the time the bill comes due. Interest rates on major purchases can fluctuate, and sometimes all the best intentions go out the window, at it is time to face the cruel reality that it is time to regroup and find a financial strategy that will serve you and your family, before things get out of hand.
When it comes to turning over a new leaf, be it financial or something else, human beings love for their gestures to carry their share of something symbolic. We like to choose a day that means something, like a birthday or the first of the year. But in the end, these are all stall techniques that don’t serve anyone. If you must have some symbolism, consider starting your revised financial planning on National Financial Awareness Day, which happens to land on August 14.
Finding Our Way to Financial Literacy
While a handful of people were taught how to properly manage their finances while they were growing up, others have little background outside the occasional round of Monopoly. Financial management has not traditionally been required learning. so many have just made up their own strategies as they go along. But there are dos and don’ts as well as best practices. Getting a grip on as many of these rules as possible can lead to improved financial outcomes, wherever you might be — whether your next step is to pay your current bills consistently, develop a savings plan for a rainy day, or make a calculated upgrade in your family’s standard of living.
Good Financial Planning Today Could Make or Break Your Financial Security Tomorrow
One of the most popular ways that people try to stay on top of their finances is by saving for their retirement. Many employers offer retirement plans that match at least a portion of contributions that can be withdrawn after the age of retirement. These accounts are there to supplement contributions made to Social Security accounts. While some manage to scape by on their Social Security checks alone, it tends to be a tight squeeze, and an unexpended expense or sudden health issue can lead to difficulties.
The other side is that the small amount available for Social Security may not be as secure and set in stone as many people think. The Covid-19 pandemic was a major curveball, and for some people it could lead to smaller Social Security checks than originally anticipated. It’s important to plan accordingly.
It’s Never Too Soon To Prepare
Even the most financially diligent people sometimes find that the preparations they made for a certain future can fall short. It is not always possible to have the carefree endless vacation that good retirement preparation sometimes brings. It is important to have an awareness of what a “Plan B” might look like so you can limit culture shock, and still get by on a lower than expected income. Some options to consider include:
- Delaying Social Security benefits to increase the amount of each check.
- Work on becoming debt-free before retirement. Paying for the past is no way to spend your future.
- Consider relocating to save money – Some cities like Lincoln or Omaha, Nebraska, Little Rock Arkansas, or Sioux Falls, SD have a lower cost of living and a good amount of jobs available. Relocating after retirement is an option as well in States such as Washington, Florida, Nevada, Alaska and others that have little or no taxes on income or sales.
Wherever you are in terms of your finances, there is most likely room for improvement. You may not be able to pull out all the stops this year, but it is important to stop and re-evaluate from time to time to see where you can do better in order to secure the best future possible.
Contact Century to Learn About Debt Settlement
If debt settlement sounds like it might be the right debt reduction strategy for you, contact Century Support Services. Century has helped hundreds of thousands of people settle debts that they otherwise couldn’t pay, and has saved clients a lot of time, aggravation and money in the process. To date, Century has settled more than $1.3 billion in debt and maintains a 94% satisfaction rating.
To get started, you’ll receive our free assessment and our Certified Debt Specialists will create a personalized program plan for you.
To learn more about the debt settlement process or if you have any general questions relating to how long does debt settlement take or how long will it take to recover from debt settlement, we’re happy to answer any questions.
Contact us today!
Back to school is an exciting time for many people, whether they are mom’s loading up on crayons and safety scissors. Older students in search or notebooks, folders, and a graphing calculator, or non-students taking advantage of the sales on “school” supply sales to stock up for their home offices. Only a handful of merchants actually ask you to prove you’re an actual student.
Back-to-school sales start creeping up in July in some areas, and the deals get better as it gets closer to September. This makes this a great time to take advantage of National Dollar Day, which in 2021 falls on August 9. The occasion officially commemorates the onset of the dollar bill being included in United States currency. The original dollar bill model, from 1862 was actually the Secretary of Treasury at the time, Salmon P. Chase, but eventually George Washington would take over that honor, and despite various changes to other money, the Washington Dollar would stay largely consistent.
Fun With Dollars
These days, a dollar doesn’t seem like a lot of money. You may be able to get a notebook or two on sale, a small pack of pens or pencils, or maybe a can of soup or a box or macaroni and cheese. In many cases your dollar will need to be paired with another dollar, or several bills in order to get anything substantial.
Seeing how far you can make a dollar go can remind you of how much each dollar in our budgets can have a real impact. If you keep track of the serial number on a dollar bill, you can look up the website Wheresgeorge.com, and track where your dollar has been, or start the process for a dollar you’re about to spend. There is often a lot to learn when you consider how far others make their dollars go.
Commit to Savings
With so many great deals for back-to-school popping up in August, many think that new stuff is the only way to go for back to school shopping, but this is also a great time to think outside of the box. Head to rummage sales in other neighborhoods. Go to thrift shops. Look at what you have leftover from last year, and make sure the old supplies are accessible, even if you still decide to buy new. Let kids express their personality by shopping at consignment shops. You may be able to get higher quality clothes in many cases that has only light wear. Shopping only big box sales can lead to your kids matching their peers a little more closely than they like. When shopping online, look for promo codes, and when in the store clip coupons. Pennies saved today may be the dollars you need tomorrow.
Contact Century to Learn About Debt Settlement
If debt settlement sounds like it might be the right debt reduction strategy for you, contact Century Support Services. Century has helped hundreds of thousands of people settle debts that they otherwise couldn’t pay, and has saved clients a lot of time, aggravation and money in the process. To date, Century has settled more than $1.3 billion in debt and maintains a 94% satisfaction rating.
To get started, you’ll receive our free assessment and our Certified Debt Specialists will create a personalized program plan for you.
To learn more about the debt settlement process or if you have any general questions relating to how long does debt settlement take or how long will it take to recover from debt settlement, we’re happy to answer any questions.
Contact us today!
Calling all bibliophiles! Did you know that National Book Lovers Day is just around the corner?
In 2021, his celebration of all things books falls on August 9. It’s a great day to find a comfy spot and crack open that tome that’s been sitting on your nightstand. But you don’t have to wait until National Book Lovers Day to engage in your love of the written word.
Best of all, reading is a low- to no-cost activity that you can do year-round. Here are 5 ways to indulge your reading habit without spending much — or any — money.
1. Visit Your Local Library
Where’s the best place to find free books (and movies, and magazines, and music, and much more)? It can only be your local library!
If you haven’t visited the library for a while, you’re missing out. For many, public libraries are an underestimated and underused resource, and National Book Lovers Day is a great reason to go check out your local branch.
Not only will you be able to browse the shelves and take home multiple books, most libraries also offer a range of other resources, such as:
- CDs and DVDs
- Digital resources, like e-books, music, podcasts, research and movies
- Magazines and newspapers
- Book-related events
- Free internet access
- Interlibrary loans for hard-to-find items
2. Host a Book Swap
Got books you’ve already read sitting around collecting dust? Gather a few other book lovers and host an exchange. It’s a great way to declutter and grab new titles for free.
Invite friends, family, co-workers, neighbors and others to bring the titles they no longer want. You can also swap books online; sites such as PaperBack Swap make it easy.
3. Read Online for Free
In recent years, organizations such as Project Gutenberg, Open Library and Google Books have been uploading full texts of books to the internet. Most are books that have outlived their copyrights. That means free access for you!
Here, you’ll find classic works from authors such as Shakespeare, Austen and Kafka. You’ll also find favorites such as the mysteries of Christie and Conan Doyle, the creepy works of Stoker and Poe, and a range of fiction and non-fiction from Du Bois to Darwin, Homer to Hawthorne, Rice Burroughs to Brontë, Douglass to Dostoevsky.
4. Trade at a Used Book Store
If you’ve got a stack of books you’re finished with, head to a used book store. Most will exchange salable books (and, often, other media) for store credit.
Then, you can pick out new reading material without paying a cent! Some stores also offer cash for used books. Just be aware that you’ll usually receive more in store credit than you would in cash.
5. Hit Up the Thrift Stores
If you’ve got just a few bucks to spare on books, head to a thrift store. Many vintage and thrift stores sell donated books, including Goodwill, the Salvation Army and Value Village, just to name a few.
Best of all, most titles cost a fraction of what you’d pay new. You can also ask if the store offers a discount for seniors, military or students, or if they offer lower prices at tag sales or discount days.
It’s easy to celebrate National Book Lovers Day without spending a lot — or spending any money at all. These no- and low-cost tips will help you indulge in your love of reading year-round.
Contact Century to Learn About Debt Settlement
If debt settlement sounds like it might be the right debt reduction strategy for you, contact Century Support Services. Century has helped hundreds of thousands of people settle debts that they otherwise couldn’t pay, and has saved clients a lot of time, aggravation and money in the process. To date, Century has settled more than $1.3 billion in debt and maintains a 94% satisfaction rating.
To get started, you’ll receive our free assessment and our Certified Debt Specialists will create a personalized program plan for you.
To learn more about the debt settlement process or if you have any general questions relating to how long does debt settlement take or how long will it take to recover from debt settlement, we’re happy to answer any questions.
Contact us today!
The warm, sunny weather of the summer season often brings along the temptation to overspend. After all, with the many activities available, from vacations, water and amusement parks, concerts, graduations, plays, birthdays, summer weddings, family and friends’ get-togethers, BBQ’s and more, it’s easy to understand why summer is synonymous with budget-busting overspending. This type of overspending can wreak havoc on an otherwise carefully constructed budget. Obviously, as you are going through your Century program, you want to make sure to avoid these typical summer spending pitfalls and stay on track this summer, allowing for a more stress-free future. Thankfully, the following tips will help you do just that:
Budget For Fun
Even while you are working your way out of debt, it’s still important to have fun within reason. Ideally, you will save a specific amount of money heading into summer, so you have some funds available for fun. This can look however you want it to for your family. If you enjoy going out to eat or to movies, let that be how you spend your allocated funds. If you would rather go away and have a more traditional vacation, then use your funds for that purpose. The important aspect to remember is to stick with your budget in terms of your fun. Once your allotment of money is spent, don’t spend anymore. Sometimes, this means saying no, speaking of which…
Learn to Say No When Necessary
As mentioned above, the summer is fraught with potential activities for you to enjoy with your family. While these are fun, to be sure, they are also the impetus for a well and thorough budget bust. Therefore, you have to learn to say no on occasion to keep your finances on track this summer. For example, you might have multiple family members and friends each summer inviting you to attend their showers and/or weddings during the same summer. You can either choose to attend and give gifts to just the individuals whom you are the closest with or simply say you aren’t going to attend any upcoming nuptials events at all this summer. The same goes for birthdays. If you have several family members or friends with summer birthdays, you can either set a price point that you will not go over for each event or do a complete opt-out. If you feel you must give something, just make sure you set a budget line for it and don’t go overboard, or make something homemade for them like a favorite dessert instead.
Find Free Activities, Use Coupons for Promos for Favorite Events
Another way to keep your finances on track this summer is to find free activities to attend with your family instead of spending money on amusement parks and other touristy destinations. Often, state parks are free or cost very little to enter. That is one option. Other potential activities could include free concerts, farmer’s markets with crafts and/or produce, free or inexpensive cultural festivals, art walks, etc. Look into your local area’s upcoming events calendar and keep your eyes open for cheap or free options.
Know There Are Other Potential Expenses to Look Out For
Not only does summer offer many potential activities and the temptation to overspend while on vacation, but you will also tend to spend more anyway on utility costs as well as gas. Therefore, it’s important to do what you can to offset these costs or at least to understand these expenses are coming and allocate more resources to cover the cost of cooling your home and operating your car. As far as gas goes, unfortunately, costs are rising rapidly at present. Thankfully, apps like Gas Buddy can help you find the best prices possible for gas. When it comes to your utility costs, make sure that your filters are clean and your AC unit is working optimally. Also, keep the lights off and enjoy the summer sunlight.
Summer doesn’t have to necessarily mean that you must kiss your budget goodbye. In fact, by keeping the above ideas in mind, you can keep your finances on track this summer and still have a wonderful time. Being financially responsible doesn’t mean you have to forgo fun, it really just means you have to plan it out. After all, if you fail to plan, you plan to fail! Enjoy this summer and keep your budget on track with the tips outlined above.
Contact Century to Learn About Debt Settlement
If debt settlement sounds like it might be the right debt reduction strategy for you, contact Century Support Services. Century has helped hundreds of thousands of people settle debts that they otherwise couldn’t pay, and has saved clients a lot of time, aggravation and money in the process. To date, Century has settled more than $1.3 billion in debt and maintains a 94% satisfaction rating.
To get started, you’ll receive our free assessment and our Certified Debt Specialists will create a personalized program plan for you.
To learn more about the debt settlement process or if you have any general questions relating to how long does debt settlement take or how long will it take to recover from debt settlement, we’re happy to answer any questions.
Contact us today!