Selling a Vehicle
When selling your vehicle to a private party, there are guidelines that should be followed to ensure a smooth sale. Kelley Blue Book’s website http://www.KBB.com recommends the following steps when selling your vehicle:
Communicate with potential buyers
Car preparation (clean inside & outside of vehicle)
Negotiate like a smart salesperson
Know what not to say
Commit to a meeting time and place
Conduct a safe and well-planned test drive
Get to know your potential buyer
Omit possible objections
Find out how the buyer is planning to pay
Bargain with your buyer, but end with a “win-win”
Another option is to use your vehicle as a trade-in at the dealership where you plan to purchase your next vehicle. While trading in a vehicle usually is easier than selling it privately, you may get less for the vehicle from a dealership. Before you go to a dealership, make sure to check your vehicle’s trade-in value so that you can negotiate the best price for your vehicle. For more information on the value of your vehicle, please visit the following:
Purchasing a New Vehicle
Purchasing a new vehicle is very different than purchasing a used vehicle. The biggest difference is that you will be working with a dealership rather than a private party. Kelley Blue Book recommends taking the following precautions when purchasing a new vehicle:
Consumer Reports often provides impartial ratings on the new vehicles. You can purchase the physical magazines at any magazine stand or bookstore or sign up online. Purchasing a Used Vehicle Kelley Blue Book’s website recommends the following steps when purchasing a used vehicle:
Decide on the right vehicle for you. Be sure to determine the fuel efficiency of the vehicle; will you be able to afford the gas? Also, look at certain features that you will need in the vehicle such as four wheel drive or anti-lock brakes.
Consider buying a certified pre-owned vehicle.
Determine the value of the vehicle.
Contact the seller.
Obtain both a history and safety rating on the vehicle.
Take a trusted adult with you to conduct a thorough walk around inspection of the vehicle.
Test drive the vehicle.
Take the vehicle to a mechanic for a thorough evaluation.
Negotiate with the seller for the best price. Always do your research before negotiating; know what the vehicle is worth before trying to negotiate!
The following are additional websites with more information on buying a used vehicle:
By using VIN (vehicle identification number) reports, you can get a history and accident record on any vehicle. It is important to learn about the history of the vehicle you're interested in buying and these reports can give you information about where its been owned, how many owners it has had, and any damage done to it.
Financing Your Vehicle
So you saved up your money and have chosen a vehicle. You now realize that you will also need to borrow additional money for the remainder of the purchase price. The following steps may help ease the car buying experience:
If required, determine who will co-sign with you on the loan (someone with a good credit history)
Decide the term of loan you want (1 year, 2 years, etc.)
Don’t forget extra expenses (gas, maintenance, insurance)
If you are 18 years or older, you can use your Consumer Automobile Coupon for a $50 discount on auto loan fees. Contact your South Valley Bank & Trust branch to inquire about our auto loan options.
Vehicle Insurance
When purchasing a vehicle, it is critical to factor in the cost of auto insurance. Since insurance is required and lack of insurance can cost you large fines and a one year jail sentence, finding and maintaining insurance should be a priority.
Each state has its own set of insurance laws. For Oregon insurance requirements, visit the Oregon Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website: http://www.Oregon.gov. Insurance.com recommends the following eight items to think about when searching for auto insurance:
Determine appropriate coverage
Shop around
Look for insurance discounts
Consider taking a higher deductible
Look into stacking coverage if you file a claim
Check with your insurance company before you buy a vehicle
If you have a loan on your vehicle, be sure to notify the bank immediately if you change insurance companies
Pick the insurance payment option that best fits your budget
The following are websites with insurance information as well as a few auto insurance companies:
Saving at the Gas Pump
It is always important to increase the fuel efficiency of your vehicle. The following tips may help increase your gas mileage:
Avoid speeding, rapid acceleration and rapid braking
Remove excess weight from vehicle
Avoid excess idling
Use cruise control when possible
Keep engine tuned
Check and replace air filters regularly
Keep tires inflated to recommended weight
Use recommended grade of motor oil and have regular oil changes
Be aware of competing gas prices in town and use the stations with the lowest per gallon price whenever possible. The following are websites that may help you find the cheapest gas in your area as well as additional tips on improving gas mileage:
Vehicle Maintenance
A vehicle is a considerable commitment. It requires scheduled maintenance to keep your vehicle running safely and efficiently. The following are a few maintenance requirements:
Check tire pressure and keep tires properly inflated
Change motor oil every 3000 miles
Monitor brake fluid
Monitor transmission fluid
Check and replace air filters
Replace windshield wipers
For an extensive list of required vehicle maintenance and complete how-to guides, please visit the following website:
It goes without saying... be safe; don’t drink and drive!
College/Career - Career
We’ll assume you have chosen your desired career and are either pursuing a college education, getting other training or you have already begun your career. No matter where you are, congratulations in making a decision! While seeking out the best job it is always a good idea to remember that you are just starting out. Try, if possible, to get your foot into the company that can best utilize your skills or your college education.
Summer Jobs
If you’re in college, during the school-free months of summer you could spend part of your time earning extra money towards next year’s tuition.
Some businesses hire extra help during the summer months; the following is a list of establishments that typically hire summer help:
Retail stores (including clothing, books, etc.)
Restaurants
Golf courses
Grocery stores
Medical offices (filing, pulling charts, etc.)
Mills
When summer ends, these businesses may be flexible and work with your school schedule to keep you working during the school year if they like your job performance.
Consider the following when searching for your perfect summer job:
Think about the type of job you want, i.e., office setting or using your physical strength
Think about your skills and what you have to offer an employer
Applying for a Job
When applying for a job, it’s important to make a good first impression. Here are some tips that may help you do just that:
Dress professionally (even if you are just asking for an application)
Be polite to the receptionist
Use proper grammar; no slang
Neatly fill out the application completely and honestly
Be sure to list volunteer work and jobs such as babysitting
Return the application promptly (remember to dress up!)
Check on the status of your application every few days
If you don’t find your dream job, don’t despair! You must be flexible at this point in life and work towards your desired job. What’s important is establishing job history and a great job performance record. Also, be realistic about pay!
Résumé Tips
A résumé is a tool to highlight your skills and experience. It gives an employer a snapshot of what you’ve accomplished and how you can contribute to their company. While writing a résumé can sometimes seem overwhelming, there are several resources to assist in writing a great résumé. Free-Résumé-Tips.com recommends the following tips when writing a résumé:
Use titles or headings that match the job you want
Use a design that grabs the reader’s attention
Create content that sells
Quantify and use power words such as “manage” and “oversee”
Analyze ads and job descriptions to identify key words
Identify and solve employer’s hidden needs
Sell the benefits of your skills
Create an image that matches the salary that you want
Prioritize the content of your résumé
Tweak and target your résumé and cover letters
For more tips on writing résumés, visit the following websites:
Cover Letters
Résumé-Resources.com maintains that “cover letters are used to introduce yourself and your résumé, while clearly stating your desire to apply for a job position in a new company, or make yourself available for a job position within a company. The cover letter is the formal introduction that provides a brief explanation of your job field, experience, areas of expertise and relevant knowledge in relationship to the job being applied for.”
A cover letter should always accompany a résumé. For more information on writing cover letters, visit the following websites:
Job/Career Searches
When searching for a job or career, the following is a list of sources to help find job postings:
Classifieds in local newspapers
Internet job-posting websites
State employment department
Employment departments within each company
College boards
Job Fairs
You can also use an employment agency but they may charge you a “finder’s fee.” However, some employers will pay the fee. Be sure to ask up front!
The following are a few national and local internet job-posting websites:
Preparing for the Interview
Before your interview, think about your ability to do the job and the special skills you have to offer the employer. Study the company and be prepared to answer some of the following questions:
Why do you want this job?
What are your job related skills?
What experience do you have?
Why did you leave each job?
What are your strong points - and what are your weaknesses?
What are your salary expectations?
There will undoubtedly be many more questions. There are any numbers of books available that cover all the types of questions an employer may ask. Take the time to be prepared! Role play with a friend or job counselor to build up your confidence!
Once the interview begins, try to relax by taking a deep breath. If they don’t ask, be sure to tell them what you want them to know - that you are reliable, that you do good work and that you get along with others. If you get a chance, ask questions that show you are truly interested in their job!
Dream Jobs
If you don’t find your dream job, don’t despair! You must be flexible at this point in life and work towards your desired job. What’s important is establishing job history and a great job performance record. Also, be realistic about pay.
Making a Good Impression
After you have found a job, do your best to impress your employer. The follow tips may help you WOW your new boss:
Be on time! And don’t miss work.
Always do your job to the best of your ability. Accuracy is important.
Do MORE than you are asked to do.
Volunteer when you have extra time.
Make yourself available to cover extra shifts.
Get along with your co-workers, helping them when you can.
Ask your employer how you can improve after a few weeks; then follow through!
If you’re a good employee, your employer will be a valuable reference in the future.
Other Jobs
If you are not able to find a job with an employer, consider these jobs:
Babysitting young children who are out of school for the summer and their parents work
Mowing neighbors’ yards and general flowerbed maintenance
House sitting while friends or neighbors are on vacation. This could include:
Watering
Picking up the mail/paper
Feeding/caring for pets
College/Career - College
Perhaps you are at the beginning of your high school “career” or near the end. Either way, you have most likely thought about going to college at some point. With the thousands of choices available, deciding where to go can leave you feeling a little overwhelmed.
That’s why we put together some resources to help you select the college that best suits your needs. To get the ball rolling, About.com recommends the following questions to help choose the right college:
Why do you want to go to college?
Do you want to go to school for two years or four years?
What do you want to be? What job do you want to have?
What majors are you considering? How will this major get you to what you want to be?
Are there other careers you have considered?
What high school grades will you need to get into college? Do you have a plan on how to obtain those grades?
What high school classes will you need to complete to go to college? Does your high school have those?
Have you considered the cost of college? Have you considered how you are going to pay for it?
Do you want to live at school or do you want to live at home?
What do you want the school to offer besides your major? What extracurricular activities are you interested in?
Planning to Go to College
Want even more information on how to begin planning for college? The CollegeBoard.com website breaks down the process by each grade in high school.
It may help to break down your college search by topic. The following topics are ways to get you thinking about colleges and help you find the right school for your interests:
Getting In
So you have picked your “dream” schools and can picture yourself attending any one of them for the next four years. After reading through the brochures, visiting the campuses, discussing your options with your family and deciding on the right fit for you, you are probably exhausted. Sorry, but there is more. In fact, that was just the beginning! There are a few items below to add to your checklist before applying to the various schools.
Tests
Many colleges require the SAT® or ACT® test score in order to be considered for admission. Other schools do not require either test to be considered. For more information, visit http://www.FairTest.org.
When it comes to the exams…College Board Tests include the SAT Reasoning Test™, SAT Subject Tests™, PSAT/NMSQT®, the Advanced Placement Program® (AP®), and CLEP®. Another test that colleges may require is the ACT® test. These exams can have a very significant effect on your future. Take them seriously and prepare for them properly.
There are plenty of resources to help you prepare for these tests; everything from online courses to local learning centers to good old-fashioned books. Some high schools and local colleges offer prep classes. You may also consider getting a private tutor or ordering a DVD prep course. Review your options and choose the method that will be most effective with your learning skills.
For more information on the College Board tests that include the SAT Reasoning Test™, SAT Subject Tests™, PSAT/NMSQT®, AP®, CLEP®: http://www.CollegeBoard.com
Should You Take AP® Courses?
AP® courses can be taken at your high-school and could potentially give you credit or advanced standing at a number of universities across the country.
The way these courses work is that the student receives credit for the class on the high school transcript. To actually receive college credit during high school, a tuition payment must be made to the college overseeing the class. It is then up to the college you enroll in to accept the college credits toward their degree programs.
Courses that are offered at your high-school may vary. For more information on how AP® courses work and to decide if they are the right choice for you, visit the CollegeBoard.com’s site.
Application
Once you have decided on the colleges you wish to apply to, you will need to request application packets from each of them. You can do this quickly online or by contacting the college via email or telephone. When the applications arrive, pay careful attention to their important deadlines. Each school will have its own schedule of deadlines. An easy way to keep track of them is to list all the deadlines in a special college calendar. It will help you keep everything in order and on time.
Each application will include a variety of forms to complete, essays to write and recommendation letters to collect from your favorite teachers. Sealed counselor recommendations may be requested.
The application process can be stressful and may take some time to complete, so it’s smart to begin early. The best advice is to approach it like a project and break it into sections. Have your parents help you organize your application process. Here are a few websites with tips on how to apply and what to expect:
Teen Checking Account/College Checking Account
As a benefit to our BANKING FOR Life clients, we offer high school students their own BANKING FOR Life account - for FREE. There are no requirements for a minimum balance. And we will waive your fee until age 24!
This is a great benefit because you can get your account set up now, but continue with it as you attend college. Even if you move out of the area, you will be able to access over 15,000 ATMs for FREE by using your Debit Card. If you tell us where you are going, we can give you the exact locations of the ATM sites. Your parents or others can still make deposits to your account!
For the Teen Account, if you are under age 18, your parents, grandparents or legal guardians will need to sign the signature card with you, but you will be able to write your own checks or use your own Debit Card. Please ask the Personal Banker at any of our branches for more information or to sign up!
College/Career - Estate Planning
Trust Services South Valley Bank & Trust (SVBT), an Oregon banking corporation, is chartered to offer a full array of Trust services including Planning and Consultation, Trust and Estate Administration and IRA Services. By working with you, and if you wish, your advisors, our Trust officers can help develop your estate plan to insure that your wishes are fully addressed and your estate is fully protected.
Some of our clients choose South Valley Bank & Trust's estate planning services because they want to set up a financial plan for their adult children or others. They want a professional with training and experience in investments and estate management to carry out their precise plan. Others simply want Trust services to make it easier for their loved ones, who may not be in the best position for managing an inheritance.
Whatever your reason, you can be assured that our Trust professionals are trained and understand that they are managing your estate. Part of that means they are highly-regulated to carry out your wishes fully and giving you peace of mind.
There is no fee for a consultation and no pressure to sign up for their services.
Trust Options
Estate Planning and Consultation
Personal Representative of an Estate-Executor/Administrator
Conservatorship
Living Trust - Revocable or Irrevocable
Testamentary Trust
Property and Investment Management Agency
Custodial Account
Rollover IRA - Self-Directed and Specialty Assets
Charitable Gift or Portfolio Management
1. Estate Planning and Consultation
Estate Planning is a service where South Valley works with the client and their attorney or other advisors, to analyze the client’s assets and financial interests and arrange a plan for conserving estate assets. This service generally leads to SVBT being named personal representative and/or Trustee under the plan. The purpose of the plan is to minimize estate and other taxes, assure the security of the client’s family, arrange for the continuity of his business, and provide for the disposition of assets according to the client’s wishes.
2. Personal Representative of an Estate - Executor/Administrator
Serving as personal representative or administrator is settling the estate of one who has died either leaving a Will (testate) or without a Will (intestate). South Valley may have been named in the decedent’s Will as the personal representative or executor of the estate. If the decedent names an individual as personal representative, that individual may have SVBT appointed as agent for the personal representative. If the deceased died intestate, the court may appoint SVBT as administrator of the estate. In each of these cases (whether as personal representative, agent for the personal representative, or administrator) South Valley makes an inventory of the assets of the estate, prepares a budget for the settlement of the estate, pays all taxes and claims against the estate, prepares a final accounting for the probate court, and makes the final distribution of the assets to the heir and beneficiaries.
3. Living Trust - Revocable or Irrevocable
A Living Trust is a Trust for which South Valley, as Trustee, usually assumes full management responsibility for the assets placed in Trust. Such a Trust may be revocable or irrevocable, and established for a variety of reasons. The Trustor may need professional or specialized investment management, may not have the skills necessary to manage his wealth, may not have the time to give to managing his investments, or may have other priorities. A Trust established for investment management provides financial protection in the event of incapacity and can be structured to avoid probate and obtain tax savings at the death of the Trustor.
4. Testamentary Trust
A Testamentary Trust is created under a Will. A person writing a Will may leave property directly to the beneficiaries or leave it in a Trust for them, a Testamentary Trust.
Testamentary Trusts are established to protect the family, save on taxes, and manage investments, businesses, and farms. Family protection includes preserving the family home, relieving survivors of the responsibility for managing investments and other property, and supplying income necessary to maintain the family’s standard of living. It also includes providing for the special needs of children and eliminating the need to appoint a custodian for the children. (A guardian of the person of minor children is required and this must be an individual, not South Valley.)
A Testamentary Trust enables a person who has been remarried and has children from a previous marriage to provide for the surviving spouse and ultimately channel assets to his or her own children. It is also a way to provide life-long care for children who are suffering from physical, emotional, or mental disabilities.
5. Conservatorship
A Conservatorship is a court-appointed arrangement for the financial protection of the estate of an incapacitated person. Conservatorships are established for individuals who are considered legally incapacitated and own property not otherwise protected, have business affairs that are jeopardized by their incapacity and need funds for support or education of themselves and or their dependents. Common instances of legal incapacity are minors and adults who are incapacitated by medical causes, effects of aging, mental illness, addiction to drugs or alcohol, or confinement. The Conservator’s responsibility is much like the responsibility involved in estate settlement; gathering the assets, filing an inventory with the court, managing the property in the client’s best interest, making a periodic accounting to the court, and terminating the Conservatorship and distributing property at the appropriate time.
6. Property and Investment Management Agency
An Agency Account is a service where South Valley provides management or advisory service as complete as the client requests. The property managed may be securities, real property (a house, rental buildings or a farm), or other property.
Where securities are managed, SVBT may conduct periodic reviews and analyses of the securities; make recommendations for keeping or selling present securities and purchasing new ones; providing advance notice of maturity of bonds or notes; preparing an annual information statement for income tax purposes and watching for advantageous opportunities related to the securities held. The amount of discretion exercised by SVBT varies with the relationship from full discretion (South Valley is free to buy, sell and exchange securities within the principal’s portfolio without the client’s consent) to simply making recommendations to the client about proposed investment changes.
As managing agent for real property, South Valley may obtain tenants, arrange and handle leases, collect rents, advise the client of needed repairs and take care of those repairs, and pay insurance premiums, taxes, interest on the mortgage, or other assessments. As with the managing agency for securities, the management agency for real property will have varying degrees of discretion assigned to South Valley.
7. Custodial Account
A Custodial Account is a service where SVBT, as custodian for the principal, not only oversees the property but also takes care of the routine administrative tasks associated with it. This includes receiving dividends and interest and disbursing or reinvesting them as the client instructs; collecting the principal on matured or called bonds, notifying the client of corporate actions affecting the property (bond calls, defaults, tender offers, class action suits); buying, selling, receiving or delivering securities at the client’s direction and providing a periodic statement of account activity (receipts and disbursements).
8. Rollover IRA - Self-Directed and Specialty Assets
Rollover IRA services are provided in a variety of circumstances, including for individuals receiving a large distribution (over $250,000) from their employer’s retirement plan. A direct rollover from the employer’s plan can prevent current taxability. Direct transfers from other IRAs may also be made. Rollover IRA service includes allowing self-direction of investments or full management. By maintaining an IRA, taxes on investment earnings as well as the capital rolled over are deferred until withdrawn. A wide range of investment opportunities such as stocks, bonds and mutual funds is available with this service. Additionally, South Valley is able to accept specialty assets into Rollover IRAs such as closely held stock, real property and notes secured by Deeds of Trust.
9. Charitable Gift or Portfolio Management
Charitable gifts may be made outright to the charity, as a part of a Will or estate plan, and through a variety of different charitable Trusts. South Valley Bank & Trust serves as Trustee for these gifts, managing, administering and disbursing them to assure that the charitable intent established by the donor under the pertinent gift agreement is adhered to in perpetuity. South Valley also serves as an investment agent for the charity itself to professionally manage and account for gift funds in its portfolio.
Trust Services Locations
Klamath Falls Trust Services
PO BOX 5210
801 Main Street
Klamath Falls, OR 97601 Phone: 877.487.8788 (toll-free) Fax: 541.880.5252
Medford Trust Services
PO BOX 1784
860 O'Hare Parkway, Suite 100
Medford, OR 97504 Phone: 800.695.0330 (toll-free) Fax: 541.779.1916
Please note: A Trust officer is available to clients in all areas, including Crook County, Deschutes County, Jackson County, Jefferson County, Klamath County and Lake County.
Guardianships and Conservatorships
In Oregon, guardians are appointed by the courts or by being named in a legal document. A guardian has custody of the protected person and may establish that person’s residence. Each state’s laws are different in regards to Guardianships & Conservatorships. Some states grant the authority over both the physical and financial well being of the protected person. Other states, like Oregon, separate the two obligations. For example, South Valley’s Trust department will only act as conservator and not guardian. South Valley will also not act as a health care representative under an advance directive. The guardian has a duty to provide care, comfort, maintenance, training, and/or education for the protected person.
Conservators are appointed by the court when a person becomes incapable of handling personal or business financial affairs and/or managing their property. When a Conservator is appointed they have a fiduciary duty to follow strict reporting and administrative guidelines.
The following links may be helpful:
Advance Directives
An Advance Directive is specific healthcare instructions given by individuals outlining what actions should be taken if they become ill or incapacitated. An Advance Directive should be developed while the individual is able to clearly communicate their thoughts and must be expressly the person's own free will. It does not affect routine care for cleanliness and comfort, which must be given whether or not there is an advance directive.
The following links may be helpful:
Trust and Estate Planning
Trusts can be established for minors by loved ones for support, education, or possibly from an insurance settlement. A Trust may be created for the purposes previously described, or may result from a loved one’s estate plan, i.e. from a Will, Living Trust, or Irrevocable Trust. Their typical benefit will be the careful investment and protection of the Trust by the Trustee.
South Valley Bank & Trust offers a wide variety of Trust and Estate Services to assist you in ensuring your financial security.
By working with you, and if you wish, your advisors, our Trust officers can help develop your estate plan to insure that your wishes are fully addressed and your estate is fully protected.
You can be assured that our Trust professionals are trained and understand that they are managing your estate. They are heavily regulated to carry out your wishes fully, giving you peace of mind.
The following services are offered through the South Valley Trust department. A full description of these services can be found at the top of the page:
Estate Planning and Consultation
Personal Representative of an Estate – Executor/Administrator
Living Trust – Revocable or Irrevocable
Testamentary Trust
Conservatorship
Property and Investment Management Agency
Custodial Account
Rollover IRA – Self-Directed and Specialty Assets
Charitable Gift or Portfolio Management
Free Trust and Estate Consultation
For a free consultation on Trust and Estate services, please contact the SVBT Trust Department.
Some investment products are offered through Trust Services:
Investment products offered by SVBT Trust Services are not a deposit, not FDIC-insured, not insured by any federal government agency, not guaranteed by the bank, and may go down in value.
College Career - Health and Wellness
Exercise
Does the word exercise make you cringe? Does it bring to mind grueling hours at the gym, sweating, and not really enjoying the experience? Exercise does not have to be dreadful. It can be fun and it is essential to maintaining your overall health. The key to sticking to an exercise program is designing a routine you enjoy. Be sure to consult your Physician before you begin any exercise routine. For information on exercise for all ages and designing a program that best suits you, visit the following websites:
Healthy Snacks
Snacking is part of daily living when you’re young! If you’re in college, you often eat “on the run” and snacks can often take the place of meals! Choosing the right snack is important. You will feel fantastic and perform better in school and activities if you choose healthy snacks. Here are a few healthy snacks you might consider the next time you’re looking for something to munch on:
Fruits (fresh or dried)
Vegetables such as carrots or celery
Whole grain crackers
Seeds and nuts (especially raw!)
Light popcorn
Healthy Diet
According to WebMD.com, there are six main components to a healthy diet. They include the right amount of the following:
The balance of these six elements is unique to each individual. Talk to your primary care provider to determine the best balance for a healthier you. In the meantime, WebMD.com suggests these tips to keep your meals healthy.
Keep it simple
Be salad savvy
Have a filling first course
Drink daintily
Pass on bread
For more on these six tips and to read more information on maintaining a healthy diet, check out the following websites:
Vitamins and Minerals
Vitamins and minerals are essential to good health and are needed for normal growth. While most vitamins and minerals are obtained through a healthy diet, you may need to take a supplement to make sure you’re getting everything you need. Since different levels of vitamins and minerals vary by age and gender, it is important to select the multi-vitamin that best suits your age. Consult your doctor before beginning to take any vitamin or mineral supplement. The following website gives more information on vitamins and minerals.
Reducing Stress
Stress is an unavoidable aspect of everyone’s life. However, there are proven techniques designed to help reduce stress in your life. WebMD.com recommends trying the following to reduce stress in your life.
Keep a positive attitude
Accept that there are events that you cannot control
Be assertive instead of aggressive
Learn and practice relaxation techniques
Exercise regularly
Eat healthy, well-balanced meals
Get enough rest and sleep
Learn to manage your time more effectively
To learn more about these techniques and others, please visit the following link:
Time Management
We all wish that we could add more hours to our days. It seems that there is always more to do than time allows. Effective time management strategies can make each of our lives less chaotic. Try these time management tips provided by WebMD.com:
Make a time diary
Learn to say “No”
Create a time-based to-do list
Let your computer help
Multi-task
Don’t be a perfectionist
Reward yourself
For more detail on these tips and other time management articles, visit the website listed below:
Also, if you’re in school, don’t wait until the last minute to study or work on assignments! This only adds stress to your life.
Health Education and Seminar Links
Health education and seminars are provided by local medical facilities and are available to the public. Please visit the following links or contact the numbers listed below to find out about health education and seminars in your area.
Referral Links
Please call the numbers listed below or visit the following links for questions or concerns involving mental health issues and counseling, alcohol and drug abuse, gambling addiction, tobacco addiction and other health and mental health concerns.
Leaving the nest is an exciting time; it means life on your own and establishing your independence. However, it’s a lot of responsibility and can be costly!
Finding a Place to Rent Here are some important things to consider:
How much can you afford? Put together a budget to determine your monthly expenses. Make sure you include deposits, rent, estimated utilities, renter’s insurance, furnishings, food, gas, entertainment, and other expenses. Make sure to budget for emergency expenses! Please see our Personal Finance calculators section.
What do you want to rent? A studio? An apartment? A condo? A house? What about renting a room in someone’s home? There are lots of options out there depending on your budget.
Where do you want to live? Location is a key element in choosing the best place to call home. How far away from work or school are you willing to live? What areas are safe? Explore the area before committing to anything. Remember, safety is more important than saving a few dollars on rent.
Are you willing to have a roommate? Can you afford not to have one? A roommate can offset your monthly expenses considerably but can also “flake out” in paying their bills so select carefully! If you are going to go the roommate route, make sure you are compatible. You don’t have to be best friends, but you should be able to communicate about finances and respect each other’s living habits. Set down some ground rules that include house chores, bill payments, how you feel about guests, etc. Be sure you have an understanding about alcohol, drug, smoking and overnight guests! The more you discuss, the better your living situation will be.
You must be cautious when looking at properties. Never go alone. The following are a few sources to help you find a good place to live:
Online rental services charge a subscription fee to access listings. Try http://www.Apartments.com, a site assisting with apartment hunting, moving and living.
Make a list of questions you want to ask ahead of time and take notes. Compare. Ask the manager for references or consider asking a few residents how they like living there if you have the opportunity. Does the landlord or manager respond to complaints in a timely manner?
Identity Theft Protection
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) estimates that as many as ten million Americans have their identity stolen each year…
As your bank, we want to help protect you against such fraud. With a few precautions, you can save yourself countless hours of trying to restore your identity, avoid financial loss, preserve your credit rating and most of all, save yourself from the stress it creates.
What is identity theft? According to the FTC, identity theft occurs when someone uses your personally identifying information, such as your name, Social Security number, or credit card number, without your permission, to commit fraud or other crimes. Identity theft is a serious crime that is on the rise in the United States. Oregon is no exception.
Consumers can spend thousands of dollars and countless hours restoring their identity. Therefore, it is important to take the necessary steps to protect your identity. The FTC recommends the “3-D’s” of identity theft protection: Deter, Detect, and Defend.
Deter:
Shred financial documents and paperwork with personal information
Protect your Social Security number
Don’t give out personal information over the phone, through the mail, or over the Internet, unless you know who you are dealing with
Never click on links in unsolicited emails (use firewalls, anti-spyware, and anti-virus software)
Don’t use an obvious password
Keep your personal information in a secure place at home
Detect:
Be alert to signs that require immediate attention
Inspect your:
Credit report
Financial statements
Defend:
Place a fraud alert on your credit report and review the reports carefully
Close accounts
File a police report
Report your complaint to the Federal Trade Commission
For more information on identity theft and the FTC’s 3-D’s of identity theft protection, visit the following links:
At South Valley Bank & Trust, we go to great lengths to protect your identity and your accounts. Here are a few things we do:
First, we handle our client information very carefully and confidentially.
Secondly, we make sure who we’re dealing with! Although we try to know all of our clients by sight, we may need to occasionally ask a few questions or ask for identification to verify that you are the account owner. It’s better to be safe than sorry!
Finally, we make sure our system is safe and that no one can get to your account by hacking their way through using technology.
If you have any concerns whatsoever regarding your South Valley Bank & Trust accounts, please don’t hesitate to ask. Please let us help you with answers to your questions and any solutions you may need for safeguarding your hard earned assets - one of those being your identity! We mean it when we say its, “Your Business First.” We are here for you!
College/Career - Insurance
Auto Insurance
Automobile insurance is required by law and a lack of insurance is punishable by enormous fines and possibly a one year jail sentence. It’s a big deal.
Finding and maintaining insurance is a priority when you own a car. For insurance requirements by state, visit the unofficial guide to the DMV’s website, http://www.DMV.org.
The following eight items are things you need to know about auto insurance as provided by Insurance.com:
Determine appropriate coverage
Shop around for insurance
Look for insurance discounts
Consider taking a higher deductible
Look into stacking coverage if you file a claim
Check with your insurance company before you buy a vehicle
Notify your auto insurance company immediately if you change auto insurance companies
Pick the insurance payment option that best fits your budget
The following are links to a few auto insurance companies as well as websites with more information on auto insurance:
Health Insurance
Health insurance is beneficial for individuals at all ages. You might be young and be perfectly healthy. But what if you were to be in a serious accident or suddenly become diabetic? Healthcare costs are expensive and can quickly force a person into inability to pay or even bankruptcy. You need to build a great credit score, not create a negative score!
Employer Health Insurance
Many employers offer health insurance coverage. Be sure to sign up as the premiums are generally lower because they are part of a group rate. Even co-payments are probably less expensive than finding your own health insurance. Be sure to ask your employer about setting aside pretax dollars to help offset the cost. Many employers have a Flexible Spending Plan for healthcare premiums, out of pocket healthcare expenses and even daycare expenses!
Health Insurance Resources
Health insurance terms and conditions can be confusing and often overwhelming, but there are resources available to help navigate through the confusing terms and find the best coverage for you. CNNMoney.com recommends these top ten things you need to know about health insurance:
Insurance costs a lot but having none costs more
If your employer offers insurance grab it
Comparing plans is tough but necessary
The lowest premium isn’t always the cheapest plan
Even good coverage can have big loopholes
You’ll pay more for freedom
You can check out networks before signing up
You can keep your insurance if you lose your job
Working couples have more to think about
Tax breaks can help
For more information on other health insurance information, as well as price quotes and a discussion of the healthcare legislation passed in early 2010, visit the following websites:
What is a Check?
Checks are a safe and convenient way of making payments and are accepted universally. A check is a negotiable paper draft signed by the owner of the checking account for a specific amount of money and is made payable to another person or bearer. This represents an unconditional or promise to pay a fixed amount of money on demand or at a definite time upon presentation to the bank on which it is drawn. Typically, the person receiving the check either cashes it at a teller window or has it credited to their own bank account.
South Valley Bank & Trust’s Free College Account
We know that college students are often short on cash. That’s why we offer a free college checking account. A college account can be in your name only (does not require parent’s signature). It's the same premium BANKING FOR Life account, but we completely waive your account service charge until you turn age 24!
If you set up an account, consider asking for the brass magazine instead of the free checks. The brass magazine has “direct, intelligent, and entertaining content written by and for young people.” It’s a great read while teaching you what you need to know about managing money, important documents and more!
Responsible Checking Account Usage
Checking accounts are a serious responsibility; therefore, it’s important to learn to use them wisely. A set of common laws adopted by all states govern commercial and financial transactions between parties. Therefore, it’s very important to keep a sufficient balance in your account to cover all the checks you write as well as all of your Debit Card transactions.
Here are a few tips to help a checking account stay in good standing:
Keep track of your checks and Debit Card purchases by writing them in your check register and subtracting them from the last balance. Also, subtract any fees and add in any interest earned on your account. By doing this, you will always know how much you have in available funds.
Many people like to check their balance on their online banking page. While checking your account balance online is easy and helpful, remember that all of the checks you have written or Debit Card purchases may not yet be reflected or deducted from your balance at the time you check it. Clients who rely solely on checking their balance online to determine available funds may find themselves overdrawing their account. This can have negative consequences including having to pay overdraft fees!
Balance your checkbook every month to your statement or on-line account information. This means checking to see if checks or debits have cleared your account and that they have posted in the correct amount. You should also check all deposits and any other items.
Keep all Debit Card receipts and compare them to your statement or online account information.
Establish a budget to help you use your available funds wisely.
It’s always wise to keep a money cushion in the account, For example, if your budget indicates that you need $1000 available each month to pay your bills, consider having a cushion of $500 for emergencies or a possible mistake in writing down what you have spent.
Overdrawing Your Account
If you write too many checks or use your Debit Card when there is not enough money in the account to cover the amount, you will “overdraw” your account. Each time you use your Debit Card or write a check that cannot be covered, SVBT must charge an insufficient funds fee to offset costs related to your overdraft. These can add up quickly! In addition, South Valley may decide to return your check to the person or bearer as “insufficient funds.” As you can imagine this will not make the person or bearer very happy! In addition, your credit history can be negatively affected by overdrawing your account. Finally, the bank may actually close your account if you are continually overdrawn, which could prevent you from getting another checking account, even at another bank.
South Valley Bank & Trust offers Overdraft Protection in the form of a line of credit or linking a savings or other designated account to your checking account. These options provide for coverage should you make a mistake about how much money is actually available. You will also avoid insufficient fund fees and the embarrassment of a returned check. For more information, as well as fees associated with these protection options, call your Personal Banker or visit any South Valley Bank & Trust branch.
Saving
It is important to establish good savings habits early and continue them for life. We can’t emphasize the importance of this enough! Tips for saving:
“Pay yourself first” – don’t pay yourself what is left over at the end of the month. What this means is making a “payment” to your savings account before you use the money for other reasons.
Take advantage of bank technology – use automatic transfers from your checking to your savings accounts.
Determine your actual “needs” versus “wants.” This requires some discipline!
Another good idea is to make a list of all the things you want to save for, such as:
College tuition
Emergency funds, i.e., car repair costs
Purchase of new car, etc.
Christmas
Travel
This will help you in budgeting and determine what type of savings account you want to open.
Savings Options There are a number of options available to help you with your savings goals. South Valley Bank & Trust offers:
Traditional savings accounts
Money Market accounts for adults
A unique Money Market account for kids as a benefit of your BANKING FOR Life account
Certificates of Deposit (CD’s). (With this account, you earn an extra .25%)
These four savings options are FDIC insured up to the current FDIC limit. Consult your local branch for current FDIC limits and to determine the savings option that best suits your needs. Please see our Personal Finance calculators section.
FDIC
Have you ever heard of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC)? The FDIC is an independent agency of the United States government that protects you against the loss of part or all of your deposits if an FDIC-insured bank or savings association fails. FDIC insurance is backed by the full faith and credit of the US government.
Are you unsure of what types of accounts are eligible for FDIC insurance? Do you need a better understanding of what is covered, how much is covered and how to structure your money? If you have a checking and a savings account…are both covered? If you don’t know the answer, you can always ask your local Personal Banker. We are happy to help explain this to you. If you’re the adventurous type and feel like exploring it yourself, the following link will explain how FDIC coverage works and what accounts are covered.
So you want to make sure that your money is safe…but you’re not sure if it will all be covered. Would you like an easy way to calculate your FDIC insurance coverage for each FDIC-insured bank where you have deposit accounts? The FDIC created this easy to use EDIE Calculator that will help you calculate this information in a printable form for each bank you bank with.
Retirement Savings
Unfortunately, many people do not begin thinking about saving for retirement until much later in life. This is a mistake! While setting aside money can be difficult at this time of life, you will benefit immensely later in life from compounding interest. Consider this example:
If you saved an average of $100 a month in an IRA starting at age 20 and earned an average rate of return of 8%, you would have approximately $501,000 by age 65!
However, if you saved an average of $100 a month starting at age 50, earning the same rate of return, you would only have $35,378 by age 65.
Even if you doubled the amount saved starting at age 50 to $200 per month, you would still only have $70,378 by age 65.
It pays to start saving for retirement at a young age!
The following websites have more information on saving:
Banking Terms
The language of banking doesn’t have to be confusing. At South Valley Bank & Trust, we are always willing to explain any term to you. If you have a question, please ask and we will provide the answer. We want you to understand your account and its features completely. For additional resources on banking terms visit the sites below:
Tax Planning
Each year we look for new and creative ways to reduce our tax liability. It is important to have a tax plan in place to avoid last minute stress during tax season. There are several resources available to help with tax planning. Visit the links below to begin developing your plan today:
Guide to Banking Terms The language of banking doesn’t have to be confusing. At South Valley Bank & Trust, we are always willing to explain any term to you. If you have a question, please ask and we will provide the answer. We want you to understand your account and its features completely. For additional resources on banking terms visit the sites below:
Learning to Budget
Creating your first budget can seem a little overwhelming. Learning how to follow a budget can also be a challenge. Learning how to create and stick to a realistic budget are key to a healthy financial picture for the rest of your life. It’s important to begin now. The following websites will help you create a budget that works for you:
Smart Money Quiz Show
Want to learn about money and how to make choices that will keep you out of debt? Play along with the Smart Money Quiz Show:
Smart Money Quiz Show
Test your money smarts with the Get-Out-of-Debt Quiz Show. Tackle topics as diverse as Internet banking and consumer scams to work your way out of $10,000 in debt.
Investing
The first step to investing is to set aside enough money to invest. Some young adults may have a substantial amount of money to invest from an inheritance or through some other avenue. However, most start by following a budget and putting money aside in a savings account to create a fund that has future investment potential.
As your savings account grows with interest, you may consider a bank Money Market account, which generally pays a higher interest rate. Or, a bank Certificate of Deposit. Your Personal Banker can explain how each one works and guide you to the right choice.
Although there are many ways to invest, here are some sites that you might find interesting:
This website, sponsored by the Foundation for Investor Education, an affiliate of the Securities Industry Association, features objective investor education, resources, and expert insights for investors of all experience levels. http://www.PathToInvesting.com
The fun and interactive Stock Market Game program lets students invest $100,000 in a real portfolio, tracks the results and teaches important life and investment lessons.
South Valley Bank & Trust is affiliated with South Valley Wealth Management. They offer a full array of investment options and their experts are available for a free consultation.
Note: Investment products offered by South Valley Wealth Management are not a deposit, not FDIC-insured, not insured by any federal government agency, not guaranteed by the bank, and may go down in value.
Marriage and Money
Getting married can be one of the most exciting times in a person’s life. While it’s exciting to start a new life with your loved one, it’s important to discuss money with your significant other. After all, money is the leading cause of marital strain. Kiplinger.com suggests these ten questions to ask before saying “I Do.”
Where would you like to be in five or ten years?
What are our assets and liabilities?
Should we keep our finances separate or combine them?
What about our investments?
How will we handle daily spending decisions?
Who will be responsible for paying the bills and preparing the taxes?
What is your tolerance for financial risk?
What are our insurance options?
How does your credit report look?
How will we tackle existing debt?
Don’t worry – if you have already tied the knot, there is advice for you too. For more information on the questions above and more resources on marriage and money visit the links below:
Credit Cards
You are finally 18 and suddenly your mailbox is filled with credit card applications. Don’t get too excited just yet. Credit cards can be a useful tool if used responsibly, but they can also get a person into debt.
It’s important to understand how credit cards work and to use them responsibly. These sites will help to explain what they are, how to use them and how to pay them back:
The Federal Reserve created an excellent website dedicated to educating consumers on credit card offers, terms and fees. http://www.federalreserve.gov/creditcard
The FTC (Federal Trade Commission) site has information for you, whether you’re shopping for a mortgage or auto loan, checking the accuracy of your credit report, dealing with debt collectors, or looking for ways to protect your personal financial information: http://www.FTC.gov
The Credit Education Bureau’s mission is to aggressively reach out to the community of consumers with important credit information, and good money management training which will result in a whole new market segment of "smarter" consumers. http://CreditEducationBureau.com
FTC’s “Getting Credit: What You Need to Know About Your Credit” provides tips on shopping for credit cards, using cards carefully, and keeping your credit record clean. In addition, it explains credit reports and credit scores, how to protect your identity, improve your credit record, and what to do if you are a victim of identity theft. It's a source of information for people learning about credit: http://www.FTC.gov
The Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco’s “How to Establish, Use, and Protect Your Credit” publication explains how credit is an important financial tool, but it can also be dangerous, leading people into debt far beyond their ability to repay: http://www.FRBSF.org
Credit Rights As a consumer you need to understand how credit is awarded or denied and what you can do if you are treated unfairly. The laws that regulate credit are outlined in this brochure: http://www.FRBSF.org/publications
South Valley Bank & Trust extends loans upon approved credit. South Valley is an equal opportunity lender and adheres to all the state and federal regulations. Besides a number of internal checks and balances, the bank is audited on a regular basis. If you ever have any questions regarding your loan or loan application, please ask us.
Credit Score
There is a lot to be said about the importance of a good credit score. It will help you in obtaining credit, may affect the amount you qualify for and may even help you in getting a more favorable interest rate!
But what exactly is a credit score? A credit score is a number that reflects the likeliness you will pay back the money you borrow. The higher the number, the more likely it is that you will pay the money back.
What is a good credit score & who determines it?
A credit score is a three digit number based on the borrower’s bill-paying history and overall debt profile. The most widely accepted score is the FICO, Fair Isaac Corporation, score. The three major credit reporting agencies, Equifax, TransUnion and Experian use their own models to calculate scores as well. Different creditors use different methods to create their scores and those formulas are proprietary to the companies using them, so defining a good score and bad score can be a gray area.
The following are approximate ranges of credit scores:
Excellent credit = 720 and above
Good credit = 660 to 719
Fair credit = 620 to 659
Poor/bad credit = 619 and below
While we don’t know the exact formulas used to calculate credit scores, FICO has disclosed an approximate breakdown of what makes up a credit score:
Timeliness of payments (payment behavior) = 35%
The amount of revolving debt in relation to the amount of your total revolving credit (how much you owe) = 30%
Length of credit history = 15%
Type of credit used (installment, revolving, consumer finance) = 10%
Amount of credit recently obtained and recent searches for credit = 10%
What impacts your score? Late payments are often a cause of lower scores. Paying late one or two times may not affect your score, but a consistently late payment history will lower your overall score. Other issues that can lower your score are bankruptcies, foreclosures, judgments, collections and having too much revolving credit (i.e., store credit cards).
How do you find out what your credit score is?
You may have received a free credit report and noticed it does not include a credit score. Often, the credit score is not included and must be purchased separately. If you are applying for a home loan, the lender is required to give you your credit score.
If your lender will not give you your score, you can contact the following three major consumer credit reporting agencies:
Building Credit
It’s important to establish credit and build up a good credit score. Even though you may decide you don’t actually need credit at this point in your life, it’s important to think ahead to the future. You can begin with something as simple as paying your bills on time and beginning with a credit card that you pay off monthly.
MSN.com provides nine ways to build your credit score from scratch:
Repairing Credit
If your score is not where you want it to be, do not despair. With time and a sincere effort to improve your score, you can be on the road to repairing your credit score. Here are some steps that may help you to improve your score:
Pay your bills on time.
Pay down your balances. Don’t keep your cards maxed out. It will lower your score.
Pay off your debt instead of balance transferring. Moving debt around and opening new cards can lower your score. Your best bet is to pay the debt you have down, not just spread it out.
Don’t open multiple accounts you don’t need. Too many open accounts can lower your score.
Don’t close all your accounts. Yes, you want to pay off your debt but closing all your accounts can lower your score. Having installment loans with on-time payments will raise your score. Use your cards…just do so responsibly.
Review your credit report for any discrepancies and repair them if necessary.
Create a budget and stick to it. Don’t live on credit. Living beyond your means and spending money you don’t have will never allow you to live debt free. Learn to examine each purchase from the perspective of “need” vs. “want.”
If you are in over your head, contact a legitimate credit counselor.
Read MSN Money’s article with 7 fast fixes for your credit score:
The Federal Trade Commission has information available on how to build a better credit report. The site has information on how to legally improve your credit report, dealing with debt and more. http://www.FTC.gov/bcp
Monitoring Your Credit
The 2004 FACT Act (Fair and Accurate Credit Transactions Act) entitles all U.S. residents to receive a free credit report every 12 months from each of the three credit bureaus. Checking your credit report once a year is a good way to correct any errors and make sure you have not been a victim of identity theft.
To request your free reports through a centralized source:
Annual Credit Report Request Service
P.O. Box 105281
Atlanta, GA 30348-5281
Phone: (877) 322-8228 www.AnnualCreditReport.com
To request your free reports individually:
Equifax
800-685-1111 http://www.Equifax.com
P.O. Box 740241
Atlanta, Ga. 30374-0241
You will want to review all three. Why? The reports can have different information in each of them since the report system is voluntary. The creditors subscribe to whichever agency they want, if they subscribe at all. Some creditors may not even report to any of the agencies and will not show up on your credit report.
What to look for:
Review your personal information- name, social security number, date of birth, addresses and employers for accuracy.
Check that all closed accounts are indicated as closed.
Check that all open accounts are accounts you opened.
Check that nothing is on the report longer than what is allowed by law; bankruptcies must be removed after 10 years. Suits, judgments, tax liens, arrest records, and most other unfavorable information must be dropped after 7 years.
Check over any information on late payments and make sure there are no mistakes.
Consumer Protection publications available from the Federal Reserve:
Also, be sure and check out their educational banking glossary by clicking here.
College/Career - Social
Social Networking
Social networking websites are the rage these days and it seems like everyone is meeting new friends online or tracking down existing ones over the Internet. The following are a few of the social-networking sites today:
Plaxo (online social networking site and contact management): http://www.Plaxo.com
Enjoy these sites. However, know that there are big risks in revealing personal information online.Don’t do it!
Unfortunately, there are stalkers preying on young people, male and female. The stalker may create a false image in order to get your guard down including a fake photo or information about themselves. In truth, they could be much older and have bad intentions. Therefore, we recommend restricting your site and contacts to people you already know. However, if you DO visit with a stranger, never give out information that could lead them to you. Unfortunately, too many people have let their guards down as they have enjoyed the “relationship” and conversation, only to be hurt.
If you choose to use a site, be sure to use access and use the security settings!
Photos Online
Be careful about the photos and information you put online about yourself and others. Even when deleted, these photos and information remain on the Internet forever. As you grow up and enter the workforce, the last thing you want for yourself or others are pictures or information that doesn’t speak highly of you.
To see information about safeguarding yourself, your family and your computer, check out these sites:
Relationships - Online Dating
The world of online dating has taken off. It’s an easy way to find other single people in your area and potentially meet your soul-mate. The following are a few dating sites online:
Social Activities
When making plans with friends or sharing your latest interests, the Internet is a great resource for everything from movie times to the latest music to local events for memorable time with friends. The following sections list some resources that may help in planning a get together.
Movies
Are you interested in finding out what is playing in your area? Here are some sites to help you check out the latest movies and even get your seats before you arrive.
Interested in movie trivia? Wishing you could remember what movies your favorite star has been in? Check out the Internet Movie Database or IMDB. It’s the Hollywood insider way to check the résumé of directors and stars.
Music
Do you love music? Are you interested in figuring out what’s hot and what’s not? Here are a few sites to keep you up to speed on the latest music talent.
Are you ready to get into the downloading craze? Do you want to be able to get the latest songs and create your own playlists? How about being able to download your favorite podcasts and listen to them at your leisure? Apple created iTunes for this purpose. For more information and to be able to download the application, visit their website. Be warned, you might just find yourself buying an ultra cool iPod and becoming a download junkie!
Music- Live Shows
Do you prefer seeing your bands live? Do you want access to those front row tickets? Here are a few sites to purchase tickets to all of your favorite concerts:
Have you dreamed of being a soccer manager? Why not try starting a team in a lower division and slowly bring them up the ranks. Even if it’s a virtual reality, it’s still pretty cool. http://www.HatTrick.org
This site allows you to see the score for any major soccer game anywhere in the world! http://www.LiveScore.com
Basketball
Is basketball your sport of choice?
The following website offers video clips, news and stats: http://www.NBA.com
Football
Do you and the pig skin have a special relationship on most Sunday afternoons and Monday Nights?
ESPN
Are you an all around sports lover? Check out ESPN’s site, which happens to be one of the biggest sports websites in the world and covers all major sports:
Live Games
The Internet is a fantastic resource for keeping up with your favorite teams and high-definition televisions make you feel like you’re at the game, but nothing compares to seeing a live game. StubHub.com offers tickets to nearly every sporting event in the U.S.!
College/Career - Travel
South Valley Bank & Trust found in its client focus groups that young adults love to travel! As such, we found some great websites to help you plan your trip. It doesn’t have to cost a whole lot and it can be done with safety in mind!
Packing
If you are traveling by airplane, be sure to check the individual airline’s luggage limits or other packing requirements. Also, airports are very particular about carry-on items so check ahead.
At a minimum, don’t forget to pack:
Your camera
Your iPod or other device
A good book, magazine or portable game
Friend or family members' addresses for postcards
Spending money (traveler checks recommended!)
Other Ideas
Research your travel ahead of time. Look for directional maps, transportation types/costs, interesting points of interest to visit, etc. Also, check out the weather ahead of time for packing purposes!
Document your trips with a journal and photos. If you are creative, you will have the material to “scrapbook” later!
Car Rentals
It pays to shop around. You can book a car or other vehicle through your travel agent or online. Be sure to look for discount coupons online and ask the car rental place if they offer any other discounts that you might qualify for, i.e., college student.
Tip: Be sure to physically inspect the vehicle before you drive it off the lot. Make sure that any dents or other imperfections are noted on your contract. Also, be sure you obtain their insurance coverage or are sure that your own insurance covers car rentals.
Junior Year Abroad
Are you interested in a study abroad program? Many universities have programs offering students the opportunity to experience another culture. Living abroad can be an exciting and eye-opening experience. You may find the following links helpful if you are considering studying abroad:
The United States Department of State website provides information on living abroad; everything from information on how to register with the U.S. Embassy or Consulate to travel alerts and more: http://Travel.State.gov/travel
Country-specific information is available for every country of the world. Pages within this website include information such as location of the U.S. Embassy or Consulate within the country, unusual immigration practices, health conditions, minor political disturbances, currency and entry regulations, crime and security information, and drug penalties: http://www.Travel.State.gov
Spring Break
Spring Break has always had somewhat of a notorious reputation. If you are college student and plan to travel during Spring Break, here are some tips to make sure it’s a safe and fun vacation:
The Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, have put together a site with Spring Break health and safety tips: http://www.CDC.gov/family/springbreak
The Bureau of Consular Affairs has a site dedicated to international travel and safety information for students: http://Travel.State.gov/travel
The Bureau of Consular Affairs “Top 5 Travel Safety Tips for Students:”
Read country-specific information (and public announcements or travel warnings, if applicable) for the countries you plan to visit. For more information, check out the U.S. State Department’s website: http://Travel.State.gov/travel/travel_1744.html.
Register your travel with the U.S. State Department through a free service at https://TravelRegistration.State.gov. Registration helps ensure you can be contacted if there is a family emergency or if there is a crisis in the area where you are traveling.
Make sure you have a signed, valid passport and visa, if required. Also, before you go, fill in the emergency information page of your passport. For more information, check out the U.S. State Department’s website: http://Travel.State.gov.
Familiarize yourself with local laws and customs of the countries to which you are traveling. While in a foreign country, you are subject to its laws. Avoid illicit drugs or excessive use of alcohol and reckless behavior. For more information, check out the U.S. State Department’s website: http://Travel.State.gov/travel.
Do not leave your luggage unattended in public areas, and never accept packages from strangers.
Spring Break travel site:
Visit http://www.StudentCity.com. StudentCity.com claims you can either sign up for an all inclusive package or you can opt to work for them by selling spring break trips to other students. Reportedly, you earn money as you earn a free trip. The more you sell the more perks you get. As with any offer, be sure to read the fine print and understand all of the requirements before signing up!
Looking for a more meaningful experience?
Do you want to spend your Spring Break giving back instead of pushing your way through the party crowd? Visit http://www.i-to-i.com/be-part-of-it.
“At I-to-I we believe that travel should be fun, it should allow you to experience a country and its culture while you meet new friends and have the time of your life. We also believe that travel should be about giving something back and making a difference to our world.”
Interested in not spending a fortune traveling out of the country or on gas? Amtrak has previously offered a 15% student discount. Check out this website to learn more about traveling within the United States and potentially saving cash: http://StudentTravel.About.com
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