U.S. Department of Energy Website

Log onto http://bit.ly/C37Eq for a DIY home energy assessment.

How Energy Efficient is your Home?

Get home energy tips from the U.S. Department of Energy for conducting a DIY home energy assessment.  Learn simple tips for evaluating your home for air leaks, insulation, heating/cooling equipment, and lighting.  An energy efficient home will save you money on your monthly utility bill.

Making A Difference Conference

Plan to attend the Spring 2012 Making a Difference Conference at Wood Memorial Junior High Cafeteria on April 9th at 6:00 p.m.(EDT).  Conference sessions will be "Gardening for the Health of It", "Finding Humor in Our Irrational Thoughts", and "Savvy Shopping".  The program includes a meal all at the cost of $10 per person.  Please register by sending money to Perry County Extension Office, 125 S. 8th St., Cannelton, IN  47520.

Emergency Fund

What would you do if you suddenly lost your income?  Could you pay your bills and provide for your family's needs for six months?  Consider your liquid assets - or, what you can easily convert to cash.  This could include savings accounts, money markets, or CDs.  For tips on building your emergency fund, visit http://www.extension.org/pages/Building_an_Emergency_Fund.

Money-saving tip

Get to know your bank!  Take time to research the services your bank provides, such as overdraft protection, online bill-pay, or mobile alerts, which notify you via a text message if your checking account falls below a certain amount.  Also, consider going online to get 24-hour access to your accounts.

America Saves

Do you participate in a work-related retirement savings program?  According to America Saves, many employees turn down "free" money from their employer by not signing up for programs such as a 401 (k) plan.  With a 50% match, you receive a 50% return on your investment!  Sign up for your workplace savings plan and become an American Saver!

Want to double your money?

Divide the interest rate being earned on your savings into 72 to determine how long it will take.  For example, with a 4% average annual return, $1,000 will double to $2,000 in 18 years.  For more information about saving and investing topics from eXtension, the Cooperative Extension electronic information network, see http://bit.ly/fWpOBu.