SmartHer Money

06/21/2026

Happy First Day of Summer! ☀️💙

A new season is a great time to reset your goals, including your financial ones. Whether you’re planning travel, tackling a savings goal, or just trying to be more intentional with spending, small summer check-ins can make a big difference.

Enjoy the sunshine, and your money mindset this summer! 🌻

For more financial tips and resources, visit SmartHER.Iowa.gov

06/19/2026

“Don’t you dare underestimate the power of your own instinct.” ✨

When it comes to money decisions, advice matters, but so does trusting yourself. Your instincts can help guide you toward choices that align with your goals, values, and what feels right for your life.

At SmartHER Money, we believe confidence grows when you learn to trust your own judgment along the way. 💙

For more financial education and resources, visit SmartHER.Iowa.gov

06/18/2026

It’s National Splurge Day! 💸✨

Everyone has something they love to treat themselves to, but the key is making sure it fits your budget.

Whether it’s travel, dining out, concerts, shopping, or something else entirely, splurging can be a healthy part of your financial life when it’s planned for.

We want to hear from you 👇
💬 What do you like to splurge on?
💬 And how do you save or budget for it?

For more financial tips and resources, visit smarther.iowa.gov

06/16/2026

Not all financial institutions are the same, and knowing the difference can help you choose the right place to keep and grow your money. 🏦💰

Here’s a simple breakdown:

🏦 Banks
For-profit institutions that offer checking and savings accounts, loans, credit cards, and more. They often have more branches and ATMs, but may come with higher fees.

🤝 Credit Unions
Member-owned, not-for-profit institutions. They may often offer lower fees, better interest rates on loans, and personalized service, but membership may be required.

📱 Online Banks & Fintech Companies
Digital-first options that operate mostly or entirely online. They may offer higher savings rates and lower fees, but less in-person support.

💼 Investment Firms
Focused on helping you grow wealth through investing (stocks, bonds, retirement accounts). These are typically used alongside a bank or credit union, not instead of one.

💡 The best choice depends on your goals, comfort level, and how you prefer to manage your money.

For more trusted financial education and resources, visit SmartHER.Iowa.gov

06/12/2026

Debt relief can be a lifeline, but it can also be a target for scams and “too good to be true” promises. 💳⚠️

Before you sign up for any quick-fix solution, watch for these common red flags:

1️⃣ “Guaranteed debt elimination”
No company can legally guarantee your debt will disappear overnight.

2️⃣ Upfront fees before any service is provided
Legitimate nonprofit credit counseling services typically don’t demand large fees before helping you.

3️⃣ Pressure to stop paying creditors immediately
Some programs tell you to stop all payments, which can damage your credit and increase fees or legal risk.

4️⃣ “New government program” claims
Scammers often falsely claim affiliation with federal debt relief programs or special grants.

5️⃣ Requests for sensitive personal info too early
Be cautious if you’re asked for bank logins, full Social Security numbers, or authorization without clear documentation.

If you’re exploring debt relief options, it’s important to slow down, ask questions, and verify everything before committing.

For trusted financial education and resources, visit SmartHER.iowa.gov

For additional information on how to catch and prevent scams, visit https://iowafraudfighters.gov/

06/10/2026

Not sure whether a Roth IRA or Traditional IRA is right for you? Here’s a quick breakdown. 💰👇

🔹 Traditional IRA
May offer a tax break now, but you’ll pay taxes when you withdraw money in retirement.

🔹 Roth IRA
You pay taxes on contributions now, but qualified withdrawals in retirement are tax-free.

📌 A Traditional IRA may make sense if you want savings today. A Roth IRA may make sense if you want tax-free income later.

The most important thing? Start saving! Even small amounts can grow over time.
For more financial tips and tools, visit smarther.iowa.gov

06/10/2026

Did you hear the news?! Emmy winner Jason Sudeikis will be joining us at the 2026 Women Lead Change Leadership Conference on Oct. 14 in Des Moines! We are a proud sponsor of this event and hope you'll join us. Learn more and register here: https://www.wlcglobal.org/events/leadership-conference-2026-des-moines

Speaker announcement! We are so excited to welcome Jason Sudeikis to The Leadership Conference: 2026 Des Moines! Known for his humor, authenticity, and ability to connect with people on and off the screen, Jason will bring a conversation full of insight, inspiration, and plenty of laughs. Register today! https://www.wlcglobal.org/events/leadership-conference-2026-des-moines

06/08/2026

Who is a woman who inspires you? 💙

From leaders and innovators to changemakers across every field, this list highlights women making an incredible impact today.

Explore the story here: https://www.rd.com/list/most-inspiring-women-alive-today/

We’d love to hear from YOU.

Who is a woman you admire, whether in the financial world or not? Drop her name in the comments 👇

These amazing women are leading by example and inspiring other women—and everyone else—around the world to pursue their dreams.

06/05/2026

Building credit takes time, but small steps can make a big difference. 💳✨

Your credit score helps tell lenders how responsible you are with money, and it can impact things like interest rates, loan terms, insurance and utilities.

A few smart ways to build and improve credit:

✅ Pay bills on time
✅ Keep credit card balances low
✅ Use a healthy mix of credit types
✅ Check your credit report regularly
✅ Be patient and consistent

Remember: good credit is built through steady habits over time. Start small, stay consistent and keep working toward your financial goals.

Learn more at SmartHER.Iowa.gov

06/04/2026

The envelope system is a simple, hands-on way to stay on track with your budget. Use cash for categories like groceries, dining out, or entertainment by keeping money in labeled envelopes.

When the envelope is empty, spending in that category stops until the next budget cycle.

It’s a practical way to build awareness around spending habits, avoid overspending, and stay focused on your financial goals. Whether you’re budgeting for the first time or getting back on track. Keep in mind though, this won’t help build your savings or invest (no interest earned of protections here), but it can be an easy way to help budget day to day.

Start small. Even using the envelope method for just one category can make a difference.

For more budgeting tips and tools, visit smarther.iowa.gov