University of Illinois Extension: Around the Table

Staying on top of your financial health is easier than you think, especially when you make checking your credit report part of your regular routine. With all three major credit bureaus continuing to offer free weekly reports, now is the perfect time to ensure your information is accurate, protect yourself from identity theft, and be prepared for major life decisions like applying for a mortgage, job, or apartment. A quick review today can help you catch errors early and give you confidence in your financial future. Learn more at:

Reasons to check your credit report How often do you check your credit report? Make checking your credit report part of your financial wellness routine. Currently, the three nationwide credit bureaus

Starting early can help you prepare what you need for income tax season. The deadline for filing income tax is April 15. While you can file for an extension to file your return, your taxes are still due by this date and need to be paid to avoid penalties. Learn more about preparing for the 2026 tax season:

Preparing for tax day Have you received your IRS Form W-2, Wage and Tax Statement, from your employer for income earned last year?

With cold weather settling in, you may notice your energy costs rising as you try to stay warm. Seasonal temperature changes can have a big impact on both gas and electric bills, so it’s important to plan your spending with these fluctuations in mind. While staying comfortable is essential, there are many simple ways to reduce energy waste and cut costs. Read moreabout energy saving options at

Conserve energy and reduce your bills With cold weather settling in, you may notice your energy costs rising as you try to stay warm. Seasonal temperature changes can have a big impact on both gas and

Discover timeless insights and practical tips for living an inspiring, healthy, and fulfilling life, regardless of age. Learn valuable life lessons in this series that are accessible and easy to apply.

The Lessons for Living webinar series includes these topics:
* What's in My Food? Decoding Chemicals and Safety
February 10 and August 11
* Gardening on a Budget
April 14 and September 10
* Fur Real Companionship
May 14 and October 13
* Become a Dementia Friend!
June 9 and November 12

Sign up for one or all of these FREE webinars! Register at least one week in advance at go.illinois.edu/2026HCElessons

How is smartphone usage affecting family life? | Illinois Public Media Smartphones have revolutionized our lives and also changed family dynamics as children are more engaged with their screens these days.An expert who specializes in human developement and family studies gives his take on smartphones and families. The 21st Show is Illinois' statewide weekday public rad...

Borrowing money or using your credit can seem easy in the moment, and a payment may seem reasonable, but these commitments can sometimes create long-term financial challenges. Before borrowing money, take the time to consider the long-term impact of your decision. The cost of borrowing money with interest and fees can quickly add up, costing you more than you plan to spend on a purchase.

Borrow today, pay more tomorrow As small amounts can really add up when saving and accruing interest, the cost of borrowing money, even in small amounts at a time, can also add up with fees and

An excellent and trusted resource by the USDA and takes the guess work out of the question we all ask ourselves, “Is this still good?”

Have you downloaded the FoodKeeper App? It takes the guess work out of safe handling, preparation, & food storage – putting food safety at your fingertips! https://www.foodsafety.gov/keep-food-safe/foodkeeper-app

Seeing beautiful decorations and fun seasonal activities can be enticing ways to spend money. Before committing to spending money, consider everything you have planned for this holiday season. Make sure to plan for any upcoming occasional expenses, such as gifts, travel, decorations, and holiday meals. Take the time to plan your spending, so you can truly enjoy your purchases without the added stress. Read more

Plan your holiday spending The holiday season is often referred to as the “most wonderful time of the year.” Seeing beautiful decorations and fun seasonal activities can be enticing ways

Do your pies need to be refrigerated? If they contain eggs or dairy, like pumpkin, custard, cream, or chiffon, they do! Keep them chilled and don’t leave them out for more than 2 hours. Fruit pies can stay at room temperature for up to 2 days.

Store-bought pies are different because they contain preservatives, so don’t use them as a guide for your homemade ones.

More holiday food safety tips and recipes at extension.illinois.edu/turkey

Stuffing or dressing? 🦃
Stuffing cooks inside the turkey, dressing cooks outside and both are delicious!

Remember: add about ½–¾ cup stuffing per pound of turkey, don’t overfill (it expands!), and scoop it out before carving.

Leftovers? Keep them safe by getting that tasty mix into the fridge within 2 hours. Read more: https://bit.ly/43FYIB1

The Thanksgiving season is a time of year many people associate with eating food and spending time with others. Balancing your spending with enjoyment can be a challenge. Find ways to feel good about what you are spending on food and family time by making a plan. Decide how much money you have to spend on this occasional expense and find ways to make the most of it.

Feeding the family without overspending The Thanksgiving season is a time of year many people associate with eating food and spending time with others. Balancing your spending with enjoyment can be a