Author: awesome_developer

How to Prep Your Snowmobile for the Winter Season

Posted on by awesome_developer

At Cash2Go Financial, our mission is to help you manage life’s seasonal needs quickly and conveniently. From handling registrations and tags to managing everyday financial tasks, Cash2Go makes it easier to stay prepared so you can focus on what matters most. For snowmobile enthusiasts, that means getting ready for winter riding with confidence.

Preparing your snowmobile for the winter season is essential for performance, safety, and long-term reliability. A thorough snowmobile winter prep routine helps prevent breakdowns, improves handling, and extends the life of your sled. Whether you ride casually or hit the trails every weekend, pre-season snowmobile preparation makes all the difference.

Why Snowmobile Winter Prep Is Important

Snowmobiles often sit unused for months before winter arrives. Without proper snowmobile maintenance, fuel can break down, batteries can fail, and mechanical parts may wear prematurely. Performing a full snowmobile pre-season checklist ensures and sled starts reliably and runs smoothly when temperatures drop.

Proper winter snowmobile prep also helps you avoid costly repairs during peak riding season. Taking time now to inspect and service your machine can save you time, money, and frustration later.

Essential Snowmobile Pre-Season Checklist

1. Engine and Fluids

Inspect the engine for signs of wear or leaks. Replace or top off engine oil or injection oil, depending on whether your snowmobile is a two-stroke or four-stroke. Check coolant levels and flush if recommended by the manufacturer. Always use fresh fuel and replace spark plugs and fuel filters to improve cold-weather starts and performance.

2. Battery and Electrical System

Charge your battery fully and clean the terminals to ensure a solid connection. Test headlights, brake lights, gauges, and safety switches. Inspect wiring for corrosion or damage that may have occurred during storage.

3. Track, Suspension, and Skis

Check track tension and alignment according to manufacturer specifications. Inspect skis and carbides for excessive wear and replace if needed. Lubricate suspension joints and examine shocks for leaks or loss of performance. Tighten all fasteners to ensure stability on rough terrain.

4. Drive Belt and Clutch

Inspect the drive belt for cracks, glazing, or wear and replace if it is near service limits. Clean clutch components and check chaincase oil levels. Fresh lubrication helps prevent damage and ensures smooth acceleration.

5. Safety Inspection

Test brakes and confirm proper stopping power. Ensure throttle and brake levers move freely. Pack emergency gear such as tools, spare parts, and a first aid kit. Review your owner’s manual for model-specific safety guidelines.

Helpful Snowmobile Maintenance Tips

Start your snowmobile winter prep early, ideally before snowfall begins. This gives you time to address issues before repair shops become busy. Always follow the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule. If you are unsure about any steps, a professional snowmobile service provider can complete a full inspection and tune-up.

Routine snowmobile maintenance improves reliability, fuel efficiency, and overall riding experience throughout the winter season.

Stay Ready With Cash2Go

Winter riding is meant to be enjoyed, not interrupted by avoidable issues. With proper snowmobile winter prep, you can ride confidently all season long.

When it is time to take care of snowmobile registration, tags, or other seasonal paperwork, Cash2Go offers fast, convenient, one-stop service. We help you handle the essentials efficiently so you can spend less time waiting and more time on the trails.

Visit your local Cash2Go location today and get ready for a smooth, safe winter riding season.

Best Trails for Snowmobiling in Illinois & Wisconsin

Posted on by awesome_developer

Want to hit the trails in your new (or not so new) snowmobile this winter? Be sure your registration is current! Illinois boasts almost 2500 miles of trails, and we’re anticipating a snowy season ahead. Both Illinois and Wisconsin have more awesome spaces for snowbirds to explore than even many locals are aware of.

What you can find in the upper Midwest are whole systems of trails that connect towns, lakes, and forests into long, rideable days.

What Snowmobiling Trails Should You Check Out?

Below are six of the best places to aim your snowmobile if you want good mileage, reliable grooming, great scenery and lots of riding fun.

Lockwood Park & Anna Page Park (Illinois)

From December to March, Illinois riders can check out numerous trails throughout the Rockford Park District. They will take you through small towns and past refreshing, rural vistas, and even into Wisconsin if you’d like. Riding options can last anywhere from an hour to a whole day.

Jo Daviess County (Illinois)

For something closer to home, the Jo Daviess County trail network in northwestern Illinois offers a lot of rolling terrain and scenic farmland. It can be a nice change of pace from the woods to the north, particularly for riders who don’t want to trailer all the way into Wisconsin. Trail options, as well as opening and closing hours, may be weather-dependent, so follow local club updates.

Eagle River (Wisconsin)

The Eagle River–Three Lakes trail system in northern Wisconsin offers a more classic choice. Enjoy the wide, well-marked trails that loop riders through forests and across frozen lakes. Folks can plan full-day routes to include stops for fuel and food right on the trail. Remember to get a Wisconsin trail pass, and check lake ice reports, especially early or late in the season.

Vilas and Oneida County (Wisconsin)

Do you like long, uninterrupted runs with tight woods as well as faster open stretches? The Vilas and Oneida County trail system has hundreds of miles of connected riding, including some of the most consistent grooming in the state. Travelers from around the world appreciate the area’s smoothness and predictability. As with others, check county trail reports the morning you ride.

Minocqua to Arbor Vitae (Wisconsin)

Still farther north, trails from Minocqua to Arbor Vitae are another favorite for riders who love both scenery and speed. Spend the day weaving through lakes and pines, and passing the occasional small town, without repeating the same stretch twice. Plan ahead, though, as weekends can get busy.

Iron County (Wisconsin)

Explore the 308 miles of groomed, snowy trails that make up the Iron County trail system, including some of its extensive north–south routes. If it’s your first time, be sure you’re ready for this type of trail. Sleds need to be in good shape to handle the more rugged terrain. Prepare for a quieter experience with fewer fuel stops, but a lot of serene beauty.

Where Can You Register Your Snowmobile?

Registration is required for most snowmobiles used in Illinois. However, no matter where you use yours, keep in mind that some trails or counties may require additional passes or permissions.

Always be sure to:

  • Register through an authorized agent like Cash2Go Financial.
  • Call in advance, as fees can vary based on residency and duration.
  • Bring proof of ownership, your ID, and payment for fees.

Once you’ve registered, carry proof of registration when out riding. Those decals must be properly displayed on the sled! Furthermore, check the status of any trail you visit, respect private land crossings, and plan fuel stops ahead of time.

Register at Chicagoland’s Cash2Go Financial

There’s a wealth of great snowmobiling in this region, but success depends on timing as well as making sure you’re properly registered. At Cash2Go Financial, registration is usually an easy walk-in process. You simply:

  1. Submit the paperwork electronically.
  2. Pay the necessary fee to an assistant, who will enter your information online.
  3. Receive a temporary permit, which you can use while waiting for the official decals to arrive.

Ready for some seriously fun riding days? Register your snowmobile and auto at the nearest Cash2Go Financial location in Illinois. Call 847-269-2274 with any questions about registration!

Why Should I Trust Cash2Go With My Check Cashing Needs?

Posted on by awesome_developer

Nothing is more important than trust when it comes to your hard-earned dough. And since check cashing is one of Cash2Go Financial’s most popular services, it is paramount that this practice remains reliable and safe throughout each transaction. 

With check fraud (and financial fraud in general) on the rise, consumers need to be more vigilant than ever about where they do their business. Here’s what we can tell you about why you should handle your check-cashing tasks under our roof.

Cash2Go Financial Is a Legitimate Business

Cash2Go Financial is fully licensed and certified to operate a broad range of services throughout the northern suburbs of Illinois. But that is the minimum of protection that we provide. We take our role as a neighborhood financial business very seriously and keep a close eye on the performance of our services for any sign of issues. We don’t have anything without the full trust of our customers.

Read on to find out more on protecting your identity during money transactions.

We Follow Best Check Cashing Practices

It’s also important to the folks at Cash2Go that we follow best industry practices in everything that we do – and each team member we hire is trained and vetted to do the same. Since most transactions these days take place online or digitally, there is a digital record of every check you cash. That makes it harder for your funds to end up in the wrong hands. If you ever need to track a check you cashed in the past, we can help you find out when and where that took place if it was at one of our locations.

We Are Transparent About Our Operations

At Cash2Go, we understand that to be worthy of your business, we need to be open about our services. Check out our Private Policy page. You will find information on what personal information is shared during transactions as well as how sensitive financial data is protected. Most businesses aren’t completely upfront about the information they are collecting. We don’t work like that.

That’s why we let clients know what is kept in our system for a given transaction. Throughout all of our interactions with Chicago residents, we respect your privacy as well as consent to certain activities online.

Cash2Go Financial Is Trusted in Your Neighborhood

Our team members also live and spend money in the greater Chicagoland area, and each of us knows what it means to entrust our money in the hands of someone we don’t know well – or at all. This makes us all the more sensitive to your needs as a customer.

If you have any questions about how check cashing works, just let us know. We depend on customer loyalty to keep our doors open and want to be as helpful as possible.

We Simplify Financial & Auto Tasks

There’s another benefit of taking your paychecks here: the ability to handle all your financial and auto services quickly and easily. We make doing business simple by offering check cashing, money transfers, auto licensing services – and more – with as little hassle as possible. If you’d rather load the money from that paycheck onto your prepaid debit card or use it to pay your electric bill instead of keeping the cash, we can help you make that happen.

Find a Cash2Go Financial Location Near You!

No one should blindly trust an unfamiliar business with their money. We recommend that you visit the nearest Cash2Go Financial location at your leisure. Peak inside and ask to chat with one of the workers there. It’s important to know who you’re entrusting with your dollars, as well as how things work behind the scenes.

Call 847-269-2274 with any questions about Cash2Go’s check cashing services!

Tips for Chicago Drivers to Keep Cars from Overheating This Summer

Posted on by awesome_developer

When heat advisories are in the air, it’s a sign to take extra precautions to stay cool wherever you are, including in your car. All types of vehicles can be susceptible to heat-related issues under certain circumstances—affecting both the functionality of the vehicle and the safety of those who are in it.

As temperatures throughout Chicago, Illinois, and the surrounding suburbs soar, take extra steps to protect yourself and your vehicle.

Are Older Cars More Susceptible to Heat-Related Problems?

There’s no shame in driving that old 90s pick-up. It comes with so many great memories! But there’s also an elevated risk of heat-related issues the more you drive it. As vehicles age, so do all the key components that keep engines functioning as they should. It also gets harder to allow the flow of cooler air throughout the vehicle, as you surely know if your wheels are more vintage than modern.

New cars can overheat, too. No matter what you drive, making sure it’s humming during extreme heat will help keep you and your passengers safe while out on the road.

How Can You Keep Your Car From Overheating in Summer?

Don’t wait for problems to cast a cloud over your summer fun. Start with these five simple steps:

1. Examine your engine at least once a month.

Check your engine frequently, more often if you’ve had problems in the past or go on a lot of long drives. This process can involve a few steps, including checking your oil levels, keeping an eye on the check engine light, listening for unusual noises, and making note of any other signs that things aren’t in tip top shape.

2. Replenish coolant and other fluids.

Coolant is particularly vital to a well-functioning engine on steamy days. Its role is to circulate throughout the engine, regulating the temperature of internal parts by reducing heat (and avoiding freezes in the winter). Along with oil, coolant also helps keep things lubricated. Check your fluid levels and be sure they’re not dipping too low.

3. Inspect the radiator and hoses.

Some people overlook the importance of this one in summertime. However, it’s not like the radiator in homes that aren’t in use this time of year. Through years of driving, the radiator and parts that connect to it can sustain damage that should be addressed. Otherwise, typical wear and tear can keep the coolant from circulating as it should.

Have a mechanic examine it and other crucial components. Owners of older cars may want to flush their radiator regularly to reduce the buildup of debris.

4. Watch where you park.

Spend an extra minute to find parking spots that will be in the shade longer. It does make a difference. The interiors of cars can reach well over a hundred degrees, making it much hotter than if you find a nice shady spot and leave the windows cracked open. Your car will thank you.

5. Remain patient and avoid driving during the hottest hours.

Finally, keep in mind that how you drive matters, in more ways than one. Staying calm behind the wheel not only avoids accidents and keeps your car in better shape, but it helps keep things at lower temperatures. Meanwhile, aggressive driving habits put a strain on engines, another source of internal heat you don’t need.

Cash2Go Helps Drivers Stay Up to Date All Year

Don’t get caught on the road without up to date plates! Before your next road trip, take care of all your auto licensing needs at your nearest Cash2Go Financial location. We make registration and other routine tasks simple so you’re in and out in no time.

Give us a call at 847-269-2274 with any questions about fees or documentation

Why Using Cash2Go is Better for Vehicle Services Than the DMV

Posted on by awesome_developer

The DMV (Department of Motor Vehicles) has borne the brunt of many late-night jokes, but Illinois drivers are discovering that they no longer have to experience its long, sometimes frustratingly slow lines.

Cash2Go Financial offers families throughout the greater Chicagoland area an alternative for a multitude of services, including ones that make sure you can drive legally here.

5 Reasons Cash2Go Auto Services Are More Convenient

With locations as far south as Lansing, IL, west to Aurora and north to Waukegan, there are lots of reasons to take care of wide-ranging financial and auto-related services that cover all the bases. We rounded up our top five.

1: Faster Vehicle Services

Once you enter the DMV, you are competing with people from throughout Chicago who have made appointments and might be there for a host of other reasons. In most cases at Cash2Go Financial, you will be in and out in no time. Here, our auto services are clear:

  • License plate renewals
  • Title transfers and plates
  • Boat, trailer and snowmobile registration
  • City stickers
  • Specialty plates

Pro Tip: Bring all your documents to avoid delays.

2: More Suburban Chicago Area Locations

As we grow, we want to be where the people are who can benefit the most from our services. Just enter your zip code on our website and let us direct you to the closest location. When you need foreign currency, want to add cash to your debit card, or want to cash a check after hours, we are your go-to location – in addition to the car services mentioned earlier.

Pro Tip: Call ahead to check what services that location offers.

3: No Appointments Needed

The DMV can be a little confusing. Sometimes you need an appointment. Sometimes you don’t. As for us, we offer dozens of services related to check cashing and other money services, and we’ll even notarize or laminate a document when you need it done. What we won’t do is make you make an appointment before coming in.

Pro Tip: Walk in anytime, but call first to ask about ID requirements.

4: One-Stop Shop for Car & Finance Needs

Sometimes you have to go to the DMV. But for many auto services, Cash2Go Financial can get it done for you. The difference is that we combine financial services with auto-related ones. The convenience of wiring money to a relative in another country at the same time you pick up a license plate sticker is why small, local one-stop-shops in your area can’t be beat.

Pro Tip: Make a list. You can do plates, stickers, titles, and even pay bills in one place.

5: Open Longer Hours

Most people work during the day, leaving them in a bind when it comes to running necessary errands on a deadline. And many auto services will penalize you financially if you don’t meet those deadlines.

With many store locations open until 8PM in the evening, as well as on weekends, you can rest easy. We want you to complete tasks on time without the hassle and headaches.

Pro Tip: Check evening and weekend hours at your closest Cash2Go Financial location.

Cash2Go Financial: Auto Licensing, Title, Registration & More

Do yourself a favor and skip the DMV. Visit Cash2Go Financial online for more on our licensing, title, registration and other services. Call our team at 847-269-2274 with questions!

What to Do When Your Teen Gets Their Driving Permit

Posted on by awesome_developer

It’s one of the most exciting milestones in the life of a teenager, since driving translates to more freedom and independence in their life. Some estimates show that about a quarter of 16-year-olds are learning to drive, which is down significantly compared to their parents’ generation. However, most will go on to obtain a driver’s license by the time they are adults.

Before that point, young drivers obtain what is often referred to as a “permit” so they may drive legally under some circumstances during the interim phase.

Why Parents Are Involved in Driver’s Permits

If you are a parent of a teen, then you will likely be involved in this process, too. Not only if you are supplying the wheels, but because it follows certain procedures based on Illinois rules – such as a need for an adult to be in the car with them. Chicagoland’s Cash2Go Financial will be a necessary stop for a number of other steps required of drivers in the state:

  • Registering a vehicle
  • Picking up your new plates
  • Getting stickers every year or two
  • Replacing lost or stolen plates or stickers
  • Other car-related tasks

Until then, be sure the young driver in your family is taking the appropriate steps.

3 Steps in Students Getting an Instruction Permit

Whether they drive like a pro or are just learning the different gears, it’s important to know about all three stages of getting a permit, and what happens next. As your teenager works on becoming a better driver, double check with the Secretary of State’s office at each stage to be sure they meet all requirements.

There are typically three main steps:

Part 1: Getting the Instruction Permit

  • Be Eligible & Enroll in Driver’s Ed: Students 15 to 17 years old are supposed to be enrolled in an approved driver’s education course to get a permit.
  • Submit Required Documents & Application: Documents include a valid ID, a completed Secretary of State application, and the signature of a certified driving instructor. They must be properly submitted, as well.
  • Pass Tests & Pay Fee: Students must pass both a vision test and a written exam, after which they pay a fee.

Part 2: Using the Instruction Permit

Check your state’s website to be sure all the drivers in your family meet the legal criteria, including anyone who may be supervising an unlicensed teen behind the wheel. Next steps teens and their parents need to know:

  • Use Permit for Supervised Driving: An instruction permit allows teens to drive with either a driving instructor or a licensed adult 21 or older.
  • Permit Validity Periods:
    • For those under 18, the permit is valid for two years and must be held for at least nine months before they can apply for a license.
    • If the driver is 18 or older, the permit is valid for a year.
  • Exemption for Older Teens: There are exemptions for some drivers over 17 who may not need to take a driver education course.

If your kid is starting to drive, it’s time they learn about city stickers and other items they may need to obtain – especially if they have their own car. Young drivers should understand that certain responsibilities will continue after they get their license.

Part 3: Moving Toward a Full License

Driver’s Ed may be in the rearview mirror, but there are still a few remaining steps to take:

  • Practice Driving After Your Course: After finishing the course, kids should continue practicing with their permit until they are ready for the license test. Remember: this must happen under adult supervision! Be sure your teen isn’t driving without a supervising adult in the vehicle who can make sure they use turn signals, follow the speed limit, and respect all of the rules of the road.
  • No Extra Fee if Permit Is Active: Those who get their driver’s license before the permit expires may not need to pay an extra fee.
  • Bring Proper ID for Licensing: Just like us adults, teenagers must present proper ID to get their official driver’s license. The state of Illinois posts requirements for different groups online.

Handle Auto Title, Registration & More at Cash2Go Financial

There may be other conversations about auto insurance and sharing the family car. Swing by Cash2Go Financial and an assistant will help you take care of certain auto-related tasks so the whole family can proceed safely and legally, without worrying about getting fined during a traffic stop.

Call us with questions at 847-469-2274 or head to your nearest location today.

What You Need to Drive Legally in Illinois

Posted on by awesome_developer

A few things are needed to drive legally in our fair Land of Lincoln, not least of which is a valid driver’s license. If you are about to buy or lease a new car or have recently relocated here, be sure you’ve taken all the steps you need to before hopping behind the wheel and driving off into the sunset.

Tip 1: Cash2Go Financial is a local currency exchange outside of Chicago that handles a range of auto-related tasks, quickly and efficiently. No appointments needed.

Tip 2: With boat season nearly upon us, don’t forget to update your boat registration at Cash2Go Financial, as well. You want to be ready to hit the water without any unnecessary delays.

Tip 3: Also, register your trailer if you haven’t already, before any road trips.

A Current, Valid Illinois Driver’s License

Be sure your driver’s license is valid. If it is expiring soon, you may need to complete a required exam to get your new one. The state typically lets drivers know when this is necessary. During this process you may receive a temporary paper license or ID, which can be used in the interim. After your documents are reviewed and verified, your permanent license will be mailed to you.

As always, keep your license on you when you drive in case you are pulled over. Delaying this process can result in pricey penalties.

Updated Proof of Auto Insurance in Your Vehicle

Auto insurance shouldn’t be an oversight. Proof of auto insurance also must be up to date in order to be valid, according to state law. This point is important in case you are involved in any auto-related accident, as it protects you financially by covering any damages.

  1. If you don’t have coverage or need to update it, be sure to do so before driving.
  2. If cost is a concern, ask about budget-friendly insurance options. Talk to a few insurance agents to find the best deal.
  3. Skipping insurance to save money can backfire. Driving without it can lead to fines or a suspended license.
  4. Keep proof of insurance in your glove compartment where you can easily access it.

Review the Rules of the Road

Knowing about our speed limits, among other local and national traffic laws, is imperative, both for your own safety and for avoiding accidents. Take a few minutes to review the latest rules of the road in Illinois. One of the biggest differences between states is often the speed limits. Here are ours:

  • On interstates and tollways in Illinois, the speed limit is 70 mph.
  • On highways with four lanes, the speed limit is 65 mph.
  • On other highways and in rural areas, it is typically 55 mph.
  • In city and town areas, it is 30 mph.
  • In alleys, the speed limit is 15 mph.
  • Take extra care in school zones. As a general rule, that means going no more than 20 mph on school days between 6:30am and 4pm, although other signage may be posted.

There are other legal distinctions to become familiar with, such as laws pertaining to lane changes, the use of cell phones while driving, and penalties for distracted driving. Look into those laws, as well, before hitting the road.

Some Drivers Must Pass Auto Emissions Tests

Your car may need to pass an emissions test every two years or so, depending on your vehicle. These rules can vary based on what you drive, where you live, and what the current local regulations require. While it may not be illegal to drive following a failed emissions test, there can be other inconvenient repercussions. Failing a test is an indication that there may be something wrong with your engine, or another problem needs to be addressed – to protect your vehicle as well as the environment.

Check with your local government to get the latest word on testing so you know where to go in case passing an emissions test is required.

Car Title, Registration, Plates and Stickers at Chicagoland Cash2Go Financial

Finally, you need to register any new vehicle so you have the correct title and license plates. To avoid tickets, your stickers must be renewed periodically, as well. Visit Cash2Go Financial to take care of these and other routine tasks. We will have you in and out in no time. Call first to make sure you have the proper documentation and for any fee information.

Call Cash2Go Financial at 847-469-2274 for more information. Then, head to your nearest location to take care of crucial auto tasks today!

Smartest Ways to Use Your Tax Refund

Posted on by awesome_developer

Tax refunds are expected to be bigger this year. And since most Americans who file usually receive at least some refund, it may be time to ask: How am I going to spend it? Splurging on something new for yourself is one way to go. However, if you’re generally cash-strapped, there are other ways to use those extra dollars for a more positive, long-term outcome.

Wise Money Tips for Tax Refund Recipients

Looking for smart ways to spend your tax refund this year? At Cash2Go Financial in northern Illinois, we’ve got some ideas:

  1. Pay down high-interest debt. If you have credit card debt or other loans with high interest rates, the best use of your tax refund might be to pay down or pay off some of these balances. This can save you money in the long run, and at the very least helps improve your current financial health.
  2. Invest in a career-building skill. Is there a course or workshop that you’ve had your eye on? Whether it’s to learn to be a line cook or some computer-related skill, personal development is a great idea for someone with career aspirations. Think of it as an opportunity to invest in yourself so you will have better job opportunities and increased earning potential later on.
  3. Pay for a much-needed repair. Perhaps your tax refund enables you to make a much-needed improvement. It could be dental work you’ve been putting off, or an appliance in your home that’s on its last leg. Simple things like fixing leaks might end up saving you money in the long run.
  4. Add to your emergency fund. If you don’t already have an emergency fund, this is your chance to start one. And if you do have one, consider using the refund to add to it, giving you more financial security in case of an unexpected medical bill or car repair.
  5. Contribute to your retirement savings. Contributing to an IRA (Individual Retirement Account) or a 401(k) is yet another smart money move. Not only are you investing in your future, but you might be able to receive tax benefits now, like tax-deferred growth, as long as you qualify for them.

Use Smart Services at Cash2Go Financial

Here’s another thought: put those extra dollars toward one of Cash2Go Financial’s many convenient services. We can turn your bills into coins or vice versa, help out your home-based business, and do a whole bunch of other things you may not have considered. To name a few:

Cash Your Tax Refund Check

You will be in and out in minutes, with cash in your pocket, ready to spend.

Update Auto Stickers or Registration

If you’ve been putting off an annoying auto-related task due to the fee, you may be out of excuses. But chances are we can handle it for you. Check out our vehicle services here.

Put Money on Your Prepaid Debit Card

Want to splurge on something safely without overspending? Get a prepaid debit card, or load your refund money onto an existing one. Cash2Go Financial makes it easy for you. Just bring in the refund check and we will handle the rest.

Purchase Foreign Currency for Upcoming Travel

If you’re planning a trip, exchanging some of your tax refund for foreign currency in advance can help you avoid high exchange fees at airports or tourist areas. You might also get a better exchange rate if you shop around before your trip.

Wire Cash to Someone Far Away

There are multiple ways to pay someone back or help them out with extra dough when they live far away. If you have a loved one in another country, you can easily get cash to them using a money order or money transfer.

Visit Your Nearest Chicagoland Cash2Go Financial

At Cash2Go Financial, we want to help you spend your refund money wisely and safely. Our team is happy to help you out and answer any questions you may have. Stop by your nearest location, or call us at 847-469-2274 to get the details on your preferred service.

Ready for Tax Season? Here’s What Taxpayers in Illinois Should Know

Posted on by awesome_developer

As tax season approaches, millions of Americans should be preparing to file federal and state taxes if they haven’t already. The April deadline is probably not news if you file taxes annually, although specific tax credits you’re entitled to might be.

If you struggle with financial organization, using money services at a local business like Cash2Go Financial might make record-keeping easier. While tax filing may elicit more feelings of anxiety than excitement, knowing a few key things to expect can make the whole process a little easier.

Some Illinois Taxpayers Can File Directly Online

A new website is making it easier for certain taxpayers in Illinois who qualify to submit their tax forms online. Illinois is one of twenty-five states in which federal tax returns may be filed directly using the IRS Direct File website.

Employees with W-2 forms, Social Security recipients, and other groups can take advantage of this user-friendly platform. However, if you received tips in the form of cash or didn’t report alimony income last year, you may not be able to use the site.

New & Expanded Tax Credits

Find out if you qualify for federal or state tax credits. At the state level, there are several. Each has its own set of criteria, so be sure to do your research to see if you qualify. Three examples that can lower a person’s taxes are:

  1. Child Tax Credit: If you have young children, find out if you can take advantage of this recent change to Illinois tax law. Eligible families must have a child under the age of twelve to qualify. The amount to which you are entitled will depend on the number of children you have.
  2. Earned Income Tax Credit: Benefits will be provided in larger amounts to those who qualify. This tax credit was expanded primarily to help out lower income families so that they may owe less money this year or qualify for a bigger refund.
  3. Volunteer Emergency Worker Credit: If you are a part-time, unpaid firefighter in Illinois, you may be entitled to a tax credit of up to $500.

Others may apply to your federal income taxes, as well. Be sure you give yourself enough time to look into possible credits before completing your tax forms, and consider hiring an expert who can help you take advantage of any tax rules that apply to you.

Organize Your Income Documents

Organization is particularly important for those whose taxes are a little more complicated. For example, contractors who must keep track of work-related receipts and business owners with multiple properties should have their tax records and income documents stored in a system that makes them easy to access and file.

For many folks, this includes maintaining a record of cashed personal or business checks. Cash2Go Financial’s many money services are a helpful way to track money you are sending and receiving throughout the year.

Staying organized not only saves time and makes filing less stressful, but you might save money by discovering more deductible items. Maintaining clear records can also protect tax filers in case of an audit in the future.

Follow State Rules

Each state has its own tax codes, which is why filling can get a bit confusing. For details pertaining to your filing situation, visit the website for the Department of Revenue where you live. If you work in Illinois but live in a different state, you may still have to file taxes in this state, but it’s always best to double check.

Failing to Pay Will Catch Up to You

If you are considering not filing, whether because you are busy or are worried you may owe money to the government, it’s best to avoid that temptation. Failing to file may provide short-term relief, but the government has a way of catching up to people who owe it money. Having to pay past-due taxes or penalties on top of what you owe later will not be worth it.

File for an Extension if Necessary

It is best to file on time, and if you need help there are services available. Also, know that filing for an extension is an option. Many people use it so they will have an extra six months, or until October 15, to file their federal tax forms. However, for most filers who owe money, the April 15 payment deadline remains even if you file for an extension.

Use Money & Auto Services at Cash2Go Financial in Illinois

At Cash2Go Financial, we specialize in making money matters easier to deal with in any season. Whether for License Plate Renewals or to handle Title Transfers & Plates for your new vehicle, we have you covered.

Call us at 847-469-2274 for more information, or check out your nearest location today!

Why the Land of Lincoln Is Still a Great Place to Live

Posted on by awesome_developer

President’s Day falls on Monday, February 17 this year, but if you live in Illinois you may be even more interested in February 12. That’s because it’s the day Abraham Lincoln was born. Here in the land of Lincoln, we take great pride in the heritage of our 16th president. It is just one reason life in this state is still pretty great.

Even from a financial perspective, there are many benefits to settling and building roots here in the prairie state – as well as numerous local money services to help you stay on top of your finances.

Slightly Lower Cost of Living

Some costs remain high for a lot of folks. However, while looking for good deals on groceries and household products, it helps to compare prices with other locations to discover what they could be elsewhere. For example, in terms of overall affordability, Illinois ranks above average. Another group broke down the cost of living in Illinois compared to the national average and here are the costs they found that are comparatively lower:

  • Housing
  • Utilities
  • Healthcare
  • Goods and services
  • Food

Only transportation ranked slightly higher thanks to a robust transportation system that serves the nation’s third largest city. People considering relocating should do their own research. Chicago may certainly be more expensive in some ways, but big city life isn’t for everyone. There are many wonderful places to live throughout the state!

Robust Public Transportation

Illinois has invested over the decades in a well-developed public transportation system, particularly in Chicago, which can reduce transportation costs for those who use it frequently. The “L” train system, buses, and Metra trains allow people to commute efficiently without needing to own a car. Doing so might help them save money on fuel, insurance, parking, and auto maintenance. In some of our smaller cities, gas prices are generally lower, as well. No matter where you live, you get the best of both worlds.

Plans to Ditch Sales Tax on Food

At a mere 1%, those sales tax figures on food receipts are already pretty low, but they’re about to get lower. That’s because the tax on grocery food items and other qualifying goods is slated to be reduced to zero in 2026. Residents will still be paying taxes on other items, but the change may bring a sigh of relief to those struggling to cover the cost of their grocery bills. Keep in mind, the change does not apply to restaurants and other places where people stay to dine.

Driving & Snowmobiling in the Midwest

Illinois, and the Midwest in general, is not always appreciated for its amazing road trip opportunities. This region boasts countless scenic byways, extending from Wisconsin into Illinois, and from Indiana into Michigan. No matter where you live, there is somewhere not far off with amazing views worth visiting, not to mention state and national parks waiting for you to explore on foot.

If you’re not into driving but you want to explore Illinois’ nearly 2,500 miles of snowmobile trails in winter, or make waves in your speedboat in the summer on one of the Great Lakes, we’ve got you covered.

Take Care of Urgent Auto Needs in Illinois

The land of Lincoln is home to more than 8.5 million drivers. One reason is that Chicago is considered a commuter town, since so many suburbanites commute to and from the windy city each day. For all the folks who drive, Cash2Go locations throughout Chicago’s suburbs make taking care of car-related tasks fast and easy. Here’s what we can help you with:

  1. License Plate Renewals
  2. Title Transfers & Plates
  3. Trailer Registration
  4. Snowmobile Registration

Cash2Go Financial Makes Illinois Living Convenient and Fun

Cash2Go Financial offers a broad variety of services created to help people throughout northern Illinois manage their finances and auto needs. Call 847-269-2274 to talk to one of our team members, or check out your nearest Cash2Go Financial location today!