Planning a get-a-way doesn't have to be expensive. In this episode, we're joined by Ariel from Washington State Parks to explore the budget-friendly recreational opportunities available across 140 state parks. From the popular Discover Pass to several discounted options for those over age 62 and multiple free days in the year, you can access these natural treasures without breaking the bank.

We chat about diverse accommodations offered, including cabins, yurts, and even historic vacation homes. Ariel shares unique experiences like staying at a lighthouse keeper's residence or a fire lookout. Everything you need to get started on your next outdoor adventure.

Parks highlighted in the episode (alphabetically): Brooks Memorial State Park, Cape Disappointment, Conconully State Park, Curlew State Park, Deception Pass, Fort Ebey, Fort Flagler, Fort Worden, Ginkgo Petrified Forest, Goldendale Observatory, Ike Kinswa State Park, Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center, Millersylvania State Park, Mount Spokane State Park, Palouse to Cascades State Park Trail.

Your credit score plays a crucial role in your financial health. So, it’s important to know how to manage and improve your credit. Our guests, Lyn and Nathan from the Department of Financial Institutions, break down the differences between credit scores and credit reports. They also share insights into the importance of checking your credit report regularly and the benefits of freezing your credit to safeguard against identity theft.

Continuing our discussion of Social Security benefits, we focus on unique provisions that can apply to public employees. Some people assume all public employees participate in Social Security, but this isn't always the case. We explore why some government workers, such as police officers and firefighters, might not be part of Social Security due to their unique pension plans.

We discuss two critical provisions that can impact Social Security benefits: the Government Pension Offset (GPO) and the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP). Our guest, Kirk, from the Social Security Administration explains how these rules apply to folks trying to claim benefits on their own or a spouse's record while receiving a government pension.

More about the GPO: https://www.ssa.gov/policy/docs/program-explainers/government-pension-offset.html

More about the WEP: https://www.ssa.gov/policy/docs/program-explainers/windfall-elimination-provision.html