Eagle Community Credit Union Blog
Budgeting Tips as Student Loan Payments Resume
With uncertainty surrounding the unfolding pandemic, on March 13, 2020, most federal student loans went into “Administrative Forbearance.” During this time, eligible loans had their interest rates set to 0% APR and loan payments were paused.1
On December 31, 2022, nearly three years later, the administrative forbearance was set to end – meaning federal student loan payments would resume in 2023. However, this date was extended due to ongoing litigation about the U.S. Department of Education’s student debt relief program. Student loan payments will now resume either 60 days after the litigation is resolved or 60 days after June 30, 2023, whichever is sooner.2
For many borrowers, this is causing panic and stress. While the initial effects of the pandemic have largely passed, rising prices and record inflation are already hitting borrowers’ wallets. Before your student loan payments resume, review the following tips to ensure you’re financially ready.
How to Make a Vacation Budget You Can Keep
With mask mandates and occupancy limits easing and/or lifting, millions of Americans are looking forward to a summer getaway with more excitement than usual. Entertainment venues are opening, attractions are up and running again and for some, it’s been two years since they’ve enjoyed a real summer vacation.
While it’s great to get away for some fun in the sun, it’s important to stick to a budget, even when on vacation. An over-the-top vacay you can’t really afford can mean spending months catching up on credit card payments and paying high-interest rates that may make it not worth the price. This year, attack your vacation with a financial plan that you can actually keep by following the tips outlined in this article.
Creating A Post-Pandemic Budget
Now that the world is opening up again, your spending habits are probably changing. Gas expenses may have increased by getting out more. You may be feeling the need for a social spending spree of outings, dining, and events that you haven’t been able to indulge in for over a year.
All You Need to Know About the New Stimulus Bill
On March 6, the Senate passed the $1.9 trillion American Rescue Plan. The bill promises further financial relief and assistance to millions of Americans who may still be struggling with the financial devastation of COVID-19.
In this article, we’ve outlined some of the most significant measures included in the bill ...
10 Things to Do If You Lose Your Wallet
You don't think it will ever happen to you — and then it does. You lose your wallet. One minute you're walking around with your wallet securely in your pocket, and then next, it's gone. And you didn't even realize it was missing until it came time for you to pay for something. At first, you might panic. But, instead, stay calm and take these ten steps below right away.
Last Minute Tax Tips for 2021
The past year was challenging for much of the country. Now, as we move forward into 2021, we must also plan for April 15 and the possible tax ramifications this date signifies for many.
At this time, we’d like to take the opportunity to offer actionable advice you can use to help you with your tax prepping and planning for the year. These tips will help ensure you’re on the right track for tax season and may help you avoid some of the potential penalties and other problems that can come with filing your taxes.
Financial Tips for Gig Workers
The traditional 9-to-5 job has gone by the wayside as more and more people realize they can do just as well, if not better, in the gig economy. Whether you deliver food for Uber Eats or Door Dash, groceries for Instacart, or walk dogs for Rover, you are part of the gig economy. Also referred to as "on-demand" workers, gig workers are part of this contingent workforce where jobs have no long-term employment contract and operate with a non-standard arrangement.
Successful gig workers enjoy self-direction, excel at hustling, and shine in self-promotion. However, as a freelance gig worker, you not only have to run your business but also have to manage your finances. And, although the timing of your paycheck might be unpredictable, you can steady your financial boat by applying a few tips — even when your income can be a bit rocky.
Here are five financial tips for people working in the gig environment.
Five Steps to Take After a Financial Disaster
As we sail into 2021, many Americans are struggling with the aftershocks of financial disaster. Whether it’s due to a layoff, a smaller workload, medical expenses or a change in family circumstances, the financial fallout of COVID-19 has been devastating for people in every sector of the economy.
Recovering from a financial disaster, due to a pandemic or any other reason, is never easy; however, with hard work and the ability to look forward, it can be done. Here’s how ...
Will I Be Getting a Second Stimulus Check?
After eight months of negotiations, the Senate has finally passed a bipartisan deal on a new coronavirus stimulus plan. The $900 billion economic relief package will deliver emergency aid to a trampled economy and provide struggling Americans with desperately needed funds.
The bill will put $325 billion toward business relief in an effort to revive strained corporations around the country. But what will this mean for you? Read on for a detailed breakdown of the stimulus check regulations.